Tub Stack Locking System for Vessel Cargohold Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing and securing tubs in a cargo hold of a fishing vessel is challenging due to the risk of stacks falling over, which can spoil the catch and pose a safety risk to the crew, while also optimizing the use of limited cargo space for safe and secure transportation of empty or full tubs in rough sea conditions.
Innovation Solution
A fully automatic system using rails, wagons, jacks, motors, locks, and sensors to securely transport and stack tubs, with synchronized pushing and pulling devices, upper and lower longitudinal rails, and movable transfer locks to prevent tilting or sliding, ensuring tubs are secured during transport and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If tubs are stacked in cargo hold to optimize space, then cargo space utilization is improved, but stability deteriorates due to risk of stacks falling over in rough sea conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically positioning and securing tub stacks before the vessel encounters rough seas. The locking mechanism is engaged in advance to prevent potential falling, and the transport system is configured to maintain stack integrity throughout the voyage, addressing the stability issue before it manifests.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary elements including locking mechanisms that secure adjacent stacks together, transport rails that guide and stabilize stacks during movement, and barrier structures that prevent stacks from toppling. These intermediaries act as mediators between the stacked tubs and the unstable marine environment, maintaining stability while maximizing cargo space utilization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual management of tubs is used, then flexibility in handling is improved, but labor requirements and safety risks worsen due to crew exposure to falling tubs
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the tub stacking and securing process is automatically performed by mechanical means including automated cranes, locking mechanisms, and transport systems. The apparatus secures itself and the cargo without requiring crew members to manually handle tubs, thereby eliminating exposure to falling hazards while maintaining operational flexibility through programmable control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with automated mechanical systems. Instead of crew members physically moving and securing tubs, automated cranes, hydraulic locking mechanisms, and computer-controlled transport systems perform these functions. This substitution eliminates human exposure to harmful factors while preserving the adaptability needed for various cargo configurations through programmable control.
3Ease of manufacture
If tubs are secured with simple stacking, then ease of loading is improved, but reliability of securing deteriorates under rough sea conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements preliminary securing actions during the loading process itself. As tubs are stacked, locking mechanisms are automatically engaged to secure adjacent stacks together, and barrier structures are positioned to prevent toppling. This preliminary securing ensures reliability is established during loading rather than requiring additional separate securing operations, maintaining ease of loading while improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary securing elements including locking mechanisms that interlock adjacent stacks, transport rails that provide guided support, and barrier structures that prevent toppling. These intermediaries mediate between the simple stacking operation and the demanding rough sea conditions, maintaining ease of loading through standardized procedures while ensuring reliable securing through multiple mechanical intervention points.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus and a system for managing and securing cargo tubs in stacks in a cargo hold of a vessel, such as a fishing vessel. The functional components of the apparatus and system comprise means such as rails or transport lanes, wagons and pushing structures as transport means for securely managing stacks of tubs in the cargo hold both during sailing and off-loading.