Tug Vessel Automatic Release System Heeling Angle Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic release systems for towing hawsers on supply- and tug-vessels are vulnerable to capsizing due to overloading and unstable positioning, particularly when the angle between the vessel and the towing hawser is critical, and often rely on manual operation or electrical signals that can fail during adverse conditions.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical release system with a registration unit, such as a tiltable or liftable hoop plate, that detects the angular movement between the vessel's vertical axis and the towing hawser, triggering the release mechanism at predetermined angles, independent of rolling and pitching caused by waves, and powered by mechanical, pneumatic, or hydraulic means.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a manual distress releaser is used for releasing the towing hawser, then the system is simple and reliable, but the operation distance from the manoeuvre position becomes critical and response time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects heeling angle and triggers release without human intervention. The registration unit continuously monitors the vessel's heeling angle and automatically activates the releasing unit when the critical angle is exceeded, eliminating the need for manual operation and reducing response time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated system combining mechanical registration (pendulum or sensor-based angle detection) with automated triggering mechanisms. This substitution allows the system to respond immediately to critical conditions without waiting for human reaction.
2Ease of manufacture
If the towing point is positioned mid-ship in centre of ship, then the arrangement is simple, but the tug stability against heeling and capsizing decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a stabilizing counterweight or outrigger system as an intermediary element. This additional structure counteracts the heeling moment caused by the mid-ship towing point position, allowing the simple central arrangement to be maintained while restoring vessel stability through the balancing effect of the counterweight.
3Extent of automation
If existing automatic release systems use electrical signals and hydraulic jacks, then automation is achieved, but the system becomes dependent on engine power and battery supply
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrical and hydraulic components with a purely mechanical registration and triggering system. The pendulum-based angle registration and mechanical linkage to the releasing unit eliminate dependence on batteries, engines, or hydraulic power systems, ensuring operation during power failures or adverse conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical system is self-activating through the physical movement of the pendulum registration unit. When the heeling angle exceeds the critical value, the pendulum's own motion directly triggers the release mechanism without requiring external power sources, making the system autonomous and reliable.
4Ease of operation
If the release system triggers based on absolute trim angle, then the system is simple to operate, but the registration is affected by vessel stamping and impact from the tow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a static absolute angle measurement to a dynamic relative angle measurement. The pendulum registration unit measures the change in angle relative to the vertical, automatically compensating for the vessel's normal operating trim and dynamic movements. This dynamic approach filters out false signals from vessel stamping and tow impact while detecting genuine capsizing risks.
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
Ensures automatic and reliable release of the towing hawser at critical angles, enhancing vessel stability and safety by eliminating dependence on engine power or battery supply, and allowing for adjustable release angles to prevent capsizing.
Implementation Method 1
a registration unit being a tiltable or liftable hoop plate, where the registration unit, under influence of vertical angular movement in the towing hawser's horizontal direction in relation to the towing hook
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Automatic release system on a supply- or tug-vessel, comprising a rotational towing hook (10) supported on a vertical axel (16), for receipt of a towing hawser (12), and a releasing unit for releasing the towing hawser (12) from the towing hook (10). A registration unit (14) is installed above the towing hook (10) working area, said registration unit (14) being a tiltable or liftable hoop plate, where the registration unit (14), under influence of vertical angular movement in the towing hawser's (12) horizontal direction in relation to the towing hook (10), is arranged to trigger release of the releasing unit.