Photo credit: The Gippsland Squadron of the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard (AVCG)

Innovative Water Rescue Technology: The dolphin 1 buoy

Demonstration of Advanced Rescue Capabilities

In February 2023, the Gippsland squadron of the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard (AVCG) showcased the capabilities of OceanAlpha’s Dolphin 1, a remote-controlled life-saving buoy, at the scenic Gippsland Lakes in eastern Victoria, Australia.

Speed and Efficiency in Emergency Situations

The Dolphin 1 is equipped with a robust water-jet thruster,enabling it to achieve speeds of up to 3.3 meters per second—outpacing even the fastest human swimmers. This rapid response capability is crucial for addressing drowning emergencies effectively.

Expanding Applications Beyond Rescue

Having been utilized by emergency services globally, the Dolphin 1’s potential applications are continually being explored. as an example, the Gippsland Squadron plans to leverage the buoy for towing mooring lines in shallow waters, enhancing its utility beyond just rescue operations.

Understanding the Gippsland Lakes

The Gippsland Squadron oversees the waters of the Gippsland Lakes, a vast network of lakes and lagoons spanning approximately 354 square kilometers (137 square miles). This area is a favored spot for boating,fishing,and various recreational activities.

Challenges of Shallow Waters

These lakes are predominantly shallow, averaging depths of 2-3 meters (6-10 feet), which can pose challenges for larger vessels. In instances where boats run aground, the squadron may utilize mooring lines to secure the vessel to a nearby structure for repairs or to tow it to safety.

Testing the Towing Capabilities

During the demonstration, the gippsland Squadron evaluated the Dolphin 1’s towing abilities by deploying both a 10mm and a 20mm mooring line in shallow waters. The varying weights of these lines present distinct challenges for the buoy’s buoyancy and propulsion. The squadron reported that the Dolphin 1 performed admirably in both scenarios.

Enhancing Mooring Efficiency

The introduction of the Dolphin 1 is anticipated to significantly streamline the mooring process. This buoy can efficiently drag mooring lines of different sizes to reach stranded vessels, all while being remotely controlled from the shore or a rescue boat.