Real-Time Data Transfer and Display with the Silent Inspector

Satellite communications are being used to transfer production data in real-time from hopper dredges working under contract for the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE). These data are automatically sent to a database server for dissemination to COE dredging managers on a national basis. The data sent are similar to existing COE summary reports but are based on actual process data from the dredge and include load production data. Because hopper dredges are so highly mobile, communications technology solutions typically employed by other dredge types have proven inadequate in actual field deployment. Satellite services with higher speed, digital technology, and lower cost than previously available contribute to a real-time data transfer solution for the COE.