K.U.M.’s answer to this challenge was a new OBS that is called ISOPOD.

ISOPOD is designed to deliver the best results by autonomously recording seismic data for over three months in water depths of up to 6000m. It is equipped with three 4.5Hz geophones, a hydrophone, an ultra-low-power four-channel datalogger 6D6 and an acoustic releaser, which is integrated into the main pressure tube to save weight, cost and set-up time.

ISOPOD is also equipped with the external memory StiK which can be exchanged in seconds and redeployed without opening the pressure case. And, with a total weight of only 95kg, ISOPODs can easily be stacked for transportation with up to ten units fitting on a standard pallet. Without any compromise on quality or reliability, ISOPOD is as small and lightweight as a short-term OBS possibly can be.

ACOUSTIC RELEASER

Proven technology in a new guise. The motor-driven releaser is integrated into one larger housing together with the geophones, batteries and data logger.

ACQUISITION SYSTEM

Adapted for 4.5Hz geophones, the data logger demonstrates extraordinary performance both in data quality and power consumption. It makes ISOPOD the perfect tool for active seismic operations with up to three months of continuous data acquisition.

DESIGN

Trimmed back to the essentials, both the frame and the buoyancy equipment are designed for efficient manufacturing and ease of use. Assembly can be completed within minutes by one person and 12 assembled ISOPODs can be stacked on a standard palette for transportation.

MECHANICAL DATA

• Size: 1200 x 400 x 365 mm
• Weight: 95 kg fully equipped
• Frame: Titanium (TiAl6V4)
• Pressure tube: Titanium (TiAl6V4)
• Buoyancy: Syntactic foam

ELECTRONICS DATA

• Data logger: Ultra-Low-Power “6D6”, 125 milliWatt @ continuous recording, 4 channels @ 32 bits, up to 4000 sps 
• Geophones: 4.5Hz resonance frequency, XYZorientation Hydrophone: HTI-04, optional DPG, optional APG
• Release: Mechanical-acoustic, optional additional time release
• Location: 2m high visibility flag, flash unit, radio beacon, Iridium Satellite Positioning package (optional), AIS Marine Traffic package (optional)