EIVA has launched a new module for the offshore navigation solution NaviPac, developed in close collaboration with Subsea 7. The Bundle Monitor module has already proven its worth, having undergone numerous field tests in connection with the offshore transportation and installation of a pre-assembled six-kilometer pipeline bundle.

EIVA has further developed the NaviPac navigation software solution with a module dedicated to the navigation of particularly large structures at sea. An example of such is the offshore solution specialist Subsea 7’s Pipeline Bundle solution, whose massive structure makes it the longest moveable man-made object in the world.

The new Bundle Monitor module results from a close collaboration with Subsea 7 in connection with its Controlled Depth Tow Method (CDTM). The module will play a key role during CDTM operations, providing a comprehensive and precise overview of all relevant data. This ensures that the tow operation runs as smoothly and safely as possible.

CDTM is, among others, applied to Pipeline Bundle operations. This was also the case in connection with the operational tests of the module carried out in the course of 2014, during which a six-kilometer pipeline was moved and positioned safely on the seabed in the North Sea off the coast of Scotland.

‘Monitoring and positioning of pipeline bundles through the stages of launch, tow, parking and installation are some of the most complex and high profile tasks undertaken by our Survey teams, and Integrated Navigation package is a critical component. The successful implementation and deployment of the bundle monitoring module marks a key milestone in our collaboration with EIVA a/s as a software partner,’ said David Yule, Subsea 7 Survey Software Manager, Life-of-Field.   

One giant stroke for a navigation software swimmer

EIVA has a long history of delivering high-end navigation software to the offshore engineering industry. However, it is safe to say that a massive structure such as the Subsea 7 Pipeline Bundle was a first.

‘The length of the pipeline bundle exceeds any other project in which our software has been employed. However, developing the new module was a rather simple task, as it was a matter of applying the proven technology of existing NaviPac features to dedicated presentation forms,’ said Ole Kristensen, EIVA Software Manager.

Prospective candidate for 2D seismic surveys

Being able to monitor a long subsea object’s position in the water as with the Bundle Monitor module would also bring value to 2D seismic operations, according to Ole Kristensen:

‘We believe that this technology will benefit our customers through other, similar solutions, tailored to specific setups such as 2D seismic surveys.’