Angled Guiding Lifting Element Connection Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lifting operations involving heavy containers and loads between vessels and platforms are hazardous due to unpredictable movements and require manual crew intervention, leading to risks of injury and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A lifting element connection device with a top surface featuring angled portions to guide the lifting element into a receiving area, a groove for cable movement, and a lifting element receiving portion for secure connection to a sling element, allowing for remote operation and reduced manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual connection of lifting element to sling assembly is used, then connection can be made, but crew safety deteriorates due to unpredictable load movements and slippery deck conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting element connection device acts as an intermediary between the lifting element and the sling assembly. It provides a stable, automated connection mechanism that eliminates the need for crew members to manually connect these components in hazardous conditions, thereby improving safety while maintaining operational capability
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device enables self-service connection where the lifting element automatically engages with the sling assembly through the device's receiving portion and guiding structures, eliminating the need for manual intervention and allowing the system to perform its own connection function
2Reliability
If automated connection device is implemented, then crew safety improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is segmented into distinct functional components: a top surface with angled guiding portions, a receiving area, and a lifting element receiving portion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while maintaining automated safety features
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes the weight and movement of the lifting element itself to drive the connection process. The angled portions guide the element automatically, and the receiving portion engages it through its own motion, eliminating the need for complex external actuation mechanisms
3Productivity
If manual connection procedure is used, then operational flexibility is maintained, but operational efficiency deteriorates due to time-consuming manual operations
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is positioned and ready in advance on the deck, with its receiving area and guiding portions prepared to immediately guide and connect the lifting element as it approaches. This preliminary positioning eliminates the time required for manual alignment and connection procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The device automatically performs the connection function as the lifting element passes through its receiving area, eliminating the need for manual intervention and significantly reducing the time required for connection operations
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
A lifting element connection device (1; 1') for connecting a lifting element (8) to a sling element (4) suspended from a cable (9), the lifting element connection device (1; 1') comprising: a top surface (5) having at least one angled portion (6) for guiding the lifting element (8) towards a receiving area (7); a lifting element receiving portion (10) configured for holding the sling element (4); wherein the lifting element receiving portion (10) is further configured for receiving the lifting element (8) from the receiving area (7) and providing a connection between the lifting element (8) and the sling element (4) when the lifting element (8) is positioned in the lifting element receiving portion (10).