Revolutionizing Fisheries Research: From CAD Design to Motion Controls and Hydraulic Lifts
At TECO Technology, we strive to turn innovative ideas into groundbreaking realities.
When Cramer Fish Sciences approached us with their vision for an advanced Estuary Monitoring Platform (EMP), we knew it was an opportunity to revolutionize fisheries research.
Our partnership transformed their concept into a state-of-the-art vessel by leveraging our expertise in CAD design, CNC machining, system design, automation, and hydraulics.
What is an Estuary Monitoring Platform (EMP):
Cramer Fish Sciences has developed the Estuary Monitoring Platform (EMP) so that fish biologists and managers can better understand Delta Smelt's distribution, abundance, habitat needs, and other small fish that traditional trawling methods may inadequately represent.
This project showcases the incredible potential of combining cutting-edge technology with new ideas to redefine research methodologies.
Bringing Ideas to Life: CAD Design to Real-Life
Are you considering transforming a complex idea into a high-performing, automated machine?
That's precisely what happened when TECO Technology partnered with Cramer Fish Sciences.
Together, we worked side by side to create the Estuary Monitoring Platform (EMP), leveraging advanced motion controls and hydraulic systems to turn an innovative concept into a functional, impactful research tool.
At TECO, our mission is to bring your ideas to life, and this project demonstrates the significant impact of our expertise.
Narrative of the Partnership
Our journey with Cramer Fish Sciences began with a shared vision: to elevate fisheries research through state-of-the-art automation.
After years of developing a prototype for their sampling platform and facing numerous challenges, Cramer Fish Sciences turned to TECO Technology.
We saw this as the perfect opportunity to apply our engineering and motion control expertise to overcome these obstacles and bring their vision to life.
Quote Highlight:
"Working with the team at TECO Technology has been rewarding on so many levels. Combining skilled labor with the scientific process, TECO consistently delivers excellence in design, engineering, and craftsmanship. Had I known their capabilities in CAD design, CNC machining, system design, machine controlling, programming, and the installation of automated components from the start, I would have partnered with them earlier. I am confident in their ability to handle any project and look forward to continuing our collaboration as we refine our prototype fisheries equipment." -Kyle Horvath, Cramer Fish Sciences.
Technical Breakdown
The Estuary Monitoring Platform (EMP) features a motion control solution featuring a variety of hydraulic and automation products designed and integrated by TECO Technology. Here are some key components:
- Hydraulic Power Unit: 1.6KW, 2.5GPM with a 5-gallon reservoir
- Hydraulic Manifold: 6-station with built-in flow controls
- Digital Pressure Transducer: Provides hydraulic force feedback
- Double-Acting Cylinders: 60" stroke for net extension, 18" stroke for net tilt
- Inclination Sensors: For net angle feedback
- GPS Receiver: Logs GPS location, time, and speed
- Marine Winches: With Baumer cable pull encoders for setting net depth
- Enclosed Cable Carriers: Protect wiring and hydraulics
- UL Control Cabinet: IDEC advanced PLC, digital and analog I/O
- Weintek HMI: 9.7" for control operation and data log monitoring
- Power Distribution Panel: For high amperage DC loads
- Remote Rocker Switch Panel: For dash controls
Integration and Operational Details
TECO Technology designed and delivered the hydraulic control system to optimize the EMP's net-catching system.
This will safely guide fish to pass under the EMP platform, thus allowing the collection of key metrics to explore the fish in their natural habitat. This system also included the electrical enclosure for operating several key hydraulic functions for winch control.
The main electrical control cabinet houses a PLC controller that handles data logging, including various I/O for hydraulic functions, winch operations, and inputs from the helm.
The DC power distributionmanages and oversees the electrical winches and hydraulic pump.The hydraulic reservoir, pump, and a four-station manifold are also utilized to control the hydraulic functions. A pressure transducer monitors hydraulic pressure at all times.
One of the main challenges was routing cables and hoses as the arms extend out 60 inches.
TECO managed four hydraulic lines, DC power connections, and communication for cable transducers measuring net depth and tilt sensors measuring the net's angle.
The tilt angle and net depth are displayed on theHMI or operator interface, along with pressure, GPS coordinates, speed, and direction. Physical push buttons were also installed for easier control while operating the boat.
Impact and Benefits
"The integration of our core product lines coupled with our experienced team of engineers into the Estuary Monitoring Platform (EMP) has significantly enhanced its performance, bringing precision, efficiency, and reliability to a new level," says Jared Anderson, Director of Operations at TECO Technology.
Performance Enhancements:- Data Accuracy: Enhanced precision in data collection
- Efficiency: Automated processes reduce the need for manual intervention, speeding up operations
- Operational Capabilities: Increased reliability and robustness of the system
