Sustainable Ropeless Fishing to be Aided by Acoustic Trigger Technology 

Teledyne Benthos aims to bring forth a game-changing solution for sustainable ropeless lobster fishing, having partnered with Sea Mammal Education Learning Technology Society (SMELTS).

Through the integration of Teledyne’s industry-standard acoustic modem technology and the new Acoustic Trigger feature, these advancements are set to revolutionize the lobster and crab fishing industries.

Teledyne Benthos and SMELTS have worked together and leveraged Teledyne’s proven acoustic modern technology with SMELTS’ ropeless lobster traps. Along with this partnership, Teledyne is also excited to introduce the Acoustic Trigger feature, which will enable a safer and more efficient fishing experience. 

How It Works:

• The Teledyne Benthos modem firmware version 8.15 later includes the Acoustic Trigger function.
• Upon receiving an authenticated acoustic signal, the “trigger” signal activates an output and can be deactivated based on configurable conditions within the subsea modem’s configuration database.
• The output can drive a valve, motor, burn-wire, or customer specific device.
• The feature allows time configuration within the subsea modem or direct specification by topside users, known as the “override time.”
• The trigger signal can be terminated through various methods, including timer expiration, binary input signaling from external equipment, or the modem’s built-in “tilt” feature.

The Acoustic Initiator Device enables a multitude of applications, with three proven implementations showcased in a comprehensive case study:

• Mine Countermeasures: Initiates detonation commands for mine disposal.
• On-Demand Fishing: Triggers the inflation of a lift bag or release of a pop-up buoy connected to a subsea fishing trap.
• Wireless Device Control: Enables wireless control of external devices such as lights, sensors, or cameras using acoustic trigger commands.

Extensively tested through a series of sea trials over the past several years, this technology has proven its potential to positively impact the lobster and crab fishing industries.

Teledyne Benthos, renowned for its underwater communication technology, introduces the innovative Acoustic Trigger feature, which enhances the capabilities of Teledyne Benthos acoustic modems, allowing for seamless integration with external devices. 

This enhancement provides users with reliable and high-performance subsea wireless control by leveraging the robustness of Benthos technology and the redundant security features associated with Teledyne Benthos modems.

Bob Melvin, Chief Engineer at Teledyne Benthos, said; “Since 2018 Teledyne and SMELTS have collaborated to integrate the Acoustic Initiator Device to the LobsterRaft™. Fishermen feedback has been instrumental during the process to create a reliable and useable system for vessel operation making Ropeless or On-Demand fishing a viable alternative to surface buoys. 

“The Acoustic Initiator Device marks a significant advancement in subsea applications, offering an invaluable tool for wireless asset control.”