Simple Yet Novel Solutions With Adaptable Devices

For this project, our standard technology was adapted for unique applications. A large U.S. oil company, which operates many small unmanned oil and gas platforms offshore, needed each platform to have navigation aid lights installed on all four corners to prevent collisions by warning vessels.

The challenge was ensuring these navigation lights remained operational at all times. And since all the platforms are unmanned, there needed to be a reliable way to verify that the lights function properly.

The solution came about when we adapted one of our standard voltage monitoring cable sensors. We added a small phototransistor to the sensor tip, embedded it in a weatherproof housing, and attached it directly to the navigation lights.

We then developed a custom software program to monitor the flashing pattern of each light and transmit the data to our cloud server. If a light failed to flash as expected during nighttime hours, the system automatically triggered an alarm so the operator could dispatch maintenance personnel to fix the issue.

For this offshore deployment, we made additional design enhancements to ensure durability in harsh marine environments. The transmitters are completely encapsulated in a firm sealing compound, effectively turning them into weatherproof “bricks.” This provides full protection against saltwater, storms, and long-term UV exposure.

Each unit is powered by a solar panel, providing continuous operation with no maintenance required. It’s the ideal solution for long-term, unmanned offshore monitoring.

This novel use of our technology was made possible by the flexibility of our system. Installation was straightforward: our Beast or Nano transmitter attaches magnetically to the platform’s railing, and its cable can be extended to reach the navigation light. Stable. Easy to adjust. Minimal required time on site.