Guidance, visualization system for dredges offers new possibilities

By |  June 30, 2020
DSC Vision can be installed on DSC Dredge’s full line of cutter head dredges right off the assembly line, or it can be retrofitted to existing DSC dredges or any other manufacturer’s dredge in the field. Photo: DSC Dredge

DSC Vision can be installed on DSC Dredge’s full line of cutter head dredges right off the assembly line, or it can be retrofitted to existing DSC dredges or any other manufacturer’s dredge in the field. Photo: DSC Dredge

DSC Dredge joined forces with Teledyne Marine and Trimble to create DSC Vision, a 3D guidance and visualization system that allows operators to stop “dredging in the dark.”

According to the company, the combination of DSC Dredge and Teledyne software, Trimble GNSS positioning and Teledyne Marine sonar technology delivers a single, powerful package that allows operators to dredge with a new level of accuracy, confidence and efficiency. The results are reduced project costs and risks, DSC Dredge says.

“By partnering with Teledyne and Trimble – both experts in their fields – we’re coming out of the gate with best-in-class, proven technologies that combine to deliver a powerful integrated solution, says Bill Wetta, senior vice president of product development and chief technology officer at DSC Dredge. “The DSC Vision package is going to move dredging into the 21st century.  It’s going to allow customers to operate at a much higher rate and will ultimately benefit the entire industry.”

Prior to DSC Vision, operators relied on dredging experience, machine feel and subjective instrumentation to ensure real-time productivity and post dredging surveys for precise bathymetry or stockpile measurements and accurate mine planning.

The DSC Vision system integrates geographical dredge cutter head position and heading, multi-beam sonar imaging and mapping, dredge navigation and instrumentation, remote connectivity and monitoring, and a user graphical display and software interface that correctly depicts the current dredge location, depth of the cutter head and topography of the bottom. The inclusion of Teledyne’s acoustic sonar provides real-time visual updates, leaving little to chance, as the operator can see the entire work area below the dredge. This allows them to react accordingly, the company says.

Additionally, this eliminates various concerns such as overdredging, underdredging and operator safety, leading to higher production rates, lower energy consumption and reduced downtime, DSC Dredge says.

All collected DSC Vision data is stored in a comprehensive map of the dredging area or mine site for computation, historical documentation and future planning. The software also allows for remote access to the operator’s screen, enabling on-the-fly training, system troubleshooting and support, and status updates from anywhere in the world.

Kevin Yanik

About the Author:

Kevin Yanik is editor-in-chief of Pit & Quarry. He can be reached at 216-706-3724 or kyanik@northcoastmedia.net.

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