Page 41: of Maritime Reporter Magazine (January 2023)

Tech Files

Innovative new and emerging technologies tion by marine robotics specialist Greensea Systems, Inc., the trial demonstrated a unique advanced intervention task with

Armach Passes an ROV, different from more traditional ROVs, representing

Critical Milestone another important milestone for Armach and its implication for industry use. During the trial, the HSR further demonstrat- ed its obstacle detection and avoidance feature, its ability to recognize objects in its planned path of transit, autonomously navigate around these, and return to its originally planned path of operation. This technological advancement in remotely op-

Armach Robotics, recently passed a critical milestone dur- erated in-water operation is expected to have an impact on the ing a trial of its Hull Service Robot in full over-the-horizon efforts by the shipping industry to reach its decarbonization (OTH) mode. At the end of 2022, Armach’s hull service ro- goals. The ability to deliver autonomous, ef? cient cleaning on bot (HSR), in the water in Norfolk, VA, was monitored and micro-fouling means the cleaning process can be conducted in controlled by staff at Armach’s command center in Plymouth, short time frames, and does not impact on the vessels’ in-port

MA, using a 4G modem providing over-the-air connectiv- turnaround time.

ity. During the trial, the Plymouth-based operator was able In addition to installation of these robotic units in port in- to ? y the robot from its launch point at the pier, and make a frastructure, they are set to become resident on ships of all controlled approach to the side of the ship. Once successfully classes, able to conduct hull cleaning maintenance at the con- established on the ship’s hull, a short test cleaning protocol venience of the vessel’s schedule, irrespective of its location was commenced. Utilizing Safe C2, a distance operation solu- around the globe.

Dixie Trader installs Patterson Winches

When Dixie Towing acquired the Dixie that, whether it is galvanizing or zinc plat- and perational ef? ciency.”

Trader in 2021, the 1,800-hp tug, built ing, specialized paints, or use of stainless The Dixie Trader is now out? tted with in 1972, was approaching her 50th year steel and other corrosion resistant materi- a pair of Patterson 40-ton, 7.5-hp galva- in service and needed new deck winches als, your product will hold up over time nized winches that include their corrosion to take on the saltwater dredging support and provide you with long-lasting quality protection package. that makes up Dixie Towing’s primary business. The company recently opted to upgrade with products from Patterson

Manufacturing. Dixie Towing Vice Presi- dent Robert Gibbs Jr. said that Patterson winches were the “obvious choice” for their business. “We needed a winch not only strong enough to handle loaded ‘Super Jumbo’ hopper barges but also resilient enough to operate reliably in an environment where splashing salt water and mud is unavoid- able.” “Protecting products for corrosive envi- ronments, speci? cally saltwater, requires experience and attention to detail,” says

Taylor Grapes, president of Patterson

Manufacturing. “Over the past 70 years,

Patterson has continuously evolved our corrosion protection packages to ensure www.marinelink.com 41

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