Why were the A frame & inclined plane chosen?
From the above, two leading options, an A-Frame boat lift and an Inclined Plane were developed to outline design stage as these were judged to provide the most effective solutions along with the having the greatest potential to attract investment and tourism. Computer animations were created of both these options and a physical model of the A-Frame boat lift was produced. How high is the A frame? The height of the structure is 24m (79 feet), with boats lifted 12m (39 feet). How long is the inclined plane? It is approximately 120m long (393 feet) and will have a gradient of 1 in 10. How does the A Frame work? Due to its operational sophistication and for reasons of health & safety, the A-Frame Boat Lift would need to be manned. In normal operation, each caisson (water-filled tank) would counter-balance the other. However, the design would allow the caissons to operate independently during maintenance. Once boats are housed in the caisson, the actual lift time will be approximately 5 min
