Pier Hatch Control System for Secure Public Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing port areas, isolated by wires and barbed wires, are not accessible to the public, limiting their use for public benefit due to stringent security regulations, which hinders their utilization in densely populated cities with expanded infrastructure.

Innovation Solution

A pier hatch control system that creates a temporary bonded zone and ISPS area by raising a steel and concrete-coated hatch from the ground, equipped with hydraulic actuators, a control center, and security poles with cameras and illumination, allowing controlled access and separation of zones while maintaining security.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If port areas are isolated by wires and barbed wires to ensure security and bonded space status, then security and legal compliance are improved, but public accessibility and public benefit are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidpublic accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The hatch structure transitions from a static barrier to a dynamic system that can change its state between open and closed positions. The hydraulic actuator enables the hatch to rise vertically from the ground, creating a barrier only when security is required, while allowing public access when the hatch remains flush with the ground surface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the physical parameter of the hatch position (flush with ground vs. raised vertical barrier) to control accessibility. When the hatch is flush with the ground, the area is accessible to the public; when raised to a vertical position, it creates a physical barrier that secures the bonded area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If large areas are completely closed off for bonded area status, then security and legal compliance are improved, but public interest and urban integration are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebonded area securityVSAvoidpublic benefit utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the bonded area control into discrete hatch units that can be independently operated. Instead of closing entire large areas, only specific hatch locations are raised to create barriers, allowing the rest of the area to remain accessible and useful for public activities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The control system acts as an intermediary between security requirements and public access needs. The microprocessor-based control center coordinates the hatch operations, determining which hatches should be raised based on security conditions, thereby mediating between the need for secured bonded areas and public accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If traditional wire and barbed wire barriers are used, then security is improved, but aesthetic quality and public acceptance are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity barrier functionVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces the traditional mechanical wire and barbed wire barrier system with a hydraulic actuation system that raises solid hatch covers from the ground. This substitution provides equivalent or superior security functionality while eliminating the aesthetic deficiencies of wire and barbed wire barriers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The hatch structure utilizes composite construction with steel reinforcement embedded in concrete, combining the strength and durability of steel with the aesthetic and weather-resistant properties of concrete. This composite material approach creates a secure barrier that is also visually acceptable in urban environments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

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 the creation of accessible, secure, and flexible bonded areas in public spaces, such as cruise ports, enhancing port activities and public benefit by allowing controlled access while adhering to legal regulations.

Implementation Method 1

a hydraulic power unit (30) connected to the actuator (20) and providing hydraulic power transmission to the actuators (20)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic power transmission: Hydraulic Press

Data Source

PatentEP4115020B1Pier hatch control system
Publication Date: 2024.10.30 GALATAPORT ISTANBUL LIMAN ISLETMECILIGI & YATIRIMLARI ANONIM SIRKETI
  • EP4115020B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4115020B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The invention relates to hatch control system providing creation of temporary bonded zones and ISPS (International Port Plants and Vessel security) area meeting legislations in order to build a barrier from the ground used in broad areas accessible by public and particularly in cruise ports. The invention is characterized by comprising; a hatch (10) containing concrete coating (12) having steel construction profiles (11) thereon and located in parallel to the ground thus raising upward from one surface on ground and opening-closing vertically, an actuator (20) connected to inside of the cover (10) and providing opening-closing of the cover (10) by means of rotation motion, a hydraulic power unit (30) connected to the actuator (20) and providing power transmission to the actuators (20), control center (40) connected to hydraulic power unit (30) and sending command to the hydraulic power unit (30) to provide opening-closing of the hatches (10).