WFS Technologies, University of Aberdeen and OGIC have started joint technology project to design and build the ExtremeEdge On-line Monitoring (OLM) system for subsea and offshore platform structures.
Utilizing the ExtremeEdge distributed computing architecture, the project will deliver the first generation of dynamic, real time fatigue monitoring system driven by AI and designed to deliver a step reduction to operating costs and risks.
The project, which is jointly funded by WFS and OGIC, will focus on advancing technology to monitor subsea structures using specially designed Subsea Internet of Things (SIoT) smart sensor devices incorporating edge AI.
The completely autonomous SIoT devices will be attached to the structure with the capability to operate for more than ten years due to the use of intelligent algorithms that will optimize battery usage, WFS explained.
In addition to operating autonomously, the sensors will also be able to communicate with one another. This will allow critical information on fatigue and corrosion to be communicated to deliver field-wide, intelligent monitoring systems.
The project will involve building and testing a new generation of self-monitoring smart clamps designed for deployment by light-class ROVs operating from platforms.
The project will subject Seatooth Smart Clamps to load tests to confirm full operational capabilities under the wave loading forces they will be subjected to in the North Sea. Further development of the intelligent analytical techniques that optimise battery usage of the sensor devices will also form an important part of the project.
Finally, WFS’s real time fatigue system will be adapted for use on an SIoT architecture with local model correction at each smart node. This work will take the project from proof of concept at the start of the project to prototype demonstration upon project completion, the company added.
Brendan Hyland, founder and chairman of WFS said: “We welcome the opportunity to continue joint R&D with the engineering and AI groups at the University of Aberdeen. We are grateful to the team at OGIC for facilitating this exciting project, which will herald a new generation of automated underwater inspection incorporating cutting-edge SIoT, big data analytics and AI technologies to deliver a step change in safety and operating costs of brown field assets and a step reduction in CAPEX of green field assets.”
Dr Andrew Starkey, University of Aberdeen said: “I am delighted to be involved in this hugely exciting project, which will harness the power of Artificial Intelligence to drive improvements in asset monitoring and safety for offshore oil and gas structures.
“The University of Aberdeen is world-renowned for its expertise in energy research, and this joint project with WFS Technologies and the Oil and Gas Innovation Centre is yet another example of how we work closely with our industrial partners to bring about innovations for the benefit of the industry.”