2-DOF Hinged Gangway Column for Offshore Vessel Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transferring cargo and personnel to offshore constructions, such as using hoisting cranes and gangways, are limited by vessel movements, weight capacity, and suitability for unmanned platforms, especially during heavy weather conditions, and are not efficient for heavy loads.
Innovation Solution
A vessel with a telescopically extendable gangway and a 2-DOF hinge connection that allows the gangway column to maintain a desired vertical orientation, supported by force actuators, enabling stable and lightweight construction for transferring heavy loads during adverse weather.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed supporting column is used to maintain vertical orientation, then stability is improved, but the device becomes too heavy and complex to counteract vessel movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the fixed supporting column with a movable column that can actively adapt its position. The column is equipped with positioning means including force actuators that enable it to counteract vessel movements dynamically, maintaining vertical orientation without requiring excessive structural weight or complexity.
2Force
If heavy-duty gangway construction is used to handle heavy cargo loads, then load capacity is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the gangway and column to move and adapt dynamically during operation. The positioning means with force actuators allow the system to handle heavy cargo loads (e.g., 2 tons or more) without requiring a permanently heavy or complex structure, as the active positioning provides stability only when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes passive mechanical strength with active mechanical control. Instead of relying on a heavy, rigid gangway structure to handle loads, the system uses force actuators and positioning means to actively stabilize the gangway, replacing the need for excessive structural mass with controlled mechanical action.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hydraulic positioning systems are used to adjust gangway position, then adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the positioning means to perform multiple functions. The force actuators and positioning system not only adjust the gangway position but also actively counteract vessel movements, maintain vertical orientation, and stabilize the column, consolidating multiple functions into a single integrated system rather than separate mechanisms.
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 efficient and safe transfer of heavy loads and personnel across varying heights and weather conditions, allowing for lighter vessel construction and improved stability, even in heavy seas.
Implementation Method 1
The column is supported by and connected to the vessel by means of a specific type of second hinge connection. This second hinge connection is chosen such that it is able to have the vessel rotate relative to the column in both a first rotation direction around an x-axis as well as in a second rotation direction around an y-axis
Implementation Method 2
Positioning means are provided which comprise force actuators between the vessel and the column for swivelling the column around the x- and y-axes of the second hinge connection relative to the vessel
Data Source
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AI summary
A vessel 1 with bridging means comprising an upright column 3, a gangway 15, a first hinge connection 16 for hingedly connecting the gangway to the column, coupling means 32 at or near a free end of the gangway for coupling the gangway to an offshore construction 20, and one or more gangway support organs 18. The column is supported by and connected to the vessel by means of a second hinge connection 4 designed to allow the vessel to rotate relative to the column in a first rotation direction around an x-axis and in a second rotation direction around an y-axis, wherein the x- and y-axes extend substantially horizontal and orthogonal relative to each other. Positioning means are provided which comprise force actuators 11 between the vessel and the column for swivelling the column around the second hinge connection relative to the vessel around said x- and y-axis.