
An inside look at ASI Group’s cutting-edge projects
At ASI Group, hydrographic surveying is taken to new depths through the expertise of our in-house hydrographers. With seven years of dedicated service, Ryan Buchoon has established himself as an experienced Project Manager and Certified Hydrographer. His work spans marine geophysical, geotechnical, and bathymetric services, making him a key asset to the company’s hydrographic and ROV-based projects. His educational background is in Geomatic Engineering and Advanced Hydrography, and he began his career in the hydrographic discipline in 2009 in his birth country, Trinidad and Tobago.
In a recent interview, Ryan shared insights into his daily responsibilities, the advanced technologies used in our surveys, and the challenges encountered in hazardous environments. From managing intricate projects to developing innovative survey methods, Ryan’s role is crucial in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of data collection. He also highlighted the importance of real-time data reporting and the impact of hydrographic surveys on infrastructure maintenance. With a keen eye on future developments in the field, Ryan’s contributions continue to propel ASI Group towards greater innovation and excellence in underwater surveying.

(ASI) Can you describe a typical day in your role as a hydrographer at ASI Group?
(RB) My role as a hydrographer begins with assessing clients’ hydrographic goals and advising on a practical, cost-effective way of achieving them. This then transitions into the project management process, where I create technical and financial proposals for achieving these goals. Additionally, my role involves overseeing the technical aspects of hydrographic projects and certifying deliverables when necessary.
What technologies and tools do you most frequently use for hydrographic surveying at ASI, and how do they enhance the accuracy and efficiency of your work?
We pride ourselves on staying up to date with the best technology available to be able to keep providing the best solutions for our clients. We use a wide variety of sensors, such as traditional or integrated multibeam sonars, dual-frequency high-resolution side-scan sonars, etc., that can be mounted on a wide variety of survey platforms, such as shallow draft vessels or unmanned surface vessels. Each combination of sensor and platform is specifically selected based on the client’s specific needs and is tailored to deliver the best and most accurate results possible.
Can you discuss a particularly challenging project you have worked on and how you and your team overcame the obstacles?
One project that comes to mind is a unique project that presented significant challenges in the post-processing of the data. The data was collected using a fit-for-purpose unmanned survey vessel. The post-processing of the data was challenging due to several environmental and human error factors. The first step in correctly processing the data was successfully identifying the areas where errors could have been present. Once this was done, the team and I proceeded to quantify these errors using various methods and tools, such as ground truthing spot checks and vessel setup simulations. The corrections were then applied to the dataset, and post-processing was successfully completed.
Can you describe an innovative approach to overcoming unique and challenging requests from clients?
One of our major strengths is our ability to innovate and apply unique solutions to challenging projects. For instance, we have successfully integrated high-resolution 3D sonars into an ROV platform. This system enables the collection of supplemental hydrographic data in areas where traditional multibeam sonar cannot reach, such as within tunnels, undercuts, flooded mines, or underwater caves. The supplemental data can then be merged with the main hydrographic data to create a comprehensive 3D model of the underwater system.
How do you ensure the data collected during surveys is accurate and reliable, and what quality control measures are in place at ASI?
Using proper hydrographic techniques for quality control is mandatory for all projects. Accurately measuring and recording sensor offsets, performing and implementing accurate patch testing (calibrations methods), and using comprehensive and accurate sound velocity models are a few examples of the many control methods that are mandatory for all projects.
What is your experience with integrating real-time data reporting and digital analytics platforms in your hydrographic surveys?
In hydrographic surveying, real-time data quality control is essential for acquiring a complete and accurate dataset. This process involves analyzing incoming data and monitoring specific items such as data coverage, satellite Horizontal Dilution of Precision (HDOP) and Vertical Dilution of Precision (VDOP), vessel dynamics, and more. Analyzing, monitoring and preforming corrective actions for these factors in real time builds confidence in the dataset and essentially leads to the creation of an accurate product.
Can you explain how hydrographic survey results are used to inform maintenance and repair decisions for underwater structures such as dams and bridges?
Hydrographic surveying stands out as one of the most effective tools for assessing the condition of underwater structures. We routinely utilize hydrography to conduct inspections on dams and bridges, producing reports that highlight interpreted areas of degradation. This process allows us to pinpoint concerns within a structure, focusing attention on specific areas rather than the entire expanse. Subsequently, we can employ additional techniques to gather more detailed information about these specific areas, empowering the client to determine the optimal method for repair. Personally, I’ve encountered numerous instances of undermining and scouring in underwater structures that clients were previously unaware of, some of which required immediate attention.

How do you approach the challenges of conducting surveys in hazardous or difficult-to-reach underwater environments?
We have successfully completed numerous challenging projects based on the environment in which the work was to be done. We consistently perform risk assessments on the planned conditions and implement measures to mitigate any known risks. One common challenge is working in flowing water. Our first measure is to stop the flow before the survey. However, this is not always possible. In such cases, we employ other risk reduction measures, such as using an unmanned vessel option with a physical tie for equipment control and recovery. This is just one example of how we accomplish surveys in challenging conditions while prioritizing safety.
What developments or innovations in hydrographic surveying are you most excited about, and how do you see them impacting the future of the field?
One of my current recurring challenges is providing sub-bottom profiles for clients based on their specific requirements, environmental conditions, and budget constraints. I envision further advancements in a low-frequency chirp system (ranging from 0.5 kHz to 12 kHz) that is compact and lightweight. While it might seem like a dream, such a system would undoubtedly address some of the planning challenges I currently face.
ASI Group provides industries and governments worldwide with leading-edge underwater services focused on the assessment, maintenance, rehabilitation, and construction of underwater infrastructure and environments. More specifically, ASI specializes in commercial diving, underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) operations, marine geophysical and hydrographic surveys and hyperbaric support for tunnel construction. Our certified commercial divers, professional engineers and technicians are backed by specialized dive support systems and a fleet of advanced robotic vehicles, providing the latest in sonar and video imaging, survey and inspection technologies.
If you’re interested in talking to a Certified Hydrographer to learn more about hydrographic surveying and the services ASI provides, contact us today.
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