A Model Predictive Control Approach Towards the Energy Efficiency of Submerged Dredging

Due to the expected increase in coastal replenishment along the Dutch coastline, and the need to decrease pollutant emissions in the Netherlands and worldwide, the Autonomous Low Energy Replenishment Dredger (ALERD) is developed. The ALERD is a sustainable and cost-effective solution to perform coastal replenishment work along the Dutch...

Choosing a sustainable, economical energy supply system, considering all operational variables of an autonomous submarine dredger: A study as part of the development of the ALERD, which will serve as sustainable coastal maintenance in the service of The Netherlands

The Autonomous Low Energy Replenishment Dredger (ALERD) strives to revolutionize the dredging world. The ALERD operates autonomously underwater, which saves energy during the dredging process and transit. Autonomous underwater operation drives the need of alternative energy facilities. However, due to the energy savings of dredging, alternative...

Route optimization in dynamic flow fields: avigation system for the North Sea and Wadden Sea

This thesis introduces a new algorithm for optimising shipping routes within a dredging project. Highly dynamic and time-dependent hydrodynamic features influence shipping routes. Due to the complex interactions between the horizontal tide, vertical tide, stratifying forces, wind-driven forces, and limited water-depth, shipping routes were...

Integrating engineering knowledge in logistical optimisation: development of a concept evaluation tool

A strategy for completing a dredging project is called a working method. The goal of a tender study is to find an optimal working method for a specific project. To find the optimal working method, the full range of possible solutions should be investigated. However, the available resources during a tender study are often limited and trends in...