Ballast Management Load Transfer Device for Aerostats

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing load transfer devices for aerostats are complex and require handling of lifting cables during loading and unloading, and do not ensure a constant payload weight, posing safety concerns and inefficiencies in payload handling.

Innovation Solution

A load transfer device with an upper lifting part and a lower payload support part, featuring a liquid reservoir and a fastener system that allows for secure attachment and detachment without manual handling of cables, using the same lifting slings for descent and ascent, and enabling ballast modification for aerostat stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a complex load transfer device with anchors and auxiliary winches is used (as in prior art DE 10148589), then the payload can be transferred, but the device complexity increases and manual handling of cables is required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepayload handlingVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The load transfer device is divided into an upper part (attached to lifting cables) and a lower part (supporting the payload), connected by a fastening system. This segmentation allows independent handling of each part, eliminating the need for complex auxiliary mechanisms and manual cable manipulation during payload transfer.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fastening system automatically locks when the payload weight exceeds a predetermined force, and automatically unlocks when the load is removed. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual operation of anchors and auxiliary winches, simplifying the overall device while maintaining safety.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If the aerostat does not return to land after each payload operation, then operational efficiency improves, but the payload weight varies which compromises safety

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidaerostat safety

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening system's locking parameter is changed from a fixed mechanical state to a load-dependent state. It automatically locks when payload weight exceeds a threshold and unlocks when the load is removed, enabling the aerostat to maintain safety while operating continuously without returning to land for manual reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If manual handling of lifting cables is required during loading and unloading, then operational control is maintained, but operational time increases and safety risks arise

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecable handlingVSAvoidoperational time

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening system performs automatic locking and unlocking based on payload weight, eliminating the need for manual cable handling during payload transfer operations. This self-service mechanism significantly reduces operational time while maintaining safety through automatic load-dependent control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Reliability

If a fastening system with automatic locking based on load weight is used, then safety is improved and manual intervention is reduced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefastening reliabilityVSAvoidfastening system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The complex mechanical control systems (anchors, auxiliary winches) are replaced with a simpler fastening system that uses basic mechanical principles - a locking mechanism activated by payload weight threshold. This substitution achieves automatic safety control with minimal complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Ensures safe and efficient transfer of payloads by maintaining constant load weight, simplifying operations, and allowing for simultaneous handling of multiple loads during a single trip, with automatic unlocking and locking mechanisms for enhanced safety and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a liquid reservoir (6) and an orifice (7) for filling or emptying the reservoir (6)... The load transfer device (1) makes it possible to carry out the load transfer at ground level... carrying out filling and emptying at ground level

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBallast:

Data Source

PatentEP3980329B1Device and method for ballast management

Publication Date: 2024.01.17 FLYING WHALES

Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 4a~4b

AI summary

Load transfer device (1) for transferring a useful load (5), using an on-board crane, between an aerostat and the ground, comprising an upper lifting portion (2) which is designed to be attached to lifting cables (3) and a lower portion (4) which is for supporting the useful load and is designed to be attached to the useful load. According to the invention, the upper lifting portion comprises a liquid tank (6) and an opening (7) for filling or emptying the tank and the lower portion is attached in a detachable manner to the upper portion by means of an attachment member (8) which has a locked position, in which the upper portion is attached to the lower portion, and an unlocked position, in which the lower portion is released.