The C Disc™ is a mobile and highly efficient diver-operated tool for harvesting various species from the seabed.
Catch to net
In areas that are difficult to access and, as an example, very shallow water, the C Disc™ can be configured to give an extended outreach from a boat. While the diver is operating a suction nozzle that is suitable for the seabed conditions, and the targeted species, the catch is collected in nets on the tool.
Catch to net
Catch to boat.
The C Disc™ can also be configured to bring the catch directly up to the boat. The diver will be operating a suction nozzle that is suitable for the seabed conditions, and the targeted species. In this configuration, the diver can fully utilize the dive-time by focusing on the harvesting.
Catch to boat
Catch to shore.
The C Disc™ can also be deployed from land/shore without the need for a boat for near-shore work, for easy and efficient harvesting process. The diver will be operating a suction nozzle that is suitable for the seabed conditions, and the targeted species. In this configuration, the diver can fully utilize the dive-time by focusing on the harvesting.
Catch to shore
The C Disc is tested by Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA)
Highlights from the rapport.
“The results from this trial showed that the C Disc is an efficient tool for vacuuming sea urchins. In a commercial setting the CPUE (catch rate) is higher than other methods used for collecting sea urchins, such as trapping and drag dredging.”
“Average catch rate 1,9 sea urchins per second.”
“As a tool for promoting kelp recovery by removing sea urchins, it was able to remove sea urchins to a low number, depending on substrate type.”
“There did not appear to much damage on bycatch or the urchins.”
“Encrusting and fastening organisms appeared to be less affected by the C Disc and despite being the dominant bycatch, there appeared to be only a slight removal of the dominant snails/hermit crabs.”
“The advantage of the C Disc is that the diver is able to see, and to some degree, avoid catching large organisms such as sea cucumbers.”
“The suction handle made it easier to manoeuvre in between rocks and avoid unwanted bycatch.”
The C Disc is patented by C Robotics AS, Norway