Marine Vessel Posture Tabs Retraction During Trailer Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Marine vessels with posture control tabs face the challenge of avoiding contact with foreign objects during trailer loading, as the tabs are not automatically retracted, potentially leading to collisions with trailer rails, ground, or sea bottom.
Innovation Solution
A control system with posture control tabs and actuators that includes a judgement unit to determine if the hull is being loaded onto a trailer, and a controller to retract the tabs to prevent contact with foreign objects, as well as a detection unit for speed restriction zones to further ensure safe positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If posture control tabs are kept down during trailer loading, then the hull can be tilted for loading, but the posture control tabs will contact foreign objects such as trailer rails, ground, or sea bottom
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs preliminary action by automatically retracting the posture control tabs before the hull tilting process begins during trailer loading. The judgement unit detects the loading condition and triggers tab retraction in advance, ensuring tabs are in a safe retracted position before the hull is tilted, thereby preventing contact with foreign objects while maintaining ease of operation
2Reliability
If posture control tabs are manually lowered before loading, then posture control is available, but the tabs cannot be automatically retracted to avoid contact with foreign objects
Solution Approach 1:
The control system implements self-service by automatically detecting loading conditions through the judgement unit and autonomously retracting the posture control tabs without manual intervention. The system monitors itself and performs the protective action of tab retraction automatically, eliminating the need for manual operation while maintaining posture control functionality when needed
3Extent of automation
If automatic posture control is used during sailing, then posture control tabs are automatically adjusted, but they remain down and cause contact issues during subsequent trailer loading
Solution Approach 1:
The control system applies dynamics by making the posture control tabs adaptable and responsive to changing operational conditions. The judgement unit dynamically detects whether the vessel is in sailing mode or trailer loading mode, and the control system automatically adjusts tab position accordingly - maintaining down position during sailing for optimal performance, and retracting during loading to prevent contact with foreign objects
Data Source
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AI summary
A control system for posture control tabs of a marine vessel, which is capable of preventing the posture control tabs from coming into contact with a foreign object. The posture control tabs are mounted on a stern to control a posture of a hull. Actuators actuate the respective posture control tabs. When it is judged that that the hull is being loaded onto a trailer or it is detected that the hull has entered a speed restriction zone, a controller controls the actuators to position the posture control tabs at retracted positions.