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Inertial Sensors Aid Lifting Safety
01 Sep 2002
The Active Pendulation Control System (APCS) uses an active control system to overcome the limitations of manual systems such as harness cables and passive systems such as dampers by employing a number of inertial sensors attached to the mother vessel and the crane, which provide inputs to the APCS software.
Command signals are derived and used to drive the crane boom tip in such a way as to virtually eliminate all lateral swinging motions of the load. The APCS controls both the luffing and slewing motions of the crane.
The prototype is working well and the technology promises to improve safety by enhancing the operability of a vessel. The initial system will be for a crane not exceeding 20 tonnes capacity but with sufficient experience gained, it will be possible to extend the range to 50 tonnes and beyond.
MJ Information No: 17403
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