Dimcon Survey

Paisano Dimensional Control offers dimensional control (DimCon) surveys for commissioning hydrographic survey vessels of all kinds.  We provide offset/lever arm surveys and calibrations for Gyro, IMU and DGPS systems against ground points using grid coordinates.  

As standards in marine surveying get tighter, precision is paramount. Hydrographic survey vessels, responsible for mapping the seafloor, measuring water depths, and gathering data on submerged features, require precise tuning and alignment to ensure that their operations are accurate and reliable. Dimensional control surveys play a crucial role in establishing and maintaining the accuracy of data these vessels produce. These surveys ensure that the vessels’ physical structures, instruments, and positioning systems are aligned and calibrated to meet the rigorous standards of the hydrographic survey industry.

When commissioning of a new hydrographic survey vessels or changing/installing additional sensors it is vital to verify the exact position of each of these instruments relative to the vessel’s coordinate system based on the hull.  Centerline of the vessel is established in dry dock from the keel or quayside from the wheelhouse or mast and the center stern.  The Z plane is measured with points around the deck.  All offsets are then relative to this coordinate system.  This will ensure that the survey data collected will be as precise as possible and it greatly reduces the time necessary to complete GAMS and patch testing.  DimCon also makes alongside nav checks and sea trials necessary to be completed much quicker to gain vessel acceptance from the client.  This helps our customers bottom line by reducing overhead days before they can go on contract.

Using high precision 1 arc second Leica total stations with Spatial Analyzer metrology software, it allows us to work on the vessel quayside pitching, rolling and unleveled and still provide 1mm accurate feature offsets/lever arms in the same coordinate system.  We use 4 – 6 GPS static control points on the dock to establish a network of grid coordinates that we use to carry out Gyro and DGPS verifications.  Heading, Pitch and Roll verifications are completed with two total stations taking simultaneous shots synchronized to GPS UTC time so data can be compared to time stamps from vessel logs.  In most instances we are able to provide all C-O corrections before we leave the vessel. Our goal is for the boat to go to work as soon as possible after we complete our scope of work for the DimCon vessel calibration.

Our experience ranges from drill ships all the way down to side scan tow fish.  We can assist with all size boats, ROVs, AUVs, USVs, etc., whether quayside or in dry dock.

Paisano Dimensional Control uses precision survey equipment and metrology software to capture and interrogate data.  Survey reports are provided to client and crane inspectors for review and we can assist with making adjustments and repairs as needed.  We can also provide as-built surveys to record successful adjustments and provide a baseline for future survey reference.

Contact us to discuss details about our dimcon survey needs.

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The Importance of DimCon Surveys in Hydrographic Surveying

DimCon surveys are not just an industry requirement—they are a necessity for operational success. These surveys ensure that every instrument on a hydrographic survey vessel is precisely aligned and calibrated relative to the vessel’s coordinate system. This alignment is critical to producing reliable data, whether for mapping underwater topographies, conducting environmental studies, or supporting offshore construction projects.

Hydrographic survey vessels often operate in challenging environments where even minor misalignments can result in significant errors. DimCon surveys mitigate these risks by establishing a precise coordinate framework based on the vessel’s physical structure. This framework includes determining the centerline from the keel or wheelhouse, setting the Z-plane using deck points, and verifying the relative positions of all onboard sensors. With this system in place, the collected data is as accurate as possible, enabling quicker completion of essential tests like GAMS and patch testing.

Enhancing Efficiency with DimCon Surveys

The benefits of DimCon surveys extend beyond accuracy—they also streamline operations. By ensuring precise instrument alignment, these surveys reduce the time needed for alongside navigation checks and sea trials. This directly impacts a vessel’s bottom line by minimizing overhead days and accelerating the timeline for going on contract.

For vessel operators, this translates into tangible savings and increased productivity. DimCon surveys ensure that hydrographic survey vessels can transition smoothly from commissioning to active operations, allowing clients to maximize the return on their investment.

Why Paisano Dimensional Control is the Best Choice for DimCon Surveys

At Paisano Dimensional Control, we pride ourselves on delivering results that others simply can’t match. Here’s what sets us apart:

Advanced Equipment and Software

Using 1 arc-second Leica total stations combined with Spatial Analyzer metrology software, Paisano can achieve 1mm accuracy—even on quayside vessels that are pitching, rolling, or unleveled. This precision ensures that feature offsets and lever arms are measured with unparalleled accuracy.

Robust Grid Coordinate Networks

Paisano establishes a network of grid coordinates using 4–6 GPS static control points on the dock. This network serves as the foundation for Gyro and DGPS verifications, ensuring consistency and reliability across all measurements.

Comprehensive Calibration Capabilities

Heading, pitch, and roll verifications are conducted using two synchronized total stations. By comparing synchronized shots to GPS UTC time and vessel log timestamps, Paisano provides comprehensive calibration data that is often completed before leaving the vessel. This level of efficiency ensures that vessels are operational as soon as possible.

Extensive Experience Across Vessel Types

From large drill ships to compact side-scan tow fish, Paisano has the expertise to handle vessels of all sizes and types. Whether working quayside or in dry dock, we deliver precise DimCon surveys tailored to the unique needs of each vessel.

Why Precision Matters in Hydrographic Surveying

The hydrographic surveying industry is governed by stringent standards, and for good reason. Accurate data is essential for applications ranging from nautical charting to offshore resource management. Even minor deviations can compromise the integrity of a project, leading to costly delays and potential safety risks.

DimCon surveys play a critical role in upholding these standards by ensuring that hydrographic survey vessels are equipped to deliver precise and reliable data. With Paisano Dimensional Control, clients can rest assured that their vessels meet and exceed industry expectations.

Trust Paisano Dimensional Control for Your DimCon Survey Needs

When it comes to DimCon surveys, Paisano Dimensional Control is the name to trust. Our commitment to precision, efficiency, and client satisfaction sets us apart as the go-to provider for dimensional control services. Whether you’re commissioning a new hydrographic survey vessel or upgrading existing equipment, Paisano has the expertise to get the job done right.

Don’t settle for anything less than the best. Contact Paisano Dimensional Control today to learn more about our services and how we can help your vessel achieve peak performance.