IES20120004A2 - Low-maintenance marine aid to navigation - Google Patents

Abstract

This invention represents a modern type of Aid to Navigation (AtoN) to be used by mariners to assist safe navigation. It is intended to function with a reduced running cost when compared to conventional Aids to Navigation (beacons, lighthouses, perches, etc). It is constructed entirely from a durable material, such as stainless steel. The main structure of the invention approximately resembles a truncated cone in elevation. The invention does not require fuel; it is powered using a photovoltaic solar array, with electrical energy stored in batteries housed within the structure. The light, which is used as guidance for mariners, is exhibited using a flashing light emitting diode (LED) light. The invention also features electronic means for guidance, including Automatic Identification System (AIS) technology, which also provides remote monitoring of the invention and ensures its compatibility with the concept of e-navigation. <Figure 1>

Description

Low-Maintenance marine Aid to Navigation · ' .

Field of the Invention The Invention consists of an integrated Aid to Navigation (AtoN) with a low operating cost, 5 incorporating an elevated photovoltaic solar array, electrical storage batteries, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) light, an Automatic Identification System (AIS) unit, in a selfcontained durable structure on a reinforced concrete foundation.

Background to the Invention Aids to Navigation are common in coastal areas worldwide. Traditional, or visual, AtoNs include lighthouses, lit or unlit beacons, or similar on land, and at sea they include buoys and light-vessels. Electronic AtoNs include any method of position determination using electronic means; these include Radio based, Satellite based, and Radar based positioning systems. AtoNs can be expensive to construct and maintain for AtoN providers. They commonly require civil, mechanical, electrical, and electronic maintenance, and may require fuel.

AtoN Providers may therefore find this Invention preferable in order to exhibit the desired visual and/or electronic guidance to mariners, as relative to other AtoNs it requires minimal maintenance and generates its own energy. It is also fitted with an AIS unit to ensure compatibility with the concept of e-navigation, and to provide remote monitoring of the AtoN.

Statement of Invention The Invention consists of a prefabricated hollow structure, roughly conical in elevation, and constructed entirely of a durable material, hereafter described as (but not limited to) stainless steel, onto which a photovoltaic solar array is mounted, in which electrical storage batteries, equipment and an AIS unit are housed, and on top of which a flashing LED navigation light (or optic) is located. Access in and around the Invention by maintenance personnel is provided via a door at ground level, an internal ladder or stairs, an upper door, and an elevated walkway constructed integrally with the solar array. The solar array is orientated 120004 ' hemisphere, and inclined to maximise energy gain in winter sunshine. The doors are located ca the opposite orientation and facilitate access into and around the AtoN.

There are a number of advantages to the Invention. Upon installation, maintenance costs for the required AtoN are minimised. As the Invention is constructed entirely from stainless steel, none of the regular painting, civil or structural maintenance associated with traditional AtoNs are required. As there are no moving parts and all components are as durable as practicable, mechanical and electrical maintenance is also minimised.

The geometric shape of the structure; a truncated cone, ensures that the elevation of the light is maximised to achieve the required geographic range (visible range) of the light, which is influenced by the curvature of the earth and the height above sea level at which the observer will view the light. The geometric shape maximises the strength to weight ratio of the Invention whilst reducing wind and/or wave loading, the structure is also sufficiently stiff to limit the deflection of the light. The shape furthermore increases the space in the base of the structure for batteries, equipment and welfare facilities for maintenance personnel, and eases working access to the light and lightning air terminal from the upper section of the elevated walkway.

Security is enhanced by locating the bolted connections of the structure internally. The walkway and solar array are also elevated to reduce the threat posed by intruders.

Construction time is minimised by virtue of the prefabricated nature of the AtoN structure, allowing the major elements to be craned or air-lifted into place and bolted to a suitable reinforced concrete foundation. Subsequent assembly can then be undertaken by hand.

No fuelling is required; the photovoltaic solar array will provide sufficient energy for the LED light, which is regulated electronically to exhibit at night the required visual AtoN for mariners. As LED lights can be weatherproof, no surrounding watertight enclosure is required to protect the light from the elements.

The Invention includes an AIS AtoN Unit, which broadcasts and receives AIS signals to and from mariners via Very High Frequency (VHF) transmission, which is also powered by the photovoltaic solar array. AIS is a terrestrial-based automatic tracking system used on ships and ashore for electronically exchanging data with other nearby ships and AIS base stations IE 1 2 0 0 04 to assist vessels' -watchkeeping officers, and allow maritime authorities to track and monitor vessel movements. AIS expected to form a key part in the future concept of e-Navigation; which is described by the International Maritime Organisation as the harmonized collection, integration, exchange, presentation and analysis of marine information on-board and ashore by electronic means to enhance berth to berth navigation and related services for safety and security at sea and protection of the marine environment. The AIS unit will also provide remote monitoring of the Invention to the AtoN provider. Further electronic AtoNs, as described previously, can be included if desired by the AtoN provider.

Basic welfare facilities, primarily a watertight shelter, are provided for maintenance 10 personnel.

The Aton is ventilated naturally to prevent the build-up of gasses and to reduce condensation internally. The vents are located in the base of the Invention; in the door or the tower wall, and at the top of the tower below the light. It is also naturally lit by north lighting (reversed in the southern hemisphere) for maintenance personnel and for building conditioning purposes.

Readily identifiable ‘daymarks’ are often required by mariners (examples include conspicuous painting or markings on beacons and lighthouses). The Invention’s surface can be treated to provide a roughened surface and coated with a durable finish if required, other surface finishes and treatments can also be specified by the AtoN provider. Surfaces underfoot can be roughened to provide adequate grip for maintenance personnel.

Lightning protection for the AtoN is provided by an air terminal at the highest point of the structure, connected and electrically bonded to the metallic structure itself (in the case of a stainless steel AtoN). The structure is in turn bonded to the foundation which is electrically earthed, Brief Description of the Drawings The Invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of a number of components and embodiments thereof, and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Figures 1 and 2 are isometric views of the Invention; from above and from northwest, and from below and from southeast respectively. Figure 3 is an isometric cross-section from IE 1 2 0 0 0 4 above and from southwest and illustrates the internal elements of the Invention. Figure 4 is an isometric of the main structural components (components A to E) of the Invention.

Figures 5-13 illustrate all components (components E to N) located externally on the Invention. Figure 14 illustrates all components (components M to S) located within the slructure of the Invention.

Detailed Description of the Drawings With reference to the drawings and initially to figures 1, 2 and 3, the components of the Invention (to be described in more detail with reference to figures 4 to 14) are as follows.

Components A, B and C (Figure 4) are stainless steel hollow sections (A at the top, B in the middle, and C at the bottom) which when assembled form a tapering truncated cone - the main superstructure of the Invention, Components D and E represent the substructure of the Invention, also illustrated in Figure 4 and described below.

Figure 4 illustrates the Invention’s superstructure, in this case with a total height of 5500mm, a diameter of 2000mm at the base, and a diameter 1200mm at the top. These tapering sections may however vary in number, diameter, and wall thickness to suit the requirements of the AtoN provider with respect to: the elevation of the light required above sea level, battery and equipment storage within, the surface area required for the photovoltaic solar array, welfare facilities and access requirements around the Invention for maintenance personnel, air-lifting or craneage limits, and the calculated structural capacity of the Invention needed to resist dead and imposed loadings. Each of these sections is connected to the adjacent section (above, below, or both) using internally located bolted circular flanges (which may be stiffened with gussets), with a sealant material between the flanges of adjacent sections for waterproofing purposes. The uppermost section, in this case component A, is capped at the top with a roof surface sloping upwards towards a ventilator and connection flange arrangement to which the pedestal (component K) connects. Component E is the reinforced concrete foundation, which is designed to provide a firm and level base for the Invention and to resist lateral and overturning forces. A circular stainless steel upstand, or ring; component D, is cast into the reinforced concrete foundation (component E) to facilitate a similar connection to that between components A, B and C. fC 1 20 0 04 Component F, figure 5, is the elevated walkway, illustrated here at approximately 3200mm in diameter and cantilevered from the main structure, in this case component B of the Invention. This surrounds the main structure, in this case component A, over 360°, The elevated walkway (and potentially multiple walkways) is constructed integrally with component G; the handrailing, which consists of the handrail and the handrail infill. Both the walkways and the handrailing are fabricated stainless steel welded elements and are shown in figures 5 and 6. The handrail infill is constructed from circumferential round bars which penetrate the supports, on top of which at a height of approximately 1100mm above walkway level, a handrail of larger diameter is located. The walkway mesh is constructed from both radial and circumferential round bars, which also penetrate the supports. The walkway mesh is bounded on the outer perimeter by a rolled angle member or similar (also shown in figures 5 and 6).

Component H is the photovoltaic solar array, as illustrated in figure 7. The array consists of a number of individual solar panels, the exact number of which depends on the type, efficiency, area and orientation of the panels, the geographic location of the Invention, the electrical energy demand on the system, and the type of LED light and batteries used in the Invention. The panels, here illustrated vertically, are orientated to maximise the energy gain from the low angle above the horizon of the winter sun. The horizontal framing above the solar array is fitted with an anti-bird device, if required, to prevent fouling of the panels.

Component 1 is the array and upper walkway support structure, as illustrated in figure 8. This consists of supports which are welded to component A, to which the array and walkway support structure is bolted. Each of these support components can be manually lifted into position and once installed provide support framing for the solar panels and support for the upper platform. These elements, shown as, but not limited to, stainless steel square hollow sections, are designed to provide sufficient structural strength to resist dead and imposed loads on the panels and walkway.

Component J is the access from the general walkway (component F) to the upper platform, from which the light is accessed. Component J is comprised of access stairs including treads or rungs and stringer(s), the upper walkway mesh, and additional handrailing, as illustrated in figure 9.

IE 1 20 0 0 4 Component K is the pedestal, and baffled ventilator arrangement which is bolted to the top of component A. This component allows for exact levelling and/or orientation of the light, whilst aiso providing ventilation and cable routes at the top of the Invention, as illustrated with and without the pedestal in place in figures 10a and 1 Ob respectively.

Component L is a flashing LED light, as illustrated in figure 11, which may also be sectored with light of different colours emitted over adjacent arcs to provide additional information regarding dangerous or navigable zones to mariners, The Invention is fitted with an AIS unit; which represents another electrical load on the system. This unit will transmit and receive information from shore to ship and from ship to shore respectively via VHF, For this purpose an AIS unit and aerial will be located externally, either on the solar array or on the external walkway. Cabling for the light and AIS will be by waterproof (baffled or glanded) openings into the Invention structure from external. Component M (also shown in figure 11) is an air terminal for lighting protection; this will extend above all elements of the Invention, and no part of the Invention will be located externally from a 90° (apex angle) downward ‘cone (or zone) of protection’ from the top of the air terminal, as illustrated in figure 12.

Component N, figure 13, illustrates the access into and out of the main structure of the Invention (other components omitted for clarity). Each of these ' full height’ doors has a clear height of approximately 2000mm and a clear width as required by the AtoN provider (700mm door width shown). The upper door is shown with glazing for natural lighting which may be desirable, the lower door is shown with 2 No. vents. The frame of each door is formed by inserting and welding a roughly rectangular frame into openings of similar dimension in the main structure of the Invention, in this case components A and C.

Components O to S are illustrated in figure 14 (which includes components D and E for clarity). Component O is the internal ladder which provides access from ground level to the 1st floor internal platform; component P. The access ladder is here shown slightly inclined off vertical to improve ease of access and may be fitted with a fall arrest or safety cage if desired by the AtoN provider. An alternative to the ladder would be a spiral or helical stairs, a stepladder, or similar.

IE 1 2 0 0 0 4 Tlie internal platform is a solid stainless steel plate bolted in this instance to the upper flange of component B. The platform is circular but has an access opening cut out to facilitate vertical movement on the ladder. .....

Component Q is the electrical storage, which will take the form of batteries; these can be 5 stacked by hand in racks, the amount of batteries required will depend on the type and efficiency of the batteries, the supply of electricity from the solar array, the geographic location (and climate) of the AtoN, the electrical energy demand of the light, AIS unit, and any other electrical or electronic system.

Component R is the worktops which cover the batteries. They are provided for maintenance 10 personnel, and may also be used to provide additional lateral stability to component 1.

Component S is an electrical cabinet which may be located as required, most likely within the main body of the Invention. This cabinet will house any electronic or electrical equipment required by the light, AIS unit, batteries etc.

A summary of all components is provided as follows for convenience: A. Top section B. Middle section C. Bottom section D. Base ring E. Reinforced concrete foundation F. Elevated walkway G. Handrailing H. Photovoltaic solar array I. Array support structure J. Access stairs and walkway K. Pedestal and ventilator L. LED Light M. Lightning air terminal N. Access doors O. Internal access ladder P. Internal platform Q. Electrical storage batteries R. Worktops S. Electrical cabinet

Claims (5)

Claims

1. A low-maintenance Aid to Navigation comprising: a structure of durable and corrosion resistant material with the approximate geometric shape in elevation of a truncated cone, an integrated and elevated photovoltaic solar 5 array, electrical storage batteries located internally, a flashing LED light exhibited at a height calculated to achieve the necessary geographic range, AIS unit as an AtoN and for remote monitoring of the Invention, lightning protection, accessible by maintenance personnel via upper and lower doors, an internal ladder or similar between floors, an elevated walkway or walkways incorporating access means to an upper platform for 10 access to the solar array, equipment or light, which will be compatible with the concept of e-navigation, and which is intended to provide visual and/or electronic guidance to mariners.

2. The AtoN of claim 1 with a structure comprised of a metal such as stainless steel or aluminium, with varying overall dimensions with respect to height and diameter, and 15 varying numbers of individual tapering structural sections and/or external or internal components.

3. The AtoN of any preceding claim with alternative embodiments around the LED light with respect to the ventilator, baffle, pedestal, lightning protection, and/or light itself.

4. The AtoN of any preceding claim providing alternative electronic guidance, including 20 but not limited to Radio based, Satellite based, and Radar based positioning systems.

5. An Aid to Navigation as substantially herein described with reference to the accompanying description and/or drawings.