SceneScan, the First Targetless Laser Sensor for Offshore Windfarms
SceneScan Monopole is the first laser sensor developed for offshore windfarms which eliminates the need for fixed reflective targets to be installed. This ground-breaking technology is designed to increase safety on board service operation vessels (SOVs), where vessel positioning sensors that rely on targets fixed to the structure, are often unreliable because of poor placement, poor quality, and obscurement by workers on the platform.
The SceneScan Monopole’s advanced software allows the measurement of range and bearing to the offshore wind turbine, independent of the use of targets and GPS. The first SceneScan Monopole has been delivered in summer 2018 for a Chinese SOV newbuild project carried out by GE Power Conversion, a subsidiary of General Electric. “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,” says Dr Sasha Heriot, Business Development Manager, Navigation, Communication and Sensors at Wärtsilä.
“We very much appreciate the efficient way in which Wärtsilä 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 windfarm structures,” says Mr Chris Bannigan, Global Market Leader for Offshore Support Vessels at GE Power Conversion. The system successfully underwent sea trials earlier this year onboard the Windea La Cour, a purpose-built SOV owned by Bernhard Schulte Offshore. The vessel is fitted with other Wärtsilä sensor solutions, including the RangeGuard Monopole, the first targetless local position reference sensor based on radar technology. The SceneScan has been designed and developed by Guidance Marine, which was acquired by Wärtsilä in 2017.