Due to the fact that corrosion appears almost randomly at any point of the structure and in order to monitor the critical areas of the tower, WATEREYE proposes two different kind of US sensors: Fixed US Monitoring System (monitoring splash zone) and Mobile US Monitoring System (those integrated in the mobile platform).
Due to the unpredictable nature of corrosion, it is essential to have the capability of monitoring the whole structure. Currently, the alternatives to monitoring the corrosion around the WT involves the intervention of operators who place the sensors in-situ. In order to move around US sensor without human intervention, WATEREYE proposes a mobile platform (a drone) that will be able to place the US sensor on a location of choice and with adjustable time intervals. Since, drones use satellite navigation for positioning and control, it has been necessary the development of an indoor positioning systems.
Oceans, seas and watersAddressing target audiences and expressing needs
- Use of research Infrastructure
- Collaboration
- Business Angels
Currently, we are looking for research infrastructure with the aim of achieving higher TRLs (from TRL5 to TRL7-8) of the solution with the validation of the system in more real environments. On the other hand, we are contacting with key companies active in offshore wind to consider their feedback and recommendations, that is, to have other business angels. Additionally, we arecollaborating with other research institues, companies and universities to improve the current solution and extend the possibilities of application.
- Research and Technology Organisations
- Academia/ Universities
- Private Investors
R&D, Technology and Innovation aspects
The current stage of the solution is that we have a prototype validated in a relevant environment. The next steps are to get a higher TRL and to do so, we will validate the system in a real offshore wind turbine in the scope of a national research project.
