EASE: Enhanced Automatic Sludge Estimation

The EASE (Enhanced Automatic Sludge Estimation) project aims to improve the mapping of sludge accumulation in waterways through an automated estimation system. The system combines a sensor suitable for underwater mapping with a volume estimation algorithm.
With the continues climate change, the waterflow passing through the waterways is increasingly less consistent, which higher maximum flows. Therefore, governmental organizations such as waterboards (Dutch: waterschappen) need to make sure the waterways are capable of moving large amounts of water at once, by accurately mapping the waterways and ponds.
While current mapping of waterways rely on manual probing techniques that cope with significant limitations in accuracy and speed, EASE addresses these challenges by developing a system that improves measurement accuracy and increases cost-effectiveness, while building on previous research in the Automated Volume Determination project for bulk feed and the EU Talos project Mooring Scout.
This feasibility study focuses on developing an effective underwater mapping system, implementing a sensor for data gathering and, establishing a volume determination algorithm.
With this innovative approach, we aim to significantly enhance the mapping of waterways and determination of available volume for waterflow. We will examine suitable sensors for mapping waterways and ponds and alter the previously developed volume determination algorithm for estimating the volume of sludge in the waterways. When successful, this project will provide valuable insight into cost-effective underwater sensor systems for mapping waterways, that can be used in larger follow-up projects investigating a fully autonomous robotic system for mapping and measuring waterways.