The U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Army Geospatial Center (AGC) have been recognized for their collaborative work on a Digital Buoy System, which has been selected as a 2023 R&D 100 Finalist in the IT/Electrical category. The Digital Buoy System eliminates costs by using a wireless mesh network for real-time, remote tracking and monitoring of buoys. This advanced system has significant implications for maritime safety and navigation on waterways both domestically and internationally.
This innovative Digital Buoy System aims to address the issue of buoys drifting out-of-station and creating hazardous scenarios for waterway traffic regulation. By leveraging a wireless mesh network, the system offers automated navigational map updating and enhances marine navigation, while also reducing operational costs. The technology has garnered recognition in a renowned global science and innovation competition, an honor that highlights the cutting-edge work being done at ERDC and AGC. The team has been praised for its groundbreaking efforts, with potential widespread applications that will benefit mariners and enhance maritime safety.
The upcoming 2023 R&D 100 gala banquet in San Diego, California, will honor the recipients of the awards, including the winners of the R&D 100, medalists in special recognition categories, and recipients in professional awards categories. This recognition represents a significant achievement for the ERDC and AGC teams, as well as an opportunity to showcase their impactful contributions to the field of science and technology.
