Maximizing travel speed between CTD profiling stations is the most time-efficient approach, but it results in large swaths of the ocean remaining unmeasured, requiring data interpolation to estimate conditions between sampling points. To address this limitation, RBR has developed the RBRglissando, an automated profiling system designed to collect high-resolution oceanographic data while underway.
The RBRglissando enables rapid profiling, with deployment rates of up to 10 m/s and a retrieval rate of 5 m/s, allowing vessels to maintain cruising speed while collecting underway data. However, high-speed, continuous, and automated operation presents several engineering challenges. This presentation examines the advantages and limitations of various cable and winch systems, hurdles faced, and outlines the solutions implemented by RBR.
A key innovation employed is the integration of Wi-Fi communication between the CTD and winch, allowing the use of 3mm Dyneema® line, which minimizes drag while maintaining high tensile strength. Additionally, the system is fully automated through RBR’s Ruskin software, enabling hands-free operation, automated free-fall profiling, and seamless data transfer between profiles.
The presentation concludes with insights gained from system design, build, and implementation, and discusses potential advancements to enhance the RBRglissando role in future research applications.