Delta Anchor With Triangular Flukes for Penetration and Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional anchors are inefficient and environmentally harmful due to their inability to effectively anchor in various types of holdings, tendency to roll over, and potential for self-release, which can lead to vessel instability and safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A delta-shaped anchor with triangular flukes and an arcuate shank member that allows for easy penetration, stabilization against yaw and roll, and self-righting capabilities, featuring cutting edges and apertures for reduced resistance and enhanced holding power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional anchors are used in different types of holdings, then anchoring is possible, but holding efficiency is reduced and environmental harm increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor is designed with a universal base member configuration that can effectively anchor in multiple types of holdings including sand, mud, rock, and coral. The base member comprises a shank and a fluke assembly that can penetrate and embed in various substrates, providing reliable holding efficiency across different environmental conditions without requiring multiple specialized anchor types.
2Ease of operation
If conventional anchors are disturbed, then they may roll over, but this reduces operational efficiency and causes environmental disturbance
Solution Approach 1:
The base member is designed with an asymmetric configuration where the fluke assembly is positioned at an angle to the shank, creating a stable orientation that prevents rolling over. The fluke has a specific angular arrangement relative to the shank axis that ensures the anchor maintains its correct orientation when embedded in the holding, preventing it from laying on its side and causing environmental disturbance.
3Reliability
If anchors work free from holding, then vessel stability is compromised, but detection is difficult when crew are occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor incorporates a retention detection mechanism that provides feedback to the vessel operator when the anchor works free from its holding. This may include visual, auditory, or electronic signals that alert the crew immediately when the anchor releases, ensuring vessel stability is maintained and enabling quick response even when crew members are occupied with other tasks.
4Reliability
If anchors are designed for penetration, then holding power is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor design concentrates mass and penetrating capability at the leading end of the base member, specifically at the fluke assembly, while keeping the shank relatively lightweight. The fluke is designed with high-strength materials and geometry optimized for penetration, while other portions of the anchor use lighter construction, achieving effective holding power without excessive overall weight.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c
Figure 2~4
AI summary
An anchor includes a base member (10), having a leading end or toe (26), associated therewith, the base member (10) being formed from opposed, interconnected substantially triangular shaped flukes (20, 30), and a shank member (100) extending upwardly therefrom and attached thereto. The lateral and rear free edge of each fluke (20, 30) have extensions (22, 32 and 23, 33) associated therewith and depending angularly thereform. All free edges of the anchor are other than blunt. The base member (10) includes one or more apertures, slots or discontinuing extending therethrough.