dynamic positioning sensors
Pioneering Technology
Fanbeam pioneered the use of time-of-flight laser technology to provide accurate, reliable sensors for DP systems. Twenty five years later, Fanbeam remains the most widely used sensor of its kind, due to its robust construction, intelligent software and global support.
The preferred laser-based reference position system
How Fanbeam works
The Fanbeam 5 position reference system (PRS) uses accurate time-of-flight laser technology to determine vessel position relative to custom reflectors, which can be fixed to offshore rigs, installations or other vessels. Fanbeam data is communicated to the vessel’s dynamic positioning (DP) system, which controls the thrusters that are used to maintain vessel position during operations.
The design of the Fanbeam 5 laser unit, our custom reflectors and the Fanbeam Controller 4.0 control software make Fanbeam the laserbased PRS of choice. Our range of data outputs, and the ease with which Fanbeam can be combined with other sensors and DP systems, make it ideal for holding a vessel in station, or for moving a vessel with great precision.
2 Key PriNciples
Fanbeam 5 is engineered to support DPOs based on:
Control
DPOs should be supported by clear, intelligent, quick-to-operate, pre-configurable software, which offers the peace of mind of automation, alerts and performance indicators.
Responsiveness
Since conditions at sea are unpredictable, and no two operations are the same, DPOs must have the ability to quickly and simply control laser tilt, target acquisition, filters and all other aspects of sensor control.
Better target identification
- Personnel on deck and reflective surfaces are no problem for Fanbeam 5, as the Fanbeam Controller 4.0 software identifies and rejects false observations.
- Operators can pre-program range cut-offs for observations, so that anything out of range is filtered.
- On-screen indicators warn of potentially false observations.
- Our custom reflectors provide accuracy in a variety of conditions: tube reflectors offer low-cost 360° coverage for short-range operations, while prism clusters provide reliable positioning at longer ranges, up to 2000 m.
- USB with Installation, Operation and Software Manual
- Auto-level filtering means settings adjust automatically, to allow for changing conditions.
- Operators can tilt the laser during operations, allowing for fine tuning at any time.
Applications in extreme environments
- Construction and multi-purpose support vessels
- Anchor-handling tug supply vessels
- Dredging and rock-dumping vessels
- Heavy-lift construction semi-subs and dive support vessels
- Windfarm construction vessels
- Emergency towing vessels
- Well-stimulation vessels
- Platform supply vessels and crew supply vessels
- Accommodation floatels
- Shuttle tankers and FPSO
Why Fanbeam 5 is the laser position reference sensor of choice
- Complementary to differential global positioning systems (DGPS), which can degrade when close to larger structures
- Easy to install and quick to mobilise
- Provides independent redundancy against other position reference systems
- Fastest positional update rate on the market (typically, at least two readings per second)
- Cost effective, using inexpensive passive reflectors
- Minimum of 150 pulses per degree of horizontal rotation provides superior signal return from reflectors
- Easy to operate, with thousands of DPOs already familiar with the system
- Recognised by classification bodies and international standards
