MODULES AND FEATURES

Base Modules

The Seaborne Helideck is equipped with the following basic maritime features, modules and solutions:

 

Remote Seaborne Helideck Monitoring System (HMS)

KONGSBERG’s HMS assists helicopter operators to plan the flight prior to take-off, and monitors real-time sensor data for the effects of wind, roll/ pitch and sea current on the unit. The web-based HMS installation also offers remote monitoring capabilities without a dedicated Remote Control Center in place. The system gives the pilot a green light on the helideck if conditions are safe for landing.

 

Anchor handling/mooring

When repositioned to deeper water, and for anchoring, the unit is equipped with mooring
winches, wires and anchors for the anchor handler to pick up and deploy at a pre-defined location on the seabed. Anchor types will be adapted as appropriate to the seabed, structure and depth, and can be traditional drag anchors, suction anchors or torpedo anchors. The unit is equipped with four anchors, one in each corner. Each corner is provided with wire drums which create a multipoint mooring system, depending on station-keeping and classification requirements. The anchoring and mooring system includes tension control and monitoring.

 

Power generation/power distribution

Power generation and distribution are based on scalable container modules. A diesel or gas engine with a generator and energy storage system (battery) will lead to low fuel consumption and minimal maintenance on rotating equipment. During winch operations, combined generator and battery power will be used, while during normal operations, the battery can be used to power the lanterns, HMS, control and communication systems without the engine running. The generator automatically starts when the battery charge gets low. Power distribution is controlled by fully digital switchboards with fastacting sensors allowing full access to breaker and drive configurations. This digital layer also enables monitoring of all critical information from the Remote Control Center.

 

Bridge/Control Center

A bridge control center with panoramic windows sits below the helideck, containing all features and functions (including optional solutions) for manned operation – ie, during relocation and related anchorhandling duties, when personnel will be needed to control the winches.

 

Navigation System (K-Nav)

All navigation equipment necessary to meet SOLAS requirements will be installed, including radars, electronic charts and other devices. These systems communicate on the same platform (ICS) as all other onboard systems, so the data can be available in the Remote Control Center.

Ballast and Stability System

The unit incorporates solutions for handling, controlling and monitoring ballast water in accordance with the most stringent safety and reliability requirements. Redundancy at all levels, including communication, process controllers, remote I/O modules and power supplies, provides maximum reliability. KONGSBERG’s K-Gauge in-house tank sensors integrate with the ballast control system and load and stability computer to give operators full oversight from the Remote Control Center. Built-in self-diagnostic facilities monitor the entire control system, including thorough monitoring of field circuits as well as earth-fault detection. This failsafe philosophy is implemented with pre-determination of system responses regarding internal or external faults

 

Condition Monitoring

As the Helideck will be unmanned for long periods of time, it is crucial to know the status of all onboard equipment. The condition monitoring system will locate and identify any potential faults as early as possible, delivering a reliable prognosis for condition-based maintenance planning. The ICS also monitors the status of onboard electronic modules, ensuring all components are healthy and running on the correct software. All rotating and vibrating equipment is monitored by KONGSBERG’s own vibration, temperature, acoustic and pressure sensors.

 

Information Management and Cyber Security

The KONGSBERG Information Management System (K-IMS) harvests onboard data and shares it securely with the Remote Control Center. K-IMS is based on KONGSBERG’s Kognifai digital platform, guaranteeing the highest level of security and integrity. KONGSBERG’s Global Secure Network provides secure, end-to-end encrypted communication based on any carrier (Satellite, 3G/4G/5G, MBR).

 

Communication System

Depending on the area of operation, the system will use the most cost-effective carrier to transfer data to and from the Remote Control Center. For offshore operations, various types of satellite communication can be used, while local 4G/5G mobile carriers are available for operations close to shore. When the unit is operating in a known location within 50- 100km from shore, KONGSBERG’s MBR radios can be used. MBR offers a high bandwidth link with no subscription fees.