Solutions for Underwater Operations with Trimble Marine Construction (TMC)
Dredging operations are applied across a wide range of areas to ensure the sustainable use of waterways, extract natural resources, and support environmental management. In these operations, high-precision positioning and real-time data management are crucial. Trimble Marine Construction (TMC) software addresses these needs, providing efficiency, accuracy, and transparency throughout all stages of the dredging process.
1. Navigable Waterways: Ensuring Safe Navigation and Transportation
Harbor and Port Maintenance: The removal of accumulated sediment allows vessels of various sizes to safely dock and maneuver.
Channel Deepening: Increasing the depth of waterways to accommodate larger ships and enhance cargo capacity.
River and Canal Maintenance: Maintaining the navigability of rivers and canals for barge traffic and smaller vessels.
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During these operations, TMC displays the real-time position of the dredge head, enabling operators to achieve the target depth with high precision. Data collected during dredging is monitored live, reducing the risk of over- or under-dredging.
2. Resource Extraction
Mining: Extraction of valuable minerals from underwater deposits.
Sand and Gravel Mining: Supplying sand and gravel for use in construction and various industries.
Offshore Oil and Gas: Preparing the seabed for drilling and production platforms.
In these projects, TMC integrates data from multiple sensors to generate a three-dimensional excavation model. This model clearly defines target areas and enhances operational efficiency.
3. Environmental Management
Flood Control: Increasing the water-holding capacity of channels by removing sediment accumulation.
Beach Restoration: Replenishing eroded coastlines by transporting sand.
Habitat Creation and Restoration: Using dredged material to create or restore wetlands and other natural habitats.
Wastewater Treatment: Removing sludge from wastewater treatment facilities.
Lake and Pond Management: Cleaning sediment and debris from lakes and ponds to improve water quality and recreational value.
TMC supports planning by providing detailed mapping of underwater surface profiles. Additionally, dredge head position, depth data, and excavation volumes can be monitored in real time.
4. Other Applications
Dam Reinforcement: Enhancing dam safety by removing sediment buildup.
Fly Ash Pond Management: Controlled removal of fly ash from ponds at thermal power plants.
Landfill Cover: Using dredged material as cover in landfill operations.
Land Site Remediation: Cleaning contaminated sediment from sites requiring environmental remediation.
Key Advantages of the Trimble Marine Construction (TMC) System
TMC is a high-precision positioning, data collection, and operations management software that can be integrated into all types of dredging operations. The system offers the following advantages:
Integration with GNSS Antennas and IMU Sensors: The three-axis position and movement of the dredge head can be monitored with high precision.
Real-Time Visualization: Operators can view a live 3D model of the dredged area and compare it with target depths instantly.
Data Logging and Reporting: Critical data such as dredged areas, total volume removed, and remaining work quantities are automatically recorded and reported.
Compatibility with Various Equipment: Easily integrates with clamshell dredgers, cutter suction dredgers (CSD), backhoe dredgers, and trailing suction hopper dredgers (TSHD).
By replacing intuition-based methods with a fully controlled, measurable, and highly accurate workflow, TMC transforms dredging operations into data-driven and verifiable processes—greatly enhancing their reliability and efficiency.