Alewjnse Virtualization and Visualization Platform Installed on DEME Dredge

Alewijnse has introduced a unique virtualization and visualization platform for use on trailing suction hopper dredges and on other vessels. The AIViVi system has already been successfully installed on several of DEME’s trailing suction hopper dredges.

All the dredging process systems are centralized and integrated, and the data is sent to all networked screens onboard. The AlViVi consists of several virtualized dredging process-related systems. It replaces the computers and keyboard, video and mouse (KVM) equipment and reduces cabling onboard the vessel. The platform can visualize multiple ship’s systems on individual screens. Alternatively, a single system can also be selected for display on multiple screens around the vessel.

“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, the maintenance and management becomes much easier and efficient. Updates are better and faster to test or roll back. In addition, the lifetime of the software is extended by the independence of the platform, and the system is also extremely secure from intruders,” Johan van Rikxoort, Alewijnse product manager said.

“An additional benefit considered highly important by Alewijnse for this project is the significant reduction on space and costs of hardware and software maintenance. The solution saves enormously on physical components; the platform takes up 75 percent less space through much reduced requirements for cabling, computer hardware and cabinets,” van Rikvoort said.

Alewijnse has been working with DEME for more than three years in the field of automation onboard dredges. 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.