Multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device and construction method thereof

Abstract

This application relates to the technical field of marine mooring systems, and discloses a multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device and its construction method. A multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device is provided, including an auxiliary mechanism and a central suction anchor. The auxiliary mechanism includes a connecting frame and auxiliary suction anchors fixed in an array along the circumference of the connecting frame. The central suction anchor passes through the middle of the connecting frame and includes a central anchor cylinder and a ballast tank detachably installed on the central anchor cylinder. During anchoring, the auxiliary suction anchors and the connecting frame are first vertically lowered into the water, the water is pumped out, and the connecting frame is leveled. Then, the central suction anchor is lowered and the water is pumped out again. The suction force of the suction anchor device is increased and evenly distributed through the gravity of the ballast tank and the auxiliary mechanism, improving the pull-out bearing capacity and anti-overturning capacity, better adapting to the harsh deep-sea environment, and improving the stability of the marine development system. A construction method for the multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device is also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of marine mooring systems, and in particular to a multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device and its construction method. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of clean energy, my country is increasing its efforts in developing marine resources, leading to a proliferation of new structures for this purpose. Currently, floating structures are widely used in marine development systems due to their lower construction costs and adaptability to changes in the marine environment, thus providing better support for marine development systems in the unpredictable ocean.

[0003] Floating structures require anchoring devices to position them at a designated location at sea. Compared to traditional anchoring structures such as structural piles, gravity anchors, and chain anchors, suction anchors offer advantages such as simple construction, safety and reliability, reusability, and high economic efficiency. They also enhance the adaptability of floating structures to various marine environments, thus gradually becoming a fundamental form of marine systems. A suction anchor consists of an anchor tube with a sealed top and an open bottom, along with a pump and valve mechanism connected to the anchor tube. During anchoring, the bottom of the anchor tube is inserted into the seabed mud to achieve a seal. The pump and valve mechanism then drains the water from the anchor tube, reducing the pressure inside and forcing the anchor tube to penetrate the mud surface until the top of the anchor tube contacts the mud surface or penetrates to the designed depth. Finally, the pump and valve system is closed, thus anchoring the anchor to the seabed.

[0004] However, in the deep-sea environment, on the one hand, the load on the marine development system is greatly increased, and on the other hand, there are large ocean currents above the seabed mud surface, which can easily cause swirling currents to erode the soil around the suction anchor, thereby weakening the pull-out and overturning resistance of the suction anchor. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the drawback of suction anchors being weakened in deep-sea environments, this application provides a multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device and its construction method.

[0006] In the first aspect, this application provides a multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device, which adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] A multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device, comprising:

[0008] The connecting frame has a mounting hole in the middle that extends vertically through both ends;

[0009] An auxiliary suction anchor is arranged circumferentially on the connecting frame, the auxiliary suction anchor including an auxiliary anchor cylinder connected to the connecting frame and an auxiliary submersible pump connected to the auxiliary anchor cylinder; and

[0010] A central suction anchor is vertically inserted through the mounting hole. The outer wall of the central suction anchor is provided with a limiting mechanism for locking the central suction anchor to the connecting frame. The central suction anchor includes a central anchor cylinder, a central submersible pump connected to the central anchor cylinder, and a ballast tank detachably connected to the upper end of the central anchor cylinder.

[0011] By adopting the above technical solution, during manufacturing, multiple auxiliary suction anchors are first fixed in a circumferential array on the connecting frame to form a whole, with the central anchor cylinder and ballast tank installed together. During anchoring, a crane is used to vertically lower the auxiliary suction anchors and the connecting frame into the water. Under its own weight, the lower edge of the anchor cylinder of the auxiliary suction anchor first touches the bottom and sinks to a certain depth on the seabed, forming the necessary sealing conditions. The auxiliary submersible pump is then activated to pump water, creating a pressure difference on the top plate of the auxiliary anchor cylinder, i.e., the auxiliary anchor cylinder has a downward suction force. Anchoring stops after the auxiliary anchor cylinder sinks to the designed depth. Multiple auxiliary suction anchors are individually controlled to ensure the top surface of the connecting frame is flush with the seabed. Then, the corresponding mounting holes are positioned... The central anchor tube, connected to a ballast tank at its upper end, is lowered. The ballast tank provides gravity to the central anchor tube, allowing it to sink faster and penetrate to a certain depth into the seabed. Then, the central submersible pump is activated, causing the central suction anchor to continue sinking until a limiting mechanism locks it in place. At this point, the central suction anchor is fixed to the connecting frame via the limiting mechanism. Through the central suction anchor, the surrounding auxiliary suction anchors, and the gravity of the ballast tank, the suction force of the composite suction anchor device is increased and more evenly distributed, effectively improving the overall pull-out resistance and anti-overturning capacity of the device. This allows it to better adapt to the harsh deep-sea environment and enhances the stability of the marine development system. When raising the anchor, the ballast tank is first detached from the central anchor tube and lifted. Then, water is injected into both the central and auxiliary anchor tubes to lift the suction anchor and the connecting frame; this makes construction more convenient and efficient.

[0012] Optionally, the connecting frame includes a box and reinforcing members arranged vertically inside the box. The box is a hollow equilateral triangle. There are three sets of reinforcing members, each arranged at one of the triangles of the box. There are also three auxiliary suction anchors, each arranged at one of the triangles of the box.

[0013] By adopting the above technical solution, the connecting frame is designed as a triangular box with reinforcing components inside, which improves the structural strength of the connecting frame itself. Three auxiliary suction anchors are also correspondingly installed at the triangular points of the connecting frame, with the central suction anchor at the center of the triangle, thereby improving the structural strength and suction force of the entire composite suction anchor device. Furthermore, because the auxiliary suction anchors generate significant suction during pumping and anchoring, the three sets of reinforcing components are respectively positioned near the three auxiliary suction anchors, reducing the possibility of deformation of the connecting frame and preventing the auxiliary anchor cylinders from deforming and detaching from the box.

[0014] Optionally, a set of reinforcing components includes several parallel reinforcing plates, which are respectively located on both sides of the corresponding auxiliary anchor cylinder from the top of the box towards the center of the box, and the periphery of each reinforcing plate is connected to the inner wall of the box.

[0015] By adopting the above technical solution, a set of reinforcing components is set as multiple reinforcing plates located on both sides of the auxiliary anchor cylinder. Because during the process of sinking and raising the anchor cylinder by pumping water, the corresponding part of the top plate of the auxiliary anchor cylinder has a tendency to deform downward or upward, which will cause the corresponding part of the box body to deform. Setting reinforcing plates around the auxiliary anchor cylinder improves the structural strength of the box body, reduces the possibility of box body deformation, and thus ensures the stability of the central suction anchor and the auxiliary suction anchor adsorption and can be adsorbed in a horizontal state, so as to improve the pull-out and overturning resistance.

[0016] Optionally, a fastener connects the ballast tank and the central anchor cylinder. The fastener includes a limiting plate, a connecting post, and a locking hook connected in sequence. The bottom of the ballast tank has a first connecting hole arranged in a circumferential array for the fastener to move vertically. The limiting plate is used to restrict the fastener from disengaging from the first connecting hole. The top plate of the central anchor cylinder has a second connecting hole corresponding to the position of the first connecting hole for the fastener to be inserted. The second connecting hole communicates with the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder. When the ballast tank and the central anchor cylinder are docked, the locking hook can be squeezed through the second connecting hole. After the locking hook enters the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder, the vertical projection of the locking hook overlaps on the top plate of the central anchor cylinder.

[0017] By adopting the above technical solution, the ballast tank and the central anchor cylinder are connected by multiple fasteners. The main body of the fastener is a connecting column, and the upper and lower ends of the connecting column are connected to protruding limiting plates and locking hooks. The fastener is first installed on the ballast tank and can move up and down. When the ballast tank is attached to the central anchor cylinder, because the weight of the ballast tank is very large, the fastener can be pushed out of the lower end of the ballast tank and squeezed into the second connecting hole. After the locking hook passes through the second connecting hole, it will return to its original shape in a direction away from the central axis of the second connecting hole, so as to hook the central anchor cylinder, so that the central anchor cylinder and the ballast tank are connected to form a central suction anchor. Furthermore, during anchoring, the central submersible pump pumps water into the central anchor cylinder, simultaneously drawing out any gas present inside. This tightens the fasteners downwards, and the connecting column seals the second connecting hole, while the bottom of the ballast tank further seals it. Therefore, the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder remains sealed, causing the fasteners to tend to move downwards, thus ensuring the stability of the connection structure. When anchoring is required, the central submersible pump injects water into the central anchor cylinder. At this high pressure, the fasteners are pushed upwards and through the second connecting hole, causing the ballast tank to detach from the central anchor cylinder. The ballast tank can then be lifted first, followed by the central anchor cylinder, allowing for the use of a smaller crane and improving the convenience of offshore operations.

[0018] Optionally, the ballast tank and the central anchor cylinder are respectively provided with a first diversion hole and a second diversion hole that are connected to each other. The first diversion hole is connected to the first connecting hole, and the second diversion hole is connected to the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder. The opening of the first diversion hole connected to the second connecting hole is flared. A traction rope is connected to the flared part of the first diversion hole, and a plug ball is connected to the side of the traction rope away from the first diversion hole. When the central submersible pump is in the pumping state, the plug ball blocks the first diversion hole. When the central submersible pump is in the water injection state, the plug ball disengages from the first diversion hole.

[0019] By adopting the above technical solution, when the ballast tank and the central anchor cylinder are docked, the first diversion hole and the second diversion hole are connected, that is, the first connecting hole and the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder have a connected channel; when the central submersible pump is in the pumping and anchoring state, the water that may flow into the first connecting hole is also pumped out, and at the same time, the plug ball gradually blocks the first diversion hole, and the fasteners are drawn down to ensure a tight connection between the ballast tank and the central anchor cylinder; when the central water pump is in the water injection and anchoring state, the plug ball is squeezed away from the first diversion hole by the water, so that the first connecting hole and the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder are connected. At this time, the fasteners can be more easily pushed by the water pressure towards the first connecting hole, thereby disengaging the ballast tank and the central anchor cylinder.

[0020] Optionally, the limiting mechanism includes a guide plate that is circumferentially hinged to the side of the connecting frame away from the auxiliary anchor cylinder along the mounting hole. A gear is coaxially fixed at the hinge point between the guide plate and the connecting frame. The outer wall of the central suction anchor is provided with teeth that mesh with the gear. A limiting buckle is provided below the teeth of the central suction anchor. During the process of the central suction anchor passing through the mounting hole, the teeth drive the gear to rotate and drive the guide plate to close towards the central suction anchor. When the guide plate rotates to fully fit the outer surface of the central suction anchor, the buckle engages with the bottom surface of the connecting frame.

[0021] By adopting the above technical solution, in order to ensure the stability of the connection between the central suction anchor and the connecting frame, the size of the mounting hole is consistent with the cross-sectional size of the central suction anchor. Therefore, during the hoisting and anchoring process of the central suction anchor, it is necessary to align the central suction anchor with the position of the mounting hole before lowering it. The open guide plate can play a guiding role. During installation, it is only necessary to align the central suction anchor with the upper part of the opening formed by multiple guide plates to form a larger area. During the descent, the central suction anchor is gradually guided to the upper part of the mounting hole. As the central suction anchor continues to descend, the teeth gradually mesh with the gear, thereby realizing the gradual closing of the guide plate. When the sinking requirement is met, the limit buckle passes through the mounting hole and is locked onto the bottom surface of the connecting frame to restrict the upward movement of the central suction anchor, further improving the pull-out and overturning resistance of the entire composite suction anchor.

[0022] Optionally, the limiting mechanism is disposed on the side surface of the ballast tank.

[0023] By adopting the above technical solution, since the weight of the ballast tank is greater than the mass of the central anchor cylinder, setting the limiting mechanism on the ballast tank can make the connection between the central suction anchor and the connecting frame tighter, and can also make the anchoring state more stable, further improving the pull-out and overturning resistance.

[0024] Optionally, the connecting bracket is further provided with a guide groove on the inner wall of the mounting hole for the limit buckle to pass through. The guide groove is set to narrow downward along the inner wall of the mounting hole, and a positioning block is provided at the narrowed end of the guide groove for the limit buckle to engage.

[0025] By adopting the above technical solution, the upper opening of the guide groove is set to be relatively large to facilitate the entry of the limiting buckle, thus eliminating the need for precise alignment and installation of the central suction anchor. At the same time, the guide groove narrows to guide the limiting buckle, ultimately allowing the limiting buckle to align with the position of the positioning block and squeeze through the positioning block. The limiting buckle and the positioning block are locked together, thereby securing the central suction anchor to the connecting frame. In addition, during the guiding process, the limiting buckle will cause the central suction anchor to rotate at a certain angle, thereby allowing the bottom of the central anchor tube to better insert into the seabed and further improving the pull-out resistance.

[0026] Optionally, the limiting mechanism further includes a limiting ring disposed on the side surface of the ballast tank, wherein when the guide plate rotates to fully fit the outer surface of the central suction anchor, the limiting ring abuts against the guide plate.

[0027] By adopting the above technical solution, since the guide plate and the central suction anchor are connected by gears and teeth meshing, when the guide plate is attached to the central suction anchor, the central suction anchor will not continue to move downward, thus playing a positioning role. By the limit ring abutting against the guide plate, the movement of the central suction anchor can be further restricted to ensure the balance of the connecting frame and improve the anti-overturning force of the suction anchor.

[0028] Secondly, this application provides a construction method for a multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device, employing the following technical solution:

[0029] A construction method for a multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device, using the aforementioned multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device, includes the following steps:

[0030] Prefabricated auxiliary mechanism: The auxiliary suction anchor and the connecting frame are fixed and prefabricated to form the auxiliary mechanism;

[0031] Assemble the central suction anchor, attach the ballast tank to the top of the central anchor tube and secure it;

[0032] The auxiliary mechanism is anchored by using a crane to vertically lower the auxiliary mechanism into the water. The auxiliary mechanism sinks to a depth of at least 1 meter on the seabed under the action of gravity so that the inside of the auxiliary suction anchor is sealed. The auxiliary submersible pump is turned on to pump water so that the top of the auxiliary anchor tube is basically flush with the seabed.

[0033] Level the water by controlling the auxiliary submersible pumps to adjust the top of the connecting frame to be level with the seabed.

[0034] The central suction anchor is lowered into the water using a crane and installed through the mounting hole. In the early stage of sinking, the central suction anchor sinks into the central anchor cylinder under its own weight to achieve a sealing condition. The central submersible pump is then turned on to pump water until the limiting mechanism restricts the central suction anchor from sinking further and fixes the central suction anchor and auxiliary mechanism into a whole.

[0035] To raise the anchor, first separate the ballast tank from the central anchor cylinder, then turn on the central submersible pump and auxiliary submersible pump to inject water, and use a crane to lift the ballast tank, auxiliary mechanisms and central anchor cylinder respectively.

[0036] By adopting the above technical solution, the auxiliary mechanism formed by the auxiliary suction anchor and connecting frame, along with the gravity effect of the ballast tank, increases the suction force of the composite suction anchor device and makes the suction force more evenly distributed. This effectively improves the overall pull-out bearing capacity and anti-overturning capacity of the device, thus enabling it to better adapt to the harsh environment of the deep sea and improve the stability of the marine development system. During anchoring, the ballast tank is first detached from the central anchor cylinder and lifted, and then the auxiliary mechanism and the central anchor cylinder are lifted separately, making construction more convenient and efficient.

[0037] In summary, this application includes at least one of the following beneficial effects:

[0038] 1. The auxiliary mechanism formed by the auxiliary suction anchor and the connecting frame, as well as the gravity effect of the ballast tank, increases the suction force of the composite suction anchor device and makes the suction force more evenly distributed, effectively improving the overall pull-out bearing capacity and overturning resistance of the device, thereby enabling it to better adapt to the harsh deep-sea environment and improve the stability of the marine development system.

[0039] 2. During anchoring, the ballast tank and the central cylinder are fastened with fasteners. The central submersible pump can further improve the tightness of the fastener connection when pumping water. The guide plate can guide the installation of the central suction anchor and automatically close and tighten the connection, making anchoring construction convenient and quick.

[0040] 3. When anchoring, the central submersible pump injects water, causing the fasteners to automatically detach from the central anchor cylinder, allowing the ballast tank to be lifted. Then, the auxiliary mechanism and the central anchor cylinder are lifted separately, making the anchoring operation convenient, quick, and labor-saving. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0042] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device in Embodiment 1 of this application along the horizontal direction;

[0043] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the auxiliary mechanism in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0044] Figure 4 This is a vertical cross-sectional view of the multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0045] Figure 5 This is a structural schematic diagram of the ballast tank in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0046] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 Enlarged view of point A in the middle.

[0047] Reference numerals: 1. Auxiliary mechanism; 2. Connecting frame; 21. Box body; 211. Mounting hole; 212. Guide groove; 22. Reinforcing component; 221. Reinforcing plate; 3. Auxiliary suction anchor; 31. Auxiliary anchor tube; 32. Auxiliary submersible pump; 4. Central suction anchor; 41. Central anchor tube; 411. Second connecting hole; 412. Second diversion hole; 42. Central submersible pump; 43. Ballast tank; 431. First connecting hole; 432. First diversion hole; 44. Fastener; 441. Limiting plate; 442. Connecting column; 443. Locking hook; 4431. Connecting part; 4432. Hooking part; 45. Elastic element; 5. Traction rope; 6. Blocking ball; 7. Limiting mechanism; 71. Guide plate; 72. Gear; 73. Tooth; 74. Limiting buckle; 75. Positioning block; 76. Channel; 77. Limiting ring; 78. Support plate. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 1-6 This application will be described in further detail.

[0049] Example 1:

[0050] Reference Figure 1 This application discloses a multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device, including an auxiliary mechanism 1 and a central suction anchor 4. The auxiliary mechanism 1 includes a connecting frame 2 and auxiliary suction anchors 3 fixed in a circumferential array on the connecting frame 2. The central suction anchor 4 passes through the middle of the connecting frame 2 and includes a central anchor cylinder 41 and a ballast tank 43 detachably installed on the central anchor cylinder 41. When anchoring, the auxiliary suction anchor 3 and the connecting frame 2 are first vertically placed into the water, and the water is pumped out to sink the anchor and the connecting frame 2 is leveled. Then, the central suction anchor 4 is placed in and the water is pumped out to sink the anchor. The gravity of the ballast tank 43 and the auxiliary mechanism 1 increase the suction of the composite suction anchor device and make the suction more evenly distributed, effectively improving the overall pull-out bearing capacity and overturning resistance of the device, thus enabling it to better adapt to the harsh environment of the deep sea and improve the stability of the marine development system. When lifting the anchor, the ballast tank 43 is first separated from the central anchor cylinder 41 and lifted, and then the central anchor cylinder 41 and the auxiliary mechanism 1 are lifted separately. The construction is convenient, efficient, time-saving and labor-saving.

[0051] In some embodiments, the connecting frame 2 may be a plate-like structure or a frame structure.

[0052] In this embodiment, refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3To improve structural strength, the connecting frame 2 is preferably a box-type structure. Specifically, the connecting frame 2 includes a box body 21 and reinforcing components 22 vertically arranged inside the box body 21. The box body 21 is a hollow equilateral triangle with rounded corners at its three vertices. Lifting rings are provided on the top or side of the box body 21. Depending on the seabed environment, the box body 21 can be a sealed structure or have through holes communicating with the outside. The box body 21 is preferably an unsealed structure to reduce buoyancy and facilitate sinking. Three sets of reinforcing components 22 are respectively located at the triangular portion of the box body 21, and three auxiliary suction anchors 3 are also respectively located at the triangular portion of the box body 21, with the central suction anchor 4 at the center of the triangle. Because the auxiliary suction anchor 3 generates a large suction force when it is pumped and anchored, it tends to cause the corresponding parts of the box 21 to deform. The three sets of reinforcing components 22 are respectively set near the three auxiliary suction anchors 3, which can reduce the possibility of deformation of the connecting frame 2 and prevent the auxiliary suction anchor 3 from deforming and separating from the box 21. This can improve the structural strength and adsorption force of the entire composite suction anchor device.

[0053] Specifically, refer to Figure 2 A set of reinforcing components 22 includes several parallel reinforcing plates 221. These reinforcing plates 221 are positioned on either side of the corresponding auxiliary suction anchor 3, extending from the apex of the box 21 towards its center. Each reinforcing plate 221 is connected to the inner wall of the box 21. That is, the lengths of the reinforcing plates 221 within the set of reinforcing components 22 are different to adapt to the internal dimensions of the box 21. The reinforcing plates 221 are fixed to the box 21 by welding. Preferably, there are four reinforcing plates 221, with one reinforcing plate 221 located on the side of the auxiliary suction anchor 3 furthest from the center of the connecting frame 2, and the other three reinforcing plates 221 located on the side of the auxiliary suction anchor 3 closest to the center of the connecting frame 2. When the central suction anchor 4 pumps water, it generates greater suction. The reinforcing plates 221 within the three sets of reinforcing components 22 can surround the central suction anchor 4, thereby further reducing the possibility of deformation of the connecting frame 2, and ensuring the stability of the adsorption between the central suction anchor 4 and the auxiliary suction anchor 3, as well as ensuring that the adsorption is horizontal, thus improving pull-out and overturning resistance.

[0054] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 4The auxiliary suction anchor 3 includes an auxiliary anchor cylinder 31 connected to the connecting frame 2 and an auxiliary submersible pump 32 connected to the auxiliary anchor cylinder 31. The outer diameter of the auxiliary anchor cylinder 31 is preferably 5m, the wall thickness is preferably 20-50mm, and the cylinder length is preferably 20m. The auxiliary submersible pump 32 is fixed inside the top of the auxiliary anchor cylinder 31. The top plate of the auxiliary anchor cylinder 31 can be welded or bolted to the bottom surface of the box body 21. The spacing between the three auxiliary anchor cylinders 31 is preferably five times the diameter of the auxiliary anchor cylinder 31, i.e., 25m. Before anchoring, the connecting frame 2 and the three auxiliary suction anchors 3 can be prefabricated as a whole in the factory and then transported to the construction site for anchoring.

[0055] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The connecting frame 2 has a mounting hole 211 in the middle that runs vertically through both ends. The inner diameter of the mounting hole 211 is the same as the outer diameter of the ballast tank 43. The central suction anchor 4 is vertically inserted through the mounting hole 211. The outer diameter of the central anchor cylinder 41 is preferably 15-20m, the wall thickness of the central anchor cylinder 41 is preferably 20-50mm, and the length of the cylinder is preferably 15-20m. The ballast tank 43 is a concrete counterweight block. The outer diameter of the ballast tank 43 can be the same as or 0.5-2m larger than the outer diameter of the central anchor cylinder 41. The outer wall of the central suction anchor 4 is provided with a limiting mechanism 7 for locking the central suction anchor 4 to move on the connecting frame 2. The top of the central anchor cylinder 41 is fixedly connected to the central submersible pump 42. When sinking the anchor, the central suction anchor 4 sinks to the position corresponding to the mounting hole 211. The ballast tank 43 can provide gravity for the central anchor cylinder 41, so that the central anchor cylinder 41 sinks faster and can be inserted into the seabed to a certain depth. Then the central submersible pump 42 is turned on to make the central suction anchor 4 continue to sink until the limiting mechanism 7 locks the central suction anchor 4. At this time, the central suction anchor 4 is fixed on the connecting frame 2 by the limiting mechanism 7, which ensures the overall pull-out bearing capacity and anti-overturning capacity of the suction anchor device.

[0056] In some embodiments, a flange may be pre-embedded on the ballast tank 43 to achieve a detachable connection with the central anchor cylinder 41 by means of bolts and nuts.

[0057] In this embodiment, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6A fastener 44 is connected between the ballast tank 43 and the central anchor cylinder 41. The number of fasteners 44 is at least four. The fastener 44 includes a limiting plate 441, a connecting post 442 and a locking hook 443 connected in sequence. The number of locking hooks 443 can be two or four arranged in a circumferential array along the connecting post 442. The locking hook 443 includes a connecting part 4431 fixed to the bottom surface of the connecting post 442 and a hook part 4432 fixed to the end of the connecting part 4431 away from the connecting post 442. The hook part 4432 protrudes from the side surface of the connecting post 442 but does not exceed the side surface of the limiting plate 441. The bottom of the ballast tank 43 has first connecting holes 431 arranged circumferentially for the fastener 44 to move vertically. The inner diameter of the first connecting hole 431 is the same as the outer diameter of the limiting plate 441. The inner diameter of the opening of the first connecting hole 431 is set to be smaller and equal to the size of the outermost part of the hook 4432. The limiting plate 441 is used to prevent the fastener 44 from disengaging from the first connecting hole 431. Moreover, the length of the first connecting hole 431 is not less than the overall length of the fastener 44. The top plate of the central anchor cylinder 41 corresponds to the first connecting hole. A second connecting hole 411 is provided at position 431 for fastener 44 to be inserted. The inner diameter of the second connecting hole 411 is equal to the inner diameter of the connecting post 442. The second connecting hole 411 is connected to the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder 41. When the ballast tank 43 and the central anchor cylinder 41 are docked, the locking hook 443 can be pressed through the second connecting hole 411 in a direction that brings them closer together. After the locking hook 443 enters the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder 41, the locking hook 443 returns to its original position, and the vertical projection of the locking hook 443 overlaps on the top plate of the central anchor cylinder 41. Furthermore, a steel spring is also provided in the first connecting hole 431. One end of the spring abuts against the limiting plate 441, and the other end abuts against the inner wall of the first connecting hole 431 near the opening. The spring drives the fastener 44 to move upward and enter the first connecting hole 431.

[0058] Fastener 44 is first installed on ballast tank 43 and can move up and down. When ballast tank 43 is placed above central anchor cylinder 41, due to the large weight of ballast tank 43, fastener 44 can extend from the lower end of ballast tank 43 and be squeezed into the second connecting hole 411. After the locking hook 443 passes through the second connecting hole 411, it will return to its original position and hook onto the inner top wall of central anchor cylinder 41. The spring drives fastener 44 to connect more tightly, so that central anchor cylinder 41 and ballast tank 43 are connected to form central suction anchor 4. During sinking, it can ensure that central anchor cylinder 41 and ballast tank 43 are connected. It should be noted that both the outer surface of central anchor cylinder 41 and ballast tank 43 are provided with at least two lifting lugs for crane hoisting. Moreover, during the process of central submersible pump 42 pumping water into the central anchor cylinder 41, any gas that may be present in central anchor cylinder 41 is also sucked in, which can tighten fastener 44 downwards, thereby ensuring the stability of the connection structure. When anchoring is required, the central submersible pump 42 injects water into the central anchor cylinder 41. At this time, the pressure is very high, and the fastener 44 will be squeezed upward and through the second connecting hole 411, thereby causing the ballast tank 43 to detach from the central anchor cylinder 41. Then the ballast tank 43 can be lifted first and the central anchor cylinder 41 can be pulled out. This allows for the use of a smaller crane, improving the convenience of offshore construction operations. The disassembly and assembly of the ballast tank 43 and the central anchor cylinder 41 do not require other tools, saving more time and effort.

[0059] In addition, during the process of detaching the ballast tank 43 from the central anchor cylinder 41, the hook part 4432 of the locking hook 443 may be damaged by external force. Therefore, the locking hook 443 can also be fixed to the connecting column 442 by means of threaded connection, so as to facilitate the replacement of the locking hook 443 and ensure the reusability of the entire composite suction anchor device.

[0060] Furthermore, refer to Figure 6The ballast tank 43 and the central anchor cylinder 41 are respectively provided with a first diversion hole 432 and a second diversion hole 412 that are connected to each other. When the ballast tank 43 and the central anchor cylinder 41 are docked, the first diversion hole 432 is connected to the first connecting hole 431, and the second diversion hole 412 is connected to the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder 41. That is, the first connecting hole 431 and the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder 41 have a connected channel 76. The opening of the first diversion hole 432 connected to the second connecting hole 411 is flared. A traction rope 5 is connected to the flared part of the first diversion hole 432. A ball stop 6 is connected to the side of the traction rope 5 away from the first diversion hole 432. The ball stop 6 is preferably made of a rubber material with high hardness. When the central submersible pump 42 is in the pumping state, the ball stop 6 blocks the first diversion hole 432. When the central submersible pump 42 is in the water injection state, the ball stop 6 is disengaged from the first diversion hole 432. When the central submersible pump 42 is in the pumping and anchoring state, any water that may flow into the first connecting hole 431 is also pumped out. At the same time, the plug ball 6 gradually blocks the first diversion hole 432, and the fastener 44 is drawn downwards to ensure a tight connection between the ballast tank 43 and the central anchor cylinder 41. When the central water pump is in the water injection and anchoring state, the plug ball 6 is squeezed away from the first diversion hole 432 by the water, so that the first connecting hole 431 and the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder 41 are connected. At this time, the fastener 44 can be more easily pushed by the water pressure towards the first connecting hole 431, thereby disengaging the ballast tank 43 and the central anchor cylinder 41.

[0061] In some embodiments, the limiting mechanism 7 may be disposed on the side surface of the central anchor cylinder 41.

[0062] In this embodiment, since the weight of the ballast tank 43 is greater than the mass of the central anchor cylinder 41, it is preferable to set the limiting mechanism 7 on the side surface of the ballast tank 43, so that the connection between the central suction anchor 4 and the connecting frame 2 can be tighter, and the anchoring state can be more stable, further improving the pull-out and overturning resistance.

[0063] Specifically, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4The limiting mechanism 7 includes guide plates 71 that are circumferentially hinged to the connecting frame 2 on the side opposite to the auxiliary anchor cylinder 31 along the mounting hole 211. A support plate 78 is correspondingly provided on the top surface of the housing 21 to support the guide plates 71. The support plate 78 can limit the maximum opening angle of the guide plates 71 to ensure the guiding function of the guide plates 71. The guide plates 71 are arc-shaped and the arc is consistent with the arc of the ballast tank 43. The middle part of the lower end of the guide plates 71 is hinged to the housing 21 through a rotating shaft. A gear is coaxially fixed on the rotating shaft. 72. The outer wall of the ballast tank 43 is provided with a toothed part 73 that meshes with the gear 72. The teeth in the toothed part 73 are arranged around the circumference of the ballast tank 43. The toothed part 73 is arranged around the circumference of the ballast tank 43 as a whole. The toothed part 73 can be made of metal and cast integrally when the concrete ballast tank 43 is poured. The ballast tank 43 is also provided with a limit buckle 74 below the toothed part 73. Furthermore, the limit mechanism 7 also includes a limit ring 77 located on the side surface of the ballast tank 43 above the toothed part 73. The open guide plate 71 serves as a guide. During installation, the central suction anchor 4 is aligned with the upper part of the larger opening formed by multiple guide plates 71. During descent, the central suction anchor 4 is gradually guided to the upper part of the mounting hole 211. As the central suction anchor 4 continues to descend, the teeth 73 gradually mesh with the gear 72, thereby gradually closing the guide plate 71. When the sinking requirement is met, the guide plate 71 rotates to completely fit the outer surface of the central suction anchor 4. The limiting buckle 74 then passes through the mounting hole 211 and engages with the bottom surface of the connecting frame 2 to restrict the central suction anchor 4 from moving upward. Furthermore, the limiting ring 77 abuts against the guide plate 71 to restrict the central suction anchor 4 from moving downward, thus ensuring the balance of the connecting frame 2 and improving the pull-out and overturning resistance of the entire composite suction anchor.

[0064] To reduce the possibility of interference between the limiting buckle 74 and the connecting frame 2 during the sinking of the central suction anchor 4, the connecting frame 2 is provided with a guide groove 212 on the inner wall of the mounting hole 211 for the limiting buckle 74 to pass through. The guide groove 212 is designed to narrow downwards along the inner wall of the mounting hole 211, that is, the upper opening of the guide groove 212 is set to be larger to facilitate the entry of the limiting buckle 74, thus eliminating the need for precise alignment and installation of the central suction anchor 4. A positioning block 75 protrudes from the narrowed end of the guide groove 212 for the limiting buckle 74 to engage. The constricted opening also provides a channel 76 for the limiting buckle 74 to pass through and move upwards. The constricted opening of the guide groove 212 guides the limiting buckle 74, ultimately allowing the limiting buckle 74 to align with the positioning block 75 and squeeze through the positioning block 75. The limiting buckle 74 and the positioning block 75 are locked together, thus securing the central suction anchor 4 and the connecting frame 2. When it is necessary to disassemble the ballast tank 43, first unlock the fastener 44, then rotate the entire central suction anchor 4 slightly to allow the limiting buckle 74 to disengage from the positioning block 75 and enter the channel 76 position, allowing the ballast tank 43 to be pulled out. In addition, during the guiding process, the limiting buckle 74 will drive the central suction anchor 4 to rotate at a certain angle, thereby allowing the bottom of the central anchor tube 41 to better insert into the seabed and further improve the pull-out resistance. Preferably, the bottom of the central anchor tube 41 can be provided with sharp teeth to better rotate and insert into the seabed.

[0065] The implementation principle of a multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device according to an embodiment of this application is as follows:

[0066] During manufacturing, multiple auxiliary suction anchors 3 are first welded in a circumferential array onto a connecting frame 2 in the factory to form an integral auxiliary mechanism 1. The central anchor cylinder 41 and the ballast tank 43 are also installed together. By simply placing the ballast tank 43 downward and applying pressure, the fastener 44 can be inserted into the second connecting hole 411 of the central anchor cylinder 41, thereby fixing the central anchor cylinder 41 and the ballast tank 43 together to form the central suction anchor 4.

[0067] During anchoring, the auxiliary mechanism 1 is first vertically lowered into the water using a crane. Under its own weight, the lower edge of the auxiliary suction anchor 3 first touches the bottom and sinks to a certain depth on the seabed to form the necessary sealing conditions. The auxiliary submersible pump 32 is turned on to pump water and the auxiliary anchor 31 sinks to the designed depth before anchoring stops. Multiple auxiliary suction anchors 3 are controlled to make the top surface of the connecting frame 2 flush with the seabed. Then, the central suction anchor 4 is lowered to the position corresponding to the opening of the guide plate 71. The ballast tank 43 can provide gravity for the central anchor 41, so that the central anchor 41 sinks faster and can penetrate to a certain depth on the seabed. The central submersible pump 42 is then turned on to make the central suction anchor 4 continue to sink. During the process of anchoring the central suction anchor 4, the guide plate 71 gradually closes until it fits against the outer surface of the ballast tank 43. The limiting buckle 74 is locked onto the bottom surface of the connecting frame 2 through the mounting hole 211 to limit the upward movement of the central suction anchor 4. The limiting ring 77 abuts against the guide plate 71 to limit the downward movement of the central suction anchor 4, thus completing the anchoring.

[0068] When anchoring, the central submersible pump 42 injects water into the central anchor cylinder 41, causing the fastener 44 to disengage from the central anchor cylinder 41. Then, the ballast tank 43 is rotated to disengage the limit buckle 74 from the positioning block 75, allowing the ballast tank 43 to be lifted first. The auxiliary submersible pump 32 can simultaneously inject water into the auxiliary anchor cylinder 31, and then lift the auxiliary mechanism 1 and the central anchor cylinder 41, making the construction more convenient and efficient.

[0069] Example 2:

[0070] This application discloses a construction method for a multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device. Using the aforementioned multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device, the method includes the following steps:

[0071] Prefabricated auxiliary mechanism 1, which is formed by fixing the auxiliary suction anchor 3 and the connecting frame 2 to form the auxiliary mechanism 1;

[0072] Assemble the central suction anchor 4, attach the ballast tank 43 above the central anchor cylinder 41 and fix it in place;

[0073] The auxiliary mechanism 1 is anchored by using a crane to vertically lower the auxiliary mechanism 1 into the water. The auxiliary mechanism 1 sinks to a depth of at least 1 meter on the seabed under the action of gravity so that the inside of the auxiliary suction anchor 3 is sealed. The auxiliary submersible pump 32 is turned on to pump water so that the top of the auxiliary anchor cylinder 31 is basically flush with the seabed.

[0074] Leveling: Control the auxiliary submersible pump 32 to pump water, and adjust the top of the connecting frame 2 to be level with the seabed.

[0075] The central suction anchor 4 is lowered into the water by a crane and lowered through the installation hole 211. In the early stage of sinking, the central suction anchor 4 sinks into the central anchor cylinder 41 by its own weight under the ballast tank 43 to achieve the sealing condition. The central submersible pump 42 is turned on to pump water until the limiting mechanism 7 restricts the central suction anchor 4 from sinking further and fixes the central suction anchor 4 and the auxiliary mechanism 1 into a whole.

[0076] To raise the anchor, first separate the ballast tank 43 from the central anchor cylinder 41, then turn on the central submersible pump 42 and the auxiliary submersible pump 32 to inject water, and use a crane to lift the ballast tank 43, the auxiliary mechanism 1 and the central anchor cylinder 41 respectively.

[0077] The above are all preferred embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, all equivalent changes made in accordance with the structure, shape and principle of this application should be covered within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A multi-cylinder composite suction anchor apparatus, characterized by, include: The connecting frame (2) has a mounting hole (211) in the middle that extends vertically through both ends. An auxiliary suction anchor (3) is arranged circumferentially on the connecting frame (2). The auxiliary suction anchor (3) includes an auxiliary anchor cylinder (31) connected to the connecting frame (2) and an auxiliary submersible pump (32) connected to the auxiliary anchor cylinder (31). A central suction anchor (4) is vertically inserted through the mounting hole (211). A limiting mechanism (7) for locking the central suction anchor (4) to the connecting frame (2) is provided on the outer wall of the central suction anchor (4). The central suction anchor (4) includes a central anchor cylinder (41), a central submersible pump (42) connected to the central anchor cylinder (41), and a ballast tank (43) detachably connected to the upper end of the central anchor cylinder (41). A fastener (44) is connected between the ballast tank (43) and the central anchor cylinder (41). The fastener (44) includes a limiting plate (441), a connecting column (442), and a locking hook connected in sequence. (443); The bottom of the ballast tank (43) is provided with a first connecting hole (431) arranged in a circumferential array for the fastener (44) to move vertically, and the limiting plate (441) is used to restrict the fastener (44) from disengaging from the first connecting hole (431); The top plate of the central anchor cylinder (41) is provided with a second connecting hole (411) corresponding to the position of the first connecting hole (431) for the fastener (44) to be inserted, and the second connecting hole (411) communicates with the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder (41); When the ballast tank (43) and the central anchor cylinder (41) are docked, the locking hook (443) can squeeze through the second connecting hole (441) The connection hole (411) is such that when the locking hook (443) enters the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder (41), the vertical projection of the locking hook (443) overlaps on the top plate of the central anchor cylinder (41); the ballast tank (43) and the central anchor cylinder (41) are respectively provided with a first diversion hole (432) and a second diversion hole (412) that are connected to each other. The first diversion hole (432) is connected to the first connection hole (431), and the second diversion hole (412) is connected to the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder (41); the opening of the first diversion hole (432) is flared and connected to the second connection hole (411). (432) A traction rope (5) is connected to the flared end. A plug ball (6) is connected to the side of the traction rope (5) away from the first diversion hole (432). When the central submersible pump (42) is in the pumping state, the plug ball (6) blocks the first diversion hole (432). When the central submersible pump (42) is in the water injection state, the plug ball (6) is disengaged from the first diversion hole (432). This allows the first connecting hole (431) to communicate with the inner cavity of the central anchor cylinder (41). At this time, the fastener (44) can be more easily pushed by the water pressure towards the first connecting hole (431), thereby disengaging the ballast tank (43) and the central anchor cylinder (41).

2. The multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting frame (2) includes a box (21) and reinforcing members (22) arranged vertically inside the box (21). The box (21) is a hollow equilateral triangle. There are three sets of reinforcing members (22) arranged at the triangle of the box (21). There are also three auxiliary suction anchors (3) arranged at the triangle of the box (21).

3. The multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device according to claim 2, characterized in that, A set of the reinforcing components (22) includes a plurality of parallel reinforcing plates (221), which are respectively located on both sides of the corresponding auxiliary anchor cylinder (31) from the top of the box (21) toward the center of the box (21). The periphery of each reinforcing plate (221) is connected to the inner wall of the box (21).

4. The multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The limiting mechanism (7) includes a guide plate (71) that is circumferentially hinged to the side of the connecting frame (2) away from the auxiliary anchor cylinder (31) along the mounting hole (211). A gear (72) is coaxially fixed at the hinge of the guide plate (71) and the connecting frame (2). A tooth (73) that meshes with the gear (72) is provided on the outer wall of the central suction anchor (4). A limiting buckle (74) is provided below the tooth (73) of the central suction anchor (4). During the process of the central suction anchor (4) passing through the mounting hole (211), the tooth (73) drives the gear (72) to rotate and drives the guide plate (71) to close in the direction of the central suction anchor (4). When the guide plate (71) rotates to completely fit the outer surface of the central suction anchor (4), the buckle is engaged with the bottom surface of the connecting frame (2).

5. The multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The limiting mechanism (7) is disposed on the side surface of the ballast tank (43).

6. The multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The connecting frame (2) also has a guide groove (212) on the inner wall of the mounting hole (211) for the limit buckle (74) to pass through. The guide groove (212) is set to narrow downward along the inner wall of the mounting hole (211), and a positioning block (75) for the limit buckle (74) to engage is provided at the narrowing of the guide groove (212).

7. A multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The limiting mechanism (7) also includes a limiting ring (77) disposed on the side surface of the ballast tank (43). When the guide plate (71) rotates to fully fit the outer surface of the central suction anchor (4), the limiting ring (77) abuts against the guide plate (71).

8. A construction method for a multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device, characterized in that, Using the multi-cylinder composite suction anchor device according to any one of claims 1-7 includes the following steps: Prefabricated auxiliary mechanism (1) is formed by fixing the auxiliary suction anchor (3) and the connecting frame (2). Assemble the central suction anchor (4), attach the ballast tank (43) above the central anchor cylinder (41) and fix it in place; The auxiliary mechanism (1) is anchored. A crane is used to vertically lower the auxiliary mechanism (1) into the water. The auxiliary mechanism (1) sinks to a depth of at least 1 meter on the seabed under the action of gravity so that the interior of the auxiliary suction anchor (3) reaches the sealing condition. The auxiliary submersible pump (32) is turned on to pump water so that the top of the auxiliary anchor cylinder (31) is basically flush with the seabed. Level the water by controlling the auxiliary submersible pump (32) to pump water and adjust the top of the connecting frame (2) to be level with the seabed. The central suction anchor (4) is anchored by using a crane to place the central suction anchor (4) into the water and through the installation hole (211). In the early stage of sinking, the central suction anchor (4) sinks to the interior of the central anchor tube (41) under the weight of the ballast tank (43) to achieve the sealing condition. The central submersible pump (42) is turned on to pump water until the limiting mechanism (7) restricts the central suction anchor (4) from sinking further and makes the central suction anchor (4) and the auxiliary mechanism (1) fixed as a whole. To raise the anchor, first separate the ballast tank (43) from the central anchor cylinder (41), then turn on the central submersible pump (42) and the auxiliary submersible pump (32) to inject water, and use a crane to lift the ballast tank (43), auxiliary mechanism (1) and central anchor cylinder (41) respectively.

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