Collaboration between Althen and Ocean Cleanup
Since the beginning, Althen has been in contact with the engineering department of the Ocean Cleanup. The ambitious goal to design and develop a cleaning system could greatly benefit from reliable data to ensure safety, prevent maintenance issues, and conduct accurate testing. After iterative design changes and multiple scale model tests at Marin, it is now time to bring these concepts into reality.
Force monitoring system: requirements and specifications
The Ocean Cleanup requested a force monitoring system to measure the forces between the towing vessel and the system being towed. The expected forces would not exceed 10 tonnes, but with unknown variables in play, the system was designed with a 12-tonne measurement range and a breaking load capacity of 300% (36 tonnes).
Given the marine environment, a submersible load shackle was applied, capable of functioning up to 10 meters underwater. The internally amplified load shackle provides a 4-20 mA output signal to accommodate potentially long cable lengths.
Standalone measurement system
In combination with Althen’s Glet Box module and a Graphtech datalogger, a standalone battery-powered measurement system was created. This system collects data in real time, monitored via the datalogger. The recorded data can later be transferred via USB for further analysis.
Product spotlight: ALS-B-1000 Load shackle
The ALS-B-1000 Load Shackle is a bow-type load cell designed for lifting and weighing in rugged or harsh environments, including submersible applications.
Load pins & Load shackles
- Measuring range 100 to 1.500.00 kg
- Designed for lifting and weighing
- Made for rugged and harsh environments
GLET modules
Module enclosures & GLET boxes – Flexible expansion for professional data acquisition systems
Module enclosures and GLET boxes are designed for the flexible expansion and integration of modular data acquisition systems. They enable the structured setup of powerful measurement solutions and provide space for various input and output modules, interfaces, and signal conditioning components.
Graphtec module enclosures are specifically designed for demanding industrial measurement applications and are ideal for use in:
- Test benches
- Industrial automation
- Long-term monitoring
- Laboratory and research facilities
- Mobile and stationary data acquisition systems
Thanks to their modular concept, users can configure data acquisition systems precisely to their requirements and expand them flexibly when needed.
How module enclosures and GLET boxes work
Module enclosures form the central platform for modular data acquisition systems. They accommodate various measurement modules and connect them to the power supply, communication interfaces, and data acquisition systems.
Depending on the system configuration, different modules can be integrated, for example for:
- Voltage
- Temperature
- Current
- Strain gauges
- Vibration and sensor signals
- Digital inputs and outputs
The modules communicate with the data logger or PC-based measurement system via internal bus systems. This makes it possible to efficiently implement even complex measurement tasks with a large number of channels.
GLET boxes also enable compact and protected integration of the modules, particularly in industrial environments or decentralized measurement systems.
GRAPHTEC accessories
- Thermal printers and carrying cases
- Display screen protectors and wall mounts
- Batteries and power supplies
Initial Tow-tests in 2018
In 2018, the Ocean Cleanup planned to launch its first operational cleaning system. During the first half of the year, several tow-tests were conducted where a tow ship pulled a 120-meter segment approximately 50 nautical miles offshore of San Francisco. The vessel towed the unit in multiple directions to test its hydrodynamic behavior.Monitoring the force on the linkage between the tow vessel and the 120-meter segment was a critical parameter during these tests.
Final rehearsals and full-scale deployment
In Q3 of 2018, a final 600-meter system was towed 240 nautical miles offshore, where it was launched in operational configuration for extensive monitoring. After these rehearsals, System 001 was to be towed to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, approximately 1,200 nautical miles offshore, to begin its cleanup mission.
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Althen's turn-key force monitoring system
Ensuring Safety During Tow-Tests
During tow-tests, controlling the forces on the connection between the towing vessel and the system is crucial. Rough sea conditions, currents, and wind can significantly increase these forces. The force monitoring system allows real-time adjustments to towing speed, minimizing the risk of damage and ensuring successful deployment.
Ensured safety and reliability
Althen’s innovative force monitoring system ensured safety and reliability throughout the mission, enabling the removal of plastic from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. This collaboration showcases how technology and determination can address even the most daunting global challenges. With each successful cleanup, we move closer to a future where the oceans are free from plastic, ecosystems thrive, and the beauty of our planet is preserved for generations to come.
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