Submersible Retrieval Buoys

A submersible retrieval buoy is a submersible marine marker and retrieval system. It is attached to an anchor or underwater asset and then submerged at a predetermined location. When it needs to be recovered, the buoy’s release can be triggered by remote control at the surface. The buoy then ascends, enabling the location to be visibly marked or the asset to be recovered.

The applications of the submersible retrieval buoy are as follows:

• Replace conventional surface (non-submersible) buoys, which, are eyesores and particularly under low visibility conditions, become hazardous to marine navigation. In addition, with the submersible buoy, underwater assets can be hidden so that they are not vandalized or stolen.
• Instead of deploying diving personnel, when needed, a submerged object can be retrieved via its connecting tether to the buoy.

An example of a submersible buoy product in the market is the Fiobuoy from Fiomarine, which uses AquaComm. AquaComm is the ideal underwater modem that provides the communications link to the buoy from the surface due to the following benefits:

• Very reliable communications for high level of data throughput, even in harsh conditions, ensuring the release command can be delivered dependably.
• Low power consumption to maximise battery life, allowing assets to stay underwater for long periods. The total energy consumption to transfer data is very low due to the data packets being correctly transferred on the first transmission.
• The modem’s small size makes it fit easily into the buoy’s housing.

“After undertaking lengthy evaluation of three modems, including the top names in the market, we chose DSPComm’s Aquacomm modem because it best met our requirements. We also needed a company that would work with us to deliver our product to the market. In that regard DSPComm proved to be a partner, not just a supplier.” More..