SEG 2011: Kongsberg highlights AcuWing, AIS streamer spread display

Offshore staff

SAN ANTONIO – Kongsberg Maritime chose the SEG 2011 annual meeting to emphasize enhanced function for the eBird and a system to display the size and shape of seismic streamers over standard AIS for enhanced safety.

Kongsberg Seatex has enhanced the eBird concept with the release of AcuWing for eBird - a solution for streamer position and shape determination.

AcuWing represents a novel approach to streamer positioning, said Kongsberg, by adopting the latest technology within hydroacoustics to interchangeable eBird wings. eBird’s connector-less solution enables AcuWing to replace any wing on a standard eBird and use the same power and communication lines.

With AIS technology, the vessel can broadcast its coordinates in the area where the vessel operates, together with the size and shape of the actual streamer spread. A key element in this concept is that AIS standard compliant functions are used so that the vessel and spread will be visible on AIS-compatible ECDIS displays aboard surrounding vessels.

Seismic operations in areas of high shipping activity can be a challenge as a seismic survey vessel has restricted maneuverability due to the large size of a 3D/4D streamer spread - typically 6 to 12 km long and up to about 1 km wide. Traditionally, chase or guard boats are employed to contact conflicting vessels in order to secure the operation.

09/22/2011