baseline issue 13 - sonardyne · been working on in recent months. we can ﬁnally reveal...

THE CUSTOMERMAGAZINEFROMSONARDYNEISSUE 13

04KitIntroducing our new6G subsea equipmentand accessories

12TechnologySyrinx: The evolution ofa DVL that’s always beenin our DNA

18Asset MonitoringSmart subsea data acquisition for smarterdecision making

26Construction SurveyFlexible and scaleable:SPRINT subsea INS growswith your needs

24Ocean Science

SonardyneLRTsprove theircapabilityin Scandinavia

Baseline » Issue 13

Front CoverA Sonardyne Lightweight ReleaseTransponder (LRT) readied for deploymentby a field engineer of Luode Consulting, aFinnish-based environmental monitoringcompany. The LRT’s gathered data from waterand ice quality monitoring in the Gulf ofFinland and were deployed over many monthsin harsh environmental conditions below theice. Read the full article on page 24.

In this issue...

04Kit A first look at the latest additions to the6G product family – transponders, transceivers and

accessories designed to enhance your LBL and USBL

operations.

08News A new Sonardyne trials and research vessel,

global OHSAS certification, Sentinel being used in a large

scale naval exercise and the world’s biggest construction

vessel puts its trust in Ranger 2.

12 Technology With the introduction of Syrinx,

Sonardyne’s first ever DVL, you can now get everything

under one roof. Discover the features that set it apart from

its rivals on page 12.

18Subsea Asset Monitoring A report on how

we are creating smarter acoustic and optical links to help

you make smarter decisions about the performance of

your oil field assets.

24Ocean Science Read the case study that

highlights the reliability of Sonardyne acoustic release

transponders in one of the harshest operating

environments known to man.

26Construction SurveyWhy invest in a

separate subsea gyro and INS for your ROV when with

SPRINT, you get both in one? Read how pay as you go

pricing provides a cost-effective method of ownership.

28Community Introducing The Sonardyne

Foundation, the charity set up to provide financial support

and guidance to some of the UK’s best and brightest

young engineers.

30 International The latest news from Sonardyne’s regional offices around the world, including

marking the 10th anniversary of the Indian Tsunami

detection system, and how more than ever, 6G is

impacting on field developments around the world.

31 Know How Hints and tips on how to get the best

out of your Sonardyne technology.

IF YOU HAVE been thinking that the

development of 6G might have

reached its peak, you may need to

reconsider after reading this issue

of Baseline. In fact, we have so much

new 6G hardware ready and

waiting, our new products section

has been extended to fit it all in.

KIT starts on page 4, where you’ll

find new transponders, LBL transceivers, a new

USBL system and a host of accessories to help

you maximise the performance from your

Sonardyne acoustic technology.

But 6G isn’t the only area of technology our

research and development engineers have

been working on in recent months.

We can finally reveal Sonardyne’s next big

step is a Doppler Velocity Log called Syrinx.

Engineering directors Simon Partridge and

Darryl Newborough speak to Baseline on

page 12 to find out what sets Syrinx apart from

other DVLs. As the article states, the arrival of

a Sonardyne DVL “fills a small but significant

technology gap” in our portfolio. It’s a point

worth emphasising as Sonardyne is also now

the only company where you can acquire

acoustic positioning, inertial navigation and

DVL technology that’s designed from the

ground up to work seamlessly together.

Having access to qualified and regularly

updated knowledge about the integrity of your

subsea assets and reservoir conditions is of

the utmost importance for making the right

decisions at the right time.

The solution? Subsea surveillance and

monitoring throughout the life of a field. The

special feature on page 20 looks at how

Sonardyne’s versatile range of data telemetry

solutions, downhole sensor loggers and new

‘SMART’ acoustic monitoring system can be

used to assess production and decrease

intervention costs – savings which of course

are very welcomed in the current climate.

David Brown Head of Marketing

Baseline Magazine

The Customer magazine

from Sonardyne

Editorial Team

Mark Talmage-Rostron,

Managing Editor

David Brown,

Head of Marketing

Design and Art Direction

TruthStudio Ltd.

www.truthstudio.co.uk

Photography

Astonleigh Studios

www.astonleighstudio.co.uk

(Pages 04, 05, 06, 07, 12,

13, 24, 26, 28, 31).

NOAA Photo Library

©www.photolib.noaa.gov

(Page 24)

Colour repro by

Northend Print Ltd.

Printed by Northend Print

Ltd. Every effort is made

to ensure that information

is correct at the time of

going to press.

Baseline is printed on

150gsm Satimat Green,

a 75% recycled paper.

Published by Sonardyne

International Ltd.

Blackbushe Business

Park, Yateley, Hampshire

GU46 6GD

United Kingdom.

6G®, Sonardyne Matrix®,

Sonardyne Wideband®.

BlueComm®and Sentinel

IDS® are UK registered

trademarks of Sonardyne

International Ltd. All other

company or product

names used herein are

trademarks of their

respective owners.

© Sonardyne

International Ltd 2015.

No part of this magazine

may be reproduced

without permission of the

publisher.

1O

28 O6

12

24

31

18

04 Baseline » Issue13

»KITNew arrivals in the ever expanding 6G product family

The Wideband Sub-Mini 6 Plus (WSM 6+), our latest model of 6G mini-sized USBL transponder / responder, has arrived.

It supports two-way Wideband and Wideband 2 protocols for improved robustness of navigation when compared to the out-going WSM 6. It is so low power that it is always Wideband enabled, therefore no wake up signal is required. The Class D linear transmitter increases the controllable power range and provides a cleaner spectrum; this improves the simultaneous operation and energy efficiency. A re-designed transducer guard provides greater protection against accidental knocks when deployed. The WSM 6+ is available in 1,000 metre and 4,000 metre depth ratings.

The all new Wideband Release

Transponder 6 (WRT 6) combines the

features of two transponders in one. The

result? An acoustic release transponder

which you can now use with a Ranger 2

USBL system to deploy, position and

release seafloor equipment and

instrument moorings.WRT 6 inherits its

looks from our ultra-tough, ultra-reliable

Oceanographic Release Transponder –

an instrument that’s accumulated

thousands of deployments globally. On

the inside, ORT electronics have been

replaced with the same pedigree as the

all new WSM 6+, which supports full two

way Wideband and Wideband 2

protocols. When it comes to landing

heavy loads on the seabed, the WRT’s

safe working load can be increased using

the load amplification frames that are

already available for ORTs.

WIDEBAND RELEASE TRANSPONDER 6

Deploy it…track it…release it

WIDEBAND SUB-MINI 6 PLUS

Robust navigation,less interference

The Mini ROVNav LBL transceiver is back

by popular demand – reengineered to

deliver 6G standards of performance

and functionality. The 3,000 metre rated

unit is based on field proven WMT 6

mechanics and incorporates a built-in

Omni-directional acoustic transducer.

This, together with its small size, offers

the freedom to fit the unit where line of

sight with LBL transponder arrays can be

best maintained; at the front, at the back

or even underneath the ROV. Fitting two

Mini ROVNav 6s further reduces the risk

of acoustic masking when manoeuvring

close to structures, and like several other

6G transceivers, Mini ROVNav 6 also has

the capability to double up as a USBL

tracking beacon.

MINI ROVNAV 6

Mini by name,not by nature

In metrology campaigns, the accurate setup of acoustic positioning

instruments when being installed on a structure is critical.A

process complicated by the fact that every different metrology and

structure installation is unique, meaning there is never any single

defined connection or interface point.

To remove the sources of error that can occur from mis-mounting,

the Sonardyne Stab and Receptacle has been developed to allow

precise installation of Compatts or GyroCompatts on any structure

or subsea equipment. Confirmation that the stab attached to the

transponder has been accurately docked in the receptacle, comes

via a tell-tale indicator flag that pops-up when mating is successful.

Using the Sonardyne Stab and Receptacle, the traditional

(and time-consuming) method of rotating of a stab in a hub during

metrology operations to determine stab-to-receptacle slop, can

be eliminated.This offers the potential to complete acoustic

metrologies in less than six hours. The receptacle uses an industry-

standard bolt hole pattern to allow dimensional control

measurements to be made prior to the installation of the receptacle.

The Stab also features an alignment bar, rather than alignment

pins, to aid docking and provide superior heading alignment.

METROLOGY STAB AND RECEPTACLE

The perfect match

The low power electronics found

within all 6G transponders ensures

they are designed to stand the test of

time once deployed in the field. And

now thanks to the Battery Disconnect

Plug, it is possible to save energy

even when they are sitting on the

shelf awaiting their next project.

Inside the rubberised plug, is a

magnet. When the plug is inserted

into the endcap of a compatible

transponder, the battery of the unit

becomes isolated from the main

electronics – the equivalent of

opening up the unit and manually

disconnecting it. All the time the plug

is attached, up to 1% of the battery’s

capacity can be saved per week;

savings that quickly mount up.

As you no longer have to open a

transponder to access the battery

to disconnect prior to storage or

shipping, time is also saved and the

risk of mis-handling components or

‘o’ rings is eliminated.When you’re

ready to setup, test and configure

your transponder, simply pull out

the plug to re-connect the battery.

The Battery Disconnect Plug

feature will be fitted as standard at

no extra cost on an extensive list of

6G transponders manufactured after

May 2015.

Replacement endcap kits are

available for existing owners. Contact

your local office for more details.

BATTERY DISCONNECT PLUG

Conservingbattery power;increasing savings


»KIT

TRACKDOWNYOProduct Focus: Ultra-Short BaseLine Systems

Scout

Mini-Ranger 2

Ranger 2

A highly portable and affordable ‘all-in-one’

acoustic positioning system designed for

tracking divers, ROVs and towfish in waters up to

1,000 metres in depth. Scout is easy to install, and

set up on small workboats, even RIBs, making it

the ideal tool for use in inland and coastal waters

such as lakes, rivers, harbours and estuaries.

The system is available in three different models

depending on experience level and tracking

needs; Scout, Scout Plus and Scout Pro.

Need to go deeper or track further? Then why

not consider Mini-Ranger 2, the latest addition to

Sonardyne’s USBL line-up? With Mini-Ranger 2,

your subsea projects will benefit from the same

Wideband 2 digital signal processing

technology that’s earned Ranger 2 its enviable

reputation for precision and accuracy – but for

significantly less cost. With an operating range

of 2,000 metres and the ability to track 10

transponders,Mini-Ranger 2 is perfect for

nearshore surveys on small, quiet vessels, or

use on pipelay and construction barges.

Ranger 2 is Sonardyne’s highest specification

USBL system. It allows multiple subsea targets to

be tracked to beyond 6,000 metres, whilst

simultaneously providing a highly repeatable

position reference for dynamically positioned (DP)

vessels. Ranger 2 boasts an extensive feature list

to meet the needs of complex survey operations.

This includes the freedom to use any 6G (and

many third party) transponders, intricate vehicle

and offset tracking, inertial navigation aiding and

redundant configurations. Transceiver options are

similarly extensive; Inverted USBL, GyroUSBL and

deep water optimised, to name a few. All support

LBL and data modem operating modes.

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MINI-RANGER 2

HPT 3000 – Better by design

HPT 3000 is a 6G compatible ‘High Performance Transceiver’ for

use with Sonardyne’s new Mini-Ranger 2 Ultra-Short BaseLine

(USBL) system.

It is the smallest and lightest 6G transceiver available, offering

advantages for portable installation on very small boats. It is designed

for shallow to medium water depths on typically quieter vessels.

The transceiver features a new design of receiver array and

transmitter which are optimised to provide excellent performance

in shallow water, at high elevations as well as in deeper water. USBL

precision is dependent on the baseline between the receiver

elements and signal to noise. This is where the HPT 3000 excels in

that the larger diameter array provides excellent precision and

noise rejection, dramatically better than USBL systems on the

market with much smaller diameter arrays.

A key new feature of the HPT 3000 is that communications are all

Ethernet based, which means connection to the topside computer

(via the Ethernet Serial Hub) is simple and easy for users and can

be connected through a ship’s network. It also enables better in-

water diagnostics such as being able to allow the operator to listen

audibly and visualise signals and noise in the water. Available in

durable Aluminium Bronze or lightweight Aluminium Alloy.

OURIDEALUSBL

Baseline » Issue13 07

SONARDYNE USBL TRANSCEIVERS

Whatever the task, there’s one designed to meet your needs

GyroiUSBL

A subsea vehicle based transceiver

that turns conventional USBL tracking

on its head. Designed for projects

using deep tow, long layback survey

platforms requiring high precision.

HPT 13000

A specialist USBL transceiver available to

support tracking projects in the deepest

water. The large array and advanced multi-

element processing enables transponders

to be tracked with ultimate precision.

GyroUSBL 5000 / 7000

Integrates a Lodestar subsea INS sensor and

HPT transceiver in one unit. GyroUSBL is

pre-calibrated for rapid and cost-effective

deployment on vessels of opportunity. Available

with standard and deep water optimised arrays.

Scout USBL

An entry-level USBL

transceiver that’s small, easy to

use and accurate. Deploy it

from a small boat and start

tracking straight away. Not

compatible with 6G.

HPT 5000

Enables subsea targets to be

tracked with precision and

repeatability over a wide range

of water depths and elevations.

Supports high speed 6G data

telemetry mode.

HPT 7000

A USBL and LUSBL transceiver

optimised for noisy

dynamically positioned drilling

and construction vessels

operating in deep water. Vessel

and thruster noise is rejected.

Tilted Arrays

When tracking underwater

targets at shallow angles, a tilt

adaptor keeps the target in the

ideal operating envelope of the

array. Available for many

Sonardyne transceivers.


NEWSSonardyne’s Echo Explorer – Equipped to stand the test

As the demand for more capable and versatile underwater technology has risen, so has the requirement for more robust in-

water testing and development.To answer the call, Sonardyne’s new Echo Explorer trials and research vessel is purpose

built for the task.The 12 metre long powerful catamaran has been coded to MCA Category 2, allowing speedy transits out

to 60 miles from any port by day or night. Destination reached, her two moon pools provide the facility for the deployment

of a range of acoustic, inertial, sonar and optical technologies, whilst the larger central moon pool and hydraulic crane can

be used to deploy much larger subsea equipment. Speaking of size, a large cabin provides ample space for a fully equipped

workshop, along with a swivel 19-inch rack for easy access and setting up of equipment – including both current and future

technologies. Full trials have already taken place, so she is completely operational and has already begun simulating both

array of static and dynamic aspects of offshore construction and positioning operations.

cc

Shell has used high speed acoustic

modem technology from Sonardyne

to successfully recover survey data

from a network of long-life seabed sensors

deployed in the North Sea. To date, the

network of Autonomous Monitoring

Transponders (AMTs) has collected over

a quarter of a billion measurements as part

of an uninterrupted production monitoring

study lasting six years.

The AMTs were originally deployed in

2010 to meet Shell’s research and

production monitoring requirements. Every

few hours, each AMT within the field-wide

network gathers readings from a variety

of inbuilt sensors. These include; pressure,

range, temperature, pitch, roll and sound

velocity. The measurements are logged and

time-stamped and can be recovered on-

demand from the surface using Sonardyne’s

6G High Power Transceiver (HPT) acoustic

telemetry modem.

For this latest data harvesting campaign,

the MV Elizabeth fishing vessel was

chartered and an over-the-side deployment

pole installed for the deployment of the HPT.

Sonardyne’s over-the-side deployment pole

is designed for easy installation, disassembly

and transportation. Once removed, it can be

transferred to another vessel or stored until

INVESTMENT

EXPLORATION AND SURVEILLANCE

the next time it is required.

“As we were using a vessel of

opportunity for this project, an over-the-side

deployment pole was the preferred cost-

effective and fit-for-purpose practical

solution,” commented Phil Riddell, Senior

Operations Surveyor at Shell.

The acoustic communication protocols

within HPT enable large amounts of data to

be extracted quickly and efficiently from 6G

instruments such as AMTs. A vast amount

of data was wirelessly collected and not a

single byte was lost, thereby demonstrating

the extremely high reliability of 6G as an

underwater data carrier.

250 million measurements and counting for Shell


UTEC, an Acteon company,

has awarded Sonardyne a multi-

million pound contract to supply

Fusion 6G Long BaseLine acoustic

positioning technology for the Moho Nord

subsea project situated 75 kilometres

off the coast of Congo.

The equipment will be used to

support the installation of 230 kilometres

of rigid pipeline, 23 kilometres of flexible

pipes, 50 kilometres of umbilicals and

numerous manifolds, plus over 50 subsea

structures and rigid jumpers.

The project’s construction phase

will run for two years with Technip’s rigid

pipe S-lay and heavy-lift construction

vessel, G1200, and multi-purpose

deepwater vessel, Deep Pioneer, utilised

as the primary installation vessels. First

oil is expected during 2015, rising to an

estimated 140,000 barrels of oil per day

by 2017.

Fusion 6G is the industry standard

tool for subsea construction and survey

operations, specified for its versatility,

ease of use and low risk.

Sonardyne’s UK sites in Yateley,

Aberdeen and Plymouth have been

awarded OHSAS 18001 Safety

Management System Standard accreditation.

The news follows similar recent

announcements from Sonardyne’s overseas

subsidiary companies; Sonardyne Brasil

Ltda., Sonardyne Asia Pte. Ltd. and

Sonardyne Inc., each of whom have earned

OHSAS 18001 certification.

“As an international organisation that’s

committed to the health, safety and

wellbeing of all our employees wherever

they work in the world, we are extremely

pleased that Sonardyne’s entire UK

operation now joins our regional centres in

obtaining OHSAS 18001 certification,” said

John Ramsden, Sonardyne’s Managing

Director. “Conducting our operations in

an efficient and safe environment, where

the risk of incidents and accidents occurring

is minimised, is our number one focus.

Earning accreditation across our business

proves that first and foremost, Sonardyne

places the wellbeing of its staff and business

partners at the heart of its operation. It also

provides our clients with the complete

peace of mind that they are dealing with an

organisation that fulfils its contractual

obligations in a totally safe and secure way.”

Sonardyne achievesOHSAS 18001accreditation aroundthe world

HEALTH AND SAFETY CONSTRUCTION SURVEY

John Ramsden, Managing Director for Sonardyneproudly displays Sonardyne International Ltd.’sOHSAS 18001 certification.

Technip’s rigid pipe S-lay and heavy-lift construction vessel, G1200, and multi-purpose deepwatervessel, Deep Pioneer, will be used to support the Moho Nord subsea development project.

Fusion 6G chosen for $10 billionMoho Nord field development

The LBL equipment being supplied

to UTEC includes high spec Compatt 6

seabed transponders, ROV-mounted

transceivers, associated topside hardware

and software.

Oilfield construction requires accurate

and repeatable positioning, a requirement

met by the digital Wideband 2 signal

architecture found exclusively within

6G products. The technology is proven

to offer robust acoustic performance in

challenging conditions, fast baseline

measurements, improved multipath

rejection around structures and real-time

range diagnostics for quality control.

Sonardyne’s Vice President of Europe

and Africa, Barry Cairns said, “Moho

Nord joins a premier list of deep water

field developments benefiting from the

technical and commercial advantages

offered by 6G.

UTEC and their project partners have

chosen to invest in the best available

subsea positioning technology that will

add significant value during the entire

life of the Moho Nord project and beyond.”

NEWS10 Baseline » Issue13

MARITIME SECURITY

Sentinel excels during international naval exercises

Sonardyne’s leading diver detection

sonar technology played an

important part in a major international

exercise organised to train naval forces in

mine countermeasures, maritime security

operations and harbour protection.

The International Mine Counter-

Measures Exercise (IMCMEX) runs off the

Bahrain coastline every 18 months, testing

the navy’s abilities to keep sea lanes open

and safe. 6,500 personnel and 38 warships

from 44 navies took part, making it the third

and largest so far.

Sentinel Intruder Detection Sonar (IDS)

has been developed to detect divers and

small underwater targets, thereby providing

local underwater situational awareness. The

sonar is the world’s most deployed system,

protecting military ports, harbours and

vessels, in addition to shore-side critical

national infrastructure, commercial ports

and vessels. It reliably detects, tracks and

classifies targets including surface

swimmers, divers and underwater vehicles

approaching up to 1 kilometre away, from

any direction.

During the three week long exercises,

the Sentinel system was deployed in a

variety of scenarios to demonstrate its

capabilities as a rapidly deployable

technology for protecting strategic marine

assets. Divers from the participating

Biggest construction vessel uses an acousti

A llseas’ gigantic new

pipelay and

decommissioning vessel,

Pioneering Spirit, will set

records when it enters

service later in 2015. And

when it does, Sonardyne’s

Ranger 2 USBL (Ultra-Short

BaseLine) positioning

technology will be onboard,

playing a big role.

Longer, wider, heavier

At 382 metres long and 124

metres wide, the Pioneering

Spirit is almost as long as the

Empire State Building and as

wide as London’s Big Ben is

tall. Its cranes will be able to

lift loads of 48,000 tonnes and

it has enough deck space to

deliver or remove a complete

topside module and jacket in

one trip. It can even raise and

lower itself in the water by 25

metres to cope with huge

weight demands of offshore

installations. In pipelay mode,

the Pioneering Spirit’s tension

capacity is 2,000 tonnes, twice

that of the Allseas’ Solitaire.

Fast, accurate and

repeatable subsea positioning

information will be key to

enabling the vessel to

successfully carry out its

work. For this reason, Allseas

selected Ranger 2 as the

acoustic position reference

for the vessel’s Kongsberg

dynamic positioning (DP).

Delivered and installed

whilst the Pioneering Spirit

was still under construction

in Korea, Ranger 2 measures

the range and bearing from

a vessel-mounted acoustic

transceiver to a transponder

deployed on the seabed or

attached to a pipe as it is

lowered from the surface.

The vessel’s relative position

to the transponder is

continuously reported to the

DP system in order that the

vessel can be manoeuvred

to remain in the required

location, regardless of water

depth and operating

conditions.

6G and Wideband 2

Ranger 2’s impressive level of

performance comes from the

unique combination of digital

Wideband 2 signal

technology and Sonardyne’s

6G hardware platform on

which the system is built.

Since their introduction,

Wideband 2 and 6G enabled

products have made a major

impact on subsea operations

around the world – lowering

costs, improving efficiencies

and reducing risk.

Consequently, many field

development projects now

specify 6G as the standard for

all life of field activities. With

its Ranger 2, the Pioneering

Spirit is equipped to arrive

on location and begin

working alongside other

CONSTRUCTION SURVEY

Sentinel reliably detects, tracks and classifiesunderwater intruders approaching vessels, portsand harbours.

countries were challenged to evade

detection during simulated assaults on

various naval assets protected by Sentinel.

On each occasion, Sentinel successfully

alerted operators to the approaching threat.

“With a quarter of the world’s navies in

attendance, this was the perfect environment

to demonstrate Sentinel’s capabilities in

protecting high value offshore facilities,

ports and critical waterside infrastructure,”

commented Nick Swift, Sonardyne’s

Business Manager for Maritime Security.

The small design of Sentinel’s sonar

head enables a variety of deployment

options including lightweight frames for

short term deployment, through-hull or

over-the-side deployment for installation

on vessels. This made it perfect for use in

these particular naval military exercises.

From as early as 2008, the US Naval Sea

Systems Command (NAVSEA) selected

Sentinel for its Integrated Swimmer Defence

programme following rigorous trials.


TRAINING

Equipping operators with the skills to succeed

ic positioning system with a big reputation

vessels without any delay

or interruption to ongoing

operations.

Alan MacDonald, Sales

Manager for Sonardyne in

Aberdeen commented,

“Allseas are a major user of

Sonardyne technology and

we are delighted that Ranger

2 USBL has been chosen for

their flagship vessel. This

investment reaffirms the

robustness, versatility and

ease of use that our 6G

products brings to Allseas’

offshore operations.”Allseas Group, ownersof the world’s largestconstruction vesselPioneering Spirit,have put their faith inSonardyne’s Ranger 2acoustic positioningtechnology.

Training helps lower operational risk andmaximises equipment performance.

product training courses prove their worth.

“These days it is vital that those

overseeing acoustic operations are both

confident and capable in their ability to

understand the equipment they’re using,

spot potential issues before they arise, and

should a problem be encountered, have the

confidence to quickly and effectively

resolve it.” That’s according to Mark

Hanson, Sonardyne’s Training Manager.

To address that requirement,

Sonardyne’s extensive programme of

training courses offer operators the chance

to gain hands-on experience with systems

and get the very best out of them once they

are installed and commissioned. This helps

to reduce risk and the possibility of costly

downtime being encountered.

Sonardyne’s Training Academy in

Plymouth, south-west England is the main

centre for training. It boasts an impressive

collection of training resources including

permanently deployed subsea equipment.

With courses restricted to only six delegates,

pupils receive individual attention from their

instructors and are actively encouraged to

ask questions at any time.

When in-water training is not practical,

simulators allow the creation of highly

realistic scenarios so operators can practice

their operations in a safe and risk-free

environment before undertaking the task

in the field.

This approach enables courses to be

held at one of Sonardyne’s regional centres

in Aberdeen, Houston, Singapore and Brazil.

Courses can also be arranged at client’s

offices or even onboard their own vessel.

And if clients don’t see it, doesn’t mean that

Sonardyne can’t do it. Bespoke courses can

also be arranged with a syllabus designed

to fulfil an individual client’s needs.

Details of Sonardyne’s standard courses

for 2015 are available on the website.

Please visit www.sonardyne.com/support

and follow the link to Training Courses.

As offshore projectsbecome ever

more complex, demand for more

capable and versatile Sonardyne

acoustic positioning technology has risen.

Of course with any Sonardyne product,

clients have the peace of mind that it is tried

and tested. Once in the field though,

extracting the maximum performance out

of the product can often rely on the

experience of the operator. That’s where

Sonardyne’s in-water and simulator-based

Turn to page 06, to find

out more about

Sonardyne’s line up of

USBL systems.


Technology: Syrinx DVL

Technology

RE-ENGINEERINGTHEDNAOFADVL

In 2007, Sonardyne surprised the industry by addinginertial navigation to its renowned acoustic positioningtechnology portfolio. Diversification into sonar imagingand optical communications quickly followed. Now in2015, Sonardyne is entering the Doppler Velocity Logmarketplace with ‘Syrinx’. So why has Sonardynedecided to develop its own DVL, what makes Syrinxunique and why should anyone invest in it? In searchof answers to these questions, Baseline spoke with thearchitects behind the new DVL, engineering directorsSimon Partridge and Darryl Newborough, to get theinside track.>>


Technology

Product Focus: Syrinx DVL – A Doppler Velocity Log for surface and subsea vehicles

Baseline: So why introduce a DVLnow?Simon Partridge: “A Sonardyne DVL fillsa small but very significant technology gapthat currently exists in our extensive line-up ofsubsea positioning and navigation equipment.As a business, we are committed to thedevelopment and creation of innovative andexciting technologies. So from the outset, we

were quietly confident that with the engineering experience withinSonardyne, a market leading product could and would be developed.And if initial test results are anything to go by, we weren’t wrong.Having an intimate understanding of the instrument allows us to providethe best possible subsea navigation solution using tightly integrated DVL,INS and 6G acoustics.”

Darryl Newborough: “Surprisingly there aren’t that many other DVLsout there, so users’ expectations have remained largely unchanged for

years. However electronics and signal processing techniques havemoved on considerably so we spotted an opportunity to re-set theperformance benchmark.”

Baseline: So how did you approach the instrument’sdevelopment?SP: “With a DVL, small velocity errors grow into larger position offsetswith distance travelled, so it is critical in the development of a DVL thatthese small errors are minimised as much as possible. In this case, thedevil really is in the fine detail.

As with anything from Sonardyne, when we set out down thedevelopment path, we aim to make it the best possible. We lookedto the medical ultrasonics sector where billions has been spent ondevelopment, combining what we found with the best transducersmanufactured in-house and the best signal processing; two areaswhere we excel. We also had to understand the fundamental physics,so we developed an advanced simulation and modelling capabilityto exercise candidate signals and signal processing architecture.”

Engineering directorsSimon Partridge (left)and Darryl Newboroughreview the technologicaldevelopments foundwithin Syrinx.


Technical File

DN: “We can essentially ‘fly’ our DVL in a 3D synthetic world and modelthe propagation of sound from Syrinx to the seabed and back again.This hugely helped in choosing beam widths, signals, electronics andprocessing techniques.We then ensured the software architecture wasfully linear and highly configurable and finally ensured we could streamor log all raw acoustic data. This enables us to post process the rawdata, including navigation sensor data, so trials data can be reprocessedand visualised to help in development. This has all led to what webelieve are significant improvements in DVL precision and integrity.

In addition to the signal processing and environmental simulatorimprovements, the transducer design is critical to the performance ofthe DVL. To get the best performance, hundreds of hours of finite elementmodelling have been conducted with forensic material analysis toperfect the transducer design.”

Baseline: So how long has it been in development?SP: “It has been in development behind the scenes for some years nowas we did not want to rush things. We fully understand the commercialrisk and technical pressures that are present in our markets so beforereleasing it, we wanted to make it the best product possible and ensureit was thoroughly developed and tested.”

DN: “The core architecture on which Syrinx is built is now validated,so engineering efforts can concentrate on optimising systemperformance, mechanical packaging and honing the user experience.DVLs are exposed to all sorts of abuse, so Syrinx naturally possesses allof the characteristics our transponders and transceivers are renownedfor; compactness, ruggedness and robustness.”

Baseline: Who is Syrinx aimed at then?SP: “There are always horses for courses and this horse is aimed atproviding class leading performance on ROVs, larger deep water AUVsand manned submersibles. It is not the smallest, but it is very importantto understand that in this case, size matters. A DVL’s transducer size is setby frequency, beam width and performance in noise. The larger elementshave narrower beams so more signal is focussed on the seabed andthey are better at detecting the signal in the noise. So a bigger ‘head’enables greater precision and higher altitude performance.”

Baseline: So how is Syrinx different to other DVLs?DN: “Importantly Syrinx employs fully linear signal processing, unlikemost DVLs in the market today. This enables the signal processing to bedone in a different way.

The result is a 600 kHz DVL that operates both at high elevationsand extremely low heights off the seabed. It provides very low noise,high precision velocity measurement in a wide range of seabed bottomtypes – rocks, mud, weed, steep drop-offs etc. The signals have beenchosen very carefully to maintain bottom track and new algorithmsensure bottom ‘lock’ is always optimised – unlike other DVLs we testedwhich were prone to losing bottom track for some time.

We undertake everything in-house; the electronics, signalprocessing and transducer design, manufacturing, repair and support.Acoustically the performance is fantastic with excellent transducers andvery low noise electronics.”

Reasons to InvestSONARDYNE SYRINX 600 KHZ DVL

PerformanceClass-leading precisionand accuracy comparablewith a 1200 kHz sensorcombined with a reliableand adaptive bottom lock.

Altitude140 metre high altituderange and low noise, lowaltitude performance.

Update RateHigh update rate at< 1 m range. Improvedvelocity accuracy metricsto navigation systems.

Multiple OutputsStandard output telegramsease integration into 3rdparty nav systems.Concurrent outputs (Serialand Ethernet) support use byboth ROV and Survey teams.

Depth RatingStandard 4 km ratedTitanium housing option forWork class ROVs, optionsfor 3 km and 6 km housings.

ConfigurationOn-board web interface forconfiguration, diagnosticsand inbuilt test.

Tight IntegrationIntegration with SPRINT INSprovides unmatched DVLaided navigation, even inchallenging bottom lockconditions.

ServicingFactory interchangeabletransducer elementsreduces servicing andrepair costs.

Trusted SupplierINS, acoustic positioning,and now DVL technologyfrom a trusted subseacompany.


Technology

Product Focus: Syrinx DVL – A Doppler Velocity Log for surface and subsea vehicles

SP: “Syrinx has been designed and engineered for the offshoreenvironment, one we have a real in-depth understanding of and marketleadership position in. All the research into signal, transducer andelectronic design adds up to a class-leading instrument with higher andlower altitude performance, high update rates and better resolution.The simple to use web browser interface provides access to configurationsettings, diagnostics and data logging.”

Baseline: So how has it been tested?SP: “We’ve been using DVLs of different types for many years now tosupport the development of our subsea inertial navigation systems. Weknow when and why they go wrong. We know how to test them andthat is against a high accuracy kinematic GPS aided INS on a vessel.Luckily we have the ideal setup and environment for this – our sea trialsfacility in Plymouth, UK. From here we have access to a very widerange of water depths and bottom types. There’s steep drop offs, whirlpools, flat muddy areas – you name it, we have it.

The results have been extremely encouraging. We have also testedSyrinx in our test tanks and at large flow tanks. We are highly confidentabout its class-leading precision. But precision is no good unless it hasgood integrity and reliability. So we have also done long term pressureand temperature testing that will continue to ensure we have class-leadingreliability as well. The process has been thorough and exhaustive.”

DN: “Syrinx has also undergone independent comparative testing bya leading university in the UK, confirming class-leading performance.With Syrinx, you get the same precision as if from a high frequencyDVL and the same high altitude performance as from a lower frequencyDVL. It is essentially three sensors in one focussing on ROVs and thelarger deeper water AUVs. In addition to the performance testing,the instrument is being tested to DNV 2.4 Environmental and EMCstandard. This is extremely important as it ensures the instrument isreliable and will not interfere with other navigation equipment.”

Baseline: What other features set Syrinx apart?SP: “Syrinx supports serial and Ethernet ports, a web browser interface,as well as the industry standard output telegrams, so it can be a straightreplacement for existing units and hence easy to integrate into otherINS systems. There are dual underwater connectors for reliability andflexibility and individual transducers can be replaced (not the wholearray) if damaged. This significantly reduces repair bills and supportshigh resolution Acoustic Doppler Current Profiling (ADCP) mode.”

DN: “From experience, the ability to log data and diagnosticinformation is extremely important when trying to attain the best possibleperformance. Software enables raw data to be reprocessed andvisualised to optimise Syrinx for customers’ dedicated applications.

Range and PrecisionOffshore Trials

(Left) In extensive seatrials in Plymouth,UK, Syrinx deliveredclass-leadingprecision in a widerange of water depthsand bottom types.These included steepdrop offs, whirl poolsand flat muddy areas.

(Below left) The DVLreally is in the detail.The ability to log rawdata and diagnosticinformation isextremely importantwhen trying to attainthe best possibleperformance.Software enables rawdata to be reprocessedand visualised tooptimise Syrinx forcustomers’ specialistapplications.

The Syrinx 600 kHz DVL has been designed and developed to offeran altitude range that is comparable to a 300 kHz DVL, with theprecision previously only achieved using a 1200 kHz DVL.


The instrument can store a lot of data that can be rapidly downloadedvia the Ethernet connection using the embedded FTP server. Thewebserver makes it simple to configure using any PC with a webbrowser – so no PC software is required.”

Baseline: Does it link into other products you offer?SP: “Certainly. Sonardyne is now the only company that make highaccuracy acoustic positioning systems, inertial navigation systems

(SPRINT) and a DVL under one roof. Coupling them together in the rightway mechanically is an advantage, but tightly coupling them togetherat the data level enables a world of advantages that no one hasproperly explored yet. Getting all your subsea navigation technologyfrom the same company also has tremendous commercial, service andsupport advantages for our customers.”

DN: “The ultimate performance differential of Syrinx will be realisedwhen tightly coupled to our SPRINT INS. It’s a two-way relationship withSyrinx providing beam velocity data to SPRINT and in return, SPRINTaiding the DVL with information to ensure bottom lock is maintainedeven in the most difficult environments.”

Baseline: When do you expect to have a final productto go to market with?SP: “Pre-production units are being readied for field evaluation trialswith key customers in a range of deployment scenarios over the comingmonths. The product feedback will be incorporated into a full scaleproduction run planned for this autumn. We are also looking forfeedback on customers own requirements and applications. AtSonardyne we are good at customising our technology for particularcustomers’ needs. Syrinx is designed to be scaleable and flexible.So we will make bespoke versions, different frequencies and integrateinto other peoples systems as the market demands.”

DN: “This is a really exciting time for us and our customers. Echoingwhat Simon said earlier, with the arrival of Syrinx, it completes anotherpiece of the Sonardyne product jigsaw. We are now uniquely placedto offer high accuracy acoustic positioning, inertial navigation, sonar,communications and now velocity from a single and trusted supplier.” BL

Performance

Sonardyne Syrinx

Operating Frequency 600 kHz

Bottom Velocity St dev at @ 1m/s ±0.2 cm/s

St dev at @ 3 m/s ±0.5 cm/s

St dev at @ 5 m/s ±0.6 cm/s

Long Term Accuracy ±0.2% ±0.1 cm/s

Minimum Altitude 0.5 m

Maximum Altitude 140 m

Parameters Data Output Rate 10 Hz max

Water Reference Accuracy ±0.2% ±0.1 cm/s

Velocity

Power Voltage Range (DC Input) 24 V (±10%)

Maximum Transmit Power 218 dB

Environmental Depth Rating 3,000 m, 4,000 m

or 6,000 m

Housing Material Aluminium or

Titanium

Hardware Communications Concurrent RS232

and Ethernet

Internal Logging 64 GB Internal

Memory

Specifications

“Having an intimate understanding of theinstrument allows us to provide the bestpossible subsea navigation solution usingtightly integrated DVL, INS and acoustics.”

(Above) Syrinx outputs high resolution velocity computationsin X, Y and Z (Janus) or beam orientation.

(Below) Syrinx’s ADCP capability has been proven in trials atour test facility in Plymouth and independently by a leadingUK university.

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0.6

0.8

0.4

0.2

0

-0.2

-0.4

-0.6

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

400

300

200

100

0

–100

–200

–300

–400

6000 6100 6200 6300 6400 6500 6600 6700

Velocity (m/s)

Depth (m)

OBS#

AFT - STBD Radial velocity (mm)

Subsea Asset Monitoring

Technology: Monitoring, Data Capture and Analysis


SMARTSUBSEADATAFORSMARTERDECISIONMAKING

Data LoggersSonardyne’s Acoustic DataLoggers are ideal for wellappraisal projects, wherefrequent downhole pressureand temperature readings needto be logged over several weeks.ROV portability enables theunits to be easily redeployed toother wells, making them acost-effective solution forreservoir evaluation.

TelemetrySonardyne 6G enabledinstruments have a fullacoustic modem capability.The advanced Wideband 2telemetry inside is designedto be highly adaptive toensure robust performancein all environmentalconditions and water depths.

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SMARTThe new Subsea Monitoring,Analysis and ReportingTransponder (SMART) bringstogether low power electronics,long duration data logging,subsea data processing andacoustic telemetry into a single,easily deployed instrument.

Leak DetectionAutomatic Leak DetectionSonar (ALDS) activelymonitors hydrocarbon leaksaround subsea oil and gasassets in more than one billioncubic feet of seawater, with360° of coverage from a singlemounted sensor location. Thesystem can detect multiphaseleaks below 1 barrel per day atranges in excess of 500 metresin deep water.

Application SolutionsIn this example, Sonardyne’smonitoring, positioning andremote control equipment ismounted along the entirelength of a pipe bundle. Dataincluding pipe pressure, towtension and heading can allbe captured, with a less than30 second update rate.

Having access to qualified and regularly updated knowledge about the integrity ofyour subsea assets and reservoir conditions is of utmost importance for making the rightdecisions at the right time. The solution is continuous subsea surveillance and monitoringthroughout the life of field. Global business manager for Subsea Asset Monitoring,Stephen Fasham, reviews Sonardyne’s capabilities and describes how they’re creatingsmarter links between the seabed and the analyst’s desktop.>>

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THE PURPOSE OF monitoring is to understandhow subsea systems are performing, as wellas enabling faults to be detected at an earlystage. The data generated by monitoringsystems needs to be analysed in order todetermine if the integrity of the system isjeopardised and decide on what potentialactions should be performed. This analysiscan be carried out at the surface, but in somecases, where large data volumes are

generated subsea, moving the data processing subsea enables systemsto operate autonomously – warning the operator when predefinedthresholds are exceeded. By managing the data actively, systems canhave long operating times whilst still being battery operated.

For example, risers for both drilling and production are increasinglyrequiring robust, long-term instrumentation to give manufacturers,contractors and operators a real-time scorecard on the cyclic abuseMother Nature dishes out, and how much remaining life is in theirequipment as a result. Information including; position, inclination andwater current profile for risers, riser towers, mooring lines and turretbuoys can be determined using multi-function Sonardyne 6G

transponders as part of an integrity monitoring solution. The value of the monitoring system can be enhanced by connecting

external sensors which use the transponders to telemeter data to thetopside for analysis. By way of example, ultrasonic corrosion monitoringallows users to determine the current extent and predict the futurecorrosion of the metallic parts of the structure.

As the capability of monitoring equipment improves, and thebenefits for production efficiency and savings on inspection andmaintenance regimes are demonstrated, asset monitoring looks setto be a growth sector for the future.

Data Telemetry SolutionsSubsea wireless telemetry is useful in the oil and gas industry where subsea valves and actuators need tobe controlled or monitored at the surface. Sonardynehas an unrivalled portfolio of acoustic and non-acoustic

wireless communications technologies and systems for use in the harshestof offshore environments.

Our acoustic systems are proven to perform robustly in areas of highambient noise and reverberation caused by proximity to vessels, subseastructures and ROVs. For this reason, we are repeatedly called upon to

Sonardyne 6G positioning and telemetry instruments installed to provide high update rate pipe bundle monitoring and precise laydown positioning.

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provide clients with equipment and systems where high reliabilityis imperative. Our 6th generation (6G) acoustic instruments, whichare the basis of our acoustic communications solutions, provideunprecedented levels of flexibility in terms of frequency, transmissionpower level and user data transfer rate.

The versatility of 6G enables Sonardyne to tailor the equipmentconfiguration to match the application as well as the prevailingacoustic conditions. Where telemetry needs are allied to a positioningrequirement – often the case when working with Floating ProductionStorage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels – a Sonardyne USBLpositioning transceiver can double-up as a data modem. Shouldthe monitoring system only require wireless data transfer, the surfacetransceiver can be a winch-deployed dunker. Options for subseatransponders are extensive, and include long-life battery packs and

housing materials matched to the deployment location; warm or cold,deep or shallow.

As well as point-to-point links, Sonardyne is also able to providesolutions beyond the normal range of a single acoustic communicationlink. Data hopping along a chain of subsea units significantly extendsrange, with systems in the field connecting wellhead sensors to vesselsover 10 kilometres away through difficult seabed conditions.

A more recent addition to the Sonardyne communications productportfolio is BlueComm, which adds Free Space Optical (FSO)communications to established acoustic products. BlueComm uses highpower LED emitters to provide data links with up to 20 Mbps bandwidth,over distances up to 200 metres. For the first time, BlueComm enablescustomers to collect large payloads of sensor data without needingto recover instrumentation to the surface. BlueComm has been used torecover sensor data from subsea observatories at depths of over2,000 metres.

The high data rate has also been demonstrated for wirelesstransmission of high definition video signals, providing the option forROVs to deploy remote wireless cameras and observe complexoperations from multiple viewpoints. BlueComm has also demonstratedits capability for tetherless vehicle control, where it can be integratedwith an acoustic system to provide longer range communications and/or backup should the optical channel be disrupted.

BlueComm is a game changer. It has moved subsea communicationssystems from the equivalent of dial-up to broadband. By making highspeed wireless connections a reality, BlueComm opens up newapplications where wired systems are impractical or unaffordable.

Application SolutionsWhilst our 6G telemetry products can be used ‘simply’ to transfer data from external sensors, where we differ from other acoustic communications providers is inhow we use our engineering capability to take leading

products and systems and evolve them to meet the changing needs ofour customers. That includes integration of third party sensors andsystems that interface to external systems. It’s what many would call‘a complete application solution.’

An example of one such application is the provision of acousticmonitoring systems for pipeline bundle tow operations. Engineeringrequirements here are complex, requiring positioning and monitoringtransponders to be mounted at regular intervals along the entire lengthof the pipe bundle.

This aids in control of the shape of the bundle, as well as providingpipe pressure, tow tension, heading, roll and pitch from inertial sensorsand flooding valve control. All this with a less than 30 second updaterate – as data is relayed acoustically up the pipeline to the tug or surveyboat. This particular technique is now tried and tested, having beenused for many years for pipeline bundles which can now be as longas10 kilometres.

(Above) A (red) Sonardyne AMT interfaced to a ADCP for data acquisition.(Below) Deployment of an AUV equipped with BlueComm.

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“For the first time, BlueComm enablescustomers to collect large payloads ofsensor data without needing to recoverinstrumentation to the surface. BlueCommhas been used to recover sensor data fromsubsea observatories at depths of over2,000 metres.”




Make the SMART move

SMART brings together low powerelectronics, long duration datalogging, subsea data processing andacoustic telemetry into a single,easily deployed instrument. Plus, ithas the flexibility to interface with awide range of internal and externalsensors and other data sources toprovide operators with key data.

Downhole sensor loggersBy definition, a standalone data logger is a data capturing device that, once initialised, can log

automatically data and store it in its on-board memory. Data storedin memory can be ‘harvested’ acoustically and down-

loaded into a computer for analysis to provide information on the historyof parameters or events.

Sonardyne’s Acoustic Data Logger has a track record of morethan 25 years of successful installations, with the current generationincorporating Sonardyne’s Wideband acoustic technology in a designwhich allows the subsea unit to be deployed and retrieved by an ROV.

When combined with the feature of ROV portability, the systemis the ideal solution for initial well appraisal, where frequent downholepressure and temperature readings need to be logged over a periodof a few weeks. These units can then be redeployed to another well,making them a very cost-effective solution for reservoir evaluation.However, the new system is equally suitable for long-term deploymentswhere it can be left installed on a wellhead – logging data for severalyears without intervention.

The subsea unit can be interfaced to all industry standard downholegauges, whilst custom interfaces can be supplied on request. Loggingintervals can be varied by acoustic command from1minute to 7 days,a feature governed by the battery power consumed by the gauges andinterface circuitry each time a measurement is made. Using a standardbattery, the life will be greater than two years if gauges are read only afew times per day, but may reduce to a few weeks if gauges are readevery few minutes.

The flexibility of the system enables additional external battery packsto be added by an ROV to Sonardyne data loggers, enabling them tomeet the widest range of downhole monitoring needs.

SMARTOne of the limitations of acoustic monitoring systems is the restricted bandwidth of the data link. That being said, great strides have been made with the last two generations of Sonardyne product, evolving them to

a point where user data rates can now be as high as 9,000 bps withreliable connections.

However, the fundamental physics of the acoustic channel meansthat further advances in data rate will be limited. The addition of newplatforms such as BlueComm are one way of overcoming this constraint,along with Sonardyne continuously working on ways of making thatlimited channel work harder, or we could say ‘smarter’ for their customers.

Part of that continuous development is the Subsea Monitoring,Analysis and Reporting Transponder or SMART unit. A new developmentfrom Sonardyne, the unit builds on the 6G instrument platform but addsa new layer of data processing to enable more intelligent subseasystems. SMART is a flexible platform which can be outfitted witha wide range of internal sensors including pressure, temperature,inclinometers and accelerometers, to name just a few. It is also capableof interfacing to external sensors (digital and analogue) such as chemicalsniffers, strain gauges and Doppler current profilers.

Where SMART is different is that the functionality doesn’t stop atsecure logging. With redundant storage of sensor data, information

Advanced Acoustic TelemetrySMART shares its acoustictelemetry module and transducertechnology with the award-winningCompatt 6. Utilising SonardyneWideband 2, SMART can transmitacoustic data at rates up to 9,000bps to Sonardyne’s existing rangeof topside transceivers.

Advanced Data Acquisition andProcessing System (ADAPS)ADAPS is the heart of SMART. Asa highly capable processor, it canrun sophisticated user specifiedalgorithms, as well as simple dataanalyses such as Min/Max/Meanstatistics and thresholding foralarms and critical event reporting.

Bite Size DataBy reducing high bandwidthsensor data to small criticalpackets, SMART enhances users’knowledge of the subsea world.By efficiently managing powerconsumption, long deploymenttimes can be achieved from theinternal battery pack.

Data Logging and ProcessingA low power data logger is a keyingredient of SMART, enabling datareceived from external and internalsources to be securely archivedusing redundant storage. SMARTprocesses raw data subsea toprovide value added functions.

PowerSMART is available with a choiceof alkaline or long-life lithiumbattery packs to suit operationaldeployment requirements.

Flexible Data AcquisitionSMART includes digital andanalogue inputs which can beconfigured to connect to multipledata sources. Internal sensors areavailable for motion measurement,including accelerometers, angularrate sensors and inclinometers,along with standard and highprecision pressure andtemperature sensors. Externalsensors can be interfaced as well.

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can be processed within the unit to produce summary data from simplestatistical averages through frequency domain analysis, to moresophisticated processing using complex algorithms. These can eitherbe created by Sonardyne or provided by customers. The summary datacan then be transmitted at regular intervals to a topside system givingthe customer near real-time information about the condition of whateverthe SMART unit is monitoring.

The value of being able to get regular data updates, rather thanwaiting for periods of up to a year to get access to data from existingROV retrievable logging units, can be significant for operators. Theability to reduce the level of conservatism applied to the design ofstructures, such as risers, through improved knowledge of fatigue lifeevolution, can result in much greater savings than the cost of theSMART units.

Other applications for SMART include pipeline commissioning andmonitoring and, with its inherent flexibility, we’re still finding new placeswhere SMART can help both existing and new customers.

Automatic Leak DetectionAlthough all care is taken to ensure that subsea oil and gas structures and assets are protected and sealed against the dangers of hydrocarbon leaks, there still exists the danger of environmental damage occurring

as a result of leaks. That’s why early detection of small leaks is vital. Itprevents leaks from increasing in size and severity and allowscompanies to quickly take action to contain the spill, before it becomesan environmentally threatening and costly disaster.

The Automatic Leak Detection Sonar (ALDS) continuously monitorsfor hydrocarbon leaks around subsea oil and gas assets in more thanone billion cubic feet of seawater, with 360° of coverage from a singlemounted sensor location. The system is very sensitive and is capable ofdetecting multiphase leaks below 1 barrel per day at ranges in excessof 500 metres in deep water. All of which can be achieved without theneed for skilled sonar operators to constantly monitor the system.

Sonardyne ALDS functions as an active sonar by projecting a shortduration, high bandwidth ultrasonic pulse into the water and listeningfor echoes from any objects such as subsea structures, ROVs orhydrocarbon leaks. The advanced software in ALDS is then capableof differentiating and localising a potential leak from all the othersonar targets. When such a leak is detected, ALDS then automaticallyproduces an audible and visible alarm. Data on the leak size andposition are shown on a display and can also be exported to othermonitoring or control systems via an Ethernet link.

Looking to the futureAlthough we’ve been extracting oil and gas offshore since the ‘70s, formuch of that time we’ve had very little information about the conditionand performance of the subsea equipment and structures that are partof that process. The developments that Sonardyne has been part of inthe last few years, have made accessing this information a more realisticand affordable option. However, there is still a long way to go.

If we compare the oil and gas sector to comparative capitalintensive industries – power generation and aerospace spring to mind –we are still playing ‘catch-up’. The latest generation of aero engineshave up to 5,000 monitoring points, with data from the worldwide fleetall being analysed 24/7 by the manufacturers. With the advent of highdata rate technologies such as BlueComm, and the ability to analysedata in-situ through tools such as SMART, we at Sonardyne are workingwith our customers to close that gap.

The potential benefits are great; longer equipment life, higherproduction rates and reduced intervention costs, all of which contributeto the bottom line. Monitoring makes sense, subsea, as much as itdoes in the sky! BL

(Above) Sonardyne’s Acoustic Data Logger has a 25 year track record; thecurrent 6G design allows the unit to be deployed and retrieved by an ROV.(Below) ALDS installed on a deepwater production template. The system iscapable of detecting leaks of less than 1 barrel per day.

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“Subsea Monitoring, Analysis and ReportingTransponder –or SMART – is a newdevelopment from Sonardyne. The unitbuilds on the 6G instrument platform, butadds a new layer of data processing toenable more intelligent subsea systems.”


Ocean Science

Case Study: Lightweight Release Transponders

Sonardyne’sLRTspunchabove their weight forLuode Consulting

They may be lightweight

in name, but Sonardyne’s

Lightweight Release

Transponders (LRTs) are

true heavyweights when

it comes to performing as

acoustic release transponders.

With a depth rating of 500 metres, a

high safe working load, long battery life

and a highly reliable screw-off release

mechanism which ensures a positive

release to overcome any bio-fouling,

the Type 7986 possesses all the essential

characteristics that users demand.

Interestingly, unlike similar low-cost

release transponders, LRTs also have

both receive and transmit functions,

enabling accurate slant ranges to be

measured, release actuation to be

confirmed and their position to be

accurately determined.

LRTs are controlled using the Type

7967 Deck Unit which is initially used to

program the acoustic identity of the LRT,

test the transponder and load the release

nut prior to deployment. Once deployed,

the deck unit can measure ranges to the

transponder and prior to sending a

secure release command, relocate the

transponder.The deck unit can be

controlled via RS232, enabling raw range

data to be logged to a PC.

LRTs are also compatible with

Sonardyne's ROV-Homer and Homer-Pro

target relocation systems. Deployed at

a point of interest, the LRT can be

interrogated, weeks or years later, to

provide range and direction guidance

to a ROV pilot or diver wishing to home

back on to it.

Field proven

Of course they say to fully test something,

you first need to experience it. And when

it comes to evidence-based displays of

its abilities, this versatile acoustic

instrument has proven itself time and

time again in the field in some of the most

inhospitable conditions.

That’s why Luode Consulting, a

Finnish-based environmental monitoring

company chose Sonardyne LRTs to

support its water and ice quality research

in Scandinavia. Using them to deploy and

recover specialist recording instruments,

Luode Consulting has now completed

over 350 studies across the region,

including under-ice thickness profiling

and water cooling monitoring close to

nuclear power stations, without a single

failure or instrument loss.

During winter, sea ice plays a crucial

environmental and economic role for

many Scandinavian countries, affecting

everything from fishing, walking and

skiing, to the ice roads that connect remote

communities. Continuous year-round

water quality monitoring ensures that the

impact from offshore and nuclear energy

industry activities upon ice formation,

together with naturally occurring

phenomena, can be closely observed.

Instrument moorings

To collect data for its research, Luode

Gulf of Finland

ESTONIA

RUSSIA

RUSSIA

FINLAND

HelsinkiEsbo

Loviisa


Consulting uses instruments such as

Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers

(ADCPs) moored on the seabed using

Sonardyne LRTs. At the end of the study

period, the instruments and their valuable

data are recovered by transmitting an

acoustic signal from the surface to the

LRT to activate its release mechanism,

thereby allowing all the equipment to

float back up to the surface.

“In Scandinavia, environmental

permissions require nuclear power station

operators to monitor how the water used

to cool reactors behaves when re-

introduced into the open sea,” explained

Antti Lindfors, Director of Marine

Applications at Luode Consulting.

“For these campaigns, including over 50

under-ice installations to date, we place

multiple LRT instrument strings in waters

surrounding nuclear power plants. We

can deploy them either before the ice

season starts or after the ice has formed

using ice breaker vessels. Using the LRTs,

we have been able to create monitoring

networks without the need for divers or

traditional surface buoys – these are

impossible to use during these projects

due to ice movement.”

Long term deployment

Many of the deployments carried out by

Luode Consulting last weeks or months,

however the LRT’s long battery life

provides its researchers with the option

to deploy instruments for several years

if required to do so.

In one example for a long term

environmental monitoring study in the

Baltic Sea, Luode Consulting deployed

LRTs at over 30 locations along the route

of a new pipeline, some close to where

pipelay barges and support vessels were

operating and some during the ice cover

season.

“The LRT’s long endurance and ability

to both receive and transmit acoustic

signals made it particularly suitable for

use on our work in the Baltic,” continued

Antti. “We only had a limited period of

daylight to recover each mooring.

Since the LRTs provide confirmation

that they have released and enable two

way range measurements to be made,

we were able to track each mooring up to

the surface, quickly locate it and recover

it onboard.”

“Luode Consulting has now completed over 350 studies...without a single failure or instrument loss.”

Sonardyne LRTs at a glance:

• Safe working load of 125 kg

• Depth rated to 500 metres

• Over 4 years deployment with long-

life lithium battery pack

• Thousands of secure identities; field

programmable with deck unit

• Reliable ‘screw-off’ release

• Rugged, compact design


Product Focus: SPRINT – Subsea aided inertial navigation for ROVs and AUVs

Construction Survey

cc

SPRINT has been developed with flexibilityand expandability included by design.As Malik Chibah, INS Group Managerat Sonardyne explains, you can upgradeto INS and switch capability as your needsgrow, and with pay-as-you-go pricing, youonly pay for the features you need.

Precision: Extending the reach of your operationsSPRINT makes optimal use of acoustic aiding data from USBL and LBLpositioning. The SPRINT final position is also enhanced through theaiding of other sensors such as a Doppler Velocity Log (DVL) and a depthsensor. This improves position precision, short term accuracy, reliabilityand integrity whilst reducing operational time and vessel costs, extendingthe operating limits of USBL and the efficiency of LBL. The additionalintegrity of the INS significantly reduces delays during periods ofchallenging subsea acoustic conditions, with the high output updaterate allowing for improved subsea vehicle control and positioning.

Scalability: Switch to INS and back againDemands and timescales of your operations scale and flex. So whythen shouldn’t your ROV’s navigation solution? The Lodestar hardwareinside SPRINT has been developed with flexibility and expandabilityincluded by design. The same hardware can be used as a premiumsurvey grade vehicle gyro, and an acoustically aided INS for subseasurvey and construction. Upgrade and switch capability when yourapplication demands it with remotely activated in-field upgrades. Andbecause you only pay for the services you use, it’s the most cost-effectiveand low risk solution on the market.

Gyroscopes and Accelerometers:Performance and reliability that’s out of this worldIf you’ve flown on a commercial airliner in the past 10 years, it’s likelythe aircraft used the same gyroscopes and accelerometers as employedby SPRINT to get you to your destination safely. Even NASA’s Rosettaspace probe, which navigated more than 6.4 billion kilometres withamazing precision to rendezvous with a comet, used the same sensorsas SPRINT. But not only are SPRINT’s ring laser gyros and accelerometersprecise, they are also dependable. Life programmes conducted by the

Lodestar AHRS Features

• High output rate (100 Hz+)

• All computation inside Lodestar unit

• Uses Ring Laser Gyroscopes

resilient to temperature and vibration

• Topside connection via a single RS232

or Ethernet connection

• Battery backup

• Onboard data storage provides

redundant storage of log files

• AHRS always available regardless

of aiding

Lodestar S5 Features

• Dual AHRS and Acoustically Aided

INS algorithms

• Resilience to outliers

• Vendor independent USBL aiding

• DVL aiding (User auto configuration)

• Pressure depth aiding

• Subsea multiplexer (Raw sensor feeds

available topside)

• Course or fine time synch (ZDA or

ZDA+1PPS) options

• Full navigation outputs available

• Flexible configuration for all aiding

sensors (Configurable lever arms,

DVL calibration routine)

LODESTAR AHRS UPGRADE KIT LODESTAR SPRINT S5

A premium grade all-in-one gyrocompass and motion sensor developed

for subsea vehicle applications that require the precise measurement of

heading, heave, roll, and pitch in a highly dynamic environment. Back-up

battery and onboard memory ensures that motion sensing is maintained

during vehicle brown-outs. Upgradeable to SPRINT S5 and S10 inertial

navigation plans.

Improve the speed and efficiency of subsea vehicle operations with

high quality SPRINT inertial measurements aided by your USBL. Position

targets in any water depth, over long laybacks and during challenging

acoustic conditions. High update rate allows greater vehicle control and

is suitable as an ROV DP station keeping input. USBL vendor

independent.


US-based manufacturer running over 15 years have demonstratedMean Time Between Failure (MTBF) in excess of 400,000 hours forboth gyroscopes and accelerometers – several times more thancomparable fibre optic and monolithic ring laser gyro sensors.

Track Record: Saving time and money around the worldIt’s in real world situations during high value projects that SPRINT provesits worth. Allseas, Bibby, Fugro, iSurvey and Saipem, to name a few,continuously invest in Sonardyne’s SPRINT technology for their operationsand the results show. Bibby Offshore used SPRINT to assist in a varietyof inspection, repair and maintenance surveys using deep-rated ROVs.Installed as standard items on their ROVs, Bibby Offshore realised thebenefits of increasing the accuracy of all ROV positioning activities, alongwith more efficient data processing. Norwegian survey and positioningspecialists, iSURVEY Group AS, chose to invest in SPRINT to support itsROV surveys and deep water marine construction activities. Thepurchase followed trials of the system in the North Sea, during whichSPRINT was subjected to a detailed technical appraisal and deliveredimmediate cost savings and major operational benefits.

Applications, Applications, Applications: SPRINT supports itThe versatility offered by SPRINT means that whatever your subseaoperation, SPRINT will make a positive impact upon it; extending yourcapability, saving time and reducing the risk of operational errors. Hereare some applications that SPRINTs are supporting worldwide; ROVand towfish positioning, hydrographic survey, offshore construction,trenching, multibeam survey, ROV DP mid-water station keeping, touch-down monitoring and structure placement. What will you do with yours?

All in one Unit: Simple to install, always readySPRINT comprises of Lodestar subsea hardware installed on the ROV

which is interfaced using a single serial or Ethernet connection throughthe vehicle’s umbilical to a topside computer running the monitoring anddisplay software. All navigation algorithms are processed subsea, sothat Lodestar can maintain its dual capability of inertial navigation (INS)and attitude / heading (AHRS) measurement capability, even if there isa loss of communications from the surface or vehicle-supplied power.

Vendor Independent: Built for 6G, and many more Sonardyne’s Sixth Generation (6G) vessel-based acoustic transceiversand subsea transponders maximise the performance of SPRINT byproviding the most precise and reliable acoustic aiding input. Whilst theUSBL aiding from Sonardyne Ranger 2 ensures an optimal acoustic /inertial integration, SPRINT can accept position aiding from any USBLsystem vendor that uses correctly time-stamped positions in an industrystandard telegram.

Instant INS: Out the blocks and straight to workWith two sources of heading and attitude for quality control and aninstantaneous INS start, no lengthy North alignment period for SPRINTis required. In fact, that period can be cut from around 20 minutes tojust five and can be performed during normal vehicle movement. Withthe addition of a DVL that can be mounted anywhere on the ROVand calibrated subsea, a 0.1% position error for distance travelled(<1m error after 1km travelled) can be achieved.

Global Support: Planning makes perfect Any subsea operation has the potential to throw up the unexpected.To ensure that every project is a success, our INS experts are therewhen you need them. They are supported by a global team ofexperienced engineers on-call 24/7, ready to travel anytime. So ifyou need help, don’t wait till it’s too late. Pick up the phone and call. BL

Lodestar S10 Features

All the features of SPRINT S5 plus:

• Tightly coupled Fusion 6G LBL aiding

• Sparse array capability

• Zero velocity (ZUPT) aiding for precise

static positioning

REMOTEUPGRADE

LODESTAR SPRINT S10

Upgrade to SPRINT S10 and enjoy the time and cost saving benefits of

our most advanced subsea INS. Improves LBL efficiency by using full

or sparse seabed arrays (2 to 3 beacons) without sacrificing precision.

Aiding from vehicle-mounted sensors such as DVLs further improves

precision, accuracy and the reliability of the navigation solution.

• Flexible and easy to use software provided for

configuration and monitoring – INS expert knowledge

not required

• Extends the operating limits of USBL and increases the

efficiency of LBL positioning

• Provided with serial and Ethernet communications hub

• Historical quality control and diagnostics provided

• Optional upgrade to provide post processed navigation –

helps improve navigation and correct real time errors

• Speeds-up ROV operations and ultimately saves

vessel time

• Vendor-independent USBL aiding

• Comprehensive operational support and training available

SPRINT AT A GLANCE

Community

The Sonardyne Foundation


BUILDINGFORTHEFUTURE,TODAY

Sonardyne has been supportingengineering education in a modest wayfor a decade or so, by sponsoring studentsthrough university engineering courses andfunding post-graduate research projects.The Company has also funded ‘outreach’programmes, with university lecturers goinginto schools to foster interest in engineeringamong younger children.

(Top) Professor Robert Winston at the opening of the Sonardyne Centre, Alton College in November 2013. (Above) The Sonardyne Centre building.


BACK IN 2012, a bigger opportunitypresented itself at a local Hampshire sixth-form school, Alton College, which hasa very good reputation for teachingengineering and design technology to16 to 18-year olds. The College hadwell-equipped but cramped workshopsin which students undertook personaldesign-and-build projects, from concept tofinished prototype, using a wide variety of

technologies. With an unsatisfied demand for these courses, the schoolgovernors had the vision to plan and commence construction of a new“Engineering and Design and Technology” building. By the time thebuilding’s foundations were rising, the recession resulted in loss of fundingand construction work was halted.

In 2011, with no prospect of government funding being re-instated,and the exposed foundations and steelwork deteriorating, the Collegeeither had to bury the foundations, or raise the money to re-start theconstruction work. The College secured the backing of the locally-resident Chairman of Rolls-Royce to launch an appeal in January 2012,and this came to the attention of John Partridge, Chairman and Founderof Sonardyne. Now John remembers with affection his time as anapprentice at Rolls-Royce in Bristol, though it was then the BristolAeroplane Company’s Engine Division and Rolls-Royce were competitors.

So John and his wife Betsan made a donation to the appeal andpersuaded the Board of Sonardyne International to match their donation.While waiting for the appeal to raise sufficient money to re-start thebuilding work, Sonardyne forged closer relations with Alton College,with Director Graham Brown giving lectures, and with John and otherstaff giving technical support to student projects.

“Let’s just get on with it”Towards the end of 2012, it was obvious that it would take years toraise the money, so John suggested to the College Appeal Manager,Rebecca Stotesbury-Galhardi, “Let’s just get on with it. By the beginningof the next academic year, you can be teaching100 extra students ina really modern and inspiring building.” So John secured the backing ofthe Board of Sonardyne International to underwrite the whole cost ofcompleting the building.

Fortunately, a survey revealed that the exposed steelwork was allin good condition and the original builder was immediately available.So construction re-started at the beginning of January 2013 and thebuilding was opened by Professor Robert Winston in November. Thevision and planning of The Principal, Jane Machell, and the Board ofGovernors, together with the architect’s imaginative design, has resultedin a building that is an attraction in itself, a pleasure to teach in, and hasencouraged many more students to take up engineering-related subjects.

Sonardyne’s only suggested change of specification for the buildingwas to upgrade the planned education-grade machine tools toprofessional machine tools as used in Sonardyne’s own machine shop.The Head of Engineering at the College, Adrian Dee, has beendelighted with the capabilities of these machines. The college kindlynamed the building ‘Sonardyne Centre’,which makes all employeesproud to have their contribution to the community recognised.

The birth of The Sonardyne FoundationMeanwhile, John decided to set up a charity as a basis for permanentsupport for engineering education, and donate to a wider range ofcauses which the Board fully supported.

It is intended that the charity will eventually be independent ofSonardyne, but it presently relies on donations out of the Company’sprofits to build up sufficient funds to invest and provide a regular incomefor the charity’s future. The focus now is to seek out students to sponsor,paying their university tuition fees on engineering courses, so helpingthem avoid indebtedness for many years into their careers. For its owncontribution to undergraduate education, the Company offers vacationwork in the Engineering Department and year-long industrial placements.

The Sonardyne Foundation has also recently commenced donationsto the Royal Institution, once Michael Faraday’s home and laboratory, tosupport three years of Masterclasses in Engineering, Mathematics andComputer Science for children around the South East of England.

Apprenticeships and Foundation Degrees In Sonardyne’s early years, the Company employed ready-trainedex-apprentices from the Royal Aircraft Establishment in Farnborough.But the RAE suffered from government cut-backs and apprenticeshipswere gradually reduced. For many years now, new production staffhave been trained through traditional apprenticeships at Sonardyne, butdesign engineers have been recruited directly from universities or industry.

Recently Sonardyne started offering Student Apprenticeships forpotential design engineers. This is linked to three year Foundation Degreecourses with academic engineering subjects taught at college on a day-release basis, similar to Student Apprenticeships common in 1950s UK.

But the history of work-place engineering education in the UK goesback to the 1920s and 1930s. After the First World War, start-upcompanies in the new technology of aviation had to train their ownaerodynamicists, designer draftsmen, stressmen etc., and so set uptraining schools. An apprentice from the De Havilland Aircraft Company,went on to head engineering at GE’s aero-engine division. Designersfrom companies such as Miles Aircraft and Airspeed all had their owntraining schools and some of their designers went on to prominentpositions in Boeing. By the late 1950s, the Bristol Aeroplane Companyhad thousands of apprentices on the payroll, but due to the slimming-down of manufacturing in the UK, the surplus of trained employees forsmaller companies dried up.

Sonardyne’s Student Apprentice scheme is in its early days andexperienced staff still have to learn to mentor and teach potential designengineers, but this applies to all technology-based companies wantingto succeed in the future. BL

“The Foundation has recently commenceddonations to the Royal Institution, to supportthree years of Masterclasses for childrenaround the South East of England.”

SE Asia – Singapore

Richard BinksOffshore Business Development Director

Training to succeedHere in Brasil, project engineering remains

at a high level of prominence, and we’ll

continue to invest in people by building

the knowledge of our field engineers via

internal training programmes. Part of that

process is to rotate our field engineers so

they spend a few weeks every year working

in the UK with our senior engineers –

learning from the best.

All roads lead to inertialThere is commitment in the region to

extend the use of inertial navigation

technology to help position vessels, rigs

and ROVs. Older dynamically positioned

vessels are all being upgraded to full or

partial integrated inertial/acoustic systems.

Sonardyne’s Marksman DP-INS is now

a standard solution to meet these

specifications and can be seen at work

across the region. It delivers significant

operational efficiencies for all users, reduces

risk and extends vessel capability. ■

Barry Cairns VP Europe and Africa

It’s challenging timesIn 2015, we’re looking to build on the

positives of 2014 which saw business growth

throughout the region. Encouraging signs

are already there as we’rewitnessing


International

News fromour Regions Around the World

Technology (NIOT) in India. Able to be deployed to depths of up to seven

thousand metres, the system has been used by NIOT to remotely monitor for the changes in water pressure that may indicate a tsunami is on its way before triggering an alarm to alert vulnerable communities. With powerful undersea earthquakes that cause tsunamis affecting coastal communities, NIOT and other similar institutes around the world are recognising that early detection using Sonardyne’s easy to deploy technology can help prevent wide-scale loss of life.■

Simon Reeves Senior Vice President

Committed to health and safetyFollowing Sonardyne Brasil Ltda and

Sonardyne Asia Pte Ltd offices receiving

OHSAS 18001 HSE accreditation last year,

we’re proud to say we’ve been awarded

the same status. It shows our commitment

to the health and wellbeing of our staff by

taking the necessary steps to minimise the

risk of incidents and accidents occurring

as we conduct business operations.We

believe that this level of dedication will also

benefit our commercial partners going

forward too.

Strengthening the teamTo bolster our support for the Survey and

Construction market here in the Gulf of

Mexico, Mark Chiddy has joined our

commercial team. Mark brings a wealth

of business development experience

gleaned from his time spent as a surveyor

and operations manager with leading

companies such as Thales and Fugro

(South Africa), Operatec (Angola) and

Pisces Offshore Ltd (Nigeria). His

qualifications include a BSc in Survey

Engineering and he has already proven

to be a major asset to the business in the

short time that he has been with us. ■

UK – Aberdeen

USA – Houston

Brazil – Rio das Ostras increased demand for our SPRINT USBL

and LBL product in Construction and Survey

operations off the back of the increased

popularity of Lodestar GyroUSBL. Whatever

your requirements in whatever industry,

we’re geared to provide the subsea acoustic

and inertial technologies that help deliver

successful projects from start to finish.

6G leads the wayWith instability in oil prices, the oil and gas

industry are being hard pressed to cut back

on operational expenses. With that in mind,

the spotlight continues to fall on Sonardyne

6G equipment as it successfully proves its

worth in improving efficiency and reliability

and providing major financial savings on

operational scenarios. That along with our

proven track record in reliable, robust and

time saving operations has seen our region

remaining active in many subsea projects

as we remain the informed choice for a

growing number of oil and gas companies

going forward. ■

Anthony GleesonVice President

Widening our ScopeLate last year we appointed Scope

Engineering as our agents in Australasia and

surrounding territories. Since then, their

team has collaborated with us on several

commercial opportunities within subsea

asset monitoring, exploration and reservoir

surveillance, ocean science, vessel

positioning and offshore drilling. We look

forward to them helping us further expand

our regional offering and assisting clients to

reduce risk, minimise costs and improve

capability.

10 reliable years of tsunamidetectionThis year marks the 10th anniversary of the

use of Sonardyne’s tsunami detection

system by the National Institute of Ocean


Our highly experiencedproduct specialists areavailable to help youmaximise the performancefrom your Sonardynetechnology. Get in touch:[email protected]

How to improvedepth resolutionwhen tracking athigh elevation witha USBL system

“I have recently had a

Sonardyne Deployment

Machine and L/USBL

transceiver fitted. Is there

any maintenance I should

be aware of?”

Yes. After commissioning

and start-up of the system,

the L/USBL transceiver,

deployment machine,

and gate valve will need a

minimum of preventative

and corrective maintenance

to ensure the correct

operation of the machine

and consistent acoustic

performance from the

transceiver.

The procedures can

be carried out without

affecting the calibration

offsets (CASIUS) of the

L/USBL transceiver.

We recommend that the

maintenance which

comprises visual

inspections of bracing

points and fixings, greasing

routines, and also

exercising of the moving

parts (particularly the gate

valve), is carried out on a

monthly basis. Full details

of these procedures can be

obtained from our Customer

Support team. From a

purely operational point of

view, failure to carry out

the maintenance can lead

to mechanical issues such

as vibration of the pole

which can have a significant

impact on the performance

of your system.

Carrying out the correct

preventative maintenance

routines can not only

prolong the life of your

deployment machine,

but also greatly improves

the performance of the

acoustic system and

reduce the risk of

operational down time.

Q

A

THEKNOWHOW?

Getting the fastest positionand sensor update rates

When using Compatts and GyroCompatts, survey

and construction LBL teams carrying out tasks such

as mattress installation and structure monitoring,

are always seeking to get the fastest possible

acoustic updates from their Sonardyne equipment.

One technique to achieve this is to use two

transceivers, for example, a ROVNav 6 and a

Dunker 6. The first interfaced directly to Fusion for

positioning (Easting, Northing), whilst the other is

interfaced to the SensorView software for streaming

sensor data. SensorView is excellent for seabed

structure installations, returning approximately

1Hz sensor update rates.

You can use a 6G Compatt for positioning and a

Lodestar 6G GyroCompatt for structure orientation.

For best performance when using both, separate

the Positioning Compatt address and the Lodestar

GyroCompatt address across the frequency band.

You will then be able to output SensorView data to

Sonardyne Fusion or any other survey application

using industry standard telegrams.This will

significantly increase position/data update rate.

Together with other USBL

tracking systems, Sonardyne’s

USBL systems calculate beacon

depth more reliably when the

beacon is directly below the

transceiver.

As the elevation angle of the

beacon with respect to the

transceiver increases from zero

(directly below the transceiver),

the accuracy of the computed

depth solution will degrade. This

is an effect caused by changing

phase angles in the response

signal as detected by the

different receiver transducers in

the transceiver head.

To improve depth resolution

in high elevation tracking

(> 30°) the operator is given the

option to enable Depth Aiding.

This causes the depth sensor

data from the beacon to be used

in the navigation solution and

will ensure that good depth

resolution is achieved in difficult

high elevation tracking

scenarios.

Help & Advice

SensorViewsoftware allowsyou to streamreal-time subseasensor data directto your desktop.

© C

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03/15

DVL NAVIGATION HAS ALWAYSBEEN IN OUR DNA.

Introducing Syrinx. Our new 600 kHz Doppler

Velocity Log that employs full linear signal processing

to provide very low noise, high precision velocity

measurements in a wide range of seabed bottom

types and altitudes. Standard output telegrams make

it simple to integrate Syrinx into third party navigation

systems, whilst concurrent Serial and Ethernet outputs

support separate use by ROV and Survey teams.

With high accuracy acoustic positioning, aided

inertial navigation and now DVL technology all under

one roof, there’s now even more reason to put your

trust in Sonardyne.

NOW IT’S INOUR SUBSEA TECHNOLOGY PRODUCT RANGE.

baseline issue 13 - sonardyne · been working on in recent months. we can ﬁnally reveal...

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