Reconfigurable Vessel Support Stack for Keel Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dry dock support structures obstruct access to the keel of vessels and are inefficient in removal, leading to time-consuming processes due to corrosion and uneven surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A support stack with a reconfigurable intermediate operating layer that allows for adjustable separation, lateral movement, and load-bearing capabilities, facilitating efficient installation and removal of support blocks, using hydraulic jacks and modular components to maintain stability and load capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional support blocks are used to support the vessel, then the vessel is stable and supported, but access to the keel is obstructed and removal is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The support block is divided into multiple independent components: a base block, an intermediate operating layer with timber layers and steel wedges, and an upper support block. This segmentation allows the intermediate layer to be removed independently to access the keel, while the base and upper blocks remain in place to maintain vessel support stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate operating layer, which includes timber layers and steel wedges, is designed to be extractable from between the base block and upper support block. This extracted layer provides access to the keel for survey and painting work without requiring removal of the entire support block structure.
2Reliability
If steel wedges are used to secure support blocks, then the blocks are stable, but corrosion makes wedge removal difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Timber layers are introduced as an intermediary material between the steel wedges and the support blocks. The timber layers distribute the load and reduce direct contact between steel components, thereby reducing corrosion. The timber can be easily removed and replaced without the difficulty of extracting corroded steel wedges.
Solution Approach 2:
The timber layers in the intermediate operating layer are designed to be consumable components that can be easily discarded and replaced. When corrosion or wear occurs, the timber layers can be removed and replaced without the need to extract and restore steel wedges, significantly reducing maintenance time and effort.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two docking support configurations are provided to access different parts of the keel, then complete keel access is achieved, but the docking process becomes complex and requires multiple phases
Solution Approach 1:
The support block structure incorporates an intermediate operating layer that can be dynamically added or removed based on maintenance requirements. This dynamic configuration allows a single support block setup to provide both full support and keel access functionality, eliminating the need for multiple fixed configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate operating layer serves multiple functions: it provides structural support when in place, enables keel access when removed, and can be easily reinstalled. This multi-functional component allows a single support block configuration to handle both support and maintenance access requirements, replacing the need for multiple specialized configurations.
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 rapid and efficient removal and installation of support blocks with minimal disruption to the vessel's position, reducing time and maintenance costs while maintaining structural integrity and load-bearing capacity.
Implementation Method 1
a compressible contact layer supported on an upper surface of the upper support block, the compressible contact layer for contacting an undersurface of the vessel
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A support structure for supporting a vessel. The support structure includes a pair of support blocks mounted one on top of the other with a reconfigurable intermediate operating layer in between. The intermediate operating layer can be operable to adjust a separation between the support blocks, permit relative lateral movement between the support blocks and act as a load bearing structure.