AXYS TRIAXYS User manual

TRIAXYS™
D IRECTIONAL W AVE B UOY
USER'S MANUAL
Version 13
Manufactured by:
AXYS Technologies Inc
2045 Mills Road West
Sidney, British Columbia
Canada V8L 5X2
Telephone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
August 2012
This Operations Manual contains trade secrets and confidential information, which are proprietary to Axys
Technologies Inc. Its use, reproduction, or disclosure in whole or part without the express written permission of Axys
Technologies Inc. is prohibited. This Operations Manual is also an unpublished work protected under copyright laws. If
this work becomes published, the following shall apply:
Copyright 2012 AXYS Technologies Inc
All Rights Reserved
0226113Z
August 2012

TRIAXYS™ Directional Wave Buoy User Manual version 13
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Model Identification by Serial Numbers
The TRIAXYS™ Directional Wave Buoy and the TRIAXYS™ Digital Receiver are identified by unique
Serial Numbers. Software version numbers are identified for the two EPROMs in the TRIAXYS™ Sensor
and Telemetry Module and for the WaveView software. Always provide the TRIAXYS™ Directional Wave
Buoy serial numbers in any correspondence with AXYS Technologies Inc. This manual is supplied for use
with the TRIAXYS™ Directional Wave Buoy, TRIAXYS™ Digital Receiver and WaveView software. The
current revision manual is only applicable to the most current release of firmware and software. Caution is
advised when using a manual where the TRIAXYS™ Directional Wave Buoy, TRIAXYS™ Digital
Receiver and WaveView software revision numbers are not the same as the ones identified in this manual.
Item Location Serial Number/Version
TRIAXYS™ Directional Wave
Buoy Stamped onto the outer vertical edge of the flange of the stainless
steel hull between the two
sections of the rubber fender
Manual Revision History
Customer Service Contact Information
For Questions, Comments or Requests on the TRIAXYS™ System
Contact AXYS Technologies Inc:
Via e-mail: [email protected] or www.axystechnologies.com
Via phone: [phone] or 1-877-792-7878
Via fax: [phone]
Via mail: Axys Technologies Inc.
2045 Mills Rd. West Sidney, BC
Canada
V8L 5X2
Your input into operational functionality and features of this revolutionary system is greatly appreciated and
will be taken into account during periodic system design reviews. You will receive all update notices that
affect your system.

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CONNECT BUOY BATTERIES AFTER RECEIVING THE TRIAXYS™ BUOY FROM THE
FACTORY
TRIAXYS™ Wave Buoy Battery Shipping Notice
TRIAXYS™ Directional Wave Buoys are shipped with all four rechargeable batteries disconnected as
dictated by the International Air Transport Administration (IATA) Dangerous/Hazardous Goods
Regulations.
You must open the buoy and reconnect the batteries prior to testing and deploying your TRIAXYS™. Please
follow the instructions below for connecting the batteries. If you have questions please call AXYS
Technologies Customer Service at 1-877-792-7878, or email: [email protected]
TRIAXYS™ Wave Buoy Battery Connection Instructions
Figure 1
Dome
Bolts
Clamping
Ring
Figure 2
Dome
Clamping
Ring
1. Removal of the Dome and Clamping Ring. Refer to Section 7 of the TRIAXYS™
Manual: Remove the M8 washers and nuts, take off the Clamping Ring and remove the dome (Fig 1
& 2).
2. Prop Open the Solar Panel Assembly (SPA)
WARNING! The SPA is attached to the sensor module (TAS) and Solar Panel Interface Board via cables.
Do not lift the entire solar panel assembly off the hull or the connections may be damaged.
WARNING! DO NOT use the circular antenna as a handle to prop open the SPA (Figure
3) as this type of contact will ruin the tuning of the antenna.
Refer to Section 6.3 of this Manual: Ensure the magnetic key is attached and remove the (10) SS 316 nuts
and washers holding down the SPA. Using one of the flip-up black handles, lift one side of the SPA and
prop it open, using your hands to support the weight of the SPA until it is resting on an appropriate prop.

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Fig 3: VHF antenna/IR Port: do not use
these as handles when propping open the
SPA.
Fig 4: Prop open the SPA. Do Not
Remove the SPA completely.
SPA Handle
3. Locate the Power Distribution Module: The Power Distribution Module is located beside
the TAS module as shown.
4. Locate the Battery Connectors and plug them into the corresponding Terminals There are
four battery connectors that are labeled battery 1 thru 4. These must be plugged into the
corresponding terminals, which are also labeled (see Figures 6 & 7).

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Plug each battery connector into the corresponding terminal.
5. Removal of the Desiccant Pack from Sealed Bag:
CAUTION!: Desiccant Packs inside the hull of the buoy should be replaced every time the TRIAXYS™ is
opened. The pack serves to absorb any moisture that remains inside the buoy once the dome is replaced after
servicing. Please ensure that a new desiccant pack is placed in the hull each time the buoy is opened. All
TRIAXYS™ buoys are shipped with a spare desiccant pack.
The TRIAXYS™ was shipped with a desiccant pack sealed inside a plastic bag. It is located in a pouch
attached to the inside wall of the buoy's hull. Just before sealing up the buoy please remove the desiccant
pack from its plastic bag and replace it inside the netting bag. This will ensure any remaining moisture in the
buoy is absorbed prior to turning on the TRIAXYS™. Your Spares Kit also contains a spare desiccant pack.
6. Replacement of the SPA, Dome and Clamping Ring: Refer to Section 6.3.2 and 6.2.2 in
the TRIAXYS™ Wave Buoy Manual for instructions on replacement of the SPA, Dome and
associated clamping ring and bolts.

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Purge Port Procedure
The purge port can be used to remove any moist air that remains in the buoy with a dry gas if the Dome has
been installed. It can also be used to sample for or remove any possible hazardous gases that may be present
inside the buoy hull.
NOTE: Whenever handling this buoy, use proper hazardous gas ventilation procedures
and/or an explosive gas detection apparatus if available. This product contains Sealed Lead
Acid batteries, which when exposed to extreme temperatures (>40deg C) and/or
overcharging, can result in the production of Hydrogen Gas in quantities sufficient to
combust in the presence of an open flame or spark. Although the TRIAXYS Directional
Wave Buoy carefully controls the battery voltage in order to prevent overcharging, it is
recommended that proper handling procedures be followed. There is a purge port on the
side of the buoy for forced ventilation of an inert gas (for example Nitrogen) to actively
remove any potential hazardous gas build up.
NOTE: Another method of hydrogen generation is through electrolysis. If any electronic
equipment is exposed to salt water, there is a potential to generate hydrogen and oxygen in
sufficient quantities to support combustion. If a buoy is suspected of having water intrusion,
it is very important that these procedures be followed. Always assume that the buoy
contains hydrogen.
HYDROGEN SAMPLING PROCEDURE
•Install the Dome Cover onto the buoy and let the buoy cool for as long as possible.
•Install the Magnetic Key to turn the buoy off.
•Remove the purge port plug.
•If you have a Hydrogen gas detector (Industrial Scientific Model LTX3 12 or equivalent),
insert the sample tube in through the purge port and sample the air. If no hydrogen gas is detected,
proceed to Section 7.2.1. If gas is detected continue with the purging procedure to evacuate any
residual Hydrogen gas from the hull. If no gas detector is available, the hull should be purged as a
matter of standard procedure.
PURGE PROCEDURE:
•Loosen the dome nuts to aid in the ventilation of the buoy
•Tip the buoy up so that the purge port is as high as possible.
•Insert a loose-fitting tube through the purge port into the buoy.
•Pump inert gas (for example Nitrogen) into the buoy for approximately ten minutes at a rate
of 2 cfm or greater.
• Turn off the gas and remove the tubing. Resample with the gas detector if available to verify
a safe buoy atmosphere or proceed to Section 7.2.1.

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CONTENTS
1. I NTRODUCTION ..............................................................................................................................................1
Features and Specifications ..........................................................................................................................1
Polycarbonate Dome - Part #1439................................................................................................................5
Stainless Steel (AISI 316) Hull - Part #1522................................................................................................6
Rechargeable Batteries .................................................................................................................................7
1.4.1 Power Budget..................................................................................................................................7
1.4.2 Power Regulation and Monitoring ..................................................................................................8
Solar Panel Assembly (SPA)........................................................................................................................8
TRIAXYS™ Sensor and Telemetry Module (TAS) ....................................................................................9
1.6.1 Power Distribution Module...........................................................................................................10
1.6.2 Internal Data Logging ...................................................................................................................11
Water Temperature Sensor.........................................................................................................................12
Telemetry Options......................................................................................................................................12
1.8.1 VHF Transmitter ...........................................................................................................................12
1.8.2 GSM Transmitter...........................................................................................................................12
1.8.3 IRIDIUM.......................................................................................................................................14
1.8.4 INMARSAT D+ Satellite Transceiver..........................................................................................14
1.8.5 Orbcomm Satellite Transceiver.....................................................................................................16
1.8.6 ARGOS Satellite Transmitter........................................................................................................17
Obstruction Light........................................................................................................................................17
Infrared Port and Communications Set-up .................................................................................................17
Magnetic On/Off Switch.............................................................................................................................17
1.11.3 Magnetic Key..............................................................................................................................18
Cover and Shipping Palette ........................................................................................................................18
TRIAXYS™ Digital Receiver - (TDR)......................................................................................................18
2. T RIAXYS ™ P ROGRAMMING , O PERATION AND T EST M ENUS ......................................................................20
1. Communications Setup......................................................................................................................20
2.1.1 Starting Hyperterminal..................................................................................................................21
Main Menu .................................................................................................................................................24
Run-Time Parameters Menu.......................................................................................................................25
2.3.1 Station ID ......................................................................................................................................25
2.3.2 Acquisition Interval (AC INT)......................................................................................................25
2.3.3 Acquisition Duration (AC DUR) ..................................................................................................25
2.3.4 Start Time Offset...........................................................................................................................26
2.3.5 WatchCircle/Beacon Options........................................................................................................26
Telemetry Options......................................................................................................................................28
2.4.1 Primary Telemetry Options...........................................................................................................28
2.4.2 Secondary Telemetry Options.......................................................................................................34
Real Time Clock.........................................................................................................................................39
2.5.1 Set the Date and Time...................................................................................................................39
2.5.2 Display the Current Time..............................................................................................................39
2.5.3 Sync Clock With GPS...................................................................................................................39
Data Logging and Upload...........................................................................................................................39
2.6.1 Logging of Processed Data............................................................................................................40
2.6.2 Upload Data Files..........................................................................................................................40
2.6.3 Erasing Logged Data without Opening the Buoy..........................................................................41
Calibration Mode - Service Technicians Only ...........................................................................................42
2.7.1 Compass Calibration .....................................................................................................................42

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System Diagnostics Menu ..........................................................................................................................42
2.8.1 Sensor Display at 4Hz...................................................................................................................43
2.8.2 System Display at 1Hz..................................................................................................................43
2.8.3 Voltage and Current Display.........................................................................................................43
2.8.4 Wave Processing Diagnostics........................................................................................................44
2.8.5 System Tests..................................................................................................................................46
2.8.6 Reset Boot Times ..........................................................................................................................47
3. M OORINGS ...................................................................................................................................................55
1. Deployment Procedures.....................................................................................................................58
Recovery Procedures..................................................................................................................................58
General Deployment/Recovery Notes........................................................................................................58
4. S OFTWARE AND D ATA F ORMATS ................................................................................................................59
1. Software.............................................................................................................................................59
4.1.1 Cyclic Merging..............................................................................................................................59
4.1.2 Data Sampling and Re-sampling...................................................................................................59
4.1.3 Motion Analysis............................................................................................................................60
4.1.4 Frequency Bands...........................................................................................................................60
4.1.5 Low Frequency Energy.................................................................................................................60
4.1.6 Directional Wave Analysis............................................................................................................61
TRIAXYS™ Data Formats ........................................................................................................................61
4.2.1 File YYYYMMDD.RX.................................................................................................................62
4.2.2 File YYYYMMDD.WAVE ..........................................................................................................62
4.2.3 File YYYYMMDD.STAT ............................................................................................................62
4.2.4 File YYYYMMDD.FOURIER .....................................................................................................63
4.2.5 File YYYYMMDD.NONDIRSPEC .............................................................................................63
4.2.6 File YYYYMMDD. DIRSPEC.....................................................................................................64
4.2.7 YYYYMMDD.HNE .....................................................................................................................65
Logged Data Format...................................................................................................................................66
4.3.1 Processed Wave Data....................................................................................................................66
4.3.2 4Hz Wave Data .............................................................................................................................66
Orbcomm Transmitted Data Format (Optional).........................................................................................67
INMARSAT D+ (Optional)........................................................................................................................67
Iridium and GSM (Optional)......................................................................................................................67
ARGOS Transmission (Optional)...............................................................................................................67
4.7.1 Description of ARGOS Parameters...............................................................................................68
4.7.2 Powering ARGOS ON and OFF ...................................................................................................70
5. B ASE S TATION S YSTEM C ONFIGURATION ...................................................................................................72
1. TRIAXYS™ Digital Receiver (TDR) ...............................................................................................72
VHF Radio Receiver...................................................................................................................................73
5.2.2 Modem ..........................................................................................................................................74
5.2.3 Antennae........................................................................................................................................74
5.2.4 Operation of the TDR....................................................................................................................75
GSM Base Station Hardware......................................................................................................................75
Internet Reception of Buoy Data................................................................................................................76
6. T RIAXYS ™ A PPLICATION S OFTWARE .........................................................................................................77
7. A SSEMBLY /D ISASSEMBLY P ROCEDURES ....................................................................................................78
1. Purge Port...........................................................................................................................................78
Dome ..........................................................................................................................................................78
7.2.1 Dome Removal..............................................................................................................................78
7.2.2 Dome Installation..........................................................................................................................79
7.2.3 Damaged Dome Studs...................................................................................................................79

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7.2.4 Solar Panel Assembly....................................................................................................................79
TRIAXYS™ Sensor and Telemetry Module..............................................................................................80
7.3.1 Retrieving Data from the Sensor and Telemetry Module..............................................................80
7.3.2 Replacing the TRIAXYS™ Sensor and Telemetry Module.........................................................81
Batteries......................................................................................................................................................81
7.4.1 Removal of Batteries.....................................................................................................................82
7.4.2 Replacement of Batteries...............................................................................................................82
8. C ARE AND M AINTENANCE ..........................................................................................................................83
1. Dome..................................................................................................................................................83
Flange Gasket.............................................................................................................................................83
Shipping/storage Cover ..............................................................................................................................83
Paint Specification......................................................................................................................................83
Hull Vacuum Test Procedure......................................................................................................................83
9. S ET - UP AND C HECK - OUT P ROCEDURES ......................................................................................................84
1. Inside the Buoy..................................................................................................................................84
Sensor and Telemetry Module....................................................................................................................84
Solar Panel Assembly.................................................................................................................................84
Dome Installation........................................................................................................................................84
Once the Buoy is Assembled and Powered................................................................................................84
Moorings.....................................................................................................................................................86
9.6.1 Deployment Procedures ................................................................................................................86
9.6.2 Recovery Procedures.....................................................................................................................87
9.6.3 General Deployment/Recovery Notes...........................................................................................87
10. G LOSSARY .................................................................................................................................................88
11. R EFERENCES ..............................................................................................................................................91
APPENDIX A - AXYS WARRANTY AND SERVICE LIMITED WARRANTY......................................92
APPENDIX B - OBSTRUCTION LIGHT FLASH SEQUENCES & CODES .............................................94
APPENDIX C: SAMPLE TRIAXYS BUOY FIELD CHECKOUT/DEPLOYMENT RECORD.................95
APPENDIX E - TRIAXYS™ FAQ................................................................................................................96

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1. 1. INTRODUCTION
The TRIAXYS™ Directional Wave Buoy can be used to measure non-breaking waves in any of the World's
Oceans where a surface following buoy can be deployed. The TRIAXYS™ Directional Wave Buoy is a
precision instrument designed and manufactured by AXYS Technologies Inc, which incorporates new
technologies that make it an easy to use, rugged and economical buoy for accurate measurement of
directional waves. The TRIAXYS™ sensor unit is comprised of three (3) accelerometers, three (3) rate
gyros, and a fluxgate compass interfaced to the proprietary TRIAXYS™ Processor. The TRIAXYS™
Processor was developed from the successful low-power Watchman™ payload specifically designed by
AXYS Technologies Inc. for the marine environment.
TRIAXYS™ directional wave processing software uses an iterative algorithm based on the Fast Fourier
Transform (FFT) analysis to solve the full non-linear equations of buoy motion in six degrees of freedom.
The six degrees of freedom are defined by the measured accelerometer (3) and rotational rate gyro (3)
signals. Roll, pitch and yaw angles are measured as well as accelerations, displacements and velocities from
which heave, surge and sway are determined. The use of surge and sway velocities instead of roll and pitch
angles provides a more accurate measure of wave kinematics that defines the direction of wave propagation.
The TRIAXYS™ Directional Wave Buoy holds a Canadian design patent (#91015) and also holds design
patents in the United Kingdom (patent #2090912) and United States of America (U.S. Design Patent #D440,
171).
The TRIAXYS™ Directional Wave Buoy can be used as a self-contained data logging system or can be
integrated with a variety of telemetry mechanisms. Figure 1.1 shows the types of telemetry available, as well
as options for distribution of data once on shore. The buoy is capable of monitoring its moored location
through the use of an onboard GPS receiver coupled to a buoy mooring WatchCircle algorithm. This enables
secondary transmitters to be activated or initiate a warning on the base station data display.
Photo Courtesy of AMEC Ltd. Photo courtesy of Telecom Italia.
Figure 1: TRIAXYS buoys in operation
1.1. Features and Specifications
The TRIAXYS™ Buoy has many unique features that enhance operational functionality including being
Solar Powered, designed with integral impact resistance and having a non-snagging sleek profile to allow
easy deployment and servicing. The standard TRIAXYS™ Directional Wave Buoy is comprised of the
following: