Portable Meter System for Dry Weight Control in Dredging Hoppers

Abstract

A real-time system for monitoring the dry weight contained in the hopper of a given dredge has been both designed and tested. Among the system’s most outstanding features, the following may be mentioned: it is of economical acquisition, can easily be set up in a brief period of time, and works independently from any other control systems incorporated into the dredge by the contractor. Moreover, its displacement is determined uninterruptedly. Ultrasound transducers are located on deck for the precise monitoring of cargo volume, and the data are collected through a personal computer and sent, via modem, to the client. The difference between automatic measuring and the standard manual system appeared to have a mean value of 5%. The content of solid matter in the hopper was 53%. Although this system has proven itself fully operative, certain protective measures have to be taken to shield those components exposed to rough maneuvering before the technical supervisors and controllers leave off.