Design of a semi-autonomous boat for measurements of coastal sedimentation and erosion

• Main Authors: D. Smith, L. Cross, J. Rivet, S. Hall
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Copernicus Publications 2015-03-01
• Series: Proceedings of the International Association of Hydrological Sciences
• Online Access: https://www.proc-iahs.net/367/447/2015/piahs-367-447-2015.pdf
• ISSN: 2199-8981; 2199-899X

Measurement of sediment deposition and erosion in coastal areas is a challenge due to soft shifting sediments, but is critical to assessing loss or restoration of coastal sediments and wetlands. The aim of this project was to design and construct a semi-autonomous boat with water depth measuring capabilities. It was intended to map the depth of coastal wetlands to determine erosion rates and assess coastal restoration effects. Depth-measuring equipment was incorporated into an autonomous pontoon boat powered by solar panels. The propulsion system consisted of two paddlewheels and two-way motors to allow movement and positioning for measurements. Modifications included a lightweight, hard coating on the pontoons and powder-coating the frame to extend their usable life. A microcontroller controlled the boat and captured depth data from sensors and location data with a GPS system. The depth measuring system consisted of a pulley and counter system that completed each measurement in less than 45 seconds. This allowed the boat to take approximately 400 measurements per day. Net accuracy was approximately 3 cm in the tested configuration. The boat can continually measure the depth of specified areas in the wetlands; with this data, the change in depth can be monitored to see the effects of restoration projects.