Crane-Integrated Hatch Cover Stacking System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hatch covers from ships often need to be removed and stored on docks, breakwaters, or rafts during loading and unloading operations, occupying valuable space that could be used for other critical activities such as cargo handling and equipment transfer.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a crane with a base integrated into its body to stack and store hatch covers, allowing them to be removed from ships, transported, and returned without needing external storage on docks or rafts, utilizing a gantry crane with an elevated bridge and lateral horizontal beams for support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If hatch covers are removed from ships and stored on docks, breakwaters, or rafts, then they can be easily accessed and stored, but they occupy valuable operational space that could be used for cargo handling and equipment transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the hatch cover storage function with the crane structure by integrating a base into the crane body. This combination allows the crane to serve dual purposes: loading/unloading cargo and storing hatch covers, thereby eliminating the need for separate storage areas on docks while maintaining operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The crane is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating a base that can store hatch covers. This universal structure allows the same equipment to perform both cargo handling operations and hatch cover storage, maximizing the utilization of port space and equipment
2Ease of operation
If hatch covers are stored on docks or rafts, then they are readily accessible, but the area is unavailable for other critical port operations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the storage function with the crane structure, merging two separate functions (cargo handling and hatch cover storage) into one integrated system, thereby preserving port operational area while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the vertical dimension by stacking hatch covers on the crane base, transitioning from horizontal space occupation on docks to vertical space utilization on the crane structure, thereby preserving valuable horizontal port operational area
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a system (10) for loading and unloading during port operations and equipment for supporting hatchway covers (11) of marine-vessel holds, comprising: a loading and unloading crane (2); and a base located in the body of the crane for supporting and stacking the hatchway covers (11). The invention also relates to a method for removing, stacking and returning hatchway covers in said system (1) for loading and unloading during port operations and equipment for supporting hatchway covers (11) of marine-vessels holds, comprising: i)having said system (1) available, ii) removing the hatchway cover from the hold and moving it using the carriage (9) of the crane; iii) transferring the cover and placing it on the base installed in the body of the crane; and iv) returning the cover to the vessel, transferring same from said base to the vessel, once the loading and/or unloading operation has been completed.