Intelligent Active Heave Compensation Module
Seatools has introduced an intelligent active heave compensation module: HeaveMate, an easy-to-integrate system for both new-build as well as existing offshore and subsea equipment like winches, cranes, and launch and recovery systems (LARS).
HeaveMate is available as an OEM package with the essentials for heave compensation (black box controller with sensors and software) or as part of a complete turn-key system, including mechanical and hydraulic hardware. Seatools’ simulation capabilities are applied to ensure proper performance of the overall system in any sea condition and situation (including failure cases), and pre-tune the controller prior to commissioning, thus saving valuable vessel time.
Sieds Tamsma, senior research & development engineer, explains that the product has incorporated auto-tuning functionalities allowing to reduce commissioning times. The controller adapts itself to actual wave conditions, optimising performance while avoiding potential resonance problems.
The system is currently deployed in a retrofit project in which a passively compensated LARS will be upgraded towards an actively heave-compensated LARS.
