Laser Sensor News

Research scientist and entrepreneur Sverre Dokken believes laser-based remote sensing has big potential in the maritime domain. But what is LADAR, who’s it for and what are the key benefits?“Our mission is to be the world leader in innovative maritime sensor products that enhance the safety and security of shipping and all manner of offshore activity,” says Ladar Ltd (LDR) principal Sverre Dokken.In the sensor vanguardEssentially a laser-based navigational aid, LADAR (Laser Detection and Ranging) combines long-distance object detection with high-accuracy measurement…

The technology group Wärtsilä has successfully completed sea trials of its SceneScan system, the world’s first ‘targetless’ dynamic positioning (DP) laser sensor. This state-of-the-art technology requires no reflector target to be deployed, thereby increasing both safety and operational uptime. The technology has been developed by Guidance Marine, a Wärtsilä company.The tests were carried out onboard the Topaz Citadel, a vessel owned by Topaz Energy and Marine, a leading international…

Cavotec's MoorMaster automated mooring and Automatic Plug-in System (APS) are set to enter service with a hybrid battery-powered ferry in Finland, delivering substantial operational efficiencies and reducing environmental impact. The Electra, operated by FinFerries, is 90m long, 16m wide, and carries up to 90 vehicles. It makes crossings at 15-minute intervals during the day, and one round trip per hour at night, year-round and in all weather conditions between Parainen and Nauvo in southwest Finland.

Late last year Radio Zeeland DMP launched MEDS, and advanced monitoring system that integrates laser sensors, day and night vision cameras and software to alert crew or authorities in a safety or security event. “MEDS (Maritime Early Detection System) is designed to be a security and a tracking product,” said David Leone, president, Radio Zeeland DMP. The proprietary core of the system is a laser sensor that transmits up to 82 meters at 190 degrees, designed to be used as a stand-alone or in concert with a web of sensors providing total coverage of a larger area.

Kongsberg Seatex launched SpotTrack, a multi-target laser based relative position reference system. SpotTrack delivers accurate range and bearing measurements and is primarily intended for Dynamic Positioning (DP) operations. Kongsberg Describes SpotTrack as a robust, lightweight, motion stabilized rotating laser sensor offering precision range and bearing readings to one or multiple retro-reflective targets. As a multi-target sensor, SpotTrack uses an advanced detection system and tracking algorithms for true target recognition – minimizing lock-on to false reflections.

Kongsberg Seatex's SpotTrack™ is an advanced multi-target laser based relative position reference system. SpotTrack delivers accurate range and bearing measurements and is primarily intended for Dynamic Positioning (DP) operations. SpotTrack™ is a highly robust, yet lightweight, motion stabilised rotating laser sensor offering precision range and bearing readings to one or multiple retro-reflective targets. As a multi-target sensor, it uses an advanced detection system and tracking algorithms for true target recognition – minimising lock-on to false reflections.

As 2015 approaches, the anticipated rush to install scrubbers has started and announcements of major scrubber contracts are commonplace. Emsys, the laser based emissions monitoring system from U.S. technology firm WR Systems, Ltd. (WR), have now been selected as the compliance monitor system on five differing scrubber types. There are various scrubber designs currently being installed for owners keen to become both compliant and efficient. Depending on the vessel type and intended application…

Cavotec has won a unique order to engineer and manufacture fully integrated MoorMaster™ automated mooring and Alternative Maritime Power (AMP) electrical supply systems for two Norled frequent-use ferry berths in western Norway, servicing the world’s first fully battery powered ferries. The automated AMP and MoorMaster™ systems will be installed at the Lavik and Oppedal passenger ferry berths, and used by the world’s first fully battery powered, catamaran-hulled ferry, run by Norwegian ferry operator Norled.

In October, Morgan City-based and ABS certified mobile satellite service provider and marine electronics service company Delta Wave Communications added three new offerings to its already wide menu of products. Delta Wave has been named an MDL distribution partner for the Fanbeam Laser DP reference system and MDL’s Dynascan 3D mobile mapping system. Separately, a new agreement with KVH Industries introduces new, cutting edge VSAT and Broadband solutions to the Delta Wave stable.

W R Systems, Ltd. (WRSystems) has announced the appointment of Dave Edwards as President and Chief Operating Officer (COO). Edwards joined the Virginia-based company in 1996; he replaces Founder Raymond Yu, who retired in November 2011. Edwards was the chief architect of the company’s Engineering Services Division (ESD), which now employs more than 200 employees in the Norfolk location. Collectively, WRSystems has become a major supplier to the US Federal Government, and supports the US Navy and other departments with high-tech marine electronics…

The TT Club is urging container terminal operators to fit electronic sensor devices to quay crane booms to prevent them accidentally colliding with vessels during loading and unloading operations in port. The TT Club says that crane booms colliding with the structure or equipment of a ship is an all-to-common occurrence at almost every port around the world, causing serious injuries to workers and costly repairs and operational downtime. In advising its Members and the industry at large, TT Club highlights the frequency of such collisions, and recommends installing effective boom anti-collision systems. Among the various types of device currently in use, the simplest consists of wires run along the length of the crane boom, which activate a switch to stop the crane if they are hit.