Davit Redesign

Project Summary

The goal of this project was to redesign a portable davit (a crane used on a vessel) based on the requirement to support a heavier load than what was initially designed to. I analyzed the new loading condition using hand calculations and FEA, and determined the maximum stresses the davit would see. I determined the initial design would not support this loading with an adequate safety factor. I designed a new, pivoting support structure which reduced the bending moment on the davit, reducing the maximum stresses on the structure. I also reinforced some of the joints to account for the increased load. I designed the weldments to attach the pivoting support structure to the davit and managed all material procurement, fabrication, and assembly. I conducted load testing of the completed structure to validate its structural integrity. 

Implemented Skills

• CAD (PTC Creo)

• structural analysis using hand calculations and FEA in ANSYS

• weldment design and analysis

• drawing generation 

• material selection for offshore use

• load testing

• design for manufacturing and assembly