Watercraft Dry Stack Storage System with Adjustable Berths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dry watercraft storage systems are inefficient in accommodating various sizes and types of watercraft, and they do not adequately maintain the operational condition of watercraft for extended storage periods, leading to suboptimal storage and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A dry stack watercraft storage system that includes a support system with adjustable berths, a carousel or tram system for movement, and a computer-controlled lifting and positioning system to efficiently store and retrieve watercraft, along with operational systems for maintaining electrical and plumbing connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional dry watercraft storage systems are used, then watercraft can be stored in a dry docked condition, but they cannot efficiently accommodate various sizes and types of watercraft
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into multiple independent carrier assemblies, each capable of supporting individual watercraft. These carriers can be independently positioned and adjusted, allowing the system to accommodate various watercraft sizes and types through modular configuration rather than requiring a completely custom-built structure for each vessel.
Solution Approach 2:
The support system incorporates adjustable and movable components, including height-adjustable support posts and reconfigurable carrier positions. This dynamic capability allows the storage system to adapt its configuration to match different watercraft dimensions and types, providing versatility without permanent structural modifications.
2Productivity
If traditional lifting systems are used, then watercraft can be positioned in berths, but the system cannot optimize berth space for different watercraft configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system uses universal, multi-functional components such as adjustable support posts that can serve multiple berths at different heights and locations. The same carrier design can accommodate various watercraft types, and the support system can be reconfigured for different storage arrangements, maximizing space utilization without requiring specialized equipment for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables optimization of berth space by allowing changes in key parameters such as carrier height, horizontal position, and support spacing. These parameter adjustments permit the same physical infrastructure to efficiently store different watercraft configurations, from small personal watercraft to larger boats, thereby maximizing storage capacity.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If watercraft are stored for extended periods, then storage capacity is achieved, but the watercraft operational systems deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides preliminary maintenance actions by ensuring proper support and positioning of watercraft before extended storage begins. The carriers are designed to distribute weight evenly and prevent hull deformation, while the positioning system maintains optimal storage posture, thereby preserving watercraft operational condition throughout the storage period rather than allowing deterioration to occur.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a storage system for storing and retrieving watercraft or other items to or from a storage position in a storage area as part of an enclosure having a plurality of storage areas. The storage system may include at least one carrier to support the item during movement to or from a storage position, and a positioning system to move the carrier system. An elevator system is usable to move the positioning system and carrier system to and from a storage area, and a control system is usable to control the positioning system to move the carrier system and item into and out of its storage position.