Alewijnse has introduced a virtualisation and visualisation platform for use on board Trailing Suction Hopper Dredgers (TSHDs). AlViVi consists of several virtualised dredging process-related systems.
As a central hub, AlViVi centralises and integrates all dredging process systems, and distributes visualisation of the data to all networked screens on board. It replaces the computers and Keyboard, Video and Mouse (KVM) equipment and reduces cabling on board. Therefore, the system takes up 75 per cent less space compared to conventional systems.
The platform can visualise multiple ship’s systems on individual screens. Alternatively, a single system can also be selected for display on multiple screens around the vessel. This makes it a highly flexible solution for operators on board.
Multiple Systems in One Environment
Alewijnse Product Manager Johan van Rikxoort outlines the benefits: 'The platform is fast, user-friendly and extremely reliable, resulting in maximum uptime and optimal operational safety. By bringing together multiple systems in one environment, maintenance and management becomes much easier and more efficient. Updates are better and faster to test or roll back. In addition, the life-time of the software is extended by the independence of the platform and the system is also extremely secure from intruders.'
Schematic overview of the AlViVi system (by Alewijnse).
AlViVi on Board DEME's Dredgers
Alewijnse has been working with DEME for more than three years in the field of automation on board dredgers. Previously completed projects are the hopper control systems such as the Alewijnse Draught and Loading System (ADLS) and Alewijnse Suction Tube System (ASTS) with complementary automatic functions. DEME now uses the AIViVi system for several of its TSHDs.
Currently, Alewijnse is the only company to offer such a digitalised platform to the maritime market. The system can also be adjusted to make it suitable for other vessel types.
Picture: One of DEME's TSHDs equipped with AlViVi, the Brabo.
