Inspection of Nearshore Outfall at Scott Bay (ROV)

Nearshore outfalls are a vital part of many coastal communities, serving as a means to discharge wastewater and other effluent into the ocean.

These nearshore outfalls must be maintained and inspected regularly to ensure that they are functioning properly and to prevent any damage or leaks.

For the nearshore outfall at Scott Bay, a thorough inspection was carried out using an ROV, with a focus on collecting high-quality footage and data that could be used to make informed decisions.

The ROV used was equipped with a high-definition camera, enabling operators to record clear images of the outfall’s internal and external conditions.

Additionally, the ROV had an onboard navigation system that allowed for precise control and movements, making it possible to maneuver the ROV into tight spaces to capture detailed images.

Inspection of Nearshore Outfall: Special “Rig”

This was the case when the R&D department of Vectrino d.o.o. created a special “rig” that allowed the use of four high-resolution cameras on a remotely operated submarine (ROV) to record the underwater outlet of the settlement “Uvala Scott”.

Given the extremely low visibility in the recording conditions, the creation of the rig was necessary to ensure the collection of accurate data.

The rig was preceded by a series of laboratory tests that aimed to analyze the impact of artificial lighting on the possibilities of 3D modeling of the underwater infrastructure.

The placement of the four high-resolution cameras around the ROV allowed for the creation of a 3D model of the damage.

This facilitated the inspection of individual damage from multiple angles, eliminating the fear that some detail would not be recorded.

This approach ensured that all details were captured, providing the client with accurate and comprehensive data about the condition of the pipeline.

The use of high-resolution cameras, advanced lighting systems, and 3D modeling technology is now essential in underwater infrastructure inspection.

Inspection of Nearshore Outfall: 3D Photogrammetry 

3D photogrammetry is a process that uses photographs to create a 3D model of an object or an environment.

This process involves taking multiple photographs of an object or environment from different angles and then using specialized software to stitch these photographs together to create a 3D model.

In the context of underwater inspections, 3D photogrammetry is a useful tool for creating accurate and realistic 3D models of the condition of underwater structures.

The use of high-resolution cameras and advanced lighting systems allows for the collection of detailed images, which are then used to create the 3D model.

By using 3D photogrammetry, it is possible to create a digital twin of the underwater structure.

A digital twin is a virtual replica of a physical object that can be used for analysis, monitoring, and maintenance.

This enables clients to inspect all surfaces and plan future steps from the comfort of their office, reducing the need for in-person inspections.

The use of 3D photogrammetry provides several benefits for underwater inspections.

Firstly, it allows for the creation of accurate and realistic 3D models of the condition of underwater structures.

This helps asset management specialists to plan and execute maintenance and repair work effectively.

Secondly, it enables clients to inspect all surfaces and plan future steps from the comfort of their office, reducing the need for in-person inspections.

These 3D models provide a digital twin of the underwater structure, which can be used for analysis, monitoring, and maintenance.

This technology is improving the efficiency and effectiveness of underwater inspections.

Informed Decisions

The ROV inspection of the nearshore outfall at Scott Bay provided invaluable information that was used to develop a comprehensive report that included detailed images and data, which was provided to the client.

The report contained information about the condition of the outfall, its structure, and any potential hazards that could affect its functioning.

Based on the report, the client was able to make informed decisions about the necessary maintenance or repair work that needed to be carried out to keep the nearshore outfall at Scott Bay functioning efficiently.