bridge is unsafe weeks later, now you can find that out within
hours…and then you can close the bridge,” Haug said.
For MDOT’s purpose, EMILY beat a wide range of other
options vetted by the Ayres team including sonar-equipped
bobbers, fixed sonar, drones, manned boats, and even a
custom-made USV prototype.
Haug recalls that in the early stages of research, EMILY was
considered a long shot. “At first it didn’t seem like a great
platform for the sonar survey that we needed,” said Haug, “but it
was very easily operated, and it was fast. We could then outfit it
with the sonar system to make it get the data that we wanted.”
Retooling against bridge scour
In the end, EMILY balances capability, accuracy, and
cost effectiveness, providing MDOT with a new tool to
monitor bridge scour.
Top photo: Side scan sonar view of bridge footing, allowing
inspectors to see if piers are undermined.
Page 27 photo: First EMILY demonstration at M-38 bridge over
Sturgeon River near Baraga, Michigan.
MEET EMILY
EMILY, which stands for “EMergency Integrated Lifesaving
LanYard,” is the type of unmanned surface vessel (USV)
the Michigan Department of Transportation is now using to
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monitor bridge scour during high-flow events. Ayres researchers
recommended the EMILY to MDOT after comparing several USVs
on the market. Here are some fast facts on the EMILY system:
Power: Electric motor and jet prop impeller
Hull: Lightweight fiberglass
Designed to save lives in beach, ocean, river, and flood
situations
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Remote controlled
Distributed throughout the world: Asia, Europe, Middle East,
and Americas
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Manufactured by Hydronalix Inc. and patented
Developed in 2010 by Anthony Mulligan
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Popular Science Best of What’s New 2010 Grand Award
Winner – Security Category
Weight: 24 pounds
Dimensions: 54” x 16” x 8”
Speed: Up to 40 mph
26 | TRENDS
Ingenuity, Integrity, and Intelligence.