Introduction

The use of an acoustic release mechanism between the anchor and the conventional mooring or Smart Mooring can assist greatly with recovery. The two main methods of using this are (1) to release the weights and allow for recovery by hand and (2) to use a “pop-off” rope that allows for an easier winch recovery of the anchor if elements of the Smart Mooring cannot pass through a pulley, block, or capstan.

Sofar has tested and validated the use of an acoustic release in-line, leaving the anchor behind and not yet fully tested the use of a “pop-off” rope canister.

There are many different types of acoustically triggered release mechanisms and manufacturers. The basic information outlined in this wiki can be applied to most of the technologies and devices available “off-the-shelf” but this wiki will focus on one device that is recommended.

Sofar has tested and recommends the Sonardyne RT 6-1000 for use with conventional moorings and Smart Moorings.

Recommended Hardware

Sonardyne RT6-1000

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RT 6-1000 - Sonardyne

Quick-Guide

  1. Connect the RT 6-1000 in line just above the anchor with the release nut connecting the anchor to the rest of the mooring.
  2. Add flotation above to keep the RT 6-1000 off the bottom and away from the anchor. The RT 6-1000 weighs 500 grams in water so sufficient buoyancy would be 1kg or more to be safe.
  3. Follow the steps in the manual to test the unit.
    1. Set / note the UID and address. This is important to write down somewhere as this will be needed to activate the unit once installed and deployed.
    2. Test and connect the battery.
    3. Test the loading and release mechanism being careful not to cross-thread the release nut.
    4. Test the RT 6-1000 using the deckbox or a second RT 6-1000 in the water using the Android app.
  4. Deploy as normal.
  5. Follow the steps in the RT 6-1000 manual to retrieve the unit.

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVkpj8XuTr2dMCzpEDdE9jJHpKIzfBXpq

Features