Exail and UNH open new Maritime Autonomy Innovation Hub
Exail, a global innovator in the field of maritime autonomy, has opened a new innovation hub that will engage in all aspects of marine autonomous operations to help meet the challenges of the growing blue economy.
Exail will be using the new center to deliver increased operational advantage to U.S. civil and government customers. This includes the U.S. production of its Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV), DriX, the housing of a remote operation center to conduct worldwide remote autonomous operations, establishing local operations, maintenance and training facilities, and providing expertise on maritime autonomy while also training future generations on the use of autonomous vessels.
The new hub will be at the University of New Hampshire, a recognized leader in the field of ocean mapping research, and located within UNH’s Olson Advanced Manufacturing Center in Durham, to facilitate collaborative work with UNH’s Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping (CCOM).
“We’ve been working together with UNH for the past six years pioneering uncrewed technologies, and we are now capitalizing on our common achievements with the opening of this new innovation hub.” States Marine Slingue, President at Exail, Inc. “We’re very proud and excited to take this next step in our U.S. adventure, and we would like to thank UNH, CCOM and NOAA, for their great support, leadership and vision on the use of uncrewed technologies that took us where we are today. We look forward to our continuous partnership with them and all the great work we achieve together to keep advancing maritime autonomy in the U.S.”.
”This exciting collaboration will not only be good for Exail and UNH students and researchers but also good for New Hampshire and the nation,” said Larry Mayer, director of the Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping at the University of New Hampshire. ”We anticipate that it is just the start of bringing many of our other industrial partners and government colleagues to the state as we create a local engine for the new blue economy. ”
The opening of the new maritime autonomy innovation hub was celebrated on July 15th, in the presence of UNH President Jim Dean, U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan and Assistant Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Nicole LeBoeuf.
Fugro supports Curaçao’s ambition to become a regional leader in the production and export of green energy
The Government of Curaçao has asked Fugro to map the seabed of the island’s surrounding waters for future development of floating offshore wind farms. The Curaçao Government’s target is to realise 6GW in renewable energy capacity by 2035, which is more than the domestic need for energy, ultimately enabling the production and export of green hydrogen. This development is a hugely important step for Curaçao in its efforts to accelerate the transition to green energy and strengthen its economy. The survey work by Fugro follows on a feasibility assessment by research organisation TNO, which concluded that Curaçao’s territorial waters are some of the best in the world for large scale deployment of floating offshore wind.
Coordinated by Fugro's Americas team, the Fugro Brasilis will survey the area to improve the understanding of the local seabed, subsurface and marine environment. This geophysical reconnaissance survey will be used to create a comprehensive report on local conditions. This information empowers the Government of Curaçao in making first steps in determining best locations for floating offshore wind farms and preservation of the marine ecosystem.
Curaçao's ambition is to deploy the resources of the island in partnership with strategic alliances, gaining and maintaining a competitive edge through the production and export of hydrogen and other green carriers. The mega-project is developed in alliance with the Netherlands, providing the opportunity for Curaçao to position itself as a regional forerunner and potential supplier of sustainable energy to the Netherlands and other countries.
Ramon Chong, President of the Working Group Offshore Floating Wind of the Ministry of Economic Development of Curaçao, said: “We are pleased to bring Fugro on board. Their work will pave the way for Curaçao’s long-term investment in our green economic growth potential. Our aim is to increase our financial and economic competitiveness and accelerate our energy transition targets”.
“For island economies, climate change is already an existential reality. We are particularly happy to work closely with the Government of Curaçao to support their vision to lead in the production and export of green energy. Their ambition aligns strongly with our mission to contribute to a safe and liveable world”, said Fugro CEO Mark Heine.
The long-term investment is partly financed by the Sustainable Energy Generation and Climate Transition Incentive fund from the Government of the Netherlands.
GEOxyz secures contract for UXO ID & clearance survey for OWF Dieppe le Tréport
Les Eoliennes en Mer Dieppe Le Tréport (EMDT) OWF is a prominent renewable energy initiative comprising 62 offshore wind turbines with a combined capacity of 496 MW. Situated over 17 km from the Côte d'Albâtre (Dieppe) within a vast area spanning 110 km², this project aims to harness the region's wind resources to generate clean and sustainable electricity.
Previous surveys: 2018-2020
In preparation for the 2023 campaign, two geophysical UXO surveys were conducted in 2018 and 2020 within the Wind Turbine Generator (WTG) boxes and Inter-Array Cable (IAC) corridors of the wind farm. Based on the data collected, a target list of potential contacts, including buried or seabed-laid objects, was compiled.
EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) experts meticulously assessed the survey data from 2018 and 2020, resulting in a refined target list distinguishing potential UXOs from other non-hazardous objects. Working in collaboration with EMDT, the comprehensive UXO Identification Survey will focus on approximately 175 to 215 priority UXO targets.
ALARP certificates
The campaign aims not only to clear confirmed UXO (c-UXO) but also to recover or relocate non-UXO objects, with the clearance of c-UXO falling under the jurisdiction of the French Authorities. Following the successful completion of the campaign, GEOxyz's UXO consultants will issue ALARP certificates, confirming the safety of the cleared area.
In addition to UXO identification and clearance, the scope of work encompasses the deployment of a dedicated guard vessel. This vessel will maintain constant on-site surveillance to mitigate any potential navigational hazards and promptly report any anomalies that could impact the ongoing works or the vessel's assigned responsibilities.
Roadmap
The p-UXO identification process will be executed in five systematic steps:
1. Pre-detection survey: Conducting a survey of the target area (5 m x 5 m or 10 m x 10 m) centered on the recorded position of the target. This step aims to determine the precise location, burial depth, size, and shape of the target, thereby optimizing the subsequent identification phase.
2. p-UXO identification: Skilled EOD experts will identify p-UXO targets and classify them as c-UXO (Confirmed UXO) or non-UXO.
3. c-UXO clearance: Providing the Groupe de Plongeurs-Démineurs (GPD) team with a comprehensive list of c-UXO, including their exact positions and depths, for removal. The survey vessel will undertake de-burial activities until approximately 50% of the object is uncovered. If requested, a marker buoy will be installed at the location. If a target is assessed not to be a UXO, it will be reported, and its removal or relocation will be decided, considering its potential impact during both the construction and the O&M phases.
4. Non-UXO target: Mobilizing the survey vessel equipped with suitable tools such as an orange-peel grab, remotely operated vehicle (ROV), or vessel crane to recover or relocate confirmed non-UXO objects.
5. Cleared area verification: Upon completion of UXO clearance, a thorough survey of the area will be conducted to confirm the absence of any other hidden p-UXO that might have been concealed beneath the removed UXO.
For this survey, GEOxyz will utilize its Geo Ocean III and Geosurveyor XVII.
Whale Seeker, Edgewise Environmental, and Black Bawks join forces to make waves in marine conservation
Whale Seeker (Quebec, Canada), Edgewise Environmental (Newfoundland, Canada), and Black Bawks Data Science (Invergarry, Scotland) are thrilled to announce a collaborative project to advance marine conservation efforts.
By combining their unique strengths and expertise, these three innovative organizations are committed to maximizing the impact of their businesses in protecting marine biodiversity and promoting sustainable ocean practices.
Find out more about the partnership
SeeByte partnership selected by Dstl to research and develop a secure architecture for Mixed Multi-Domain Swarms of Robotic Autonomous Systems
SeeByte, in partnership with Blue Bear, have been awarded a contract by Defence Science and Technology laboratory (Dstl) under the Progeny Maritime Research Framework to research and develop a secure architecture for Mixed Multi-Domain Swarms (MMDS) of Robotic Autonomous Systems (RAS).
The collaborative task forms part of Dstl Maritime Autonomous Systems (MAS) programme which aims to ensure the Royal Navy can securely operate swarms of mixed multi-domain UxVs. Phase 1 of this work will define the MMDS architecture that enables RAS systems to collaborate in swarms of mixed multi-domain vehicles and deliver the mission vignettes. This work employs secure-by-design practises from the outset to ensure the architecture can be implemented within known and manageable levels of cyber risk agreed with the authority.
SeeByte is leading the partnership bringing its knowledge of Maritime Autonomy in Surface and Sub Surface domains and Blue Bear is bringing their knowledge of the Air domain and Air Assurance. Both UK companies are at the forefront of innovation and technology, bringing together an unprecedented level of subject matter expertise in multi-domain swarming autonomy. Phase 1 is a 12-month research programme. Potential follow-on phases will seek to implement, test, and evaluate the MMDS architecture.
Scott Reed, CTO at SeeByte said: “We are immensely proud to be supporting Dstl and the wider UK MoD in the first phase of this exciting project, as we work together with Blue Bear to address some of the most pressing Defence challenges in delivering secure distributed autonomy at scale and mass.”
Martek and OceanWise win project at Dun Laoghaire to improve weather and tide monitoring
Monitoring Specialists OceanWise have won a project with Dun Laoghaire Harbour in Ireland to upgrade and improve its Weather and Tide systems.
Just 7 miles south of Dublin, Dun Laoghaire Harbour is the largest man-made harbour in Western Europe and an important working port and leisure facility. Once the main sea route between Britain and Ireland, Dun Laoghaire is undergoing ongoing changes under the recent transfer of ownership and management to Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council.
Martek and OceanWise will be delivering a project which will improve the entire tide and weather system by upgrading the systems used and installing new sensors and telemetry units (data modems). This upgrade forms part of the ongoing improvements undertaken at the harbour “for the benefit of its citizens” and will ensure the delivery of accurate, reliable, important environmental data to those who need it when they need it, in real-time via a webpage.
The project includes installation of a Gill Instruments Weather station (which measures Wind Speed/Direction, Atmospheric Pressure, Temperature, Humidity, Dew Point and Precipitation) a number of OceanWise ip.buffer smart telemetry modems and a C23 Radar (measuring tide / water levels) and a subscription to the cloud-based Data Platform ‘Port-Log’.
Hi-tech USV undergoes sea trials ahead of delivery to US
SEA-KIT International is preparing to deliver on its export deal with American autonomous maritime solutions provider, ThayerMahan.
Connecticut-based ThayerMahan ordered a SEA-KIT X-class Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) last year, having seen the 12-metre design proven on numerous commercial operations around the world.
This latest USV, X107T - the seventh X-class to leave SEA-KIT’s production facility in the East of England, boasts several enhancements and technology developments. These include a new winch system, developed by SEA-KIT to integrate with the company’s proprietary G-SAVI virtual helm station, that will enable deployment of large, towed arrays and sensors down to 3,000 metres. The company has also further developed G-SAVI, taking the technology another step towards becoming a fully classed autopilot system whilst continuing to advance its situational awareness suite.
ThayerMahan plans to use the USV to support introduction of the technology into government service, as well as for its own activities in US and international waters. X107T’s hi-tech specification will stand it in good stead for the levels of scrutiny expected for military and security applications, as well as having a positive impact on the company’s future commercial builds.
Mike Connor, President and CEO of ThayerMahan, said: “The flexible payload on SEA-KIT’s USV design, coupled with its ability to operate near silently for long periods of time, will enable us to continue our leadership stance in remote and autonomous mobile acoustic sensing and sense making. By improving maritime domain awareness efficiencies with this vessel, we ultimately keep people safe while protecting critical infrastructure and the ocean environment.”
The USV is currently undergoing extensive sea trials in the UK before being shipped to the US to commence operations stateside later this summer. The X-class design fits inside a standard shipping container, making it cost-effective to ship overseas.
Ben Simpson, CEO of SEA-KIT, said: “Once X107T is operational, SEA-KIT will have vessels working in the Middle East, Asia, Australia, all over Europe and in the US. This USV will take on quite different tasks and missions to the commercial craft, which demonstrates the versatility of the X-class design as a safe platform for any payload. The UK’s leading position in maritime autonomous systems is clearly drawing international interest, which is testament to everyone involved in the sector here.”
MacArtney renews distributor agreement with Teledyne Marine, expanding connectivity solutions
MacArtney recognises the importance of providing the right connector solution for each application and is committed to working closely with suppliers and brands to expand its product portfolio, thus maximising customer benefits and meeting the unique demands of various projects.
With a focus on adding value to the ODI products, MacArtney aims to leverage its existing client base and explore new opportunities.
Covering the ODI range
The products included in this partnership are all Teledyne ODI products, including Electrical, Fibre Optic and Hybrid Connectors and Cables, Penetrators, Field-Installable Termination Assemblies (FITAs), Field Assembled Cable Termination (FACT), and related ancillary products.
The ODI connector range is available through MacArtney operations in Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, France, Benelux, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Singapore, the UK and the USA.
Comprehensive connectivity solutions
One of MacArtney's key strengths lies in offering complete connectivity solutions, supporting customers throughout the process, and ensuring seamless integration and efficient project execution.
The connectivity programme includes complete system solutions, project management expertise and moulding & production capabilities. Furthermore, MacArtney's pressure tanks now have up to 1,400 bar capabilities (full ocean depth), adding a 30% safety factor to absolute max water depth enabling them to meet the increasingly demanding requirements of underwater applications.
Strengthened collaboration
The renewed distributor agreement strengthens the long-term MacArtney and Teledyne ODI collaboration in providing advanced connectivity solutions and meeting customers' evolving needs across industries.
MacArtney's devotion to delivering comprehensive solutions and adding value to the Teledyne ODI product further solidifies its position as a trusted partner in the underwater technology industry.
Forcys Australia expands with new Sydney office
The release of Australia’s Defence Strategic Review pivots national defence interests toward the Indo-Pacific and places increased interest in the underwater domain. It calls out for new autonomous underwater vehicles to support their mission by highlighting the AUKUS Pillar 2 collaboration and seeks to work in close partnership with industry. It serves as validation for the recent expansion by Forcys Australia: new offices and a new team to work with customers that are already developing innovative underwater autonomous systems.
Backed by over fifty years of experience, Forcys offers the global maritime naval sector remote, autonomous, and networked control capabilities delivering integrated situational awareness to customers in the underwater domain.
Covering a range of maritime operations including asset protection, littoral strike, mine warfare, submarine rescue, and submarine and anti-submarine warfare, Forcys seeks to transform the underwater domain by enabling increasingly distributed and automated operations. This is made possible by integrating and bringing to market world-changing solutions from leading technology partners Chelsea Technologies, EIVA, Sonardyne, Voyis, and Wavefront Systems.
‘This feels great,’ said Sean Leydon, Regional Manager Asia Pacific at Forcys. ‘Although we are taking a relatively small initial step, this is a major milestone for our operations in Australia. And we are setting up in the right location. We are so grateful to the NSW government who supported us in our search. We also want to thank the University of Technology Sydney for their welcome. Innovation is fuelled by partnerships and the UTS Tech Lab enables us to work closer both with our customers and with academia. The lab is turning into a world-class research and development facility. I want our new Australian team to play a part in that.’
‘We are delighted to welcome Forcys Australia as an Industry Partner to the UTS Tech Lab,” said Professor Robert Fitch, (acting) Director UTS Tech Lab. “It’s a clear example of how we are supporting industry partners with the growth and retention of talent. Working alongside innovators in the underwater domain is also a great opportunity for the university to target our research where it is needed such us the AUKUS Pillar 2 Undersea Robotics Autonomous Systems (AURAS) project.”
Teledyne Marine launches annual photo and data contest
Teledyne Marine, a global leader in underwater technology, is thrilled to announce the launch of its highly anticipated annual photo and data contest, which invites participants worldwide to capture the breathtaking beauty of the underwater realm through their lenses. Teledyne Marine has a rich history of providing innovative solutions for offshore, academic, and defense applications. The contest is open to Teledyne Marine equipment users, allowing them to showcase their talent and passion for marine and subsea technology.
The Teledyne Marine Annual Photo and Data Contest is set to kick off on July 3rd, 2023, and will run until October 1st, 2023. This contest aims to showcase the remarkable diversity and wonder of the oceanic environment while highlighting Teledyne Marine's cutting-edge products that have revolutionized marine exploration. As part of the contest, Teledyne Marine encourages participants to submit their best images featuring Teledyne products, including, but not limited to, the SeaBat Sonar, BlueView Sonar, RDI ADCPs, Gavia AUV, and Slocum gliders. These cutting-edge technologies have been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of marine research, science, and exploration.
Participants must submit their captivating images via the official Teledyne Marine Photo and Data Contest Page.
How to Enter:
Step 1 – Visit the contest page for contest rules, upload your image, and include supporting details.
Step 2 – Share the photo / data on your social media channels and encourage friends, family, and industry associates to vote for your submission. Tag @teledynemarine on Facebook and Twitter. Teledyne Marine will share them as well. The contest is open to Teledyne Marine equipment users; each participant may submit up to three images.
"We are excited to launch the Teledyne Marine Annual Photo and Data Contest and celebrate the wonders of the underwater world," said Helle Auken Lygum, Marcom Manager, Teledyne Marine. "We believe that through the lens of talented photographers and skilled users, we can unveil the beauty and importance of our marine environment while showcasing the technological advancements we have made in underwater exploration."
Teledyne Marine is renowned for its commitment to advancing ocean science and exploration, and this photo and data contest represents an opportunity for individuals worldwide to contribute to this important endeavor. By sharing their images, participants can inspire a global audience and raise awareness about the crucial need for understanding and protecting our oceans.
