Kongsberg Utilizing Deep Sea Camera Lenses

Resolve Optics announces its ultra compact Z-10 high definition zoom lens is being used by Kongsberg Maritime (Kongsberg, Norway) as a component of autonomous camera systems being deployed to monitor methane seep and hydrothermal vent sites deep in the Pacific Ocean.

Kongsberg Maritime cabled IP Digital Still Camera Stations (CAMDS) are being supplied for the regional cabled observatory component of the Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI) program in the North East Pacific Ocean off the West Coast of the United States of America. Designed for real-time imaging via the cabled observatory's Internet connection, the regional CAMDS systems are being deployed as part of the OOI at methane seep and hydrothermal vent sites deep in the ocean where they will remain for one year. They will capture images of the evolving vents and the bacterial and animal life that grows around them. All components in the CAMDS systems, including the connectors, are made of titanium so the unit can be deployed at a depth of up to 3000 meters for up to a year without maintenance. The whole payload is mounted on a pan and tilt unit so the user can point the camera at desired targets.

Mark Pontin, Managing Director of Resolve Optics commented " The Z10 was selected due to its uniquely compact size, 10 x zoom capability and HD image quality". He added "The Z10 enables Kongsberg to keep their CAMDS system as small as possible whilst still providing top quality images".

Available in 2/3-inch, 1/2-inch and 1/3-inch CCD formats – Resolve OpticsZ10 HD lenses provide users with high definition (1080 x 720 pixel) resolution throughout their range of operation. The unique, high performance f/1.8, 10x tracking zoom employed in the Z10 ensures images stay in focus throughout the zoom travel by utilising floating cell technology.The Z10 is also able to focus upon objects as close as 450mm from the lens.  The motorised Z-10 HD lens is around half the size of and lighter (< 500g) than any other comparible zoom lenses.