Forum develops remote piloting capability for ROVs

Forum Energy Technologies revealed it has developed and demonstrated the ability to remotely operate workclass and observation-class (Perry and Sub-Atlantic) ROV systems between an offshore vessel and a remote location.

This new capability brings opportunities to adapt operational practices in response to the latest industry drives as cost savings and reductions in HSE risks can be realized through reducing offshore crew sizes.

The concept of remote piloting was proven by Forum 2010 when the company successfully operated its TXLX Workclass ROV in its test pool at Kirkbymoorside, UK  from a TXLX Console located in Florida. Remote control capabilities demonstrated were camera and light controls, manifold power on/off, depth and gyro power, pan and tilt controls, manipulator controls, ROV thruster controls and auto heading controls. At that time, internet speeds were much slower, resulting in high latency telemetry, which the control system software was not equipped to counter.

However, continued development in software efficiencies that reduce the effect of network latency, coupled with increased availability and reliability of the global 4G network, has allowed Forum to offer remote operations on its full range of ROV systems. Forum’s ICE & subCAN remote operations suites provide a means of piloting vessel or platform-based systems from an onshore control facility via a wired, 4G or satellite connection.

The onshore hardware replicates the offshore HMI hardware and GUI so controls will be immediately familiar to operators. The onshore control module provides a local hub for power and data connections.

Existing offshore control station hardware can be upgraded to allow remote control and monitoring of power systems. The offshore control module interfaces with the upgraded hardware providing control and monitoring via the existing ICE/subCAN network. A key-switch, in conjunction with the software, ensures secure control of hand-over between offshore and onshore stations.

The ICE and subCAN control software applies enhanced position control when a compatible DVL and gyro are fitted to the ROV.

“Forum has a strong reputation globally for manufacturing high quality, robust ROVs and associated auxiliary products for a number of industries ranging from oil and gas to renewables, defense, mining and telecommunications,” Kevin Taylor, Forum’s Vice President – Subsea Vehicles, said. “This additional and important feature is part of our continued product support and development across the entire range.”

“Remote operations can reduce the number of personnel offshore, particularly during complex processes or technical procedures which may require a specialist to be deployed,” Mr Taylor added. “The capability also aligns strongly with industry drives to reduce carbon footprint and deliver safe, efficient operations.”