WireWalker Wave Powered Profiling Platform

The WireWalker is an inexpensive wave-powered vertical profiler. It consists of a wire and float system with a vertically traveling instrument platform. Wave action moves the wire, allowing the platform to ratchet down and float up. The platform profiles quickly enough to observe diel and higher frequencies, up to and including internal wave observation. The system is designed for flexibility of use. Deployments can be made for either drifting or moored applications and it is small enough to be handled without heavy equipment or large vessels. The platform is generalized to carry a variety of instruments. The WireWalker has been deployed in both coastal and open ocean environments in various environmental situations and proven robust. Successful deployments were made both tethered and free floating in the open ocean. Deployment vessels have included the R/P FLIP and the NOAA ship Ka' Imimoana. Current projects with the system aim at expanding its range in distance and time. Communications systems and on-board power generation are also under development.