Design of portable A-frame for oceanographic data collection

Abstract

Bangladesh is blessed with vast area of fresh water river system and the largest bay in the world called the Bay of Bengal. Unfortunately, these water mass is mostly unexplored in terms of scientific data. To enhance the collection of scientific data at a larger scale, this study proposes the design of portable A-frame for the deployment of oceanographic instruments in local boats and trawlers in Bangladesh to collect pollution data. There are various types of A-frame or cranes but they are not suitable for ocean going boats or trawlers. In this study, a simple, low cost and portable A-frame is designed with a mechanical winch to deploy oceanographic data collection instrument with a 1000 kg load capacity up to 50 m water depth. The design is conceptualized from the experience during several sea trips with computer aided design. The designed A-frame can be constructed using locally available materials which can be set on wooden boats, trawlers and metal boats securely with necessary functional capacity. This will enhance the capacity of the researchers to collect data as a part of the exploration of fresh and salt water resources which are critical to address the challenges for sustainable development.