PART VII: SUMMARY 



45. In spite of computerized digital image processing available in off- 

 the-shelf SSS systems, even under the best of environmental and site condit- 

 ions, SSS has limited quantitative application in coastal engineering. 

 Information on structure slopes, condition of individual armor units, and per- 

 cent of units displaced (to name a few examples) is not currently measurable 

 in a repeatable, quantitative way. However, the semiquantitative sonograph 

 record can be very informative, particularly to someone familiar with the 

 structure or feature being viewed. Also, a strong point for the SSS is its 

 ability to collect information in murky water while being deployed at a safe 

 distance from the structure. Thus, it is a safer and, in many cases, superior 

 alternative to visual inspection by divers. It is clear that SSS is a 

 valuable tool for coastal engineering, with uses continuing to multiply as 

 technology and experience improve. Further ingenious applications are limited 

 only by our imaginations. 



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