Crane Tip Sensor System for Heave Compensation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In offshore cargo loading/unloading scenarios, existing systems face challenges in maintaining cargo stability due to independent movements of the crane and the target vessel, leading to increased complexity and costs under turbulent sea conditions, where traditional methods struggle to compensate for heave motions effectively.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system with a camera and range measurement device is deployed at the crane tip to continuously monitor and compensate for the distance between the cargo and the target vessel's surface, providing real-time data for heave compensation and enabling the crane operator to maintain a stable load position despite independent movements of both the crane and the vessel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional heave compensation methods are used, then cargo stability is partially maintained, but the system complexity and operational costs increase under turbulent sea conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical heave compensation systems with a visual tracking system using cameras and image processing. The system captures images of the target vessel and cargo, automatically calculates their positions and orientations, and provides guidance signals to the crane operator, eliminating the need for complex mechanical sensors and compensation mechanisms while maintaining cargo stability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates visual copies (images) of the target vessel and cargo using cameras mounted on the crane. These visual copies are processed through image recognition algorithms to extract position and orientation data, replacing direct mechanical measurement systems and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining accurate tracking
2Ease of operation
If skilled operators manually control the crane, then cargo positioning is achieved, but the workload and potential for human error increase in rough sea conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated feedback system where cameras continuously capture images of the target vessel and cargo, image processing algorithms automatically calculate position and orientation deviations, and guidance signals are generated in real-time. This closed-loop feedback system reduces operator workload by providing automated guidance while improving reliability through consistent, error-free measurements and calculations
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-measurement and self-assessment by automatically capturing images, processing them through recognition algorithms, and generating positioning data without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by autonomously tracking both the target vessel and cargo positions and calculating their relative movements, reducing dependence on human operators
3Productivity
If maximum lifting capacity is used in rough seas, then operational efficiency decreases due to reduced allowable load weights, but productivity is maintained only at lower capacities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic positioning and tracking that adapts to changing sea conditions in real-time. The camera system continuously monitors the relative motion between the crane, target vessel, and cargo, automatically adjusting tracking parameters and providing real-time guidance to maintain safe operations. This dynamic adaptation allows optimized lifting capacities rather than requiring reduced capacities, maintaining productivity while ensuring safety
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention generally relates to a system, device and a method for loading and/or unloading a cargo to and/or from a second vehicle where a loading device is mounted on a first vehicle. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method and a device for a sensor system (with sensor platform deployed at the crane tip) used for heave compensation and 3D positioning of cargo and second vehicle during loading and unloading process of cargo to/from a ship where a crane is mounted on an oil rig.