VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual
28 July
2018
18
4
Deployment
How the ASCENT-AR is deployed is driven by the environment it is being deployed in
and the type of study being performed. Some important points to keep in mind when
designing a deployment plan for your ASCENT-AR are explained here. The common
method for attaching an ASCENT-AR to a mooring line is also given, along with the
dimensions of the ASCENT-AR cases.
4.1
Deployment Facts/Tips
4.1.1
Mooring
The ASCENT-AR is moored in many configurations often reflecting the bathymetry
and oceanographic/weather conditions. A simple mooring design generally works well.
In rougher conditions, heavier weights and mooring lines are usually required. A
buoyancy of 7 - 14 kg (15 - 30 lbs.) is recommended to raise the ASCENT-AR when no
biofouling has occurred – adjust this as needed for your payload and deployment
location conditions. The floatation must be suitable for the depth at which it will be
deployed.
Ensure the ASCENT-AR’s hydrophone is unblocked (e.g. position a buoy a few feet
above the hydrophone to allow an unobstructed view of the surface) and free of any
biofouling. In high flow locations, you may consider using hydro dynamically shaped
buoys and low profile anchors.
For the best horizontal range and acoustic communication, mount the ASCENT-AR in a
vertical position with the hydrophone pointing up to the surface.
Attach the ASCENT-AR’s float attachment bracket to a floatation device capable of
withstanding pressure since it will be submerged. Hard skinned floatation devices are
recommended.
Connect the Mooring Lug to a weight. For typical deployments, we recommend using 36 – 68 kg (80 – 150
lbs.) weight with 7 – 14 kg (15 – 30 lbs.) floatation. Modifications may be require depending on your
payload and deployment situations.
During deployment, always lift the weight section separately.
Never lift the weight in air by attaching to the ASCENT-AR.
Always check the tilt of the release after it is deployed to verify
it is vertical with the hydrophone pointing up (0-11°). This is done using a VR100-200 and a transponding
hydrophone. Details are found in the VR100 Acoustic Communication manual.
CAUTION:
The hydrophone must be kept
free of
mooring lines and obstructions
. Objects
around the hydrophone will adversely affect the
detection range of the
ASCENT-AR
release.
Never lift the weight in air by attaching
to the
ASCENT-AR
.
Always lift the
weight section separately.
