The heart of the TRIAXYS™ Mini Wave Buoy was developed from the proven AXYS WatchMan500™, which integrates sensor systems and provides onboard data processing, data logging, telemetry and diagnostic/set-up routines. The TRIAXYS™ Next Wave II sensor and telemetry module contains the telemetry system (e.g., VHF transmitter), data logging system, processing unit and the sensor unit, which is comprised of 3 accelerometers, 3 rate gyros and a Fluxgate compass. The processing unit samples and analyses the data and controls all the TRIAXYS™ Mini’s systems.

TRIAXYS™ directional wave processing software uses an iterative algorithm based on the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis to solve the full non-linear equations of buoy motion in six degrees of freedom. The six degrees of freedom are defined by the measured accelerometer (3) and rotational rate gyro (3) signals. Roll, pitch and yaw angles are measured as well as accelerations, displacements and velocities from which heave, surge and sway are determined.

The use of surge and sway velocities instead of roll and pitch angles provides a more accurate measure of wave kinematics that defines the direction of wave propagation. The abridged data can be either contained in the internal data logger or transmitted by the previously incorporated telemetry communication to either a land or ship-based transceiver. For operational and safety purposes, the TRIAXYS™ Mini is also capable of monitoring its moored location through the use of the onboard GPS receiver coupled with the AXYS buoy mooring WatchCircle™ Alarm.