Ship Transfer Winch System for Safe Cargo Handling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transferring goods to and from unmanned platforms, especially in adverse weather conditions, are hazardous due to reliance on manual handling via small boats, which increases risk during wave and weather-related challenges.
Innovation Solution
A transfer system utilizing a single cable winch system with a tensioning winch and transfer winch, featuring a retractable and rotatable foundation element, cable tension controller, position controller, emergency overload release, and integrated power supply, allowing for safe and efficient transfer of goods up to 500 kg between a floating ship and shore or platform.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual handling via small boats is used to transfer goods to unmanned platforms, then installation complexity is reduced, but safety deteriorates in adverse weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical handling system with an automated cable winch system. The winch system mechanically transfers goods from the ship to the platform without requiring manual handling by workers in small boats, thereby eliminating safety risks while maintaining simple installation through standardized mounting components.
2Reliability
If multiple cables are used in the transfer system, then reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cable functions into a single integrated cable system. The single cable performs both guiding and load-bearing functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate guiding cables and pulling cables. This merging reduces the number of system parts to a minimum while maintaining system reliability through proper cable routing and tensioning mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a retractable foundation element is provided, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a retractable foundation element that can extend and retract to adapt to different positioning requirements. The foundation element includes a retractable beam structure that can be extended during transfer operations and retracted when not in use, providing positioning flexibility while minimizing impact on device complexity through standardized mechanical extension 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
The system minimizes system part damage, reduces installation complexity, ensures safe operation by maintaining cable tension, and provides flexibility and safety in adverse conditions, enabling efficient and controlled transfer of goods with reduced operator effort.
Implementation Method 1
the transfer system further comprises a tension controller for maintaining the cable tension within certain limits
Implementation Method 2
The transfer winch transfers the goods by displacing the cable with the hook for carrying the goods
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2C
AI summary
The present invention relates to a transfer system (4) for transferring goods to and/or from a floating ship (2), a ship (2) provided with such transfer system and a method therefore. The transfer system (4) according to the invention comprises: - a housing (20) with a foundation element (28); - a winch system (22) with at least one winch drive (24,26); - a cable system connected to the winch system, the cable system (14) comprising a connecting element (16) for connecting to a destination for the goods, or a cable unit, and a tensioning unit.