Penguin project
This is our third generation weigh bridge that incorporates data logging, RFID, and high speed weight tracking in a very robust package. The latest version was installed at Cape Crozier, Ross Island, Antarctica November 2016.
This shows the overall operation of the weigh bridge. This was our second penguin across.
One problem solved by the new weigh bridge is making it very robust for travel in rough conditions. The weigh bridge is constructed as part of a Pelican case. It made it to McMurdo via C17 US Air Force transport.
After the weigh bridge was checked out at McMurdo, it was loaded into a sling load to be transported by helicopter to the study site at Cape Crozier. Note that the weigh bridge was designed to be robust enough to be roughly handled by the helicopter.
Once at Cape Crozier, the weigh bridge was set up outside the hut to get used to the temperature and to allow for further checkout.
Here is a nice view of the camp site. You can scroll around on the image.
Once checked out, the weigh bridge was packed up on a rescue sled to be brought the mile or so over ice to the penguin colony.
At the colony the weigh bridge site was set up to support the device, solar panels, and a tent for researchers.
Last minute checkout and updates were made in the tent by our intrepid engineer.
Penguins were certainly interested in the goings on.
Here is a reasonably happy customer:
Then it is back to New York in comfort and luxury offered by a New Zealand Air Force C130.
