Operator’s manual

Fanbeam® 5
Safety
Fanbeam 5 is a laser position reference system
that enables offshore vessels to perform
dynamic positioning (DP) operations quickly
and safely. It is essential that the unit and all
accessories are operated in accordance with
the instructions in this user manual and it is the
responsibility of the user to ensure that, in the
event of a failure on any part of the system, the
motion system remains safe.
In the case of motion systems with powers
or speeds capable of causing injury, it is
essential that appropriate safety protection
measures are included in the machine
usage. Further guidance can be found in
BS EN ISO 12100:2010 Safety of machinery –
General principles for design – Risk assessment
and risk reduction.
Laser safety
DO NOT STARE DIRECTLY
INTO THE BEAM
In accordance with BS EN 60825-1:2014 and
US standards 21CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11
except for deviations pursuant to Laser Notice
no. 50, dated 24 June 2007, Fanbeam 5 laser
position reference systems are Class 1 invisible
laser products where safety eye wear is not
required. Do not stare into the beam or shine
it into the eyes of others. It is safe to view a
diffuse-reflected beam. Do not dismantle the unit
in any way; doing so may expose laser radiation
in excess of Class 1 combined limits. CAUTION
– LASER LIGHT IS BRIGHT AND BLINDING –
DO NOT SHINE AT AIRCRAFT OR VEHICLES
AT ANY DISTANCE.
Safety information
The following symbol is used in this manual
wherever important safety information is
present.
Before proceeding with any
electrical connection or
operation of the laser system,
refer to the general safety
information throughout this
manual.
FCC (USA only)

Information to the user (47CFR section

15.19)

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC

Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful

interference, and

2. This device must accept any interference

received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.

Information to user (47CFR section 15.21)

The user is cautioned that any changes or

modifications not expressly approved by the
party responsible for compliance could void the
user’s authority or operate the equipment.

Information to the user (47CFR section

15.105)

This equipment has been tested and found

to comply with the limits of a Class A digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when
the equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. The equipment generates, uses
and can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance with
the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation
of this equipment in a residential area is likely
to cause harmful interference in which case the
user will be required to correct the interference
at his own expense.
WEEE directive

The use of this symbol on products and/or

accompanying documentation indicates that
the product should not be mixed with general
household waste upon disposal. It is the
responsibility of the end user to dispose of
this product at a designated collection point
for waste electrical and electronic equipment
(WEEE) to enable reuse or recycling. Correct
disposal of this product will help to save valuable
resources and prevent potential negative effects
on the environment. For more information,
please contact your local waste disposal service
or distributor.
Contents
1 Introduction ......................................................................................................................1-1

1.1 Dear customer .....................................................................................................1-1

1.2 About this manual ................................................................................................1-1

Contents
1.3 Fanbeam 5 precision positioning and tracking system .........................................1-2

1.3.1 Applications ............................................................................................1-2 i

1.3.2 Advantages .............................................................................................1-2

1.4 System schematic ...............................................................................................1-3

1.5 Principle of operation ...........................................................................................1-4

2 Operational considerations ..............................................................................................2-1

2.1 Typical installation................................................................................................2-1

2.2 Reflectors ............................................................................................................2-1

2.2.1 Reflective tubes ......................................................................................2-2

2.2.2 Prism clusters .........................................................................................2-2

2.2.3 Reflector installation and position ............................................................2-3

3 Control system – control panel .........................................................................................3-1

3.1 Operator input .....................................................................................................3-2

4 Fanbeam software v4.0....................................................................................................4-1

4.1 Software display ..................................................................................................4-1

4.1.1 Functional tabs........................................................................................4-2

4.1.2 Bird’s-eye view (BEV) .............................................................................4-4

4.2 System operation ................................................................................................4-6

4.2.1 Back/Exit (F1) .........................................................................................4-8

4.2.2 Status (F2) ..............................................................................................4-9

4.2.3 Target scanning and selection (F3)........................................................4-10

4.2.4 Scan settings (F4) .................................................................................4-13

4.2.5 Tracking settings (F5) ............................................................................4-14

4.2.6 Tracking optimisation (F6) ..................................................................... 4-15

 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

4.3 Tracking loss ......................................................................................................4-21

4.3.1 Physical loss – reflector occlusion .........................................................4-22

4.3.2 Physical loss – reflector verticality .........................................................4-22

Contents

4.3.3 Loss due to target properties.................................................................4-23

4.3.4 Prolonged tracking loss .........................................................................4-24

ii
4.4 Set-up (F6) ........................................................................................................4-25

4.5 System configuration .........................................................................................4-25

4.5.1 Configuration – Fanbeam ......................................................................4-25

4.5.2 Configuration – Gyro .............................................................................4-27

4.5.3 Configuration – output ...........................................................................4-28

4.5.4 Configuration – display.......................................................................... 4-29

4.5.5 Configuration – adjustments..................................................................4-30

4.5.6 Configuration – import ...........................................................................4-32

4.6 Functional control group navigation ...................................................................4-34

5 System maintenance and service ....................................................................................5-1

5.1 Maintenance........................................................................................................5-1

5.1.1 Laser lens cleaning .................................................................................5-1

5.1.2 Cable connectors ....................................................................................5-3

5.1.3 Sensor enclosure ....................................................................................5-4

5.2 Service ................................................................................................................5-4

5.2.1 Mechanical service and calibration..........................................................5-4

5.2.2 Greasing .................................................................................................5-5

5.3 Troubleshooting...................................................................................................5-8

5.3.1 Field service procedures .........................................................................5-8

5.3.2 Spares kits ..............................................................................................5-8

5.3.3 Fleet spare option ...................................................................................5-9

1 Introduction
1.1 Dear customer

Introduction
We congratulate you on the purchase of a Fanbeam 5 system. You are now the owner of a
high-quality laser position reference system. The system is designed to be easy to operate;
consulting this operator’s manual before using the system will help you to get the most out of it.
1-1

To ensure best service, please make a note of the serial number, which can be found on the
instrument.

1.2 About this manual

It is important that you read this manual carefully before using the instrument.

The information in this document is subject to change without notice.

 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

1.3 Fanbeam 5 precision positioning and tracking system

Introduction

1-2

Fanbeam 5 is a laser system designed for repetitive, high-accuracy positioning and tracking of
marine vessels and static and semi-static anchored structures.

1.3.1 Applications

The system is primarily used as a dynamic positioning (DP) reference system for a vessel that is
working next to a platform, jetty or other vessel.

Traditionally, three sensors are employed on board a vessel involved in DP operations. Fanbeam 5
can be used as a primary or back-up system and is considered a valuable alternative or
complementary system to differential global positioning systems (DGPS), not least because it can
be used when differential signals are lost or degraded due to proximity to offshore infrastructure.

The system is also widely used to position seismic vessels’ gun array floats when vessels survey oil
field prospects.

1.3.2 Advantages

Fanbeam 5 has many advantages as a DP referencing system, including:

• Highly complementary to DGPS, which can degrade when close to larger structures.

• Quick and easy to install and mobilise.

• Provides independent redundancy against other position reference systems.

• Cost-effective, using passive, inexpensive targets which can be permanently installed virtually
anywhere.

• Has been used by all major DP system integrators for over 20 years.

Introduction
• Makes target acquisition and tracking more reliable.

• Clear and simple access to the data required by the dynamic positioning operator (DPO).
1-3
• Uses advanced algorithms to predict position, indicate confidence and suggest solutions to
difficulties encountered during operations.

1.4 System schematic

Power cable AC main from UPS

Deck cable VGA cable

Data cable (RS232/RS422) Control panel cable

DP feed
Gyro input
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

1.5 Principle of operation

Introduction

1-4

The Fanbeam system comprises a laser sensor, reflective targets, an embedded PC control system
and intelligent software. Understanding how these components work together, and how each can
be installed and operated, will help you to complete DP operations quickly and successfully.

The Fanbeam laser unit, mounted on the vessel, emits a high-frequency laser pulse, invisible to the
naked eye, over 360° horizontally. Reflective targets, attached to moving or stationary platforms or
vessels, return the laser pulses back to the sensor. Using the “time of flight” principle, the sensor
uses this returned pulse to measure the range and bearing of the laser unit from the targets.

The system is controlled by the DPO using software running on an embedded PC control system,
which is usually on the bridge of the vessel. A data feed to a peripheral system (such as a DP
system) is provided from the control PC.
2 Operational considerations
The system is easy to set up, and operation requires minimal intervention from the DPO. There are,

considerations
however, some key points that all DPOs should consider.

Operational
2.1 Typical installation
The Fanbeam laser unit is most commonly located just above the aft wheelhouse on a mounting 2-1

plate above the handrail. This usually gives the laser unit a good field of view from what is normally
the “working end” of the vessel in most operational situations.

Other configurations are possible, depending upon the type of vessel and its expected operational
needs. Many larger vessels now have multiple mounting locations (port/starboard) with cables
permanently run to enable rapid reconfiguration.

It is recommended that the Fanbeam sensor is serviced and calibrated every two to three years for
typical utilisation. Where the Fanbeam is being used more intensively than normal, the service interval
should reduce accordingly, with annual service being recommended for equipment being utilised at
50% or more. Such intensive use might be a DP vessel with a gangway where DP operations can last
for many months (see section 5.2.1, “Mechanical service and calibration”).

2.2 Reflectors
Reflective targets are used to provide high-quality measurements to the sensor. Our targets are
specifically optimised for use with the Fanbeam sensor, giving a high level of reflectivity to maximise
performance in a range of conditions.

There are two main target types available for the Fanbeam system. The type of target chosen will
depend on operational requirements.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

2.2.1 Reflective tubes

Reflective tubes are good, entry-level reflectors for short-range operations and are used by
customers wanting ease of installation and low cost. Reflective tubes provide a good reflection
considerations
Operational

at ranges of up to 150 m, or further, depending upon conditions. Reflective tubes also have the
advantage of a 360° angular coverage, meaning that the operator does not need to worry about
reflector orientation.
2-2
2.2.2 Prism clusters

Prism clusters will provide reliable positioning from short ranges of under 100 m up to 2000 m.
These reflectors consist of an engineered “tree”, designed to allow customers to mount our marine-
grade retroreflective prisms in pairs, stacked vertically in offsets of precisely 45°. By changing the
number and position of prisms (which is quick and easy to do, with no special tooling required),
DPOs can optimise reflectors for different operations.

All prism cluster arrangements are supplied in a transit case, allowing for safe and easy transport
offshore and storage when not in use. A metal mounting arrangement is also supplied, which allows
for simple attachment to a handrail.

Cluster type Angular coverage

4-way prism cluster 105°
6-way prism cluster 150°
8-way prism cluster 195°
10-way prism cluster 240°
12-way prism cluster 285°
14-way prism cluster 330° 6-way prism cluster (150°)
16-way prism cluster 360°

Maintenance consists of a simple inspection to ensure that the prisms are clean and that the
mounting arrangement has not come loose.

Single prisms, giving 60° angular coverage, can be purchased individually to replace any lost or
damaged prisms. The configuration of the prisms on the cluster tree is key, and pairs of prisms
should only be mounted in adjacent “columns”.
2.2.3 Reflector installation and position

It is important to position reflectors carefully, because a poorly located reflector can lead to
degraded positioning and/or loss of tracking.

considerations
Operational
2-3

Key considerations when positioning a reflector are as follows:

• Height: Ideally the reflector should be at roughly the same height as the Fanbeam sensor.
This reduces the need for tilting and the risk of tracking loss due to relative pitch and roll when
working very short range.

• Mounting: A robust mounting arrangement appropriate to the reflector type should be used –
even when the reflectors are semi-permanent.

• Orientation: Both reflector types need to be mounted vertically to match the vertical orientation
of the emitted laser beam. Mounting tube or cluster reflectors horizontally will significantly
reduce its effectiveness.

• Visibility: The laser requires a clear field of view to the reflector for optimum performance.
Always ensure that the reflector is positioned away from locations where moving infrastructure
or personnel can obstruct the view from the sensor to the reflector.

• Personnel awareness: Personnel on the platform or rig should be aware of what the reflectors
are and what they are used for.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual
considerations
Operational

2-4

This page is intentionally left blank.

3 Control system – control panel
The control system for the Fanbeam includes a Fanbeam control panel, which is designed to make

Control system –
control panel
it as easy as possible for the operator to use Fanbeam. The software is optimised to work with the
control panel so that the Fanbeam system is intuitive, quick and easy to operate.

3-1

Features include:

• Function keys along the top to provide quick navigation through functional tabs in the control
software.

• Numeric keypad for configuration value entry and target selection.

• Cursor keys for navigating the software and manipulating values.

• Dimmable LED backlight.

• Touchpad pointing device with no moving parts.

• Left and right mouse buttons.

• Tactile buttons with raised profiles for touch orientation.

• Bracket or panel mount variants.

• Integral buzzer for audio alert function.

 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

3.1 Operator input

The control panel has both a keypad and a touchpad for pointer control.
Control system –
control panel

The keyboard has the following keys:

F1 – F6 Quickly navigate the functional tabs in the software.

3-2
Cursor UP Move focus to previous parameter available in the software.
Cursor DOWN Move focus to next parameter available in the software.
Cursor LEFT Decrease value of selected parameter.
Cursor RIGHT Increase value of selected parameter.
ENT Activate selected control in the software.
0–9 Select the numbered observation for tracking or enter numerical values in the
set-up.
DEL Delete characters from configuration settings and discard old data from
strength graph.
DIM + / DIM – Adjust the LED backlight level on the control panel.

The touchpad is similar to that found on many laptops. It allows you to move a pointer around the
screen and click on-screen controls using the left or right mouse buttons.

Note: The touchpad will only support pointer movement. Operators cannot tap or pinch using the
touchpad.

For most purposes, the control panel keypad is the quickest way of interacting with the software.
For maximum speed and ease of operations, operators should be familiar with these interactions.
More information is available throughout the remainder of this manual.
4 Fanbeam software v4.0

Fanbeam software
The Fanbeam system is most commonly used in a single-target tracking mode of operation. This
section relates to the operation of the control software associated with this mode.

4.1 Software display

The software display is grouped into two main sections as follows: 4-1

Functional tabs Bird’s-eye view (BEV)

This layout has been designed to correlate with the Fanbeam control panel layout (shown above)
of keypad on the left and touchpad on the right.

Once tracking is established, an additional performance monitoring pane can be added in the
middle.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

4.1.1 Functional tabs

Fanbeam software

This part of the display has been carefully designed to work with the control panel function keys,
allowing quick and intuitive access to the controls and displays required at each stage of system
operation.

Six functional tabs are accessible via the function keys F1 to F6 on the control panel.
4-2

Many of the functional tabs remain the same throughout all operations, but some will change
function depending upon the status of the system. For example, the Setup tab is only available
when the system is ready and not when scanning observations or tracking. The F1 key moves
operations away from tracking a target, ultimately leading to exit and shut-down controls. The F3
key moves operations towards tracking by initiating scanning and providing controls for target
selection.

Each functional tab provides access to up to five controls or status indicators. The separate readout
panel is typically two rows tall, showing the range and bearing of a tracked target. When not
tracking, a status message is displayed. During scanning, the readout panel can show four rows of
data.

Row

1 Control/Status

2 Control/Status

3 Control/Status

4 Control/Status

5 Control/Status

1 Readout

2 Readout
The control panel up and down cursor keys can be used to move focus to the required control.
When a control has focus, it is highlighted with a bold orange border.

Fanbeam software
Focus will skip any control that is disabled and will also “wrap around” the top and bottom of a given
functional tab. Once the desired control has focus, the left and right cursor keys can be used to
select new values or settings.
Control above
4-3

Decrease value Increase value

Control below

The most common control is the numerical field. Numerical fields can be changed by typing the
desired value and either moving to another field or pressing the Enter key. Another way of changing
the value in a numerical field is to increase or decrease the number selected in the field by pressing
the right (increase) or left (decrease) keys. The changes made to numerical fields are applied
immediately to the Fanbeam data.

Note: The control panel numeric keypad cannot be used to enter values into
these controls. These keys are reserved for quick target selection from a
numbered list at this point in the software.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual
Fanbeam software

Several controls are in the form of multi-switches (see above). These have two or more alternatives,
one of which is always selected. When the focus of control is on a multi-switch, the selection can
be changed by pressing the left or right cursor keys. (The selection choice will not wrap around the
4-4 ends of a multi-switch.)

There are two slider controls for speed of scan and tilt (see above). These are controlled by a slider
because they each consist of relatively few increments.

The slider allows you to choose a new value compared to the current value and which will only
be applied when the sensor is next stationary. The slider control always shows the value that the
Fanbeam is working to alongside the slider. Above the slider, in smaller text, is shown the value that
the slider will deliver to the Fanbeam at the next opportunity.

4.1.2 Bird’s-eye view (BEV)

Laser Rejected
sweep line observation

Minimum Tracked target

range filter with direction
and trail

Scale range Scaled vessel

rings shape

The BEV is a graphical pane that shows the positions of observations relative to each other and
a scaled outline representing the operator’s vessel. The buttons in the corners of the BEV are
operated with the touchpad. The appearance of the displayed objects can be modified in the
Display tab of the configuration dialog (see section 4.5.4, “Configuration – display”).
Arranged around the corners of the BEV are various controls as follows:

Fanbeam software
Control Name Description
SmartSector This control allows the operator to cycle through a list of
predefined display origin options. This changes where
everything appears on the BEV. The default option is
SmartSector (as illustrated here), where the software will 4-5
automatically set the best origin dependent upon the relative
position of the tracked target.
Gyro compass If a Gyro interface is enabled and active, this control displays
a compass arrow to indicate where north is on the BEV.
Clicking on the control allows the operator to toggle between
“north up” and vessel-locked orientations.
North up The BEV will be orientated such that north is up at all times.

Colour mode This control allows the operator to toggle between day and
night colour schemes. It shows the colour mode currently in
use – day is illustrated here.

SmartScale When enabled, this option will override any manual scale in
favour of one that ensures the tracked target is always visible
on the BEV.

Manual scale Manual zoom mode where zoom in and zoom out controls will
set the BEV scale.

Zoom out This pair of controls allows for the BEV scale to be manually
adjusted. Clicking either control will also disable SmartScale.

Zoom in
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

Observations seen by the Fanbeam sensor are displayed on the BEV using the following symbols:

Symbol Name Description

Fanbeam software

×
Rejected An observation which has been rejected by one or more filters (e.g.,
observation minimum/maximum range, strength or quality). Note that the tracked
target can become rejected during tracking and this will result in
tracking loss.
4-6
Accepted An observation which has passed all the filters, but not has been
observation selected as the target. During target selection, only an observation of
this type can be selected for tracking.

Tracked The tracked target is shown as a circle with optional direction arrow
target and positional trail. Around the tracked target is the tracking window
which can be manipulated using controls in the F5 functional tab.

4.2 System operation

Fanbeam controls are arranged under tabs that provide quick access to suitably-sized groups of
controls that are to be used together.

Under F1 are the controls for withdrawing from DP operation: stopping tracking, stopping scanning
and shutting down the system.

Next, under F2, is a status screen that tells the operator what has happened recently.

Tabs F3, F4, and F5 group all the controls that enable the operator to prepare for and instigate
scanning a target reliably and quickly.

Once you have started tracking, tabs F4, F5 and F6 group all the information and controls to
monitor and optimise tracking.

When not scanning or tracking, the F6 tab doubles up as the route to configuration and diagnostic
controls.

A simple system reference chart is shown on page 4-7. (A comprehensive version of the same
chart can be found on page 4-34.)
4-7
Fanbeam software v4.0
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

4.2.1 Back/Exit (F1)

This functional tab provides controls to move away from tracking. It shows the steps
Fanbeam software

available, depending on the state the Fanbeam is in at the time.

When the system is tracking a target, it provides these controls:

4-8 Control Name Description

Park Tracking stops: the Fanbeam sensor is sent to its park position and
the Fanbeam becomes ready to start scanning.

Stop Tracking stops: the Fanbeam sensor is stopped at the end of its
current sweep and the Fanbeam becomes ready to start scanning.

Scan targets Tracking is terminated and the sensor immediately starts scanning for
observations.
Note: If tracking is lost, this function is made available on the F3 tab
button as well.

Control Name Description

Park Scanning is terminated: the Fanbeam sensor is sent to its park
position and the Fanbeam becomes ready to start scanning.

Stop Scanning is terminated: the Fanbeam sensor is stopped at the end

of its current scan and the Fanbeam becomes ready to start scanning.
When the Fanbeam is in ready mode, it provides these controls:

Control Name Description

Fanbeam software
Park The Fanbeam sensor is sent to its park position and the Fanbeam
becomes ready to start scanning.

4-9
Exit This closes the Fanbeam controller, returning the operator to the
Windows® operating system.

Restart This closes the Fanbeam controller and reboots the Windows®
operating system.

Shut down This closes the Fanbeam controller and completely shuts down the
Windows® operating system.
Note: The PC will have to be manually switched on again, so ensure
you have physical access to the PC prior to doing this.

4.2.2 Status (F2)

This functional tab provides status and a log of significant events.

Software
title and
revision

Event log

Latest
output
message

To avoid old events scrolling out of view, a duplicate event updates the timestamp of the last entry
instead of creating a new one.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

4.2.3 Target scanning and selection (F3)

Any time this icon is visible, pressing F3 will initiate scanning. The Fanbeam sensor
Fanbeam software

will repeatedly scan through 360° and generate a list of accepted observations, one of
which the operator may select as a tracked target.

4-10
 When the system is scanning, the F3 tab shows this icon and the tab contains the
following controls:

Fanbeam software
Control Name Description
Tilt The required target might not always be in the
vertical field of view of the Fanbeam sensor. This 4-11
control allows the operator to tilt the laser to detect
targets at a different vertical elevation. Any change
in tilt will be applied by the sensor at the end of the
current 360° scan.
Strength This multi-switch toggles off and on the minimum
filter strength filter. AUTO uses the minimum strength
filter until a tracked target can provide data to set
automatic filter values.

Minimum When the strength filter is enabled, any

strength observation with a strength below the selected
filter value will be rejected. An observation’s strength
can be thought of as relative brightness.
Target The first four accepted observations for operator
1, 2, 3, 4 selection. Range, bearing and strength are
displayed for each one.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

When either of the strength filter controls has focus and the filter is on, the BEV will change to
show a graphical display of strength. All observations will be displayed. For each observation a
Fanbeam software

corresponding radial line is drawn in a ‘crown’ around the edge of the display. The length of the
radial line shows the relative strengths of signal. The active filter level is shown as a dashed circle
cutting across the strength signals.

Scaled observation Strength filter

4-12 strengths displayed crown
as radial lines

}
Rejected observations
(crosses) have strengths
below the filter. These cannot
be selected for tracking
{

Manual minimum strength filter value Quality filter crown

This view is recommended for selecting the most appropriate minimum strength filter prior to
selecting an observation for tracking. If the automatic signal strength option is selected during
scanning, the manual filter value is used until tracking is established, whereupon the software will
take over.

Once filters have been set to reject any unwanted observations, the operator can select the desired
accepted observation for tracking by one of the following means:

• Pressing the relevant observation ID number on the numeric keypad – this is the quickest
method.

• Moving focus onto the observation in the list using the cursor keys and pressing Enter.

• Moving the cursor over the observation’s list entry using the touchpad and clicking with the
mouse button.

• Moving the cursor over the observation on the BEV using the touchpad and clicking with the
mouse button.
Once target tracking is established, the software opens the F6 tracking optimisation tab with
the performance monitoring pane open alongside it. This is described in section 4.2.6, “Tracking

Fanbeam software
optimisation (F6)”.

4.2.4 Scan settings (F4)

This functional tab provides controls that are applicable to scanning as well as tracking.
This tab is available at any time. When tracking, the scan speed is set automatically and 4-13
its control is disabled.

Control Name Description

Scan speed During or prior to target scanning it might be
necessary to reduce the scan speed in order to
pick up targets at longer ranges (e.g., 1000 m
or more). Speeds are in rotational degrees per
second and adjustments can be made in 5°/s
increments, from 50°/s to 5°/s. New speeds are
applied only when the sensor is stationary – at the
end of a scan when scanning. During tracking, this
control is disabled and shows the rotational speed
selected in the software.
Range filter This control allows the operator to toggle off and
on range filtering.

Maximum When enabled, any observation above this range

range filter will be rejected.

Minimum When enabled, any observation below this range

range filter will be rejected.

When the range filter controls have focus, the respective limit is highlighted on the BEV with an
orange dashed line that moves in response to the changes in value.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

4.2.5 Tracking settings (F5)

This functional tab provides controls that are most applicable during tracking. This tab
Fanbeam software

is available at any time.

Control Name Description

4-14
Minimum Any observation with a quality below this value
quality filter will be rejected. When this control is selected,
the BEV switches to the crown display, as
described in section 4.2.3, “Target scanning and
selection (F3)”. The quality filter crown works
in the same way as the strength filter crown to
display the relationship between the filter and any
observations from the sensor.
Note: “1” is the lowest quality value any
observation can have. Setting the filter to “1”
means that no observations will be rejected for
quality.
Strength This multi-switch allows the operator to toggle the
filter strength filtering function between OFF, ON and
AUTO. When ON or AUTO is selected, the BEV
will include the filter crown (see section 4.2.3,
“Target scanning and selection (F3)”).
Minimum When the strength filter is set to ON, this control
strength is enabled to allow the operator to manipulate the
filter filter value with reference to the filter crown on the
BEV.
Tracking Tracking window size in metres of range.
window
depth
Tracking Tracking window size in degrees of bearing.
window
spread

During tracking, the software places a tracking window around the last observed target position. If
the target moves outside this window within one sweep, it will be designated as lost, even if it is the
only observation visible to the sensor. The tracking window is a segment shape defined in the polar
coordinate system (range and bearing).
4.2.6 Tracking optimisation (F6)

This functional tab groups the controls and displays relating to tracking performance and

Fanbeam software
optimisation. This tab can show a choice of performance information in the control area.
It can also open up a detailed performance monitoring panel in the centre of the screen.
In difficult conditions this allows the operator to see all measurements of performance at
once.
4-15

Control Name Description

Performance This multi-switch allows the operator to decide how to monitor
display tracking performance:

• Show the strength controls and filter spread graph in the

tab.

• Show the tracking confidence indicators in the tab.

• Show the target threat indicators in the tab.

• Show the strength controls and filter spread graph in the tab
and open a middle pane showing tracking confidence and
target threats.

Each of the controls in the table above is explained in the following pages.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

Strength graph selected in performance display multi-switch

Fanbeam software

Control Name Description

Tilt Whilst tracking, it may be useful or necessary to
4-16 change the vertical tilt of the Fanbeam sensor.
In order to prevent sudden loss of tracking, this
control will only allow single increment changes
to be made at once. Observation strengths
will change at different tilt positions. The signal
strength graph is available in the same tab to let
the operator see the effect of changing the tilt
angle.
Strength This multi-switch allows the DPO to toggle the
filter strength filtering function between OFF, ON and
AUTO. When ON or AUTO is selected, the BEV
will include the filter crown (see section 4.2.3,
“Target scanning and selection (F3)”).
Minimum When the strength filter is set to ON, this control is
strength enabled to allow the DPO to manipulate the filter
filter value with reference to the filter crown on the BEV.

Strength This display shows a graph of tracked target

graph strength plotted with automatic strength filters
(both minimum and maximum) shown as red lines
and values on the strength axis. When control
focus is on this display, the DPO can delete the
oldest minute of data. This can sometimes help
to tighten the automatic filter spread around the
more recent values.
 Tracking confidence indicators

Fanbeam software
Display Name Description
Tracking A single overall value for confidence is shown as a number
confidence and a horizontal tape or ribbon. This values ranges from 4-17
0 to 9, where a high value is good and a low one is bad.
The value is derived from the following five contributing
parameters, each shown as a vertical tape or ribbon.
Target quality Each target measurement comes with a quality value that
is subject to the quality filter control in the F5 functional
tab. This filter value is overlaid on the vertical ribbon. Lower
quality observations will contribute less to the overall
confidence value.
Strength The spread of tracked target strength for up to 5 most
spread recent minutes of observation. A wider spread results in a
lower contribution to the confidence value.

Consecutive For each consecutive sweep where the tracked target is

measurements measured, this will increment to a maximum of 9. A target
that is being intermittently lost will make a lower contribution
to the overall confidence value.
Acceleration This parameter comes from the statistical position
prediction. It is a measure of how far from the predicted
position the tracked target was found to be and suggests
acceleration. The more discrepancy, the lower the
contribution to the overall confidence value.
Target speed The relative speed of the tracked target is calculated each
time it is observed. A fast-moving target will contribute less
to the overall confidence value.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual
Fanbeam software

Quality filter
value overlay

Overall tracking
4-18 Various inputs confidence is a
into tracking combination of
confidence the five inputs
with
associated
values
 Target threat indicators

Fanbeam software
Display Name Description
Target threat This performance indicator provides the DPO
with a summary of the status of any observations
during tracking. The values are explained below. 4-19

Rejected If the sweep picks up any such observation, the

threat level will be at least:
1
Outside
window Accepted If the sweep picks up any such observation, the
threat level will be at least:
2

Rejected If the sweep picks up any such observation, the

threat level will be at least:
Inside 3
window Accepted If the sweep picks up any such observation, the
threat level will be at least:
4

When more than one type of threatening observation is present, the overall threat level is set to that
of the highest individual contribution.

Count of individual
threats in each
category Overall threat level
dictated by worst
contribution
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

Full performance monitoring selected in performance display multi-switch

Fanbeam software

This changes the screen layout, adding an extra performance monitoring pane in the middle,
between the functional tabs and the BEV:

4-20

The performance monitoring pane presents the tracking confidence and target threat displays that
could otherwise be seen individually on the F6 functional tab. In this mode, the F6 functional tab
reverts to the strength graph. The operator is free to select other functional tabs and the middle
pane will remain. This mode reduces the size of the BEV by half and the BEV reconfigures to show
all the tracking-related information in the narrower view:

• The BEV adopts a scale and orientation looking straight along the line from the sensor to the
tracked target. This view is called “Track Up”.

• Both strength and quality filter crowns are displayed at the top of the BEV.

• SmartSector and SmartScale are managed by the software and the controls are hidden.

• If the Gyro control is visible, it is only a display of north and north up cannot be selected.

This display mode provides the operator with all the available information about the tracking of
the target. It is the view that comes up when tracking is first established. If conditions are good,
confidence is high and threats are low, then it is easy to switch to one of the simpler views with less
information, if that is preferred.
4.3 Tracking loss
Once the system is tracking the required reflector, it is worth considering the different reasons why

Fanbeam software
tracking might be lost. These could be:

• Physical:

• Reflector occlusion
• Reflector moves outside the vertical laser fan 4-21

• Target properties:

• Target becomes rejected

The controller software display changes during tracking loss, as shown below:

1. The readouts change to a “TRACKING LOST” status message.

2. The tracking confidence result becomes a dash.

3. The confidence contributing values from just before tracking loss are shown as lines.

4. The target window outline turns red. The controller will increase the size of the target window
to re-acquire the reflector.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

4.3.1 Physical loss – reflector occlusion

This is a situation where an object, perhaps a container being lifted by a crane, has blocked the line
Fanbeam software

of sight between the sensor and the reflector being tracked.

In this situation, the best course of action

is to allow the Fanbeam system to start
4-22 tracking again automatically, once line of
sight is re-established. This will result in
data being sent to the DP system again
almost immediately after the occlusion is
removed.

A visual characteristic of this situation is that no observation symbol

(circle, square or cross) is shown on the BEV for the tracked target,
as it has not been observed by the sensor. A historic positional trail
is all that is left.

4.3.2 Physical loss – reflector verticality

This situation can be caused by three distinct (although interrelated) variables:

• Vessel pitch and roll

• Vessel heave

• Sensor tilt

Each of these can cause the reflector to move outside the vertical extent of the sensor’s laser
beam.

This will appear similar to reflector occlusion on the BEV (i.e. no observation symbol). If no obvious
occlusion can be identified and tracking loss continues, the tilt control can be a quick remedy to
regain tracking.
After any significant change in either weather or the position of the vessel relative to the reflector,

Fanbeam software
it is good practice to optimise the sensor tilt for the reflector. To mitigate reflector verticality as a
cause of tracking loss, the operator should aim to have the reflector in the vertical centre of the fan
beam.

This can be achieved by using the tilt and strength graph controls together to obtain
4-23
the strongest signal return.

This in turn means that the reflector is closer to the centre of the sensor’s laser fan.

4.3.3 Loss due to target properties

As detailed earlier in this guide, there are various software filters that can reject observations from
the sensor. These filters can also reject the tracked target.

This situation is visually characterised by the presence of an

observation symbol at the centre of the tracking window during
tracking loss.

The task for the operator then becomes to identify which filter (or filters) have caused the rejection.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

This task is greatly simplified by using the enhanced BEV view provided by performance
monitoring mode in the F6 functional tab.
Fanbeam software

4-24

The BEV crown displays provide critical decision-making information in this situation. Here we can
see that the signal strength has caused tracking loss. Changing the tilt can cause a big enough
jump in signal strength to be rejected by the automatic filter. A quick way to resolve this is to switch
strength filtering off for one or two observations, then back to automatic. This will open up the
automatic filter acceptance window to accommodate the new signal.

If quality is the cause of tracking loss, this will be seen as an orange radial line for the previously
tracked observation in the quality crown.

The minimum and maximum range filters can also lead to tracking loss. The BEV shows these, so if
the tracked target has just passed a range filter, it should be visible on the BEV.

4.3.4 Prolonged tracking loss

If none of the above reasons can be easily identified, and tracking loss persists, the operator can
return to scanning for targets by pressing F3.

The controller will return to scanning as detailed in section 4.2.3, “Target scanning and selection
(F3)”.
4.4 Set-up (F6)
The set-up functional tab contains various configuration options that can only be

Fanbeam software
accessed when the system is ready (i.e. not scanning or tracking). Many of these
options must be selected with care, as they can impact on the operation of the system
overall and its interaction with peripheral systems, such as a dynamic positioning
system.
4-25

Control Name Description

Configuration Provides access to a configuration dialog with options for
hardware communications, logging and the user interface.
These are explained in section 4.5, “System configuration”.

Diagnostics Access to a diagnostic pane for the Fanbeam sensor. This can
be useful for troubleshooting and is primarily used by Fanbeam
service engineers.

About Opens a dialog with software revision and licence information.

Park The Fanbeam sensor is moved to the current park position.

4.5 System configuration

System configuration is accessed from the F6 set-up functional tab. It consists of a
multi-page dialog box with settings grouped together in sections. Each section can be
expanded or collapsed to aid navigation. (Section headings are highlighted in grey for
the remainder of this part of the manual.)

4.5.1 Configuration – Fanbeam

The Fanbeam hardware interface is configured on this tab.

Park angle: Park controls will command the Fanbeam sensor to move to this position. A
park angle of 180° is often useful to aid access to the laser lenses for routine
maintenance.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

Connection
Fanbeam software

This section contains all the settings for interfacing the controller software with the Fanbeam or
simulator. The device will be set to a serial port when working with a Fanbeam sensor and typically
a client socket when working with a simulator. The remaining settings in this section will change
depending upon the device selected.

4-26 Device: The type of interface used for this connection. Three options are available as
follows:

• No device – disables the connection.

• Serial port – utilises one of the serial ports for RS232 or RS422 interfacing.

• Client socket – utilises a network interface, assuming an appropriate IP network

is available.

Device= Serial port COM port Lists the available serial ports not already used by
another connection in the software.
Baud rate The speed of data transmission in bits per second
(default 9600).
Data bits The number of data bits per character (default 8).
Parity Inbuilt error-checking bit per character (default None).
Stop bits Number of stop bits per character (default 1.0).
Client socket Host IP address (or resolvable host name) of server socket to
be connected.
Port IP port number of server socket to be connected.
Tilt on connect This should be enabled. Disabling can help with fault
diagnosis.
Below these connection settings are two additional displays as follows:

Connection Indication of the current connection status as follows:

Fanbeam software
status

Connection is open and ready.

New connection settings are pending. Click 4-27

Apply.

Attempting to use new connection settings.

The software will continue to retry until
the connection is open or a new setting is
selected.
Connection is closed (No device).

Mini This display allows the DPO to see the data over the connection. Data coming
terminal from the interfaced device is shown as blue text.

4.5.2 Configuration – Gyro

An optional Gyro interface is available, which can help to re-establish tracking loss and/or
reconfigure the display to show “north up”.

Gyro enabled: Toggles on and off the Gyro interface and associated user interface
components.

Rate: The message output rate of the connected gyro should be entered here in
hertz. This determines the software timeout prior to warning the operator of
Gyro interface failure.

Connection

This section contains settings for interfacing with a gyro compass. All the connection settings
here are identical to those for the Fanbeam, with the exception of Tilt on connect. Please refer to
section 4.5.1, “Configuration – Fanbeam”, for more details of these.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

4.5.3 Configuration – output

Data output messages from the Fanbeam system are used to interface with dynamic positioning
Fanbeam software

and survey solutions. These output messages are often referred to as “DP feed”.

Output enabled: Toggles on and off the output interface and associated components.

4-28
Connection

This section contains settings for interfacing a data output. All the connection settings here are
identical to those for the Fanbeam, with the exception of Tilt on connect. Please refer to section
4.5.1, “Configuration – Fanbeam”, for more details of these.

Output test: This toggle button allows the operator to test an output connection to a
peripheral system without actually tracking or even having a Fanbeam
sensor. Messages of the currently selected type containing test data values
are sent using the current connection settings. The output test is disabled
as soon as the configuration dialog is closed.

Message type

This section contains detailed information regarding the various messages available for interfacing
with a peripheral system. Details of the messages can be found in the Fanbeam 5 installation and
commissioning guide.

Note: Great care should be taken to ensure the correct message type is used. Sending incorrectly
formatted data to peripheral systems can result in unpredictable behaviour.

ID: The required target ID for single target message types containing a target
ID. This is normally set to “1”.

Type: A drop-down list of the available message types used for interfacing with
DP and survey systems. The remainder of this section contains displays
with details of the currently selected message type.

Logging

The software supports a message-logging feature that records data on each of the machine interfaces.
Normally this will be disabled, but may be useful to enable as a fault-finding tool for remote service.

Event logging: Toggles on and off the event logging function. These events can be seen in
the F2 status functional tab.

Message logging: Toggles on and off the data message logging function.
4.5.4 Configuration – display

Fanbeam software
Tracked target

Show direction: The tracked target will be annotated on the BEV with an arrow indicating
direction of relative motion.

Show trail: A trail of previous positions will be left behind the tracked target on the 4-29

BEV. A trail can be an indication of relative movement on the part of the

target, vessel or both.

Vessel

The BEV can draw a vessel outline as a visual guide to help understand the positions of
observations. This feature is intended as a visual aid only, and as such these parameters need only
be approximate – they will have no effect on data output to the DP system.

Show sweep: An animated line is displayed on the BEV to indicate the horizontal
movement of the Fanbeam laser.

Show outline: A scaled vessel outline is drawn on the BEV using the parameters below.

Length: Vessel length for outline to nearest metre.

Width: Vessel width for outline to nearest metre.

Bow ratio: Approximate ratio of bow curve to vessel length. If there is no bow curve
(e.g., barge), set this to “0”.

Sensor offset from amidships

Forward: Approximate distance of sensor forward from midpoint of vessel outline.

Starboard: Approximate distance of sensor starboard from midpoint of vessel outline.

Orientation

Orientation: Allows BEV contents to be aligned with the position of the Fanbeam
display on the vessel. For example, an orientation of “stern up” is required
where the Fanbeam display is in front of the operator when looking aft as
part of a DP bridge layout.

Show gyro compass: If a valid Gyro heading input is interfaced (see section 4.5.2, “Configuration
– Gyro”), then this option enables or disables the Gyro compass control
on the BEV described in section 4.1.2, “Bird’s-eye view (BEV)”.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

SmartScale

These options relate to the automatic behaviour of the BEV when SmartScale is enabled. The
Fanbeam software

scale factor is determined by the most distant of the enabled items from a list comprising: farthest
observation, maximum range filter, tracking window and tracked target. The tracked target option
cannot be disabled.

4-30
Audio

Tracking loss alert: Option to sound a buzzer in the Fanbeam control panel if tracking loss
occurs. This is designed to help attract the attention of the operator, who
can act quickly, should there be any interaction required.

4.5.5 Configuration – adjustments

Bearing obtained

If the sensor is noticeably misaligned from the centre line of the vessel, it should be compensated
for using this adjustment. Place a reflector as far forward on the vessel as possible, with the same
displacement from the centre line as the sensor, and take a bearing. Enter the value of this bearing
into the adjustment field.

Measuring direction: This tells the software if the reflector was positioned forward or aft of the
sensor, allowing the measured adjustment below to be applied correctly
to all observations thereafter. This assumes that the sensor is correctly
mounted with the 0° axis of the sensor (the connectors) facing forward.

Orientation adjustment: The value of the measured bearing from the reflector.
Adjustments for DP output

Fanbeam software
If the Fanbeam sensor is moved with respect to the position registered by the DP system, those
DP offsets should be updated. Until that is done, Fanbeam can partially compensate for the move.
These offsets within Fanbeam must be reset to zero once the DP system data is updated with the
new position.
4-31
Important

• These measurements need to be with respect to the nominal mounting location of the
Fanbeam sensor.

• Any time the sensor is removed and mounted again, check the mounting orientation and
change the Fanbeam orientation adjustment if necessary.

Forward: Distance forward from the nominal mounting location to the new mounting
location.

Starboard: Distance starboard from the nominal mounting location to the new
mounting location.

In this example, both adjustments are positive.

Use negative values for aft and port adjustments.

 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

4.5.6 Configuration – import

This configuration tab allows an installer to import settings taken from an older Fanbeam system
Fanbeam software

using the v3 series of control software. This is an alternative to manually noting then configuring
each setting.

The v3 software stores settings in a file called Fanbeam.CFG which is normally located in the
4-32 following folder:

C:\Program Files\MDL\MDL_Fanbeam

This file should be copied onto a USB flash drive from the old embedded PC. It can then be
imported to the new embedded PC directly from the USB flash drive.

Connect the USB flash drive with the Fanbeam.CFG file to the new embedded PC and use the
Import Source control to navigate to the file.
 Fanbeam software
4-33

Once selected, click Import and the dialog will show a report of settings that have been imported.
Some settings might report an error. It is highly recommended that all settings are manually
checked for suitability after performing an import.

Note: The import process will overwrite any unsaved changes made in the configuration.

Do not forget to remove the USB flash drive after importing.

 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

4.6 Functional control group navigation

A comprehensive system schematic is shown below. (A simpler version of this diagram is shown on
Fanbeam software

page 4-7.)

4-34
5 System maintenance and service

System maintenance
The Fanbeam 5 sensor will benefit from regular maintenance and servicing. The following sections
describe recommended maintenance and service regimes based upon varying levels of system

and service
use.

5.1 Maintenance 5-1

Regular maintenance should be performed as described below. Most vessels will have a scheduled
maintenance system which can be used to remind the crew to perform these tasks.

5.1.1 Laser lens cleaning

Over time, the external lenses on the Fanbeam sensor laser module can become dirty. A significant
build-up of salt or carbon-based deposits may reduce the range capability of the laser. It is therefore
recommended that the lenses are cleaned at least monthly, even if the system is not in use. Many
operators will routinely clean the lenses prior to any DP operation where the Fanbeam system is
expected to be utilised.

Microfibre cloth

Example of dirty laser lenses

To clean the lenses, follow these steps:

1. Obtain a small microfibre cloth (of the type used for cleaning mobile phones or tablets). This
should be lint free.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

2. Park the Fanbeam sensor at an angle to make the laser lenses easily accessible from the
deck area next to the mounting location. Often this will be zero degrees, so consider using
System maintenance

the setting Park angle (°) = 0 from the Fanbeam tab in the configuration dialog.
and service

5-2

3. Steps should be taken to prevent others from causing sensor movement while cleaning takes
place (e.g., place a sign at the Fanbeam control panel workstation).

4. Gently remove any large deposits using the microfibre cloth. Ensure that the microfibre cloth
has no hard deposits. If it does, use another part of the cloth.

5. Apply a small amount of HPLC-grade (> 99.8%) isopropyl alcohol (propan-2-ol) to the lenses
and wipe clean using a gentle circular movement.

CAUTION: Repeated exposure to HPLC-grade isopropyl alcohol (propan-2-ol) may cause

skin dryness or cracking. It is recommended that personal protective equipment (PPE) such
as eyewear and/or face shields and protective gloves is used when dispensing and using
these cleaning fluids.

6. If there are stubborn deposits left on the lenses, repeat step 5.

Note: Always be careful to not scratch the lenses and to avoid finger contact, as this may leave
smudges.
5.1.2 Cable connectors

System maintenance
Many failures for the Fanbeam are caused by corrosion of the sensor cable connectors due to
degradation in the sealing of these or the failure to seal them at all. These connectors should be

and service
checked monthly to ensure that they are sealed as follows:

• Both connectors should be well taped with self-amalgamating tape and electrical tape
(supplied in spares kit 1). 5-3

• The tape should be tightly wound onto each connector in a clockwise direction to avoid any
loosening of the rotary connector.

• All tape should be inspected for cuts and gaps to ensure the connectors remain dry.

• If in doubt, always remove old tape, inspect the condition of connectors and re-apply new
tape.

FANBEAM
SPARES KIT 1

Example of corroded connector Spares kit 1

Correctly sealed connectors

 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

5.1.3 Sensor enclosure

System maintenance

We recommend that the Fanbeam sensor enclosure is inspected every three months. The
enclosure of any other system component that is externally mounted, such as a power supply unit,
and service

should also be inspected.

A thorough visual inspection for damage or scratches should be performed. Corrosion can occur if
5-4 the surface has been scratched. The mounting arrangement should also be inspected for significant
deformation, as this can cause stress of the sensor enclosure that compromises the gasket seal
and leads to water ingress. Without immediate repair, water ingress can cause system failure.

5.2 Service
A well-maintained and serviced Fanbeam system should provide many years of reliable operation.

5.2.1 Mechanical service and calibration

The Fanbeam sensor contains various mechanical moving parts which, over time, are subject to
wear and tear. The only mechanical items that are field-serviceable are the main rotary shaft seals
which protect the internals of the sensor base from water ingress. A grease gun for lubrication of
these seals is supplied with spares kit 1. However, if the following service regime is followed, then
operators should never need to perform greasing. (Please refer to section 5.2.2, “Greasing”, for
more details on greasing.)

Due to the wide range of offshore support vessels equipped with Fanbeam products, there can be
major differences in how the Fanbeam system is used from one vessel to the next. Therefore, a
five-tier approach has been taken with regards to system utilisation, as shown in the table below.

Sensor is operational* Hours per day Utilisation Service interval

between 4% and 17% of the time Up to 4 hours Medium 2 to 3 years

between 17% and 50% of the time Up to 12 hours High 1 to 2 years

above 50% of the time Above 12 hours Very high 1 year

for 100% of the time 24 hours Permanent** 6 months

* “Operational” is defined as the Fanbeam sensor constantly moving. If the system is powered on
but not in scanning, tracking or lost modes, then this is not considered to be utilisation.

** Operations that utilise the sensor permanently in a semi-static situation (e.g., DP vessel with
attached gangway) will cause excessive wear on one part of the gearbox. In these situations, a
six-month service interval is strongly recommended.
Experience suggests that many systems are in use at a medium utilisation, which may be typical of
a supply vessel on DP operations with Fanbeam for 12 hours out of any 72-hour period.

System maintenance
A mechanical service and calibration is recommended at the service intervals shown in the table

and service
above.

Each time a Fanbeam sensor is serviced, a calibration will be performed to confirm that
measurements conform to expected specifications. A certificate of conformity will be provided with 5-5
the equipment detailing this. We recommend that these are filed for future reference on the bridge
of the vessel along with the other system documentation.

5.2.2 Greasing

Earlier versions of system documentation called for the Fanbeam sensor to be greased every three
months. However, several years ago, this policy was reversed due to many incidences of people
damaging Fanbeam sensors by applying grease using inappropriate grease guns.

We therefore recommend against the greasing of the Fanbeam sensor unless the
recommended service interval defined in section 5.2.1, “Mechanical service and calibration”,
has elapsed by a year or more and it is not practical to transport the sensor to a service
centre for some time.

Note: The external grease nipple on the Fanbeam sensor is for the purpose of seal lubrication
ONLY. If the gearbox is stalling or making abnormal noises, this will not be helped by applying
grease here; instead, assistance should be obained from a service centre.

The procedure for greasing the Fanbeam is as follows:

1. Locate the Fanbeam grease gun, which is supplied with all new systems and as part of
spares kit 1.

Only the above grease gun should be used for greasing. Use of another grease gun can
result in damage to the Fanbeam sensor.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

2. Ensure the grease gun is loaded and that grease is flowing when the gun is pumped.
This step is best carried out by two people: one at the sensor to apply the grease and
System maintenance

one at the control system to operate the sensor as per the following steps. Two-way radio
communications should be used to coordinate.
and service

3. Park the Fanbeam sensor at 0° or 180°.

5-6 4. Apply the grease gun firmly to the grease nipple located on the rotary shaft of the sensor, as
pictured below.

5. Firmly pump grease from the gun twice then detach from the sensor for the next 90° rotation.
6. Request the operator to rotate the sensor by 90°; the operator should move the sensor by
using the diagnostics control (from F6), as pictured below.

System maintenance
and service
5-7

Moving the cursor over the circular control allows for selection of a position. Left-clicking will
move the sensor to that position.

7. Repeat steps 4 to 6 three times – once for each successive 90° interval around the circle.
 Fanbeam 5 – operator’s manual

5.3 Troubleshooting
System maintenance

5.3.1 Field service procedures

and service

Several problems can be resolved by using items supplied in the various spares kits. We
recommend speaking to a service contact in order to determine the best course of action. Once a
fault has been diagnosed, the relevant procedure can be sent to the vessel as appropriate.
5-8

5.3.2 Spares kits

Customers may decide that holding spares on board or at a local operational base is the best way
to mitigate downtime.

Three spares kits are available as follows:

Spares kit 1 – supplied with all complete systems:

• amalgamating and electrical tape for sealing connectors

• TORX TX30 bit for removal of anti-tamper screws on sensor base enclosure

• spare fuses for the controller PCB

• spare opto-isolators for the controller PCB and current loop convertor

• silicon grease and RTV for resealing sensor base enclosure

• grease gun for lubricating shaft seals

Spares kit 2 – optional accessory containing field-replaceable components, including:

• controller and stepper PCBs

• bulkhead cable looms

• cable connectors

Spares kit 3 – optional accessory

• Entire laser head which can be quickly field-replaced in the event of laser or auto-tilt failure.
5.3.3 Fleet spare option

System maintenance
Since Fanbeam can be a mission-critical piece of equipment, particularly on smaller vessels that
are wholly dependent on DGPS and Fanbeam as position references, sound fleet management will

and service
want to ensure that:

• vessel downtime is minimised

• vessels in remote areas are supported 5-9

• a proactive maintenance plan is in place to ensure equipment performance

To meet the demands of fleets with five or more vessels, a fleet spare package consisting of the
sensor, control system, prism cluster and complete set of cables and accessories is available. This
fleet spare package can be mobilised in the event of damage or failure but, crucially, in support of
proactive service through equipment rotation around a Fanbeam-equipped fleet.