Marine Vessel Roll Stabilization for Low-Speed Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Marine vessels experience significant rolling motions at low speeds, making it energetically demanding and risky to retrieve persons or items from the water, especially in situations where rescue equipment is not readily available, as the rolling motion increases the distance and reduces grip, potentially leading to accidents.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a stabilisation element arranged below the waterline with a pivotal connection to the hull, a sensor unit providing movement data, a processing unit, and a control unit that adjusts the stabilisation element to maintain a predetermined roll angle, counteracting rolling movements and stabilising the vessel, thereby minimising the freeboard distance and maintaining a constant retrieval position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the marine vessel operates at low speeds, then fuel consumption is reduced, but rolling motion increases making retrieval operations more difficult and energy-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilisation element is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position to counteract rolling motion. The element can pivot between different angular positions in response to wave conditions, enabling the vessel to maintain stability at low speeds where traditional fixed stabilisers are ineffective
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the stabilisation element based on sea conditions and vessel motion. By adjusting the angular position of the stabilisation element in response to sensor data about vessel rolling, the system optimizes retrieval operations while maintaining low-speed operation
2Use of energy by moving object
If the marine vessel operates at low speeds, then fuel consumption is reduced, but rolling motion increases requiring more energy for retrieval operations
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilisation element proactively counteracts rolling motion before it significantly impacts retrieval operations. By continuously adjusting to oppose rolling forces, the system prevents energy-intensive retrieval operations rather than merely responding to established rolling conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that provide real-time data about vessel rolling motion, which feeds back to the control system. This feedback loop enables continuous adjustment of the stabilisation element to maintain optimal counteracting position, minimizing energy expenditure during retrieval operations
3Ease of operation
If a stabilisation element is added to counteract rolling motion, then retrieval operations are facilitated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilisation system is divided into discrete functional components: the stabilisation element itself, pivotal connections for movement, sensor units for detection, and control units for coordination. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies maintenance and operation
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 effectively reduces or eliminates rolling motion, allowing for safer and more efficient retrieval of persons or items by maintaining a constant distance from the waterline to the railing, reducing the energy required for rescue operations and enhancing operational stability during low-speed maneuvers.
Implementation Method 1
a stabilisation element arranged below the waterline on an outer surface of the hull
Implementation Method 2
a sensor unit providing first sensor data providing information relating to the movement and/or positioning of the marine vessel
Data Source
AI summary
A system for maintaining a predetermined roll angle of a hull of a marine vessel, the system comprising: a stabilisation element arranged below the waterline on an outer surface of the hull, a sensor unit providing a first sensor data providing information relating to the movement and/or positioning of the marine vessel, a processing unit 5 receiving the first sensor data and providing a first control output, a control unit receiving the first control output and providing a first control input to the stabilisation element to counteract a rolling movement and/or positioning of the marine vessel.