Remote Connection Mechanism for Underwater Bulkhead Lifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for lifting and transporting bulkheads in underwater environments are unsafe and inefficient, relying on mechanical connections and manual intervention by divers in low-visibility conditions.
Innovation Solution
A remote connection system that includes an attachment mechanism with a lock member and a plate, allowing for remote coupling and uncoupling of a beam assembly to a load using a remote actuator and extended line, eliminating the need for manual intervention underwater.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual intervention by divers is used to position bulkheads and operate crane cables, then the system can function in underwater environments, but the safety and efficiency are compromised due to low visibility and hazardous conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated remote control system. The crane operator can control the crane cables and bulkhead positioning from a safe location above water using a remote control mechanism, eliminating the need for divers to manually handle cables and position bulkheads in hazardous underwater conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a remote control system as an intermediary between the operator and the underwater equipment. This intermediary system allows the operator to control the crane and bulkhead positioning mechanisms without direct contact with the hazardous underwater environment, thereby improving safety while maintaining operational capability.
2Ease of operation
If purely mechanical connections are used for underwater operations, then the system can function without complex controls, but the ease of operation and safety are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is divided into discrete modular components including a connector with positioning features, a receiver with corresponding engagement features, and a locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function independently, making the overall system easier to operate remotely while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism incorporates self-aligning and self-locking features that automatically engage when the connector and receiver are brought into proximity. The positioning features on the connector automatically align with the receiver, and the locking mechanism engages automatically, reducing the complexity of remote operation while ensuring reliable connection.
3Productivity
If divers are deployed to facilitate bulkhead positioning and cable management, then the operation can be completed, but the efficiency is reduced due to low visibility and safety concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces diver-based mechanical operations with an automated remote control system that can operate the crane and bulkhead positioning mechanisms. This substitution eliminates the need for divers to work in hazardous underwater conditions, thereby improving both safety and operational efficiency by removing the limiting factors of low visibility and diver safety concerns.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control system acts as an intermediary that allows the operator to control all underwater operations from a safe, visible location above water. This intermediary system eliminates the need for divers to be present in the hazardous underwater environment, thereby improving productivity by removing the constraints of diver safety and low visibility while maintaining full operational capability.
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment mechanism is configured to receive a connector member including a connector opening. The attachment mechanism includes a housing, an actuator mechanism, and a plate. The housing defines a cavity which selectively receives the connector member. The actuator mechanism includes a lock member movable between an extended position, in which a portion of the lock member extends into the cavity, and a retracted position. The plate is movably mounted in the cavity and movable between a first position, in which the plate prevents the lock member from moving to the extended position, and a second position, in which the plate allows the lock member to move to the extended position. When the connector member is received in the cavity, the plate is moved from the first position to the second position and the lock member is at least partially received by the connector opening.