New speargun-inspired device could streamline offshore wind farm planning

Australian engineers from RMIT University have developed a speargun-inspired device to streamline offshore wind farm planning, cutting costs and time. The device launches a probe into the seabed to provide survey data. Traditionally, such surveying involves the use of inefficient probes or “penetrometers”. More advanced systems can cost up to $200,000 per day. The new device, which has a retraction mechanism to retrieve probes, is more environmentally friendly and faster. Lab tests showed the device works twice as well as free-falling probes in sandy soil. The researchers are seeking industry support for field trials, starting with nearshore environments before advancing to full ocean trials. (Cosmos)