Gangplank Coupling Element for Marine Vessel Pipe Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for coupling a vessel to a stationary object face difficulties due to the coupling element's movement under wave influence, making it challenging to place and maintain a secure connection.
Innovation Solution
A telescopingly extendable gangplank with a coupling element that can rotate and adjust to enclose a horizontal pipe, featuring a supporting edge and elastic means for alignment, clamps for secure enclosure, and sensors for load detection to prevent overloading and ensure stable coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the coupling element is placed around the pipe, then coupling is achieved, but the coupling element constantly moves under wave influence making it difficult to place
Solution Approach 1:
The gangplank is first placed on the horizontal pipe to provide a stable base, and the coupling element is positioned in readiness. The support structure is preliminarily arranged to stabilize the gangplank before the coupling operation begins, ensuring the coupling element can be easily placed without wave interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The horizontal pipe acts as an intermediary element between the gangplank and the stationary object. By enclosing this pipe, the coupling element creates a stable connection point that reduces the impact of wave movements on the coupling process.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the gangplank is made rigid for stability, then coupling stability improves, but adaptability to different pipe positions and angles decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The gangplank incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow it to adapt to different pipe positions and angles while maintaining stability during coupling. The structure can dynamically adjust its configuration to match the horizontal pipe's orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The gangplank's geometric parameters (angles, positions) can be changed to accommodate different pipe configurations. The coupling element can rotate and adjust its orientation to match the pipe's direction, allowing the same stable structure to work with varying positions.
3Reliability
If the coupling element is made large to enclose the pipe securely, then coupling reliability improves, but difficulty in placing around the moving pipe increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gangplank is first positioned on the pipe to stabilize the area, and the coupling element is prepared in advance. This preliminary positioning creates a controlled environment that facilitates easier installation of the coupling element.
Solution Approach 2:
The horizontal pipe serves as a mediator that, when enclosed by the coupling element, provides a stable anchor point. This reduces the effective size requirement of the coupling element while maintaining secure coupling.
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
Facilitates easy and reliable coupling of the vessel to the object by stabilizing the gangplank and pipe connection, allowing for flexible positioning and preventing damage from overloading.
Implementation Method 1
said coupling element is provided with elastic means for taking said coupling element into a central position
Implementation Method 2
said coupling element has a clamp for enclosing the pipe in a coupled state
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for making a walkway from a vessel to an object which is more or less stationary relative to the vessel and has a gangplank attached to the vessel. The gangplank has a top surface and near the end of the gangplank a coupling element for enclosing a horizontal pipe attached to the stationary object. According to the invention, the coupling element is fitted below the top surface, and near the coupling element on the underside in the longitudinal direction of the gangplank the gangplank has a narrow supporting edge for supporting the gangplank on the pipe. The invention also comprises a method for the use of the device.