iXblue recently completed the bathymetric survey of the Saint Nazaire offshore wind farm using its DriX Uncrewed Surface Vehicle (USV). This project exemplifies a remotely operated survey. Located 20km off the west coast of France, the operation relied on 4G and satellite communication and iXblue’s survey teams conducted it remotely from their Remote Control Center in La Ciotat, southeast France. In fact, the success of this remotely operated survey showcases advancements in offshore wind farm survey technology.
Survey Objective and Operational Context
The purpose of the bathymetric survey inspection was to verify the seabed conditions before the deployment of Jan De Nul Group’s Vole au vent Offshore Jack-up Installation Vessel. There were challenging offshore conditions, with strong winds and side currents. In addition, the site was obstructed with around 70 monopiles already installed and several construction vessels mobilized on site. iXblue DriX USV, fitted with a Kongsberg EM2040 MBES, efficiently acquired accurate and high-resolution bathymetric data. The DriX USV conducted the remotely operated survey without the need of a support vessel. It relied on its unique situational awareness and obstacle avoidance system.
Industry Impact and Future Outlook
“We are pleased to have proven, once again, that the deployment of autonomous platforms is the way to go to deliver safe, carbon neutral and efficient offshore survey,” comments David Vincentelli, Head of iXblue Sea Operations division. Indeed, remotely operated survey platforms are transforming the industry. “From our experience deploying our DriX USV, we know that replacing traditional survey vessels with uncrewed platforms is key to delivering unmatched efficiency and data quality in complex environments such as offshore wind farms. We are very proud to be leading the way towards new remotely operated uncrewed operations, supporting our customers in this transition, and would like to thank Jan De Nul Group and EDF Renewables and its partner for their trust on this new project.”
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