DOCS-010 Manual, SeaBotix Inc. Users, 200 Series – 18 Mar 09 - Rev B - Page 31 of 52
3.3
Tether
A key feature of the LBV performance is the small diameter tether. By reducing the size of
the tether, drag is greatly reduced thus enabling the LBV to operate in strong currents or
with long lengths of cable in the water. Because of its small size and light weight, managing
the tether is simple.
The tether is neutrally buoyant in fresh water and slightly positively buoyant in sea
water.
Coil the tether in a figure eight pattern. Coiling the tether in a figure eight pattern will
help with deployment and recovery of the LBV.
Pay attention to the turns counter on the Video Overlay to keep the tether as straight
as possible.
Prior to connecting the underwater connector to the LBV, put a small amount of
grease (part GLA001 which is supplied with your purchase) on your fingers and place
the grease on the male pins. This will help with the installation as well as protection
from the water and corrosion.
3.4
Piloting
The LBV has been designed for simple operation. Once you have a basic understanding of
the OCU and features of the LBV, you will quickly discover how easy the operation of the
LBV can be. Listed below are some features of the LBV and how they aid operation.
Powerful thrusters
Enables the LBV to operate in up to
a 1.5 knot current and pull long
lengths of tether.
Small diameter tether
Reduces drag allowing the LBV to
operate in stronger current and with
longer lengths in the water.
Variable thruster gain
Allows the user to adjust thruster
output from 0.625% to 100% of
maximum power. This feature
works well for inspecting up close
and when fine control is needed.
Lateral thruster
Enables the lateral movement of
the LBV for inspection.
Trim
Like cruise control on an
automobile. Use this for
maintaining forward speed.
Auto depth
LBV maintains desired depth
without constant input from the
user.
Auto heading
LBV maintains desired heading
without constant input from the
