Barge Complex Configuration Determination Using Angular and Ranging Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current barge navigation methods rely heavily on visual observation, making it challenging to determine the configuration of a barge complex, especially in inclement weather, which can lead to delays and financial losses due to the inability to accurately navigate through locks or under bridges without risking collisions.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising targets on barges, an angular measurement device, and a ranging device that determines horizontal and vertical angles and distances to calculate the location of the barge complex's corners, allowing for precise navigation even in adverse conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If visual observation methods are used to determine barge complex configuration, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but navigation is impossible in fog or inclement weather and requires multiple workers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual observation methods with electronic measurement devices including angular measurement devices and ranging devices. These devices use optical and electromagnetic principles to automatically determine the positions of barge corners, eliminating dependence on human visual estimation and enabling operation in all weather conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces targets as intermediary objects attached to barges at specific positions. These targets serve as reference points for the measurement devices, enabling precise determination of barge configuration without requiring direct visual observation of the entire complex.
2Measurement precision
If multiple workers are positioned at each corner to transmit position estimates, then configuration determination is possible, but the system requires multiple workers and adequate visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the barge complex to determine its own configuration automatically through electronic measurement devices and targets. The system self-measures corner positions using angular and ranging data, eliminating the need for human workers to manually estimate and communicate positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual measurement and communication system with automated electronic measurement devices. The angular measurement device and ranging device automatically calculate corner positions, providing precise measurements without requiring human intervention or visibility.
3Reliability
If barge complexes delay trips to wait for weather improvement, then collision risk is reduced, but financial losses occur due to delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual navigation with electronic measurement systems that provide accurate corner position data regardless of weather conditions. This enables continuous operation and eliminates weather-related delays while maintaining safety through precise configuration determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous navigation operations by providing weather-independent measurement capabilities. The electronic measurement system operates reliably in all conditions, allowing barge complexes to maintain scheduled trips without weather-related interruptions or delays.
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
Enables accurate determination of the barge complex's configuration from a single position, reducing the need for multiple workers and improving navigation safety and efficiency by providing precise corner locations, thus minimizing delays and damage risks.
Implementation Method 1
a ranging device coupled to the angular measurement device, the ranging device configured to determine a distance between the at least one target and the ranging device
Implementation Method 2
an angular measurement device positioned in a line of sight with the at least one target, the angular measurement device configured to determine at least one of a horizontal and a vertical angle between the at least one target and the angular measurement device
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a system for determining the configuration of a plurality of barges in a barge complex is described. The system includes at least one target positioned on predetermined ones of the plurality of barges, an angular measurement device positioned in a line of sight with the at least one target, the angular measurement device configured to determine at least one of a horizontal and a vertical angle between the at least one target and the angular measurement device, and a ranging device coupled to the angular measurement device, the ranging device configured to determine a distance between the at least one target and the ranging device.