Intelligent maritime infrastructure asset management: methology and decision support system

This invention designs and develops a Maritime Asset Management System (MAMS) which includes a methodological framework and a decision support software tool. to address strategic level maritime asset management. The methodological framework defines and integrates concepts, principles, input-output relationships, models, algorithms, as well as business processes. The software tool implements the framework to produce analytical results and asset management reports. The MAMS addresses single and multi-year planning of navigation channel dredging and dredged material placement in disposal sites or facilities. Mathematical models and algorithms are developed to optimize planning decisions, accounting for practical constraints and considerations, including channel linkage and network dependency, project bundling, CDF accessibility and capacity expansion, deterioration (i.e., shoaling and navigability condition over time), reimbursable costs, economic values, etc.

This invention is practically valuable for agencies in terms of 1) save dredging cost with system optimal solutions (around 30-50% percent); 2) comply with regulatory requirements for performance-based asset management; 3) improve the efficiency, accuracy and accountability of the planning process; 4) facilitate communication and knowledge transfer among engineering and management personnel.