Acoustic and Thermographic Offshore Monitoring (ATOM) provides around-the-clock, all-weather monitoring of the rotor swept zone (RSZ) using a multi-sensor array to detect, track, identify, and behaviorally classify bats and birds interacting with the turbine. ATOM’s ability to detect and document insects adds a layer of biologically relevant data that provides new knowledge and further understanding of drivers of bat and bird activity at onshore or offshore wind facilities. Advanced AI tools provide preliminary data analysis (target acquisition, tracking, and initial classification). Normandeau’s wildlife experts perform high-resolution analysis (e.g., species ID, behavioral classification, blade interaction context, etc.) included in detailed project reports.
ATOM is commercially deployed off shore and has weathered a hurricane unscathed, proving its robustness. Its design and performance have been validated in peer-reviewed studies as have the results of its deployment. ATOM provides the developer with an accurate tool to monitor turbine-wildlife interactions to meet regulatory requirements and provides the regulator with high-quality biological information—thus helping both achieve profitable wind energy production while reducing environmental impact.
The offshore environment presents logistical and environmental challenges to studying wildlife. Remote sensing technology like ATOM permits 24/7 data collection of bird and bat activity off shore, overcoming the many challenges with collecting data in this harsh environment.
ATOM is an array of sensors operating together to capture bird and bat activity in the nearby airspace. Sensors include thermal cameras, visible-light cameras, bird and bat acoustics, and a VHF Motus receiver with antennas. These sensors collect a diverse range of activity data using different approaches to maximize the likelihood of detecting flying targets above the system.
With little data on bird and bat activity off shore, it is critical to understand how behavior around turbines can affect collision risks. ATOM can characterize the bird and bat behavior in the turbine airspace to understand and detect collisions throughout the year.
ATOM can be customized with a wide range of sensors depending on the platform and the goals of the study. In addition to wind turbine platforms, ATOM can be installed on buoys, light towers, oil/gas rigs, and in terrestrial locations. Let us know your needs and we will work with you on a custom solution to meet the goals of your project.
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There are two published studies detailing results about two of the ATOM systems and configurations that have been used: one on a light tower, and the other included two systems installed on offshore turbine platforms.
Client: Dominion Energy Project Highlights: Deployed Acoustic and Thermographic Offshore Monitoring (ATOM) on the...
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