Autonomous Cargo Vessel Navigation Using Ocean Currents
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for cultivating and transporting seaweed farms to reduce atmospheric CO2 are inefficient due to high energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from ships, necessitating a low-energy, autonomous system that utilizes ocean currents for navigation.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous vessel equipped with a hull, communication, and navigation modules, powered by solar energy, which navigates using ocean currents and low-power electric motors to transport cargo, such as seaweed farms, while minimizing energy use and emissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If traditional ships are used to transport seaweed farms, then cargo can be transported, but greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous vessel uses solar panels to generate its own electricity and employs low-power electric motors that consume minimal energy, allowing the system to service itself without external fuel supplies while maintaining transport functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional combustion engine propulsion with electric motors powered by solar energy, substituting a high-emission mechanical system with a clean electrical system that achieves the same cargo transport function without greenhouse gas emissions
2Use of energy by moving object
If low-power electric motors are used for propulsion, then energy consumption decreases, but propulsion capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The vessel dynamically adjusts its propulsion needs by utilizing ocean currents for primary movement, employing low-power electric motors only for minor course adjustments and positioning, thereby maintaining adequate propulsion capability while minimizing energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces ocean currents as an intermediary force that provides the majority of propulsion, allowing the electric motors to function as auxiliary devices rather than primary propulsion sources, thus achieving both low energy consumption and sufficient propulsion capability
3Ease of operation
If autonomous navigation is implemented, then personnel costs decrease, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous navigation system integrates multiple functions including satellite communication for location tracking, solar power generation for energy supply, and automated control for navigation, allowing a single integrated system to perform multiple operations that would otherwise require separate systems and personnel
Solution Approach 2:
The vessel employs satellite communication modules that continuously provide location data and environmental information back to the control system, enabling automated real-time navigation adjustments without human intervention while managing system complexity through closed-loop control
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by leveraging ocean currents for navigation, enabling efficient and sustainable transportation of seaweed farms and other cargo, promoting CO2 reduction without significant atmospheric impact.
Implementation Method 1
The autonomous vessel comprises a hull adapted to navigate a body of water... powered by solar energy
Implementation Method 2
utilizing existing ocean currents to the maximum extent possible for navigation
Implementation Method 3
In some embodiments the hull is sealed to prevent water from entering the hull, whereby buoyancy is ensured
Data Source
AI summary
An autonomous vessel and method for transporting a cargo from an origin to a destination utilizing water currents, a satellite location system, and a satellite communication system includes a hull for navigating a body of water. A communication module is adapted for wireless communication with local contacts and the satellite communication system. A propulsion module is adapted to propel the hull through the body of water and preferably includes one or more relatively low-power electric motors. A navigation module is adapted to steer the hull towards a next waypoint. The navigation module preferably includes a rudder control system and is connected with a location module that is itself adapted for communication with the satellite location system to find a current location of the hull on the body of water. A controller is adapted for controlling the modules, sending information, and for receiving commands and information.