NASNet® DPR is a new acoustic reference for dynamic positioning input using the field proven positioning system NASNet®. This new application software module allows DP vessels to take advantage of NASNet®’s high update rates, robust signalling and true multi-user capability. To take advantage of NASNet® DPR a vessel can deploy its own mini NASNet® array or if located in field with a pre-installed NASNet® array it will be able to gain positioning data ‘for free’ with the appropriate topside equipment installed.

The use of subsea acoustic systems as a back up to the primary DGPS (Differential Global Positioning System) is not new. However current systems available on the market have slower update rates than DGPS which operates every second. As a result, should the DGPS become inaccurate the vessel can be left with a period of instability as the desk receives slower inputs.

By using their unique Acoustic Digital Spread Spectrum signalling technology Nautronix NASNet® system overcomes this by offering equal update rates and position repeatability to DGPS. This could be a critical factor in the next few years with scintillation predicted to have a deteriorative effect on satellite signals in some regions of the world.

Nautronix Managing Director, Mark Patterson said: “We believe NASNet® DPR is the ideal back up to DGPS for vessel station keeping especially as we enter another period of unknown GPS stability due to scintillation. We have been fully encouraged by our customers to develop this system and are hoping to conduct sea trial later this year. Nautronix has over 20 years experience in provision of Dynamic Positioning references systems and we believe NASNet® DPR will significantly enhance operations by providing solutions to some current and future problems”

Nautronix will have full details of NASNet® DPR on their stand, number C105, at Oi10 at the London Excel Conference Centre on the 9th – 11th March.