Marine Vessel Auto-Docking With Vision-Based Position Holding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional docking systems for large marine vessels require skilled operators and multiple assistants, and are prone to errors and risks, especially in adverse weather conditions, due to the lack of interactive systems for viewing the surrounding area and receiving instructions for precise maneuvering.
Innovation Solution
An automatic location placement system that incorporates a touch screen interactive monitor displaying an overlay of the environment, using a vision ranging photography system, infrared vision, laser scanner, inertial measurement unit, and global positioning system to enable the marine vessel to automatically move to a targeted location, with a central processing unit directing the propulsion system to achieve precise positioning and maintain the vessel's location.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional manual docking systems are used with skilled operators and multiple assistants, then the vessel can be maneuvered to a desired location, but the operation is prone to errors and risks especially in adverse weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables the marine vessel to autonomously maneuver and dock itself by automatically controlling the propulsion system based on vision system feedback and pre-stored image comparison, eliminating the need for human operators to physically maneuver the vessel in adverse conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated control system that uses vision systems, image processing, and automatic propulsion control to perform docking operations, substituting human judgment and physical operation with automated technological systems
2Measurement precision
If additional aids and visual systems are added to assist operator judgment, then the operator can better maneuver the vessel, but the system complexity increases and human assistance is still required
Solution Approach 1:
The vision system serves multiple functions: it captures images of the docking environment, compares them with pre-stored images to determine position, provides feedback for automatic control, and eliminates the need for separate measurement devices and human operators
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the vision system, image processing unit, and propulsion control into an integrated automated system that performs both measurement and control functions, reducing the need for separate aids and human intervention
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple securing devices are used to maintain the final location of the vessel, then the vessel position can be maintained, but the device complexity and risk of damage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously captures images during the docking process, compares them with pre-stored images to determine real-time position, and automatically adjusts propulsion to maintain the desired final position, providing continuous feedback control without additional securing devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical securing devices with an automated control system that uses vision feedback and propulsion control to maintain vessel position, substituting physical securing mechanisms with electronic control
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 allows for precise and safe docking and maneuvering of marine vessels without human operators, maintaining the final position regardless of wind and water currents, reducing the risk of damage to the vessel and surrounding objects, and operating effectively in adverse weather conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a vision ranging photograph system generating at least one optical feed; (i) receiving, from the vision ranging photography system, the at least one optical feed, the feed including data providing a mapping of an environment surrounding the marine vessel
Implementation Method 2
at least one infrared vision system
Implementation Method 3
at least one ranger laser scanner
Implementation Method 4
at least one inertial measurement unit
Implementation Method 5
at least one global positioning system unit
Data Source
AI summary
A method of automatically moving, by an automatic location placement system, a marine vessel includes receiving, by a central processing unit, from a vision ranging photography system, at least one optical feed including data providing a mapping of an environment surrounding a marine vessel. The method includes displaying, by the central processing unit, on a touch screen monitor, the mapping of the environment. The method includes receiving, by the central processing unit, from the touch screen monitor, target location data. The method includes directing, by the central processing unit, at least one element of a propulsion system of the marine vessel, to move the marine vessel to the targeted location, using the mapping.