The purpose of a Dynamic Under Keel Clearance (DUKC) system is to provide aid in the safe transit of vessels approaching vessel berths. Northport operates its DUKC system integrating real-time measurements of tide height and waves with modeled vessel motions to determine if a proposed transit for a particular vessel meets pre-determined under keel clearance safety criteria.
The system uses specifically formulated algorithms to analyze a range of inputs in order to provide a report on the status of the proposed transit.
One of these data inputs is sea and swell data as measured by Northports’ two TRIAXYS Directional Wave Buoys. The buoys are located adjacent to a shoal patch at the Harbour entrance and output a spectral analysis of wave data, from which swell, wave direction, period and height are input to the DUKC calculations. The two buoys operate simultaneously providing Northport with redundant wave data for the DUKC system and accuracy checks.
The TRIAXYS buoys were provided to Northport by Ocean Data Systems Ltd. (ODS), AXYS’ exclusive representative in New Zealand. ODS is responsible for the service and maintenance of the buoys, including moorings.
[mappress] Subsea World News Staff , April 04, 2012; Image: AXYS