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ABOUT IXBLUE9 iXblue at a glance 10 Vision 12 Activities 16 Worldwide Footprint
OUR TECHNOLOGIES IN NAVAL20 Fiber-Optic Gyroscope Technology 22 Underwater Acoustic Technology 24 Mechatronics
APPLICATIONS 29 Naval Navigation 55 Unmanned Vehicle Navigation 69 Platform Stabilization
SERVICE & SUPPORT80 Integrated Navigation Services 81 In Service Support & Training
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ABOUT IXBLUE
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iXblue stands as a global leader in the design and manufacturing of innovative solutions for navigation, positioning and acoustic imaging markets.
The French Group offers its unique advanced technology solutions to its defense & civil customers to address increased challenges and carry out their maritime, land and space operations with optimum efficiency and safety.
iXblue is recognized throughout the industry for its pioneering work on the development of fiber-optic gyroscope (FOG) technology which has revolutionized the maritime and naval inertial systems in the last decade, providing unequalled performance and cost of ownership benefits.
Underpinned by 30 years of expertise, iXblue is currently achieving annual growth of 15–20%, with 80% of its business conducted in over 35 countries worldwide. The Group can count on full value-chain expertise: all of its systems are developed internally, from design to manufacturing.
iXblue at a glance
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
600+ EMPLOYEES
Worldwide presence 8 sites in France, 10 abroad
100+ MILLION EUROSOF TURNOVER
80% OF TURNOVER ACHIEVED ABROAD
Serving more than 1,000 defense and civil customers in more than 35 countries
Global training and 24/7 support
20% OF TURNOVER REINVESTED EACH YEAR IN R&D
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Combining mastery of technology and agility to solve our customers’ issuesAt iXblue, we are technology experts: we strongly believe that mastering technology is key to finding the answers to unsolved issues. We are determined not to leave our customers with recurring issues: it is our responsibility to provide them with clear solutions. To that end, we are capable of pushing technology beyond the existing limits. Mastering technology also means being agile: in a complex and changing environment, iXblue is convinced that agility allows us to find the solutions that best fit our customers’ needs.
Making technology accessible and adapting it to individual customer needsiXblue’s responsibility is not only to push technology forward but also to make it accessible to our customers, which means adapting it to their very specific needs. Today, mastering technology alone is not enough: you have to put yourself in your customer’s shoes. So to offer the best solutions, we adapt our technology to the challenges of every market. That is why our solutions are:• Tailored to customers’
specific needs• Easy to integrate and deploy• Easy to use• Reliable• Cost-effective
Trusting iXblue experts to implement tomorrow’s solutions iXblue has always been an avant-garde high-technology company: it is in our DNA. By working with our experts, you choose to rely on our unique expertise and be visionary. You implement today’s innovative solutions which will become tomorrow’s standards. You embrace technology breakthrough. The trust you place in iXblue allows us to always go further and push technology beyond its limits.
Vision
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The unique technologies developed
by iXblue have found a variety of
fields of application, continuously
opening up new opportunities
for innovation. iXblue primarily
develops systems for particularly
demanding and technically
complex applications in extreme
environments. iXblue technology
is at work everywhere from the
ocean depths – 11,000 meters under
the sea – to outer space – some
1.5 million kilometers above
the Earth.
Energy and offshore constructioniXblue is “the” leading supplier of navigation and positioning systems for surface vessels and unmanned underwater vehicles, purpose-built for contractors serving the major oil and oilfield services companies (for installation and maintenance of subsea oil infrastructures).iXblue also works with contractors operating on behalf of the major players in offshore renewable energy, to conduct surveys and seabed mapping prior to the installation of infrastructures. Today, iXblue operates on all French offshore wind farms.
iXblue supplies the navigation and positioning systems for vessels belonging to the three largest port and marine engineering and construction companies in France (construction, port maintenance and dredging).
Multiple fields of application
Activities
Naval and land defenseNavies operating surface ships, manned submarines and unmanned underwater vehicle, look to iXblue for their navigation and positioning systems.Today, iXblue is the European leader in naval navigation systems, also supplying over 35 navies worldwide.The group provides the French Land Army with navigation and platform stabilization equipment for armored vehicles and fire control systems.
GeosciencesiXblue supplies work vessels, as well as navigation, positioning and underwater imaging equipment, designed for hydrographic and oceanographic institutes conducting seabed surveying and mapping. Similarly, the group equips operators responsible for land mapping.The iXblue shipyard builds multi-mission, ocean-going vessels for complex applications to serve the needs of public and private organizations alike.
AerospaceBecause the intelligent use of oceans involves space operations, iXblue also develops equipment designed for the space environment. For over fifteen years,
the group has been working closely with Airbus Defence and Space on the development of onboard gyroscopes for satellites, in order to provide very reliable data on the rotational movements of satellites.
FishingiXblue provides fishing operators with sonar for mapping and characterizing fish shoals.
Research laboratories iXblue supplies positioning systems, optical components and motion simulators for many research institutes and laboratories worldwide.Moreover, the group works closely with prestigious institutes and laboratories in
the context of leading edge scientific developments.Examples in France include: IFREMER (the French Research Institute for Exploitation of the Sea), CIMAP Caen (Center for Research on Ions, Materials and Photonics).
Commercial shippingWith its wealth of experience in the naval sector, iXblue is working on the design to cost of a fiber-optic gyroscope for the sea transport market.This system will provide greater agility and higher performance than the mechanical gyroscopes currently used, the aim being to reduce costs for industry players and increase operational efficiency.
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Inertial solutionsWith iXblue’s inertial navigation solutions, a system can be positioned and oriented without any outside connection, whatever its location: under the sea, on land or in space. Unlike GPS-based systems, these inertial technologies can be deployed in environments where electromagnetic waves cannot pass. This unique advantage is made possible by the use of sensors (fiber-optic gyros and accelerometers), designed and manufactured entirely by iXblue, capable of autonomously determining the intrinsic movements of the system.
Underwater acoustic solutions The underwater acoustic solutions designed and manufactured by iXblue are based on the use of acoustic transducers, sensors capable of emitting and receiving
sounds underwater with great precision over very great distances (of up to several hundreds of kilometers in the case of low-frequency acoustic waves). Thanks to digital processing of these acoustic waves, it is possible to position objects and vehicles below the sea with great accuracy, and to allow them to communicate with each other and with surface equipment.iXblue’s acoustic solutions also enable precise imaging of objects and living organisms located on the seabed (wrecks, fish, seabed and sub bottom).
Photonics At the core of the most accurate sensors, such as fiber-optic gyros, there are devices capable of manipulating photons (light) and using
them as “perfect” sensing elements. Special iXblue optical fibers can guide the light, selecting specific wavelengths and maintaining its polarization (the direction of the light field).iXblue optical modulators are able to modify the properties of the light passing through them, inducing local slowing or acceleration. By combining these technologies, iXblue creates gyroscopic sensors, lasers and devices for very high speed space communications.
Mechatronics The Mechatronics division is the French specialist of motion simulation and positioning systems. With its recognized expertise in the fields of mechanics, electronics, automation, metrology and software, built up over some 30 years, the division offers:• Precision rate tables (1-axis,
2-axis or 3-axis) to test and calibrate equipment comprising inertial components;
• Positioners, mainly for onboard optronics and satellite communications on a range of land and air carrier systems.
To obtain the best performance, iXblue has developed its own technology solutions for drives and controllers.
ShipyardSpecializing in the use of composite materials, the division develops and builds efficient, economical and ecofriendly workboats and vessels. It is one of the few shipyards in the world to master the infusion of large dimension composite parts. Using composite materials can halve the mass of ships, avoiding over-motorization and oversized equipment.The corrosion-free ship structure also helps significantly reduce maintenance costs.
Hydrographic and oceanographic studiesSpecialized in oceanographic,
biological and geophysical measurement, the division counts its own marine biologists, as well as hydrography, oceanography and geophysics experts, and is capable of operating on any sea or ocean in the world. As a ship-owner, it has its own fleet and employs professional seamen, many of whom are divers. The division is highly specialized in the study of offshore renewable energy sites.
Six core areas of expertise
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International sales and support
iXblue BrazilAv. Presidente Wilson, 231/91220030-905,Centro, Rio de JaneiroBrazilPhone: +55 21 3578.5526
iXblue Inc11 Erie drive01760, NatickUnited StatesPhone: +1 888 600 7573
iXblue Inc1792 W Sam Parkway N77043, HoustonUnited StatesPhone: +1 781 937 8800
iXblue SAS34 rue de la Croix de Fer78100, Saint-Germain en LayeFrancePhone: +33 1 30 08 88 88
iXblue GmbHObenhauptstraße 722335, HamburgGermanyPhone: +49 40 22 63 47 132
iXblue bvA. Hofmanweg 5a2031BH, HaarlemNetherlandsPhone: +31 23 750 5113
iXblue JLTTiffany TowerJumeirah Lakes TowerPO Box 127531, DubaiUnited Arab EmiratesPhone: +971 50 6648390
iXblue LtdUnit G5, The Entreprise CentreAB23 8GX, AberdeenUnited KingdomPhone: +44 1224 355 160
iXblue China43 Bei San Huan Xi Lu100 086, BeijingChinaPhone: +86 10 6211 4716
iXblue Pte Ltd15A Changi Business Park Central 1 #04-02 Eightrium486035, SingaporeSingaporePhone: +65 6747 4912
Worldwide Footprint
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OUR TECHNOLOGIES IN NAVAL
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Fiber-Optic Gyroscope Technology• Unrivaled performance
• Genuine strapdown solid-
state system
• System with very high MTBF
(> 100,000 hours)
• No maintenance
• All strategic components developed
and manufactured in-house
At the heart of iXblue inertial systems lies three Fiber-Optic Gyroscopes (FOGs). These extremely high performance rotation sensing devices make use of the relativistic Sagnac effect. Two identical laser beams propagate in opposite directions throughout a fiber optic coil. The resulting phase difference between both beams is then accurately measured by interferometry to determine the actual angular velocity of the coil. This design takes full advantage of the reciprocity principle in the propagation of light, which enables a perfect device to be created even from imperfect components.
A FOG is therefore a genuine strapdown solid-state gyroscope exempted from
1 NM / 72 hiXblue MARINS M7 sets
the standard for very high
performance MILSPEC
strategic-grade INS with an
unaided position accuracy of
1 NM in 72 h.
18,000+ FOG delivered By 2016, iXblue has delivered
more than 50,000
high-performance FOGs
all over the world.
all physical drawbacks that may affect other existing technologies (vibration, mechanical dither, sealed cavity and mirrors wearing away over time, etc.). This results in unrivaled longevity and reliability as well as very low power consumption and silent operation. FOG is therefore a unique technology currently reported as likely to remain unchallenged in the field of high-performance navigation in the naval environment.
iXblue’s specific FOGs benefit from over 30 years of internal research and development. They address the most demanding navigation applications and performance requirements from 0.1°/h to 0.0003°/h. iXblue develops,
manufactures and integrates all critical components in-house (optical fibers, coil windings, modulators and sources), which positions iXblue as a leader in FOG technology. Through advanced modeling of environmental sensitivities, specific designs and in-house testing and calibration, the performance of iXblue FOGs is made insensitive to temperature changes and magnetic disturbances, and resistant to extreme shocks and vibrations, in order to meet the most demanding standards.
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Underwater Acoustic Technology• Complete mastery of the sonar chain
• Solid-state full depth LF transducer
technology
• 3D motion-stabilized FLS
• Acoustic and navigation coupling
• All strategic components developed
and manufactured in-house
Efficient underwater acoustic technology requires perfect mastery of the entire sonar chain from transducers to signal processing through power electronics and including the acquisition process.
iXblue has been developing and perfecting the entire sonar chain for over 30 years and provides the full spectrum of underwater acoustic solutions, from acoustic positioning to imaging and bathymetry.
The wide frequency range offered, from a few hundred Hz to several hundred kHz, allows all naval needs to be addressed:• Active detection sonar
systems• Acoustic communications
for short to very long ranges
(beyond 1000 km)• Medium and long-range
acoustic positioning systems• High-resolution acoustic
imaging and mapping
Its perfect mastery of the sonar chain associated with expertise in navigation allows iXblue to offer unique solutions:• Advanced hybrid navigation• Acoustic tracking• Geolocalized acoustic
imaging
100 bits/s@1000kmWorld record (range x baud rate)
for very long range underwater
communication during the Japan
Sea experiment with JAMSTEC
institute.
10 cm-precision recalibration 10 cm-precision recalibration of
autonomous underwater navigation
thanks to iXblue’s Ramses synthetic
baseline positioning systems.
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Mechatronics• High-accuracy
• Designed for extreme environments
(MIL-STD qualified)
• Tailored solutions
• High reliability
iXblue has been developing accurate rotary systems for more than 30 years. Our know-how in the field of fine mechanics, electronics, automation, software and metrology allows the company to propose unique high-performance solutions.
In order to provide its customers with reliable solutions, from the outset iXblue opted to integrate electrical motion solutions only (as opposed to hydraulic solutions) by leveraging advances in this technology.
To emerge as an outstanding designer of motion systems, iXblue has developed a number of technology modules:• Our own controller
(ADVANCE) and variator (ISDES) which support
the use of a wide range of motors to achieve accurate levels of speed stability without imposing particular export regulations.
• Our own algorithms which are optimized to obtain efficient closed-loop stabilization.
• Our dedicated mechanical architectures to support the emergence of new technological solutions such as top flat SATCOM.
Thanks to a modular approach and the development of our own Axis Controller Engine and MMI Proaxe, iXblue proposes cost effective products with high levels of performance (position accuracy and rates up to 1 arcsec and 5000°/s respectively).
30 years’ expertise in motion solutionsFor defense and security, we
propose positioners and a pan &
tilt system for various applications
including optronic surveillance
and firing systems, SATCOM
systems and weapon systems.
Our products are fully compatible
with the most stringent
conditions (shocks, vibrations,
climate, salt and fog, dust, sand,
rain, etc.) so they are suitable for
operation all around the world.
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APPLICATIONS
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Navigation Information is critical for the conning of any naval ship. It is also a significant contributor to the effective performance of the increasingly sophisticated sensors and effectors on board surface combatants and submarines. Efficient, accurate and reliable navigation, in all environmental and operational conditions, is a key requirement for all modern naval platforms to successfully achieve superiority in operations.
Attitude and Heading Reference Systems (AHRS) and Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) deliver attitude and navigational data without the need for external references, thus greatly enhancing the platform resilience capabilities notably in GNSS-denied or underwater environments. AHRS/INS scope of requirements may vary from IMO-Compliant AHRS for non-combatant ships to MIL-SPEC strategic-grade INS reaching the highest possible inertial performances as a key enabler of naval superiority for major surface combatants and submarines.
Naval Data Distribution and Processing Units (DDU) are the brains and backbones of any integrated navigation systems architecture. They acquire, control, correlate and process any navigation sensor data and distribute the consolidated navigation information on board. Operational requirements applied to DDU translate mainly into data validation, data safety, data integrity, real-time capability and system/data reliability (including built-in redundancy management and hot swapping).
chal
leng
es• Superior
performance
• Availability
• Low cost of ownership
• Scalability and interchangeability
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(Warship) Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems, (W)ECDIS, play a crucial interface role by displaying the navigational and environmental information to the operators in an interactive manner. Requirements may extend from basic IMO-compliant ECDIS to full WECDIS suites and even beyond through additional C2 capabilities and functionalities for lightly armed vessels.
Mine and Obstacle Avoidance Sonars (MOAS): Safe navigation relies first on a clear picture of the surrounding environment. Early warning on navigation obstacles, including mines, is part of this. Detection and discrimination capabilities are therefore key performance `criteria for the MOAS. In addition, forward sea bottom depth measurement and 3D mapping capabilities may provide substantial advantages for rapid environmental assessment and safe navigation.
In parallel to these operational requirements, navigation system definitions are also governed by the recurring demand on the part of navies to minimize the overall costs of ownership, at system and fleet level, throughout the lifespans of the platforms. Very high MTBF and service life, scalability, interchangeability and lifecycle cost reductions through commonalities, low-maintenance and obsolescence management are the key criteria applicable to all systems desired by modern navies.
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Up-to-date technology: iXblue systems leverage the most advanced and proven technologies in across all applications for efficiency and consistency. Critical system components are all designed, developed and manufactured in-house as a result of intensive internal investment in R&D. They are individually implemented once their technological maturity is fully demonstrated for naval usage through intensive testing and trials. Leading-edge hardware and software COTS, ruggedized for naval application as necessary, are used in addition whenever possible and appropriate, to minimize costs.
Performance: iXblue systems performance is the result of years of high level R&D investment. Our aim is to design systems that meet not only the key performance requirement, but the whole set of critical and desirable requirements that make the systems perfectly suited to the most demanding naval usage. We refuse to make technological compromises and strongly believe that the most capable systems are the result of innovation and a commitment to excellence.
High Reliability and Availability is iXblue’s trade mark. The unrivalled MTBF of iXblue’s FOG technology, far over 1,000,000 working hours, has set the pace for all other system developments. Reliability, together with the lowest level of preventive maintenance, are
iXblue has conceived wide ranges
of systems designed to address the
full spectrum of naval applications,
from small coastal vessels to aircraft
carriers and SSBNs. iXblue solutions
are developed under key principles
of value to all customers.
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key principles that govern iXblue technical choices in systems design. In addition, iXblue offers a 24/7 technical support service worldwide to guarantee the highest level of system service for its customers.
Commonality, Scalability, Versatility: iXblue offers scalable solutions for each type of platform to meet the most specific operational requirements. Within each family range (INS/AHRS, DDU, (W)ECDIS), iXblue systems share strong commonalities with regards to hardware, software, and interfaces. This results in significant savings at fleet level in terms of integration, installation, configuration management, logistics, training and maintenance costs. Furthermore, the implementation of open architectures, large protocol libraries and modular software make iXblue systems very versatile for interfacing to all types of external systems.
Ease of use: At iXblue, we know that the man-machine interface is a predominant factor in ensuring best use and the resulting performance of any system. We design the most intuitive and clear interfaces to facilitate system installation, integration and operation. This practice ultimately allows the operator to make the most of the system’s capabilities. User-friendly display layouts are standardized on all products.so
luti
ons
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INERTIAL NAVIGATION SYSTEMS
Systems based on an unrivaled technology
A FOG is a genuine strapdown solid-state gyroscope
exempt from all the physical drawbacks that may
affect other existing technologies. This results in
unrivaled longevity and reliability as well as very low
power consumption and silent operation.
Based on FOG technology mastered by iXblue for over 30 years, iXblue
offers a complete range of high-grade, attitude and heading reference
systems (AHRS) and inertial navigation systems (INS).
“Areas where FOGs are likely
to remain unchallenged
are precision pointing
and tracking, and
precision navigation (e.g.
for submarines).”
2010, Inertial
Navigation Sensors,
N.M. Barbour
(Charles Stark
Draper Laboratory,
Cambridge
MA), NATO R&T
Organization,
Approved for public
release, distribution
unlimited
iXblue Fiber-Optic Gyroscope technology meets the challenge of high latitude navigation
At northerly latitudes, more than
stability, the problem is to determine
the correct heading without
bias. Thanks to its high precision,
iXblue’s INS consistently delivered
performance levels similar to those
at lower latitudes.
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ett
y Im
age
s/iS
tock
ph
oto
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The new standard in naval navigation
iXblue systems are on board more than 35 navies
in the world. They were recently selected, through
new contracts, by the Royal Navy, the German Navy
and the US Navy.
“We conducted a detailed
assessment of all available
possible partners along
with their proposed
technologies. By precisely
understanding Royal
Navy expectations and
considering their views
on the industry leading
suppliers, it clearly
appeared that iXblue’s
solutions best fitted
the needs in terms of
performance, capability
and cost.”
2016, Robert Kramer,
Vice-President of
Lockheed Martin UK.
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Phins COMPACT HIGH GRADE INS FOR NAVIGATION & COMBAT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Benefits• Most compact COTS high grade INS• Robust to GPS dropouts• Full system IMO/IMO HSC certified
Performance in operational conditions• Heading accuracy(1): 0.01 deg secant latitude• Roll/pitch accuracy(1): 0.01 deg• Position accuracy no aiding without GNSS(2): 0.6 NM/h
Marins Series MILITARY STRATEGIC GRADE INS
Benefits• Unrivaled performance• Genuine strapdown solid-state silent system• Easy to use and friendly interface• Full system IMO/IMO HSC certified• MIL STD qualified: 810/461
Performance in operational conditions• Heading accuracy(1): 0.01 deg secant latitude• Roll/pitch accuracy(1): 0.01 deg• Position accuracy no aiding without GNSS(2):
from 1 NM/12h to 1 NM/72h
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Quadrans COMPACT IMO AHRS
Benefits
• Smallest FOG based gyrocompass
• Plug & Play
• 5-year warranty
• Full system IMO/IMO HSC certified
Performance in operational conditions
• Heading accuracy(1): 0.23 deg secant latitude
• Roll/pitch accuracy(1): 0.1 deg
• Setting time: < 30 mn (all conditions)
(1) RMS values (2) TRMS
Octans HIGH GRADE AHRS FOR NAVIGATION & PLATFORM STABILIZATION
Benefits
• World leading COTS high grade AHRS
• High heave accuracy
• 5-year warranty
• Full system IMO/IMO HSC certified
Performance in operational conditions
• Heading accuracy(1): 0.1 deg secant latitude
• Roll/pitch accuracy(1): 0.01 deg
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Scalable solutions for the full naval spectrum
• Full naval spectrum addressed
• Commonality in design, configuration,
installation and operation
• Full interchangeability between systems
Quadrans Octans Phins Marins M3 Marins M5 Marins M7
DESCRIPTION AHRS AHRS INS INS INS INS
PERFORMANCE
Heading accuracy (Seclat RMS) 0.23° 0.1° 0.01° 0.01° 0.01° 0.01°
Roll and pitch accuracy (RMS) 0.1° 0.01° 0.01° 0.01° 0.01° 0.01°
Position accuracy no aiding, without GNSS (TRMS) N/A N/A 0.5 NM/h 1 NM/12h 1 NM/24h 1 NM/72h
APPLICATION
Platform stabilization • •Inertial navigation • • • •Precision weapon alignment • • • •CERTIFICATION
IMO/IMO HSC • • • • • •MIL STD 810/MIL STD 461 • • • •
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Quadrans Octans Phins Marins M3 Marins M5 Marins M7
DESCRIPTION AHRS AHRS INS INS INS INS
TYPICAL SURFACE VESSELS
Interceptors, Patrol Ships, Auxiliary Vessels, Lightly Armed Vessels • •Maritime Police/Coast Guard Cutters • •Hydrographic Vessels • •Fast Attack Crafts, Corvettes, Frigates, Combatant Ships, MCMV • • • •Destroyers, Aircraft Carriers, LCS • • •SUBMARINES
SSN/SSK Backup • • •SSBN •
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p
y
DATA DISTRIBUTION & PROCESSINGSOLUTIONS
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Dataacquisition
Datasafety
Datadistribution
Dataprocessing
Datamonitoring
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The navigation solution
At the core of the navigation system, iXblue’s data
distribution and processing unit acquires, controls
and processes all navigation sensor data and
distributes the consolidated navigation information
to the external systems (CMS, IPMS, IBS, etc.).
Benefits
• High reliability (data redundancy and validation)
• Web-based and ergonomic interface
• Easy maintenance
CombatSystem
IntegratedBridgeSystem
PlatformManagement
System
NavigationSensors
InertialNavigation
System
Data Distribution & Processing
Unit
WECDIS
iXblue’s systems
Third party systems
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A set of I/O modules housed in 3U 19-in. racks
The I/O modules are connected to the external sensors, actuators and systems
via digital or analog interfaces. These modules automatically perform the
acquisition or generation of the signal. The solution is highly modular, as racks
can incorporate from 1 to 11 I/O cards and the racks can themselves be stacked
together. Maintenance is greatly simplified, as the I/O cards are hot swappable.
Netans N3 Netans N5 Netans N7
I /O modules 6 modules 11 modules 22 modules
Cabling Connectors Cable glands Cable glands
Front screen External Optional Yes
Time clock External Optional Optional
UPS External Yes Yes
Size 250x400x400 700x600x600 1400x600x600
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The plug and play solution for new-build and retrofit programs
Benefits
• COTS systems adapted to all vessel configurations
• Modular software
• Sea proven integration with all main weapons and
surveillance systems on board
Main references
• German Navy
• Royal Navy
• Malaysian Navy
• Dutch Navy
• Swedish Navy
• United Arab Emirates Navy
• French Navy
• Serial RS-422
• RS-422 HDLC
• Synchro 115V/400Hz
• NTDS-A
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(WARSHIP) ELECTRONIC CHART DISPLAY & INFORMATION SYSTEMiXblue’s Gecdis series ranges from IMO ECDIS to STANAG compliant
WECDIS navigation and surveillance systems. They can display and
process a broad range of critical information from electronic navigational
charts (ENC) and digital nautical charts (DNC) to real-time navigation and
situation surveillance sensor data.
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The Gecdis series product range benefits from iXblue’s nearly 30 years of experience in designing and maintaining navigation software and delivery of more than 10,000 products worldwide.
Benefits• IMO certified ECDIS since 2001• Service oriented architecture
(Modularity, Scalability and Maintainability)
• 100% proprietary design• User-friendly Man Machine Interface• Situational awareness
30 years of experience in navigation software
10,000+ systems deployed worldwide, both in the civil and defense industry
Gecdis-WGecdis-C Gecdis-W/SUB
Main references• French Navy• Singaporean Navy• Pakistan Navy• Malaysian Navy and Coast Guard• Moroccan Navy• Danish Coast Guard
Gecdis-ST
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MINE & OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE SONARSThe 3D multi-beam FLS product range has been developed for
multipurpose applications such as mine and obstacle avoidance,
real-time mapping and navigation, and rapid environment assessment.
Available in very compact packaging (FLS150) for portable and
lightweight integration, or in a long-range, deep-water configuration
(FLS60) for large ships or submarine integrations, FLS products are
fully mission configurable. They are able to be natively integrated in an
electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS) environment.
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FLSFORWARD LOOKING SONAR
Benefits• Real-time 3D detection and
geo-referencing• Embedded MEMs for automatic
stabilization• Forward bathymetry• Vertical and horizontal scanning • Easy integration with just an on-board
PC and a power supply
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UNMANNED UNDERWATER VEHICLE NAVIGATION
© ECA group: AUV A9
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chal
leng
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• Full range of performance according to AUV missions
• Enhanced self-sufficiency
• Compactness and lightness
• High reliability
Naval underwater operations are in a period of growing expansion and unmanned systems play major roles therein: mine counter-measures, anti-submarine-warfare, harbor security, surveillance, reconnaissance, intelligence, environmental assessment, survey, search for wreckage… Their scope of action extends nowadays
from very restricted shallow waters to long-range missions in open seas and from zero to abyssal depths. Such demanding missions are carried out in harsh and often hostile environments and require foolproof high-accuracy positioning/navigation capabilities to ensure mission success and system safe recovery.
© E
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solu
tion
siXblue has been providing inertial
navigation systems and acoustic
positioning systems for AUVs, ROVs
and SDVs for more than 15 years. This
almost unique experience allows
us to provide the widest range of
systems meeting the needs of subsea
vehicles with unrivalled performance
and a global solution approach.
UNMANNEDUNDERWATER VEHICLE NAVIGATION
Very strong track record: more than a thousand subsea vehicles operate everyday with iXblue navigation and acoustic positioning technologies inside. iXblue products have become the industry standard in their fields. They are recognized for their reliability, their capability to provide very high performance and their suitability for a very wide range of operations.
Range of systems: iXblue solutions encompass inertial navigation systems, ultra-short base line (USBL) acoustic positioning systems and synthetic long base line systems (LBL). The range of iXblue inertial navigation systems performance (size, weight, navigation accuracy) fits all kinds of vehicle from small ROV to very large, long range AUV. Our acoustic positioning systems are suitable for very shallow water up to very long range deep water applications.
Unique performance: our systems can be used in very challenging conditions due to their unique performance. Our USBL system Gaps can track multiple vehicles in very shallow water conditions at extreme range. For longer range, Posidonia provides world record capability with up to 10,000 meter tracking range. For autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV), thanks to the inherent low power and relatively small size of our inertial
technology, we can offer AUVs up to the same high-end autonomous navigation accuracy in use in manned submarines.
Full solutions and open systems: iXblue systems are equipped to take advantage of data fusion which makes it possible to get the best performance and features by combining several sensors together (inertial, acoustic positioning, depth sensor, doppler, EM log, etc.). They are inherently designed as solutions, very easily integrated with both iXblue sensors and third party sensors to ease implementation for our customers. Thanks to our dedicated algorithms, we provide unique capabilities such as synthetic long base line and the capability to postprocess all iXblue system data at the raw data level.
Ease of use, reliability and availability: even when they are based on different technologies or approaches, all our product range user interfaces are based on the same general principle and share a consistent look and feel. They are very easy to learn and operate while offering the user very precise control of all the needed settings. Our products are based on proven technologies such as the fiber-optic gyroscope, well known for their endurance and very high reliability.
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INERTIAL NAVIGATION SYSTEMSBased on FOG technology mastered by iXblue for over 30 years,
iXblue offers a complete range of high-grade inertial navigation
systems dedicated to unmanned underwater vehicles.
UNMANNED UNDERWATERVEHICLE NAVIGATION
Systems based on an unrivaled technology
A FOG is a genuine strapdown solid-state
gyroscope exempt from all the physical drawbacks
that may affect other existing technologies. This
results in unrivaled longevity and reliability as
well as very low power consumption and silent
operation.
Benefits
• Most compact high grade INS
• Low power consumption for an increased
autonomy
• Software and algorithm dedicated for subsea
operations
• Genuine strapdown solid-state silent system
All iXblue’s systems are produced internally, from
design to manufacturing and tested with in-house
motion simulators
AccelerometersIntegrated optical circuit
Optical fiber
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Phins Compact C3 COMPACT HIGH GRADE INS FOR PORTABLE AND LOW-COST AUVs
Technical specifications
• Weight: 1.6 kg
• Volume: 0.4 L
• Position accuracy: 0.3% DT(1)
• Diameter: 115 mm
Main applications
• MCM
• Harbor security
• Reconnaissance missions
(1) Distance travelled (DVL bottom tracking)
Phins Compact C7 COMPACT ULTIMATE GRADE INS FOR LONG DISTANCE AND LONG DURATION AUV MISSIONS
Technical specifications
• Weight: 3.5 kg
• Volume: 4.6 L
• Position accuracy: 0.1% DT(1)
• Diameter: 200 mm
Main applications
• Anti-submarine-warfare
• Survey missions
• Surveillance missions
Phins Compact C5 COMPACT HIGH GRADE INS FOR VERSATILE AUVs
Technical specifications
• Weight: 4.7 kg
• Volume: 5.9 L
• Position accuracy: 0.2% DT(1)
• Diameter: 154 mm
Main applications
• MCM
• Environmental assessment
• Survey missions
• Surveillance missions
Rovins Nano COMPACT AND COST EFFECTIVE HIGH GRADE INS FOR ROV NAVIGATION
Technical specifications
• Heading accuracy(2): 0.5 deg secant
latitude
• Roll/pitch accuracy(2): 0.1 deg
• Position accuracy: 0.5% DT(1)
(2) RMS values
UNMANNEDUNDERWATER VEHICLE NAVIGATION — INERTIAL NAVIGATION SYSTEMS
Now an INS for all AUV and ROV types
World-leading high grade INS for Unmanned Underwater Vehicles
Main references in AUV and ROV navigation:
• Bluefin
• Kongsberg
• Hydroid
• ECA robotics
• Ocean Server
• ...
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ACOUSTIC POSITIONING SYSTEMSiXblue delivers the full spectrum of underwater acoustic solutions,
from the very low to the very high frequency range, in order to meet
all the challenges of underwater operations.
UNMANNEDUNDERWATER VEHICLE NAVIGATION
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GapsPRE-CALIBRATED USBL
Benefits
• High accuracy
• Long ranges in shallow and noisy
environments
• Pre-calibrated, easy to set up
• Omnidirectional, unique horizontal, or
up to the ocean surface tracking
• Robust to GPS jamming and outages
Performance
• Position accuracy (CEP50): 0.06 % of
the slant range (1)
• Nominal range: 4,000 m (2)
• Antenna coverage: 200 deg
hemispherical
(1) signal to noise ratio > 40 dB, in vertical
conditions (2) noise level < 65 dB / √Hz @ 1 m ref µPa
RamsesLONG BASELINE MF AND LF POSITIONING SYSTEMS
Benefits
• Quick deployment, reduced number of
transponders, and calibration-free
• Requires no top-side computer and
no umbilical, enabling simplified
mobilization
• Highest precision navigation, smooth
and drift free positioning
• Operable within existing deployment
fields, reducing operation costs
Performance
• Operating frequency (MF band):
20 – 30 kHz / (LF band): 8 – 17.5 kHz
• Distance measurement
accuracy: < 10 cm
• Depth rating: 6,000 m
• Position accuracy (INS aided,
2 transponders): 10 cm
The pre-calibrated USBL for extreme environments
Optimally developed for operations in extreme littoral waters
and the deep ocean, Gaps is a ready-to-use, high-accuracy
positioning system. It provides immediate geo-positioning of
underwater beacons and vehicles thanks to its built-in INS.
To date, iXblue has produced more than 200 Gaps systems.
The coupled inertial and acoustic solution for extreme precision and robustness
Ramses is an acoustic synthetic baseline positioning
system with self-contained computing, for simple real-time
sparse array subsea navigation. Tightly coupled with an
iXblue inertial navigation system (INS), it delivers extreme
precision and robustness in challenging acoustic operational
environments. Ramses is available in MF and LF versions
(medium frequency for most applications and low frequency
for ultra-long range applications).
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PLATFORM STABILIZATION
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chal
leng
esPLATFORM STABILIZATION
• Easy to adapt to new payloads
• Easy to integrate• Low cost of ownership• Customer proximity
Gyrostabilization is a very important capability for many naval platforms (surface and submarines) to compensate for roll and pitch. Multi-axis functionality is also built into various systems to ensure accuracy of pointing. iXblue manufactures stabilization systems that are reliable and provide accurate performance while operating over extended periods in extreme environments.
Stabilized platforms for optronics: Self-protection, surveillance, target acquisition and tracking of ships, submarines and aircraft in all conditions and at any time are essential for naval platforms. Detection at great distances is a critical issue particularly in the case of rough sea conditions. Optronics for these naval platforms require a high level of pointing stability. Multi-axis platforms make this possible.
Stabilized platforms for maritime satellite communication: Commercial and cruise vessels require broadband satellite communications solutions insuring 24/7 connectivity with their offices to provide voice, fax, TV and internet services. Warships need higher bandwidth and the ability to
exchange data, images and video to make sure strategic capabilities (command & control, surveillance and communication) are maintained. Multi-axis platforms supporting such antennas make this possible.
Stabilized platforms for submarine optronics mast: Many previous generation of submarines are set to be modernized in order to embed the latest technological solutions. This is particularly true for the observation and attack periscope where optronic sensors and gyroscopes will dramatically enhance capability during the next decade. Particular know how is required to integrate the latest technologies in this constrained volume.
Stabilized platforms for optical communications: The deployments of tactical UAVs from naval platforms has proven useful in increasing the observation range of these vessels. The increasing demand for HD images and video require optical point to point communication between the UAV and the naval platforms at ranges of several kilometers. Multi-axis platforms make this possible.
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solu
tion
sLeveraging it’s 30 years’
expertise in motion simulation,
iXblue provides a full range of
highly reliable stabilized Pan
& Tilt solutions tailored to your
specific needs.
PLATFORM STABILIZATION
Up-to-date technology: iXblue systems leverage the most advanced and proven technologies for efficiency and consistency. Critical system components are all designed, developed and manufactured in-house as a result of intensive internal investment in R&D. They are individually implemented once their technological maturity is fully demonstrated for naval usage through intensive testing and trials. Leading-edge hardware and software COTS are used in addition whenever possible and appropriate, to minimize costs.
Performance: iXblue systems performance is a product of years of high level R&D investment in the field of accurate rotating systems. We aim at designing systems that meet not just one paramount performance criterion but the whole set of critical and desirable requirements that make the systems perfectly suited to the most demanding naval usage. We refuse technological compromises and strongly believe that the most capable systems result from innovation and excellence.
Ruggedized: iXblue systems are imagined and built taking into account naval critical environments (vibrations, shocks, EMI, salt, etc.) right from the beginning. Extensive testing is performed to verify compliance with the operating requirements.
Reliability: is iXblue’s trade mark. Reliability, together with lowest levels of preventive maintenance, are key principles that govern iXblue’s technical choices in systems design. In addition, iXblue offers a 24/7 technical support service worldwide to guarantee the highest level of system serviceability for its customers.
Export clearance: Many of our products or solutions are free of foreign export licensing.
Commonality, Scalability, Versatility: iXblue offers scalable solutions for each type of platform to meet the most specific operational requirements from small to large platforms. Within each family range (positioning, gyro-stabilization, georeferencing, etc.), iXblue systems share strong commonalities with regard to hardware, software, and interfaces. This results in significant savings at fleet level in terms of integration, installation, configuration management, logistics, training and maintenance costs. The use of a unique communication protocol allows a high level of commonality to minimize non recurrent costs for our customers.
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GYRO-STABILIZED PLATFORM Based on its high levels of expertise and customer proximity,
iXblue supplies stabilized positioning platforms integrated
into optronic systems, radar and antenna dynamic positioners.
PLATFORM STABILIZATION
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PLATFORM STABILIZATION — GYRO-STABILIZED PLATFORM
LeosGYRO-STABILIZED PLATFORM
Benefits
• High-accuracy
• Designed for marine environments
(MIL-STD qualified)
• Easy to adapt to new payloads
• Easy to integrate
• Low cost of ownership
Performance
• Gyrostabilized Line Of Sight: <100 µrad
• Angular speed: >120°/s
• Angular acceleration: >120°/s²
• Angular range in elevation:
-20 ° to +60° (elevation)
• Angular range in heading: nx360°
TeosHIGH PRECISION TWO-AXIS PAN & TILT SYSTEM
Benefits
• High pointing accuracy
• Compact and lightweight
• Low power consumption
• MIL-STD-810G qualified
Performance
• Coverage: Tilt +/- 90°, pan +/- 185°,
unlimited (optional)
• Angular rate: +- 60°/sec to 200°/sec
• Acceleration: +- 90°/sec2 to 200°/sec2
• Pointing and repeatability accuracy:
0,01°
The gyro-stabilized platform for panoramic sights and on-the-move observation systems
Leos is a U-shape pan & tilt platform dedicated to optronic
payloads. Qualified for harsh marine environments, Leos
enables accurate 2-axis gyro-stabilization and pointing
features. Compact, robust, and adaptive to all communication
protocols, it is very easy to integrate and to maintain.
The two-axis pan & tilt system for surveillance, detection or communication applications
Teos is a turret which integrates optical, laser or
antenna systems with very accurate motion on its two
automatic rotating axes, used for surveillance, detection
or communication applications. This system, based on
iXblue mechatronics know-how, is designed, developed
and integrated with the latest technologies of control and
automatic functions for tracking and pointing.
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SERVICES & SUPPORT
© Emmanuel du Bourg
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• Vessel survey• Engineering
design• On-board
installationiXblue solutions are tailored to customers’ needs, which range from attack crafts to aircraft carriers and submarines.
iXblue process-based project management is accomplished through PDR, CDR and MRR, thereby empowering customers throughout the engineering design process.
iXblue conducts system integration and installation, from laboratory to on-board commissioning.
• Acceptance• Training
and support throughout a vessel’s life
Our progressive compliance demonstration methodology ensures customer acceptance, from factory acceptance tests, shore integration facility tests through to harbor and sea acceptance tests.
iXblue offers a worldwide support team 24/7.
iXblue integrated logistics support focuses on key requirements such as mean time to repair and availability.
iXblue offers complete training solutions, from operator maintenance to train the trainer.
• Navigation system upgrades for vessel retrofits
Our expertise extends to on-board legacy equipment and systems.
The iXblue Netans data distribution and processing unit provides legacy and new equipment interoperability and interfacing.
iXblue Netans offers synchro or resolver output to provide data distribution for legacy weapon and radar systems.
Integrated Navigation Services
Our customers benefit from our in-depth knowledge and unique expertise in developing training solutions for our products. As part of our close relationship with customers, we help them secure their operations by offering:
• Standard training courses for integrators & end-users
• Customized training courses depending on the customer’s profile
• Different levels of training are available. All the courses can be delivered at the customer’s site or in iXblue’s offices located around the world.
At iXblue, we care about your peace of mind and we stand behind our products and systems. Our highly trained support teams offer 24/7 assistance and provide you with top-quality service, helping you meet your day-to-day objectives.
In Service Support & Training
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NAVAL REFERENCES
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Over 35 naviesin the world
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20+
TurkishNavyGecdis-W
PakistanNavyGecdis-W
US Coast Guards Octans
French NavyOctansGecdis-W
French NavyQuadransGecdis-W
UAENavyMarins
MalaysianNavyPhinsNetansGecdis-W
SwedishNavyMarinsNetans
RoyalNavyMarins
GermanNavyMarinsNetans
Royal NavyPhins
Over 1000 iXblue solutions delivered in
16 years
Over 650 naval platforms equipped
150+
250+
230+
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Join us on:
@ixblue
iXblue
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