Flexible groynes with Xstream blocks
The combination of BAM, Van den Herik, Deltares, Rijkswaterstaat, Meteoor, and Aquatic Drones work together with Beeliners as an innovation team, collaborating as equals with shared ownership to develop the flexible groyne with Xstream blocks.
- We collaborate with you
We don’t work for you, but with you. That you way you will stay involved and can keep control over your idea. - Specialist at the ready
You will have direct contact with the specialists who work on realizing your idea. Spar directly with the right specialist. - Direct lines
Would you like adjustments to your idea? Due to the direct line of communication we can act quickly to make it happen. - The IP remains yours
The Intellectual Property (IP) is always yours. We are happy to help you take care of the paperwork.
The problem
Bed erosion was compromising the stability of the groynes.
Falling water levels and impact on groundwater levels caused by bed erosion.
Increased backwater effects from higher lying groynes during extreme river discharge.
River discharge increased due to climate change, and the existing groynes weren’t adaptive to it.
Larger inland vessels caused more damage to groynes and riverbanks due to wave action.
Deep, localized scour holes formed, which could affect the navigation channel.
Damage from collisions was difficult to repair and caused disruption during repairs.
The solution: flexible groyne with Xstream blocks
The flexible groyne is built from Xstream blocks, a modular and adaptive system. The blocks are placed and interlock with one another, forming a solid structure without the need for anchoring. Because the blocks can be picked up again, extending or raising the groyne is straightforward.
A groyne built from Xstream blocks is partially permeable to water. Around 60% consists of open space, allowing water and sediment to flow through the blocks without the groyne losing its function. This has a positive effect on river flow and sediment dynamics around the groyne, and the open spaces also provide a good habitat for a variety of organisms.
The partnership
For the further development of the flexible groyne, a partnership was formed within the learning space to cover the various phases. Each partner involved contributed money, resources, and/or hours, in line with their own interests.
Beeliners’ contribution
Within the project, Beeliners was responsible for monitoring the groyne. Using sensor technology, a number of Xstream blocks were made ‘smart’ in an innovative way. By applying gyroscopes, impact sensors, and temperature sensors inside the blocks, it’s now possible to more accurately determine the impact of the flexible groyne under the influence of external factors. During high water levels, the underwater blocks transmit data.
Beyond the electronics, Beeliners was also responsible for the construction used to fit the sensors into the blocks. The shape of the groynes is modular, making them adaptable and flexible, and the materials used are circular. Measurements are now taken in real time, with data sent to a clear dashboard where visualization immediately registers any impact or shifts. This means any damage to the groyne caused by external factors is instantly visible.
How we approached it
Hardware
Developing a construction method to fit the sensors into the blocks.
Software
Software for monitoring the groyne.
Cloud solution
Measurements are taken in real time and sent to a dashboard.
Smart technology
Sensor technology to make a number of Xstream blocks ‘smart’.
Prototyping
Prototyping, with the blocks continuously tested and refined.
The result
A project in which Beeliners was responsible for a complete solution: hardware, software, cloud solutions, smart technology, and prototyping. The project was completed within four months, a great achievement made possible through collaboration with our partners.
Curious what we can achieve together?
Feel free to get in touch with us, no strings attached!
Do you have a challenge for us?
Our product developers are ready to start on your innovative ideas! Do you have an idea, a question or a challenge about product development? Our team of specialists are ready to turn your ideas into reality. Don’t hesitate and feel free to contact us. We’d love to hear from you!