Automated Cargo Transfer System for Vessel Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Loading and offloading cargo from supply vessels is time-consuming and hazardous, requiring multiple crew members and labor-intensive processes, especially during rough weather.
Innovation Solution
An automated cargo transfer system utilizing a dynamic positioning system, crane hook system, and crane automation system to load and unload cargo, minimizing crew exposure and reducing labor through precise positioning and orientation of the watercraft and cargo lifting devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual cargo handling methods are used with multiple crew members, then cargo can be loaded and offloaded, but the process is time-consuming and hazardous to crew members
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the automated cargo transfer system performs cargo handling tasks independently without requiring crew members to be on deck. The dynamic positioning system automatically maintains vessel position, the crane automation system operates the crane, and the hook mechanism autonomously interfaces with cargo, eliminating human exposure to hazardous deck environments while maintaining efficient cargo transfer operations
2Productivity
If multiple workers are deployed for cargo handling, then cargo transfer can be performed, but labor requirements and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical operations with automated systems. The dynamic positioning system substitutes manual position-keeping operations, the crane automation system replaces manual crane operation, and the automated hook mechanism eliminates the need for manual cargo handling. This substitution of mechanical systems with automated control systems reduces labor requirements while maintaining full cargo transfer capability
3Reliability
If automated systems are implemented for cargo transfer, then crew safety and labor requirements improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs multi-functional integrated components that perform multiple operations simultaneously. The dynamic positioning system handles both vessel position control and orientation. The crane automation system integrates hook mechanism control, cargo positioning, and transfer operations. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate systems needed, thereby managing overall system complexity while maintaining high automation levels and crew safety
Data Source
AI summary
An automated cargo transfer system is used, in conjunction with a crane, to load cargo onto, and unload cargo from, the deck of a watercraft. An example automated cargo transfer system comprises: a dynamic positioning system installed on the watercraft; a crane hook system installed on the crane; a crane automation system configured to automate the operation of the crane; and a load plan comprising: data that identifies all cargo being transported by the watercraft, data used by the dynamic positioning system to actively position and orient the watercraft during loading and unloading of the watercraft, and data used by the crane hook system to actively position and orient it's hook mechanism during loading and unloading of the watercraft. The automated cargo transfer system is configured to actively track the location of the watercraft, the hook mechanism of the crane hook system, and cargo. The automated cargo transfer system is also configured to actively position and orient the watercraft and the hook mechanism of the crane hook system based on the location and weight of cargo being loaded onto, and unloaded from, the watercraft.