Marine Vessel Auto-Docking Using Vision Mapping and Touch Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional marine vessel docking systems require skilled operators and multiple assistants, especially in adverse weather conditions, and lack interactive systems for precise maneuvering, increasing the risk of damage to vessels and surrounding areas.
Innovation Solution
An automatic location placement system using a touch screen interactive monitor, vision ranging photography, infrared vision, laser scanners, inertial measurement units, and a central processing unit to guide the propulsion system for precise positioning and maintenance of a marine vessel relative to a dock or external object, operating independently without human operators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional manual docking systems are used with skilled operators and multiple assistants, then the marine vessel can be maneuvered to a desired location, but the operation becomes complex and requires multiple human operators especially in adverse weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables the marine vessel to perform docking operations autonomously without requiring skilled operators or multiple assistants. The automatic docking system independently executes the entire docking sequence, from initial approach to final positioning, by processing sensor data and controlling propulsion systems automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical human-operated docking system with an automated electronic control system. Sensors, processors, and actuators substitute for human operators and assistants, eliminating the need for multiple people to manually maneuver the vessel while reducing operational complexity.
2Reliability
If manual maneuvering with multiple assistants is used in congested areas, then the vessel can be positioned safely, but the risk of damage increases with larger vessel sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously receives feedback from multiple sensors including cameras, LIDAR, and proximity sensors to monitor the vessel's position and surrounding environment in real-time. This feedback loop enables the control system to make precise adjustments during docking operations, improving safety and reducing damage risk in congested areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking system is divided into multiple independent functional modules including obstacle detection, path planning, propulsion control, and positioning systems. This segmentation allows each module to specialize in specific tasks, improving overall reliability and enabling safer operation in congested environments through coordinated functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional docking systems are used in adverse weather conditions, then docking can be performed, but the risk associated with moving operation highly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its operation based on real-time environmental conditions detected by sensors. The control algorithm modifies propulsion commands and positioning strategies in response to changing weather conditions, maintaining reliability while adapting to adverse environments throughout the docking process.
4Measurement precision
If skilled operators and local harbor pilots are used for large marine vessels, then precise maneuvering can be achieved, but the need for multiple assistants and tugboats increases complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses visual sensors and LIDAR to create digital representations of the surrounding environment and vessel position. These optical copies enable the control system to perceive and navigate the docking environment with precision comparable to human operators, eliminating the need for multiple assistants and external tugboats.
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 precise and safe automatic docking and positioning of marine vessels in various weather conditions, reducing the need for skilled operators and assistants, and maintaining the vessel's position despite wind and water currents.
Implementation Method 1
a vision ranging photograph system generating at least one optical feed
Implementation Method 2
at least one infrared vision system
Implementation Method 3
at least one ranger laser scanner
Implementation Method 4
at least one inertial measurement unit
Data Source
AI summary
A method of automatically moving, by an automatic location placement system, a marine vessel includes receiving, by a central processing unit, from a vision ranging photography system, at least one optical feed including data providing a mapping of an environment surrounding a marine vessel. The method includes displaying, by the central processing unit, on a touch screen monitor, the mapping of the environment. The method includes receiving, by the central processing unit, from the touch screen monitor, target location data. The method includes directing, by the central processing unit, at least one element of a propulsion system of the marine vessel, to move the marine vessel to the targeted location, using the mapping.