Videometric Crane Control for Offshore Vessel Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Offshore crane operations in marine environments are hazardous due to unpredictable vessel movements and manual estimation of cargo weight and size, leading to inefficient and sometimes dangerous lifting operations, particularly during rough weather conditions.
Innovation Solution
A crane control system utilizing video cameras and processing means to capture images of the vessel and cargo, calculate movement parameters, and compare them with performance and cargo data to determine a safe operating regime, providing real-time visual feedback to operators on safe lifting regions and automatically identifying cargo weights and sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual estimation methods are used for cargo weight and size, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and operational safety deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical estimation methods with an automated videometric system using video cameras and image processing algorithms. The system captures images of cargo and vessel, processes them to extract dimensional and weight information, and provides real-time data to the crane operator, eliminating the need for manual measurement while improving precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically measuring cargo dimensions and estimating weights through image analysis. The videometric system captures and processes images autonomously, extracting relevant parameters without requiring manual intervention, thereby reducing operational complexity while enhancing measurement accuracy.
2Reliability
If real-time video monitoring is implemented, then operational safety and measurement precision improve, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where video cameras continuously monitor the vessel and cargo, image processing algorithms analyze the data in real-time, and the system provides immediate feedback to the crane operator about safe lifting regions and cargo parameters. This closed-loop feedback enhances safety by enabling dynamic adjustment of lifting operations based on actual conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The videometric system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it measures cargo dimensions, estimates weights, determines safe lifting zones, and provides real-time operational guidance. By consolidating these functions into a single integrated system, the patent reduces overall device complexity while maintaining high reliability.
3Productivity
If automated videometric measurement is used, then measurement precision and productivity improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual measurement and estimation processes with automated videometric systems. Video cameras capture images that are processed by algorithms to automatically determine cargo dimensions, weights, and safe lifting regions, significantly improving operational efficiency and productivity while managing system complexity through integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A crane control system for determining a suitable real-time operating regime for a crane arranged to lift cargo from a marine vessel, the system includes an imaging means associated with the crane, a processing means, and a memory means. The imaging means is arranged to capture images of the vessel when it is located generally below the crane and within the operational range of the crane. The processing means is operable to calculate from the captured images movement parameters characterizing the movement of the vessel relative to the crane. The memory contains performance data representative of the performance characteristics of the crane and cargo data representative of the weight of individual items of said cargo. The processing means is further configured to compare the calculated movement parameters to the performance data and the cargo data and to determine from said comparison a safe operating regime for the crane.