Uniship: universal dual-ended ro-ro ship with automated handling of containers and vehicles

Abstract

The UniShip vessel merges the functionalities of container ships and Ro- Ro carriers into one design, optimizing cargo operations through a dual- ended loading / unloading system, automated cargo handling, and adaptable cargo securing mechanisms. The present invention introduces a universal cargo vessel, "UniShip," engineered for high-efficiency transport of diverse cargo types, including containerized goods, roll-on / roll-off (Ro-Ro) vehicles, heavy machinery, and oversized freight. This versatile design maximizes ship utilization and operational efficiency by seamlessly accommodating various cargo forms in a single voyage. UniShip features an autonomous Ro-Ro system enabling self-loading and unloading from both bow and stern, which accelerates port operations by facilitating simultaneous, bidirectional cargo movement. Equipped with advanced sensors and automated controls, this system minimizes human intervention, reducing port turnaround times and enhancing handling precision. The vessel incorporates automated container securing mechanisms during loading, eliminating the need for manual intervention, further reducing stevedoring time and associated costs. The design leverages a shore-based gantry crane to manage large container groups, which are transferred onto an onboard platform lift, streamlining container handling and maximizing throughput. By fully automating the container handling process from dockside to cargo hold, UniShip significantly cuts turnaround (off-hire) time and operational expenses, while reducing environmental impact. This innovative, enclosed vessel structure enhances cargo security and minimizes the need for ballast voyages or specialized vessels, offering a substantial economic advantage. Conclusion: In conclusion, UniShip represents a groundbreaking, sustainable approach to cargo transportation, integrating advanced automation, environmental safeguards, and significant operational improvements to address modern shipping challenges.

Description

[0001] 1. Title of the Invention

[0002] UniShip: "Universal Dual-Ended Ro-Ro Ship with Automated Handling of Containers and Vehicles"

[0003] 2. Technical Field

[0004] The present invention relates to a multi-purpose vessel designed to transport standard shipping containers, Ro-Ro (Roll-on / Roll-off) vehicles, and mixed cargo types. The vessel incorporates a unique side- loading / unloading system, fully automated cargo handling, and energyefficient features, aimed at increasing operational efficiency.

[0005] As a result of optimized operations, energy savings, and emission reductions, UniShip, in addition, has reduced environmental impact.

[0006] 3. Background of the Invention

[0007] Conventional container and Ro-Ro ships face limitations in cargo handling flexibility, operational efficiency, and port turnaround times. Standard ships are often optimized for a single cargo type, limiting their utility on mixed cargo routes. Furthermore, extended port times for loading / unloading reduce profitability and add to congestion. In addition, the maritime industry has "limited interoperability of mixed cargo types" and "the need for increased flexibility in modern congested ports". The present invention addresses these issues by combining container and Ro-Ro capabilities in one vessel, equipped with a high-efficiency dual-ended loading / unloading system and fully automated cargo securing and management. 4. Description

[0008] 4.1 Key Features

[0009] 4.1.1 Dual-Ended Loading / Unloading

[0010] The vessel is equipped for simultaneous, bidirectional loading and unloading from both bow and stern, reducing port stay times.

[0011] 4.1.2 Automated Cargo Handling System

[0012] The system includes AGVs and onboard lift platforms that manage containers and Ro-Ro vehicles autonomously, reducing manual handling requirements.

[0013] 4.1.3 Side-Loading Gantry Crane System:

[0014] A high-capacity gantry crane extends through side hatches, allowing containers to be loaded directly onto the lift platform with a minimized port-side footprint.

[0015] 4.1.4 Multi-Deck Cargo Holds

[0016] The ship's 7-9 cargo decks are optimized for a variety of cargo types, in double-stacked containers, including Ro-Ro vehicles and bulk goods, with efficient handling and space utilization.

[0017] 4.1.5 Automatic Container Securing

[0018] The ship includes a combination of U-guides, guiding pillars, and securing twist locks and latches to stabilize containers with their Ro-Ro vehicles and mixed cargo types during transit.

[0019] 4.1.6 Fully Enclosed Strucure

[0020] A fully enclosed design protects the ship from piracy and adverse weather, securing containers and reducing environmental exposure.

[0021] 4.1.7 Energy-Efficient Superstructure

[0022] Renewable energy sources, including solar panels and wind wings / sails, reduce fuel dependency. 4.1.8 Energy-Efficient Superstructure

[0023] 4.1.8.1 Double-stacked container handling as a single unit.

[0024] 4.1.8.2 Bidirectional loading / unloading.

[0025] 4.1.8.3 Parallel multi-deck operations.

[0026] 4.1.8.4 Simultaneous loading / unloading across decks and directions.

[0027] 4.1.8.5 Optimal utilization of lift platform.

[0028] 4.1.8.6 Seamless integration with port handling systems.

[0029] 4.2 Automated Loading and Unloading Process

[0030] 1. Before the ship's docking, containers are double-stacked and secured with twist locks (38) and lowered onto the transporters / AVGs (26).

[0031] 2. Upon docking, the shore loading / unloading gantry cranes (27) are to be aligned with the ship's open side cargo hatches (13).

[0032] 3. The AGVs proceed under the shore gantry loading cranes at a speed of 100 m / min.

[0033] 4. The partial transverse bulkheads (15) open for loading / unloading deck pairs.

[0034] 5. The shore gantry crane extension booms (27) transfer the containers through side hatches (13) to the ship's lift platforms (11), onto the secured drive wheels (35), aligned in U-guides (36).

[0035] 6. The extension booms retract with the waiting containers on the other half of the platform for unloading. See Figure 3.3.

[0036] 7. The lift platforms (11), transport the containers vertically to the designated cargo decks (17), where they are positioned by caster wheels (35) and guided by U-guides (36).

[0037] 8. Containers are moved from the platforms (11) by their self- powered / battery caster wheels (35) into the cargo holds, guided by the wheel U-guides (36), sensors, and the pillar guides (37).

[0038] 9. The platform is raised / lowered to unload containers from the pairing deck, Figure 7.9, before lowering to loading / unloading level / Deck 3, with the containers to be unloaded. 10. When loaded containers are in their final positions in the holds, controlled by sensors, the caster wheels (35) are secured with brakes and stoppers, and the automated top and side latches (39 & 40) secure each stack.

[0039] 11. After completing loading / unloading and securing containers in their final positions on each pair of decks, their partial transverse bulkheads (15) are to be closed.

[0040] 12. The process repeats for the other deck pairs until all containers are loaded / unloaded.

[0041] 13. Oversize cargo is to be secured / lashed after being placed in position on the upper deck (9) by the ship's gantry cranes (14).

[0042] 14. The hatch covers (12) for the lift rooms (5) are to be closed.

[0043] 15. The ship's cargo hatches (13) are to be closed.

[0044] 16. The ship undocks and sails.

[0045] The above process is illustrated in Figures 3.1, 3.2, 4.1, 4.2 and 5.1, 5.2, 5.3.

[0046] The automatic container securing system is shown in Figures 6.1-6.3.

[0047] 4.3 Example Embodiment 1: Mid-Size (M)

[0048] A mid-size UniShip model with a capacity of 10,000 TEUs, equipped with:

[0049] Dual-ended operation that enables simultaneous loading / unloading from both bow and stern, enhancing port efficiency.

[0050] Deck Arrangement with nine cargo decks, arranged to support efficient stacking of double-stacked TEUs, which maximizes space utilization. The container hold is about 6m high, accommodating double-stacked containers of 5.2m height, and allowing for ~ 0.4m for the containers' drive wheels' height, and ~0.4m for deck beams and top securing latches.

[0051] Energy-efficient design that incorporates solar panels on the superstructure, providing supplementary power for auxiliary functions. Automated container handling system that utilizes AGVs and automated securing mechanisms to transport containers from shore to designated cargo holds within the vessel. The AGVs can transport two doublestacked 40ft / 45ft containers, or four 20ft double-stacked containers, weighing up to 60 tons, at a speed of lOOm / min from / to the container terminal. Since there are 20 container lanes per deck on prototype M, the terminal should be equipped with 40 AGVs loading / unloading at both ship ends, and another 40 AGVs loading / unloading at the terminal. The AGV loading / unloading cycle should match the ship's lift platform cycle for optimum complete cycle between the terminal and the container holds onboard, estimated ~ 12 minutes. In this case, the number of TEUs per cycle is 160 TEUs, which corresponds to ~ 800 TEU or CEU per hour. As both loading and unloading take place simultaneously, the combined loading and unloading rate is ~ 1,600 TEU or CEU per hour. The total time for combined / simultaneous loading and unloading is estimated to be 12 hours only.

[0052] This embodiment focuses on medium- to high-frequency routes where operational speed, mixed cargo capacity, and reduced port stay are essential for profitability. 4.4 Example Embodiment 2: Extra Large Size (XXL) with Heavy and Oversized Cargo

[0053] A large UniShip model designed for handling oversized and heavy cargoes in addition to standard containers, with features including: Enhanced hull strength to support heavy-duty Ro-Ro vehicles, construction machinery, and other oversized cargoes.

[0054] Additional automated systems for handling varied cargo types, ensuring secure placement and minimizing load shift risk.

[0055] Customized securing mechanisms for containers, such as built-in locking mechanisms that adjust based on cargo height and weight.

[0056] This model is suitable for long-haul routes and specialized cargo needs where high stability and safety are crucial.

[0057] 4.4.1 Heavy Cargo

[0058] Heavy cargo up to 60 tons in double-stacked Flat Rack Containers or Open Top Containers is loaded on the lower decks for stability considerations.

[0059] 4.4.2 Oversized Cargo, in height

[0060] Cargo with a height of 2.5-5m, but up to 2.4m wide and 12-13m long, is loaded in single 40-45ft Flat Rack Containers in container holds.

[0061] Alternatively, it can be loaded on the upper deck.

[0062] 4.4.3 Oversized Wheeled Cargo

[0063] Wheeled oversized cargo, such as large trucks or machines, with a width up to 10m wide, 5.5m high, and 25m long, is loaded without containers in container holds, using a different loading and unloading process.

[0064] Alternatively, it can be loaded on the upper deck.

[0065] 4.4.4 Oversized Unwheeled Cargo

[0066] Unwheeled oversized cargo, such as large propellers, machinery, wind turbine blades, up to 28m wide, 10m high (size of the cargo side hatches), and 75m long (platform size), is loaded without containers on the upper deck, using the ship's gantry cranes. .5 Reference Numerals : Half-cylindrical superstructure : Bridge a: Bosun's store b: Mooring equipment c: Chain lockers : Peak tank : Lift room : Engine room : Tank top (2-3m) : Lower Cargo Deck : Upper Cargo Deck 0: Cargo zone 1: Lift platform (lift) 2: Hatch cover, upper deck 3: Cargo hatch 3a: Cargo hatch cover 4: Ship gantry crane 5: Partial transverse bulkheads 6: Longitudinal bulkheads 7: Cargo decks 8: Cargo holds 0: Midship 1: Minimum draft 2: Maximum draft 3: Pipe tunnel 5: Wind wings / sails (* optional) 6: Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)7: Shore loading / unloading crane (loader)8: Loader boom support & guide rail 0: Lower hold deck 1: Upper hold deck 2: Deck longitudinals 3: Deck beams 4: Bulkhead frames 5: Caster wheels 6: Caster wheel U-guides 7: Pillar-guides 8: Stacking twist locks 9: Top latches 0: Side latches 5. Advantages and Industrial Applicability

[0067] The UniShip design presents multiple advantages:

[0068] Operational Flexibility: The ability to carry containers, vehicles, and bulk cargo on a single voyage reduces dependency on return ballast trips, enhancing fleet efficiency.

[0069] Increased Port Throughput: The dual-ended Ro-Ro system and automated container handling reduce port turnaround time, allowing the vessel to maximize utilization and maintain a high frequency of trips.

[0070] Environmental Sustainability: Solar panels and wind-assisted options reduce the vessel's carbon footprint, aligning with industry goals for sustainability.

[0071] Reduced Crew Requirements: The high degree of automation lowers crew dependency, cutting operational costs and addressing global crew shortages. Potentially, UniShip can be operated autonomously.

[0072] Enhanced Safety and Security: The fully enclosed structure offers better cargo protection from piracy, weather, and accidents, which minimizes insurance risks and operating costs.

[0073] UniShip design is highly applicable in industries such as container shipping, automotive transport, bulk logistics, and mixed cargo transport, providing a solution that meets the dynamic needs of global shipping in terms of efficiency, versatility, and environmental impact.

[0074] 6. Benefits

[0075] UniShip's innovative design yields significant economic / operational, safety, security, and environmental benefits.

[0076] 6.1 Economic / Operational Benefits

[0077] 6.1.1 Cargo versatility allows multiple cargo types per voyage, reducing specialized ship needs and minimizing ballast voyages.

[0078] 6.1.2 Reduced turnaround time reduces port time and associated costs, as well as off-hire time.

[0079] 6.1.3 Automatic container securing eliminates / reduces the need for onboard labor.

[0080] 6.1.4 Hull internal surface not in direct contact with the cargo reduces hull maintenance and repair costs, and extends the lifespan of the hull.

[0081] 6.1.5 Autonomous Operation reduces crew-related construction and operational costs.

[0082] 6.1.6 Generating solar and wind energy reduces operational costs.

[0083] 6.1.7 Avoiding loss of containers overboard.

[0084] 6.3.1.8 Reduced risk of piracy.

[0085] 6.1.9 Streamlined Port Operations because of faster loading / unloading rates, resulting in reduced port congestion and increased operational efficiency.

[0086] 6.1.10 Delivery of containerized cargo, rather than cargo in bulk, ready for immediate distribution is an added value to cargo owners and port authorities.

[0087] 6.1.11 Less construction costs because of standardization and modular construction.

[0088] 6.2 Safety Benefits

[0089] 6.2.1 Improved survivability in case of damage because of the extensive subdivision of UniShip's hull structure.

[0090] 6.2.2 Reduced risk of shift of cargo in severe weather conditions, as in the case of bulk or grain carriers, because the cargo is containerized, and the containers are secured.

[0091] 6.2.3 Mitigated consequences of accidents on board, due to the provided redundancy.

[0092] 6.2.4 Eliminated the risk of human error and accidents on board, in the case of autonomous operation. 6.3 Security Benefits

[0093] 6.3.1 Less risk of boarding by pirates, as UniShip is fully enclosed with a rounded superstructure.

[0094] 6.3.2 Less potential risk from port workers onboard, as UniShip is fully automated in loading, securing, and unloading of containers and vehicles, eliminating the need for human intervention onboard.

[0095] 6.4 Environmental Benefits

[0096] 6.4.1 Minimizing the risk of oil spills in the event of accidents due to UniShip extensive hull subdivision and containerized cargo.

[0097] 6.4.2 Protection Against Container Loss: The enclosed design protects against container loss in adverse weather conditions.

[0098] 6.4.3 Reduced ballast voyages and their negative impact on both air pollution and seawater ballast pollution.

[0099] 6.4.4 UniShip supports renewable energy possibilities (e.g., solar and wind generation on superstructure).

[0100] 6.4.5 Reduced turnaround time improves port efficiency and reduces waiting time.

[0101] The UniShip represents an evolution in vessel design, merging traditional Ro-Ro and container functionalities into a single, highly efficient, automated system. This innovative design enables carriers to optimize cargo operations, minimize port time, and reduce environmental impact, making UniShip a robust solution for the future of the maritime industry.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 28 May 2025 (28.05.2025)Claims for Patent ApplicationIndependent Claim1. An integrated system for autonomous container handling and securing on a fully enclosed rol l-on / rol l-off (Ro-Ro) vessel, designed to enable efficient transportation of diverse cargo types simultaneously, including:• Dual-ended container handling bays at the bow and stern with an overhead crane system featuring two Sliding-Integrated Spreader Rail (SISR) units, allowing simultaneous loading and unloading.• An internal roller-based container transport system (CRTS) for autonomous longitudinal movement of containers.• A container guiding and securing system with: o Longitudinal guide rails and lateral rollers for precise alignment of containers. o Retractable locking pins for restricting movement in three axes. o Deck-mounted compressible cushion pads to absorb dynamic forces and restrict displacement.• A modular vessel layout with longitudinal bulkheads and multiple unobstructed containers holds across several decks, enabling high-throughput container flow and accommodating diverse cargo types.Dependent Claims2. The system of claim 1, wherein the vessel's fully enclosed superstructure (Sky Shell) allows uninterrupted quay handling, protects cargo from adverse weather, and prevents unauthorized access, including piracy.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein specially designed container infrastructure capable of handling multiple-container batches, through a fully automated procedure, including simultaneous loading and unloading at both ends, enabling continuous and efficient shortcycle operations, resulting in high operational efficiency and reduced turnaround time.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein loading and unloading operations are executed concurrently at both the bow and stern through side hatches, to achieve higher efficiency and a seamless, effective interface with the shore-based gantry cranes.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the vessel increases vehicle transport capacity up to two to three times compared to conventional Ro-Ro vehicle carrier by improved space utilisation, while reducing onboard labour.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the longitudinal bulkheads span multiple decks up to the bulkhead deck, enhancing structural integrity, meeting stability requirements, and allowing unobstructed autonomous movement, as well as flexible cargo allocation, thereby facilitating efficient segregation for mixing of diverse cargo types.

7. The system of claim 1, where vehicle racks configured as open-frame containers, enabling automated handling like standard containers, reducing damage risk, and eliminating the need for onboard drivers.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein vehicles racks are transported and secured using the same infrastructure and automation system as standard containers, enabling unified logistics for mixed cargo.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the overhead crane's SISRs are designed to manage vertically stacked containers arranged in side-by-side and can slide containers both longitudinally and laterally.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the autonomous CRTS with self-propelled rollers for transporting double-stacked containers in guided longitudinal lanes, supported by vertical guides for alignment and securing.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein vertical guides are integrated into the CRTS frame, provide lateral alignment during motion and securing the containers in their final location.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the retractable locking pins and cushion pads replace manual lashing and securing of containers.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein oversized cargo and livestock in their dedicated containers, after fulfilling their specific requirements, can be stowed and secured on the Upper Deck and on the open decks above the bulkhead deck.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the vessel is designed with redundant operational elements like twin azimuth propulsion units, dual navigation bridges, and duplicated overhead crane systems to ensure uninterrupted operation.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein UniShip design provides for installing preassembled modular units for container transport, securing, and interfaces onboard, allowing retrofiting into existing vessels with minimal disruption.

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