GAPS for Unique System

Unique System (UK) has expanded its rental pool of global acoustic positioning systems (GAPS) with an order for additional systems and transponder beacons from iXSea worth more than USD1m. Since the introduction of GAPS to the offshore industry a few years ago, operators have been impressed by the accuracy, reliability and portability of these units which combine acoustic positioning, inertial navigation and GPS technologies.

GAPS are designed for high-accuracy tracking of ROVs, AUVs, divers and sonar or other towed systems. As the most accurate USBL in its category, it works in deep or extremely shallow water and difficult environments where other systems have failed.

Olivier Cervantes, VP sales & marketing EMEA & LATAM at iXSea, said: "We are delighted that Unique System, a leading provider of solutions to the industry, has invested in GAPS. GAPS is a pre-calibrated USBL system that allows Unique System to offer companies working offshore high quality equipment with excellent performance. The industry's demand for GAPS has increased significantly over recent months as a result of its unique ability to provide highly accurate positioning in a wide range of difficult scenarios - including on barges, in shallow water or on noisy vessels."

Ray Hughes, managing director of Unique System (UK), said, "This is a significant order which is in direct response to increased market demand for these systems worldwide. Overall our equipment inventory has grown significantly as we continue to invest in the latest products and technologies from leading manufacturers in order to meet customer requirements."

In addition to iXSea's GAPS technology, Unique System also offers their OCTANS gyrocompass and motion sensor units for rental as well as iXSea's full range of acoustic release mechanisms.