Active Motion-Compensation Technology for Roll-On/Roll-Off Cargo Vessel Discharge to Floating Platforms

The QED team proposes a study of an independent seagoing barge that can be attached to and made a part of an INLS or commercial RRDF floating platform. The barge contains an active motion compensation platform supported by either a self-contained air cushion, hydraulic/mechanical apparatus or a hybrid system using both air and hydraulic/mechanical systems. The Phase I study will evaluate select concepts with respect to their ability to provide active support of the LMSR ramp through sea state 5 while maintaining its structural integrity within safe limits. The study will focus on the sensing and actuation systems design and the development of appropriate algorithms for determining the safe operating load on the LMSR ramp structure in the dynamic environment in relation to its rated capacity. A trade study of selected concepts will be conducted under Phase I comparing their attributes to a set of criteria and metrics that will be developed from the outline presented within this proposal. The results of the study will provide the basis for a system down select and recommendations for a Phase II study to verify and confirm the design approach with a combination of scale model tests and large-scale system element evaluation.