Ocean Access is developing a submersible communication buoy that gathers data through various sensors and autonomously transmits this information to shore. Summer intern Hans-Marius Øverås has contributed to enhancing the data platform that visualizes the data collected by the buoy.
"It's incredibly fun and interesting to work with a physical product," says Hans-Marius Øverås.
He is a 5th-year master's student in computer science at NTNU and has been a summer intern at Ocean Access. He has been responsible for developing the data platform that stores and visualizes the data transmitted from the buoy.
"My task has involved programming for both data storage and secure communication between the buoy and shore," Hans-Marius explains.
Ocean Access's product is a combination of an underwater drone and an ocean buoy. It can move within the water column and perform various tasks, such as measuring oxygen levels and water quality around fish farms.
"The buoy can move up and down in the water column while collecting data. This provides a better data foundation than solutions that only gather data from a single point," says Fredrik Lilleøkdal, Technical Lead and one of the co-founders of Ocean Access.
The buoy can also serve as a communication carrier that can remain hidden underwater while communicating with submarines, divers, and external sensors.
Hans-Marius Øverås has worked part-time for Ocean Access for two years alongside his studies. With funding from MIDAS, his summer internship has become a full-time engagement.
"Working at a startup is unique. I've been involved in various aspects of buoy development and explored areas that go beyond what we typically learn in our studies. I greatly appreciate that experience."
Despite being a student, Hans-Marius has been given a broad range of responsibilities.
"Hans-Marius has been a valuable addition to the team, contributing to accelerating the project's development. We are grateful that the Ocean Autonomy Cluster and the MIDAS project provided us with the opportunity to bring Hans-Marius on board," says Fredrik Lilleøkdal.
The MIDAS project has made it possible for Hans-Marius to be involved in the company's development.
"By involving students in development work, the company gains access to new, creative competencies that they might not have had otherwise. This not only strengthens the company's innovation capabilities but also creates a more attractive workplace. The project with Ocean Access is a great example for others in the industry to follow," says Alexandra Neyts, who leads the MIDAS project.
Ocean Access is a member of the FI Ocean Space Incubator and has received support with both business development and advice on capital raising.
“Ocean Access is an exciting startup to work with. It’s great to see them utilizing students as a resource, and, most importantly, that students gain valuable experience from the industry,” says Ingrid Sandnes, who leads FI Ocean Space Incubator.
Contact:
Fredrik Lilleøkdal
fredrik@oceanaccess.no
Hans-Marius Øverås
hansmarius@oceanaccess.no
www.oceanaccess.no