Wartsila company Guidance Marine has developed a laser sensor to improve safety for service operation vessels working at offshore wind farms.
The SceneScan Monopole eliminates the need for fixed reflective targets to be installed for SOVs to use for positioning purposes, the company said.
Targets fixed to an offshore structure are “often unreliable because of poor placement, poor quality and obscurement by workers on the platform”, Wartsila said.
Software on the SceneScan Monopole measures the range and bearing to the offshore wind turbine, independent of the use of targets and GPS, it added.
The first unit was deployed in the summer on a new Chinese SOV for GE Power Conversion.
Wartsila business development manager, navigation, communication and sensors Sasha Heriot said: “The first of its kind, SceneScan is compatible with all dynamic positioning systems in the market and fits one of the most demanding industries.
“It embodies our Smart Marine vision, where the latest and most advanced technologies support greater efficiency and enhanced operational safety.”
GE Power Conversion global market leader for offshore support vessels Chris Bannigan said: “We very much appreciate the efficient way in which Wartsila has responded to the need for upgraded sensor technology, which will be used with our class leading SeaStream DP system. This certainly advances the safety of SOV operations around wind farm structures.”
SceneScan also underwent trials on Bernhard Schulte Offshore SOV Windea La Cour (pictured), Wartsila added.