Large-tonnage air flotation structure grouping method

By transporting large-tonnage air-float structures in groups on semi-submersible barges and connecting them using modular transport vehicles and pre-tensioned cables, the problem of low transportation efficiency of large-tonnage air-float components was solved, achieving efficient and stable overall transportation.

CN120922303APending Publication Date: 2025-11-11SOUTHERN BRANCH OF CHINA COMM CONSTR CO LTD +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202511092831.0
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-08-05
Publication Date
2025-11-11

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The separate transportation of large-tonnage marine air-float components leads to a waste of space resources, frequent transportation increases logistics and time costs, and the complex fixing and protection measures reduce transportation efficiency and increase the risk of damage.

Method used

A semi-submersible barge is used to dock at the bottom of the shore. The large-tonnage air-floating structures are transported one by one to the semi-submersible barge using modular transport vehicles. Spacing pads are installed between the structures and pre-tensioned cables are threaded through them. The entire transport unit is formed by tensioning devices.

Benefits of technology

It improves the transportation efficiency of large-tonnage air-float structures, reduces the number of transportation trips and logistics costs, lowers the risk of component damage, and optimizes space utilization and connection stability.

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Abstract

The invention provides a large-tonnage air floating structure grouping method. Firstly, a semi-submersible barge is subjected to bottom sitting operation and berthed to a designated position on the shore; and then a modular transport vehicle is adopted as transfer equipment, and the multiple large-tonnage air floating structures are stably transported to the deck bearing face of the semi-submersible barge from the shore-based transport platform in sequence. In the arrangement process, a preset spacing distance is kept between the large-tonnage air flotation structures, and a shock insulator with a buffering protection function is regularly laid between every two adjacent structure units. The large-tonnage air floatation structures are provided with axially-through prestress holes in advance, during construction, high-strength pre-tightening cables penetrate through the prestress holes of the structures in sequence, hydraulic tensioning devices are installed at the two ends of the pre-tightening cables finally, and tensioning of the pre-tightening cables is achieved by controlling force application parameters of the tensioning devices. Therefore, a plurality of independent large-tonnage air floatation structures are firmly connected to form an integral transportation unit. According to the method, the problem that the efficiency is low when a large-tonnage air flotation structure is transported is effectively solved through a grouping process.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the technical field of component transportation methods, and more specifically, it relates to a method for assembling large-tonnage air-float structures. Background Technology

[0002] In the transportation of offshore air-float components, traditional methods typically involve transporting each component individually. Because these components are usually large and have unique structures, individual transport not only occupies significant space in transport vehicles but also results in frequent transport operations, increasing both logistics and time costs. Furthermore, the securing and protection measures for each component during individual transport are complex, further reducing transportation efficiency. In practice, this inefficient transportation method not only affects project progress but may also increase the risk of component damage due to repeated handling. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this application is to provide a method for assembling large-tonnage air-float structures to solve the technical problem of low transportation efficiency of large-tonnage air-float structures in the prior art.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted in this application is as follows:

[0005] A method for assembling large-tonnage air flotation structures is provided, comprising the following steps:

[0006] The semi-submersible barge docked at the shore.

[0007] Large-tonnage air-float structures are transported one by one from the shore to the semi-submersible barge using modular transport vehicles.

[0008] Each of the large-tonnage air flotation structures is arranged at a preset interval, and a spacer is erected between each of the large-tonnage air flotation structures.

[0009] Each of the large-tonnage air-float structures has a through prestressed hole. The pre-tensioned cable is sequentially threaded through the prestressed hole of each of the large-tonnage air-float structures, and tensioning devices are installed at both ends of the pre-tensioned cable. The pre-tensioned cable is tensioned by the tensioning devices, so that the large-tonnage air-float structures are connected into a group.

[0010] As a further improvement to the above technical solution:

[0011] Optionally, when the large-tonnage air-float structure is transported from the shore to the semi-submersible barge, the position of the large-tonnage air-float structure is adjusted by the modular transport vehicle so that the centerline of the large-tonnage air-float structure is aligned with the centerline of the semi-submersible barge, so as to effectively ensure the accuracy of the spatial relative position of each air-float unit during subsequent group operations.

[0012] Optionally, both the shore-based and semi-submersible barges are equipped with multiple long, parallel supports that extend along the transport direction of the large-tonnage air-float structure.

[0013] Optionally, the preset interval between each of the large-tonnage air-float structures is 1m-1.1m, which not only meets the operating space requirements for pre-tightening cable installation, but also ensures that the overall structure after assembly has sufficient stability.

[0014] Optionally, the spacer includes a top spacer and a bottom spacer spaced apart, the bottom spacer being located below the top spacer, and a connecting rope connecting the top spacer and the bottom spacer.

[0015] Optionally, when installing the diaphragm, a large-tonnage air-float structure in a moving state is brought close to a large-tonnage air-float structure in a parked state by a modular transport vehicle, so that the diaphragm is sandwiched between the two large-tonnage air-float structures.

[0016] Optionally, when tensioning the pretension line, the module transport vehicle performs a lifting action on the large-tonnage air-float structure to reduce the pressure exerted by the large-tonnage air-float structure on the support; after the pretension line is tensioned, the lifting force of the module transport vehicle on the large-tonnage air-float structure is further reduced until the large-tonnage air-float structure is fully supported on the support.

[0017] The beneficial effects of the large-tonnage air flotation structure grouping method provided in this application are as follows:

[0018] The method for assembling large-tonnage air-float structures provided in this application involves first berthing a semi-submersible barge at a designated location on the shore; then, using modular transport vehicles as transfer equipment, multiple large-tonnage air-float structures are sequentially and smoothly transported from a shore-based transport platform to the deck bearing surface of the semi-submersible barge. During the arrangement process, a preset interval is maintained between the large-tonnage air-float structures, and buffer pads with protective functions are laid between adjacent structural units. Each large-tonnage air-float structure has pre-fabricated axially continuous prestressed holes. During construction, high-strength pre-tensioning cables are sequentially threaded through the prestressed holes of each structure. Finally, hydraulic tensioning devices are installed at both ends of the pre-tensioning cables. By controlling the force parameters of the tensioning devices, uniform tension of the pre-tensioning cables is achieved, thereby firmly connecting multiple independent large-tonnage air-float structures to form an integrated transport unit. This method effectively solves the problem of low efficiency in transporting large-tonnage air-float structures through a grouping process. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 A top view schematic diagram of the first state of the large-tonnage air flotation structure grouping process provided in this application;

[0021] Figure 2 A top view schematic diagram of the second state of the large-tonnage air flotation structure assembly process provided in this application;

[0022] Figure 3 A top view schematic diagram of the grouping process state three of the large-tonnage air flotation structure provided in this application;

[0023] Figure 4 A top view schematic diagram of the fourth state of the large-tonnage air flotation structure grouping process provided in this application;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the main structure of the large-tonnage air flotation structure provided in this application.

[0025] The following are the labeling elements in the figure:

[0026] 1. Semi-submersible barge; 2. Modular transport vehicle;

[0027] 3. Large-tonnage air-flotation structure; 31. Prestressed holes;

[0028] 4. Spacer; 41. Top spacer;

[0029] 42. Bottom spacer; 5. Tensioning device. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0031] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0032] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0033] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0034] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0035] Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or cannot be implemented, it should be considered that such combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of the present invention.

[0036] In the following description, suffixes such as "circuit," "component," "assembly," or "unit" are used only for the purpose of illustrative purposes and do not have any specific meaning in themselves. Therefore, they can be used interchangeably.

[0037] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0038] This application provides a method for assembling large-tonnage air flotation structures, the specific implementation process of which is as follows:

[0039] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the semi-submersible barge 1 is first placed on the ground and moored to the designated location on the shore. Then, a modular transport vehicle 2 is used as a transfer device to smoothly transport multiple large-tonnage air-floating structures 3 from the shore-based transport platform to the deck bearing surface of the semi-submersible barge 1. During the arrangement process, a preset interval is maintained between the large-tonnage air-floating structures 3, and buffer pads 4 with buffer protection function are laid in a standardized manner between adjacent structural units.

[0040] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, each of the large-tonnage air-float structures 3 is prefabricated with axially penetrating prestressed holes 31. During construction, high-strength pre-tensioned cables are sequentially threaded through the prestressed holes 31 of each structure. Finally, hydraulic tensioning devices 5 are installed at both ends of the pre-tensioned cables. By controlling the force parameters of the tensioning devices 5, uniform tension of the pre-tensioned cables is achieved, thereby firmly connecting multiple independent large-tonnage air-float structures 3 to form an integrated transportation unit. This method effectively solves the problem of low efficiency in the transportation of large-tonnage air-float structures through a group process.

[0041] In one specific embodiment of this application, when the modular transport vehicle 2 transfers the large-tonnage air-float structure 3 from the shore-based transport platform to the semi-submersible barge 1, the loading position of the large-tonnage air-float structure 3 is adjusted in real time by the modular transport vehicle 2 to ensure that the centerline of the large-tonnage air-float structure 3 coincides with the centerline of the semi-submersible barge 1, so as to effectively ensure the accuracy of the spatial relative position of each air-float unit during subsequent group operations, and create favorable conditions for the smooth installation of pre-tensioned cables.

[0042] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown in one specific embodiment of this application, both the shore-based operating area and the deck of the semi-submersible barge 1 are equipped with several sets of parallel-arranged load-bearing supports. These elongated supports are arranged at equal intervals along the transport axis of the large-tonnage air-float structure 3, forming a continuous support track. The shore-based supports and the shipborne supports adopt the same structural parameters and arrangement standards to ensure a smooth transition of the modular transport vehicle 2 during the transfer process. The spacing between the supports is determined according to the position of the bottom support point of the large-tonnage air-float structure 3, which can effectively distribute the structural load and avoid local stress concentration.

[0043] In one specific embodiment of this application, the large-tonnage air-float structures 3 maintain a standardized interval of 1m to 1.1m when arranged in groups. This interval range satisfies the operational space requirements for pre-tensioning cable installation while ensuring sufficient stability of the overall structure after assembly. The interval setting comprehensively considers the dimensional parameters of the large-tonnage air-float structures 3, the arrangement position of the prestressing holes 31, and the installation requirements of the spacers 4. In actual operation, the relative positions of adjacent large-tonnage air-float structures 3 are precisely controlled by the modular transport vehicle 2, and real-time monitoring is performed using a laser rangefinder to ensure that the spacing error is controlled within ±5cm. This standardized spacing design optimizes the utilization of transport space and provides reliable working conditions for subsequent pre-tensioning connection operations.

[0044] like Figure 5 As shown, in one specific embodiment of this application, the diaphragm 4 includes a top diaphragm 41 and a bottom diaphragm 42 spaced apart in the vertical direction. The bottom diaphragm 42 is located below the top diaphragm 41, which is positioned between the contact surfaces of adjacent large-tonnage air flotation structures 3. The top diaphragm 41 and the bottom diaphragm 42 are reliably connected by a high-strength connecting rope. The connecting rope allows for the simultaneous installation and removal of the top diaphragm 41 and the bottom diaphragm 42.

[0045] In one specific embodiment of this application, the installation of the spacer 4 is completed through the coordinated operation of the modular transport vehicle 2. The modular transport vehicle 2 first moves the large-tonnage air-bearing structure 3 to be installed to a position 1m to 1.1m away from the already positioned large-tonnage air-bearing structure 3. Then, it slowly advances the spacer 4 at a uniform speed of 0.1m / s, ensuring that the spacer 4 is accurately embedded into the preset gap between the two large-tonnage air-bearing structures 3. During the advancement process, the hydraulic control system of the modular transport vehicle 2 monitors the contact pressure in real time. When the pressure value reaches a threshold, the advancement automatically stops, ensuring that the spacer 4 is moderately compressed without excessive deformation. This installation method achieves precise positioning of the spacer 4 while ensuring that the relative position of the large-tonnage air-bearing structure 3 meets the process requirements for subsequent pre-tensioned cable installation.

[0046] In one specific embodiment of this application, when tensioning the pre-tensioning cable, the modular transport vehicle 2 first applies a vertical lifting force to the large-tonnage air-float structure 3, and lifts the large-tonnage air-float structure 3 upward through the hydraulic system, thereby reducing the bearing pressure of the support. At this time, the tensioning device 5 is activated to initially tension the pre-tensioning cable, and the tension force is controlled at 60% of the rated value.

[0047] After initial tensioning, the modular transport vehicle 2 gradually reduces the jacking force at a speed of 0.5 cm / min, while the tensioning device 5 simultaneously increases the tension to maintain a constant total load. When the jacking force is completely released, the large-tonnage air-floating structure 3 smoothly lands on the support pier. At this point, the pre-tensioned cable reaches the designed tension, and all structural units form a stable overall force-bearing system. This process effectively avoids stress abrupt changes during tensioning, ensuring the reliability of the assembled structure connections.

[0048] In one specific embodiment of this application, the air flotation structure 3 specifically includes a bottom tank structure and a vertical cylinder structure. The vertical cylinder structure is located above the bottom tank structure and extends vertically; the bottom tank structure has multiple bottomless water inlet chambers, the bottom of which is a water inlet communicating with the outside, and an exhaust valve is connected to the water inlet chamber. After the air flotation structure 3 is submerged in water, sealing water enters the bottom tank structure to lower the overall center of gravity of the air flotation structure 3 and provide floating stability for the air flotation structure 3.

[0049] The vertical cylindrical structure is closed at the bottom and open at the top, with a water inlet also located on the structure. The bottom tank structure also has a suction hole for connecting to a negative pressure device, creating negative pressure in the inlet chamber to further submerge the air flotation structure 3. When the air flotation structure 3 is being installed, the vent valve is opened, allowing air in the inlet chamber to escape and water to enter through the inlet. When the bottom tank structure is completely submerged, the water inlet on the vertical cylindrical structure is opened, allowing water to enter the vertical cylinder and achieving overall submersion of the air flotation structure 3. Leveling the air flotation structure 3 can also be achieved by controlling the water flow into each inlet chamber.

[0050] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A method for assembling large-tonnage air flotation structures, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The semi-submersible barge (1) sits on the bottom and docks; The large-tonnage air-floating structures (3) are transported one by one from the shore to the semi-submersible barge (1) by a modular transport vehicle (2); The large-tonnage air flotation structures (3) are arranged at a preset interval, and spacers (4) are installed between the large-tonnage air flotation structures (3). Each of the large-tonnage air flotation structures (3) has a through prestressed hole (31). The prestressed cable is sequentially threaded through the prestressed hole (31) of each of the large-tonnage air flotation structures (3), and tensioning devices (5) are installed at both ends of the prestressed cable. The prestressed cable is tensioned by the tensioning devices (5) so that each of the large-tonnage air flotation structures (3) is connected into a group.

2. The method for assembling large-tonnage air-flotation structures as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the large-tonnage air-float structure (3) is transported from the shore to the semi-submersible barge (1), the position of the large-tonnage air-float structure (3) is adjusted by the module transport vehicle (2) so that the centerline of the large-tonnage air-float structure (3) is aligned with the centerline of the semi-submersible barge (1).

3. The method for assembling large-tonnage air-flotation structures as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Both the shore base and the semi-submersible barge (1) are equipped with multiple long strip-shaped supports that are arranged parallel to each other and extend along the transport direction of the large-tonnage air-float structure (3).

4. The method for assembling large-tonnage air-flotation structures as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The preset interval between each of the large-tonnage air flotation structures (3) is 1m-1.1m.

5. The method for assembling large-tonnage air flotation structures as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The spacer (4) includes a top spacer (41) and a bottom spacer (42) spaced apart, the bottom spacer (42) being located below the top spacer (41), and a connecting rope connecting the top spacer (41) and the bottom spacer (42).

6. The method for assembling large-tonnage air-flotation structures as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When installing the diaphragm (4), the moving large-tonnage air-float structure (3) is moved close to the parked large-tonnage air-float structure (3) by the module transport vehicle (2), so that the diaphragm (4) is sandwiched between the two large-tonnage air-float structures (3).

7. The method for assembling large-tonnage air-flotation structures as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the pretension line is tensioned, the module transport vehicle (2) performs a lifting action on the large-tonnage air-float structure (3) to reduce the pressure of the large-tonnage air-float structure (3) on the support; after the pretension line is tensioned, the lifting force of the module transport vehicle (2) on the large-tonnage air-float structure (3) is reduced until the large-tonnage air-float structure (3) is fully supported on the support.