Skip to content

Chelsea Technologies Trilux Chlorophyll Sensor

Chelsea Technologies Trilux Sensor

LED Status Indicator

When the wiper unit is switched on, the LED status indicator will blink 4 times and then a wipe will be performed. During deployment the LED will blink every 15 seconds. To see the LED status indicator, the battery cover pod should be removed. The number of blinks indicates the performance status of the wiper. See the below table for the LED status description:

Blink Sequence Status Description
Once every 15 seconds Normal operation
Twice every 15 seconds Previous wipe failed
Three times every 15 seconds Low battery shutdown

Sensor Maintenance

Maintenance must be conducted regularly to ensure the function and accuracy of the sensor.

The Trilux sensor is installed with a battery operated wiper cleaning unit. This prevents regular maintenance, however visual inspections should still be conducted, especially if sensor readings are inaccurate or drifting.

Maintenance frequency Description
2-weeks Visually inspect sensor and wiper - ensure wiper is not being fouled, and is making a full wipe (i.e. not stuck in position over the sensor lens). Ensure there is excessive buildup on sensor/wiper.
Monthly Wipe clean with a clean cloth, avoid scratching the lens. Do not use with acetone or any chemical incompatible with the materials used.
2-monthly Check LED status on inside of wiper control unit. Perform visual check of LED and use the LED indicator matrix above to confirm status. Conduct O-ring maintenance sequence at this time
Yearly Every 12 months the batteries in the wiper unit need replaced.

Changing Wiper Batteries

Periodically the batteries in the wiper unit will need to be changed. The batteries need changed every 12 months to ensure continued operation, the wiper will stop working when the battery pack voltage reaches around 6.5 volts.

In order to change the batteries unscrew the battery cover pod. Once open carefully remove the batteries from the wiper and replace with Lithium Iron Disulfide AA Batteries 1.5V.

Once the batteries have been replaced, place the battery cover pod back in place and tighten.

Changing the Wiper Brush

Under normal conditions the wiper brush should last many thousands of wipes. However, should your wiper brush require replacement, these are inexpensive and obtainable directly from Ocean Instruments.

Changing the Anode

Anodes reduce the corrosion of the wiper shaft in harsh environments. Replacement anode buttons can be purchased from Ocean Instruments. To replace the anode, simply unscrew the old one and swap it with a new one.

Service the Wiper Control Housing O-Ring

Service the O-ring each time you open the wiper control housing and before deployment.

  1. Carefully remove the O-ring from the groove in the wiper control housing.
  2. Clean the O-ring, the O-ring groove and the sealing face on the inside of the lid using a tissue.
  3. Inspect the O-ring for cracks, deterioration or damage. Replace the O-ring if necessary.
  4. Wipe some O-ring grease onto the O-ring and the sealing face on the inside of the lid.
  5. Replace the O-ring into the groove in the battery housing.

Sensor Calibration

Calibration should only be conducted by a Chelsea Technologies certified calibration laboratory. Please contact Chelsea Technologies Chelsea Technologies Support to arrange calibration. Calibration takes around 2-4 weeks.

Calibration frequency Description
Bi-Yearly The sensor should be returned to Chelsea Technologies for calibration.

Fault Finding

Check K-Mote is on, if LED is not flashing, follow the diagnostics steps on the K-Mote sensor diagnostics page.

Fault Possible Issues Solution
Erratic sensor readings Fouling buildup on sensor Visually inspect sensor lens and clean as per the above cleaning methods.
Erratic sensor readings Wiper unit not working Visually inspect wiper unit to ensure it is not fouled. Inspect wiper arm to make sure it is making a full clean wipe and not obscuring the sensor lens. If the unit is not wiping, replace the batteries with like for like.
inaccuracy of readings Damage from cleaning or removing barnacles/organic matter Contact Chelsea Technologies for further information.
No sensor readings Power supply issues, cable/connector may be disconnected or damaged Inspect sensor cable for damage, inspect connectors on K-Mote to ensure securely plugged in, inspect K-Mote power supply to ensure no damage has occurred. Ensure solar panel (if using) is orientated for optimal sun exposure and clean if necessary. Ensure K-Mote antenna is installed properly and the K-Mote is switched on.

Further Advice

Contact Email Address Support Link Contact purpose
Krucial support@krucial.com Krucial Support For issues with K-Devices and troubleshooting support. Contact for issues regarding wiper unit.
Chelsea Technologies sales@chelsea.co.uk Chelsea Technologies Support For issues relating directly to sensor, or for further information on cleaning/calibrating the sensor.