Oceanographic

Rugged Controls was contracted by the UW to replace antiquated custom winch monitoring electronics with cutting edge monitoring technology.

Rugged Controls provided a harmonized monitoring system for the R/V Sharp, described as the most advanced coastal research vessel in the United States.

Multi winch interface and data logging solutions for the R/V Weatherbird II and R/V Bellows.

Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego has one of the largest academic research fleets in the world, with four research vessels.  

Since 1907, Scripps oceanographic vessels have played a critical role in the exploration of our planet, conducting important research in all the world’s oceans.

In response to the changes in research vessel safety specifications defined by NSF, Rugged Controls was awarded the contract to upgrade the winch monitoring systems aboard all four primary research vessels.

Rugged Controls Wins Major Award from NSF/UNOLS

Probably the largest remote display of winch parameter data in the world was fabricated for the R/V "Roger Revelle" by Rugged Controls. The display measured 60" wide, 28" tall and 6" deep. The standard parameter data was displayed; payout, speed and tension using 6" tall numeric characters composed of super bright long lasting LEDs. Parameter titles and units were displayed with green 3" tall characters backlit with a green fluorescent light. The display was fabricated to NEMA 4 specification using an anodized aluminum frame and real glass windows.

Rugged Controls has been involved in supporting the polar research vessels in their winch operations for many years. 

In 2012, Rugged Controls was awarded the contract to upgrade the winch systems aboard the Coast Guard Ice-Breaker vessels, the Healy and the Polar Star.  The NSF award was in direct response to the capabilities of Rugged Controls winch monitoring equipment's ability to satisfy the requirements defined in the new Research Vessel Safety Standards issued by UNOLS.