Umbilical cable

Abstract

This invention provides an umbilical cable. The umbilical cable includes: a central main structure comprising an optical unit, an electrical unit, a transmission unit, a first hollow buffer structure, and a second hollow buffer structure; and a protective structure comprising a first sheath covering the outer periphery of the central main structure. The transmission unit and the electrical unit form a first accommodating space, and the transmission unit and the first sheath form a second accommodating space. The first and second accommodating spaces are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the umbilical cable. The first hollow buffer structure is disposed within the first accommodating space, and both the second hollow buffer structure and the optical unit are disposed within the second accommodating space. The second hollow buffer structure is configured to cover at least a portion of the optical unit. The umbilical cable of this invention solves the problems of poor impact and compression resistance of existing umbilical cables, making them susceptible to damage and resulting in high maintenance costs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of marine engineering technology, and more specifically, to an umbilical cable. Background Technology

[0002] Offshore oil and gas development is a crucial component of global energy acquisition, and subsea production systems, as a key link, directly impact the success or failure of the entire development process through their efficiency and safety. Within this system, the umbilical cable plays a vital role. It not only connects the control unit on land or a floating platform to the subsea production system, transmitting hydraulic power, electricity, control signals, and chemicals, but also feeds back the real-time operational status of the production system to the control unit, ensuring the stable operation of the entire system. As oil and gas field development gradually expands into deeper waters, the performance requirements for umbilical cables are increasing. In the deep-sea environment, umbilical cables must withstand enormous water pressure and the complex influences of the marine environment, requiring excellent mechanical properties and durability.

[0003] As operating depth increases, weight control of umbilical cables becomes a significant technical challenge. Excessive weight increases installation and maintenance difficulty and costs, while insufficient weight may compromise mechanical strength and protective performance. When designing umbilical cables for deep water, weight optimization must be achieved while maintaining mechanical performance and protective capabilities. While traditional unarmored structures offer some weight reduction, the lack of armor protection results in poor impact and crush resistance. Damage to the second sheath can easily lead to further damage to the internal structure, significantly increasing long-term maintenance costs. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main objective of this invention is to provide an umbilical cable that can solve the problems of poor impact and flattening resistance of existing umbilical cables, making them susceptible to damage and resulting in high maintenance costs.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides an umbilical cable, comprising: a central main structure including an optical unit, an electrical unit, a transmission unit, a first hollow buffer structure, and a second hollow buffer structure; a protective structure including a first sheath covering the outer periphery of the central main structure; wherein the transmission unit and the electrical unit form a first accommodating space, the transmission unit and the first sheath form a second accommodating space, the first accommodating space and the second accommodating space are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the umbilical cable, the first hollow buffer structure is disposed within the first accommodating space, the second hollow buffer structure and the optical unit are both disposed within the second accommodating space, and the second hollow buffer structure is configured to cover at least a portion of the optical unit.

[0006] Furthermore, the first hollow buffer structure extends along the length of the umbilical cable. The first hollow buffer structure includes a first hollow region and a first solid region. The first solid region surrounds the first hollow region. On the cross-section of the first hollow buffer structure, the area of ​​the first solid region is S1, and the area of ​​the first hollow region is S2. The ratio of S1 / S2 ranges from 1.8 to 2.2.

[0007] Furthermore, the conveying unit includes a first conveying pipe and a second conveying pipe, the first conveying pipe, the second conveying pipe and the electrical unit forming a first accommodating space, and the outer peripheral surface of the first hollow buffer structure being tangent to the first conveying pipe, the second conveying pipe and the electrical unit.

[0008] Furthermore, the outer periphery of the first hollow buffer structure is provided with two first conveying pipes, two electrical units, and one second conveying pipe. The two first conveying pipes, two electrical units, and one second conveying pipe together form a first accommodating space. The two first conveying pipes are arranged adjacent to each other, the two electrical units are located on the same side of the two first conveying pipes, and the second conveying pipe is located between the two electrical units. The first hollow buffer structure includes a first arc surface, a second arc surface, a third arc surface, and a fourth arc surface arranged sequentially along its circumference. The first and third arc surfaces are arranged opposite each other, and the second and fourth arc surfaces are arranged opposite each other. The first arc surface is tangent to both first conveying pipes. The second arc surface is tangent to the second conveying pipe, the first conveying pipe located on the side of the second arc surface, and the second conveying pipe. The fourth arc surface is tangent to the second conveying pipe, the first conveying pipe located on the side of the fourth arc surface, and the second conveying pipe. The third arc surface is tangent to the second conveying pipe.

[0009] Furthermore, the outer contour of the first hollow buffer structure is formed by splicing three circles. The first and third arc surfaces belong to one of the three circles, the second arc surface belongs to one of the other two circles, and the fourth arc surface belongs to the other one of the other two circles.

[0010] Furthermore, the second hollow buffer structure extends along the length of the umbilical cable. The second hollow buffer structure includes a second hollow region and a second solid region. On the cross-section of the second hollow buffer structure, the area of ​​the second solid region is S3, the area of ​​the second hollow region is S4, and the ratio of S3 / S4 ranges from 1.3 to 1.7.

[0011] Furthermore, the conveying unit includes a first conveying pipe and a third conveying pipe. The first conveying pipe, the third conveying pipe, and the first sheath form a second receiving space. The outer peripheral surface of the second hollow buffer structure can be adapted to the inner wall surface of the second receiving space.

[0012] Furthermore, the second hollow buffer structure includes a first hollow component and a second hollow component. The first hollow component and the second hollow component both have a fifth arc surface facing each other. The first hollow component and the second hollow component are connected, and the two fifth arc surfaces form a locking space with one end open. The optical unit is placed in the locking space, and the optical unit and the second hollow buffer structure form a buffer gap on the side near the first sheath.

[0013] Furthermore, the outer periphery of the second hollow buffer structure is provided with two third conveying pipes and one first conveying pipe. The two third conveying pipes, together with the first conveying pipe and the first sheath, form a second accommodating space. The side of the first hollow split and the second hollow split that is away from each other is a sixth arc surface. The sixth arc surface can be adapted to the third conveying pipe located on its side.

[0014] Furthermore, both the first and second hollow buffer structures are made of polyethylene material, and the conveying unit is made of metal material; and / or, the umbilical cable also includes an armor structure, which covers the outer periphery of the protective structure. The armor structure includes a first armor layer and a second armor layer with opposite twisting directions. Both the first and second armor layers include multiple steel wire units and multiple PE strips. The multiple steel wire units are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the protective structure, and at least one PE strip is provided between two adjacent steel wire units. Each steel wire unit includes at least two steel wires.

[0015] Applying the technical solution of this invention, the first hollow buffer structure is set in the first accommodating space surrounded by the conveying unit and the electrical unit, and the second hollow buffer structure is set in the second accommodating space surrounded by the conveying unit and the first sheath. Since both the first and second hollow buffer structures are hollow structures, they can play a buffering role when the optical unit, electrical unit, and conveying unit are squeezed against each other. At the same time, they can also resist external impact forces, thereby improving the impact resistance and flattening resistance of the umbilical cable, making the umbilical cable less prone to damage during construction, installation, and use, thereby reducing the maintenance cost of the umbilical cable. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this specification, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. In the drawings:

[0017] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an umbilical cable according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0018] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a first hollow buffer structure according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0019] Figure 3A schematic diagram illustrating the formation principle of the first hollow buffer structure according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0020] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a second hollow buffer structure according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0021] Figure 5 A perspective view of an umbilical cable according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0022] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0023] 10. Optical unit; 20. Electrical unit; 31. First delivery pipe; 32. Second delivery pipe; 33. Third delivery pipe; 40. First hollow buffer structure; 41. First hollow region; 42. First solid region; 43. First arc surface; 44. Second arc surface; 45. Third arc surface; 46. Fourth arc surface; 50. Second hollow buffer structure; 51. Second hollow region; 52. Second solid region; 53. First hollow split; 54. Second hollow split; 55. Locking space; 61. First sheath; 611. First through hole; 62. Second sheath; 70. Armor structure; 71. First armor layer; 72. Second armor layer; 73. Steel wire; 74. PE strip; 80. Circular filler strip; 91. First wrapping tape; 92. Second wrapping tape; 93. Third wrapping tape; 100. Black stripe. Detailed Implementation

[0024] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in the present invention can be combined with each other. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0025] See also Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the present invention provides an umbilical cable, which includes: a central main structure including an optical unit 10, an electrical unit 20, a transmission unit, a first hollow buffer structure 40, and a second hollow buffer structure 50; a protective structure including a first sheath 61, which covers the outer periphery of the central main structure; wherein the transmission unit and the electrical unit 20 form a first accommodating space, and the transmission unit and the first sheath 61 form a second accommodating space, the first accommodating space and the second accommodating space are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the umbilical cable, the first hollow buffer structure 40 is disposed in the first accommodating space, the second hollow buffer structure 50 and the optical unit 10 are both disposed in the second accommodating space, and the second hollow buffer structure 50 is configured to cover at least part of the optical unit 10.

[0026] In this embodiment, the central main structure is formed by twisting together an optical unit 10, an electrical unit 20, a transmission unit, a first hollow buffer structure 40, and a second hollow buffer structure 50. A first sheath 61 covers the outer periphery of the central main structure to protect it. The first hollow buffer structure 40 is disposed within a first accommodating space enclosed by the transmission unit and the electrical unit 20, and the second hollow buffer structure 50 is disposed within a second accommodating space enclosed by the transmission unit and the first sheath 61. The arrangement of the first hollow buffer structure 40 and the second hollow buffer structure 50 ensures the roundness of the umbilical cable during production and use. The second hollow buffer structure 50 can cover at least a portion of the optical unit 10, effectively protecting the optical unit 10. In addition, since both the first hollow buffer structure 40 and the second hollow buffer structure 50 are hollow structures, they can act as a buffer when the optical unit 10, electrical unit 20, and transmission unit are squeezed together. At the same time, they can also resist external impact forces, thereby improving the umbilical cable's impact resistance and flattening resistance. This makes the umbilical cable less susceptible to damage during construction, installation, and use, thus ensuring construction safety, extending the service life of the umbilical cable, and enabling it to meet the needs of deep water applications, thereby reducing the maintenance cost of the umbilical cable.

[0027] It should be noted that the umbilical cable of this application can be completed in one go, without the need for secondary cabling, which reduces production difficulty, improves the production efficiency of the umbilical cable, and reduces the risks in the production process. Furthermore, the umbilical cable of this application can achieve a relative balance between weight, mechanical performance, and cost for deep-water umbilical cables.

[0028] See also Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, the first hollow buffer structure 40 extends along the length direction of the umbilical cable. The first hollow buffer structure 40 includes a first hollow region 41 and a first solid region 42. The first solid region 42 surrounds the first hollow region 41. On the cross-section of the first hollow buffer structure 40, the area of ​​the first solid region 42 is S1, the area of ​​the first hollow region 41 is S2, and the ratio of S1 / S2 ranges from 1.8 to 2.2.

[0029] In this embodiment, the first hollow buffer structure 40 is a hollow tube structure, and the length of the first hollow buffer structure 40 is less than or equal to the length of the umbilical cable. The ratio of the area of ​​the first solid region 42 to the area of ​​the first hollow region 41 ranges from 1.8 to 2.2, which ensures both the structural strength and the buffering effect of the first hollow buffer structure 40.

[0030] See also Figures 1 to 5As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, the conveying unit includes a first conveying pipe 31 and a second conveying pipe 32. The first conveying pipe 31, the second conveying pipe 32 and the electrical unit 20 form a first accommodating space. The outer peripheral surface of the first hollow buffer structure 40 can be tangent to the first conveying pipe 31, the second conveying pipe 32 and the electrical unit 20.

[0031] In this embodiment, the outer peripheral surface of the first hollow buffer structure 40 is tangent to the first delivery pipe 31, the second delivery pipe 32, and the electrical unit 20. On the one hand, this makes the structure of the central main structure more compact and optimizes the spatial layout. On the other hand, the first hollow buffer structure 40 can also form a support between the first delivery pipe 31, the second delivery pipe 32, and the electrical unit 20, so that the first delivery pipe 31, the second delivery pipe 32, and the electrical unit 20 can remain relatively stable and avoid large swaying, thereby enhancing the structural stability of the umbilical cable.

[0032] See also Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, two first conveying pipes 31, two electrical units 20, and one second conveying pipe 32 are arranged on the outer periphery of the first hollow buffer structure 40. The two first conveying pipes 31, two electrical units 20, and one second conveying pipe 32 together form a first accommodating space. The two first conveying pipes 31 are arranged adjacent to each other, the two electrical units 20 are located on the same side of the two first conveying pipes 31, and the second conveying pipe 32 is located between the two electrical units 20. The first hollow buffer structure 40 includes a first arc surface 43 and a second arc surface 44 arranged sequentially along its circumference. Arc surface 44, third arc surface 45 and fourth arc surface 46, first arc surface 43 and third arc surface 45 are arranged opposite each other, second arc surface 44 and fourth arc surface 46 are arranged opposite each other, first arc surface 43 is tangent to both first conveying pipes 31, second arc surface 44 is tangent to second conveying pipe 32, first conveying pipe 31 and second conveying pipe 32 located on the side of second arc surface 44, fourth arc surface 46 is tangent to second conveying pipe 32, first conveying pipe 31 and second conveying pipe 32 located on the side of fourth arc surface 46, and third arc surface 45 is tangent to second conveying pipe 32.

[0033] In this embodiment, for clarity of description, the two first delivery pipes 31 are respectively named first delivery pipe A and first delivery pipe B, and the two electrical units 20 are respectively named electrical unit A and electrical unit B. Regarding... Figure 1In a clockwise direction, two first conveying pipes 31, two electrical units 20, and one second conveying pipe 32 are arranged in the order of second conveying pipe 32, electrical unit A, first conveying pipe A, first conveying pipe B, and electrical unit B on the outer periphery of the first hollow buffer structure 40, and together form the first accommodating space. The first arc surface 43 faces the two first conveying pipes 31 and is tangent to the first conveying pipe A and the first conveying pipe B; the middle part of the second arc surface 44 faces the electrical unit B and is tangent to the second conveying pipe 32, the electrical unit B, and the first conveying pipe B; the middle part of the fourth arc surface 46 faces the electrical unit A and is tangent to the second conveying pipe 32, the electrical unit A, and the first conveying pipe A; the third arc surface 45 is tangent to the second conveying pipe 32.

[0034] Through the above settings, on the one hand, the structure of the central main structure can be made more compact and the spatial layout optimized. On the other hand, the first hollow buffer structure 40 can also form a support between the second conveying pipe 32, electrical unit A, first conveying pipe A, first conveying pipe B and electrical unit B, so that the second conveying pipe 32, electrical unit A, first conveying pipe A, first conveying pipe B and electrical unit B can remain relatively stable and avoid large swaying, thereby enhancing the structural stability of the umbilical cable.

[0035] See also Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, the outer contour of the first hollow buffer structure 40 is formed by splicing three circles. The first arc surface 43 and the third arc surface 45 belong to one of the three circles, the second arc surface 44 belongs to one of the other two circles, and the fourth arc surface 46 belongs to the other one of the other two circles.

[0036] In this embodiment, the outer contours of the three overlapping circles form the outer contour of the first hollow buffer structure 40. This arrangement maximizes the filling of the first accommodating space and ensures a tight fit with the first delivery tube 31, the second delivery tube 32, and the electrical unit 20. This prevents the first delivery tube 31, the second delivery tube 32, and the electrical unit 20 from shifting when the umbilical cable is subjected to external forces, thus guaranteeing the roundness of the umbilical cable.

[0037] See also Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, the second hollow buffer structure 50 extends along the length direction of the umbilical cable. The second hollow buffer structure 50 includes a second hollow region 51 and a second solid region 52. On the cross-section of the second hollow buffer structure 50, the area of ​​the second solid region 52 is S3, the area of ​​the second hollow region 51 is S4, and the ratio of S3 / S4 ranges from 1.3 to 1.7.

[0038] In this embodiment, the second hollow buffer structure 50 is a hollow tube structure, and the length of the second hollow buffer structure 50 is less than or equal to the length of the umbilical cable. The ratio of the area of ​​the second solid region 52 to the area of ​​the second hollow region 51 ranges from 1.3 to 1.7, which ensures both the structural strength and the buffering effect of the second hollow buffer structure 50.

[0039] See also Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, the conveying unit includes a first conveying pipe 31 and a third conveying pipe 33. The first conveying pipe 31, the third conveying pipe 33 and the first sheath 61 form a second accommodating space. The outer peripheral surface of the second hollow buffer structure 50 can be adapted to the inner wall surface of the second accommodating space.

[0040] Through the above settings, on the one hand, the structure of the central main structure can be made more compact and the spatial layout optimized; on the other hand, the second hollow buffer structure 50 can also form a support between the first delivery pipe 31, the third delivery pipe 33 and the first sheath 61, so that the first delivery pipe 31 and the third delivery pipe 33 can remain relatively stable, thereby enhancing the structural stability of the umbilical cable.

[0041] See also Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, the second hollow buffer structure 50 includes a first hollow split 53 and a second hollow split 54. The first hollow split 53 and the second hollow split 54 are both fifth arc surfaces facing each other. The first hollow split 53 and the second hollow split 54 are connected, and the two fifth arc surfaces form a locking space 55 with one end open. The optical unit 10 is placed in the locking space 55, and the optical unit 10 and the second hollow buffer structure 50 form a buffer gap on the side near the first sheath 61.

[0042] In this embodiment, both the first hollow component 53 and the second hollow component 54 are hollow structures. The sides of both the first hollow component 53 and the second hollow component 54 facing each other are fifth arc surfaces. The first hollow component 53 and the second hollow component 54 are connected, and the two fifth arc surfaces together form a locking space 55. The optical unit 10 can be inserted into the locking space 55 through the opening. At this time, the second hollow buffer structure 50 covers the outer periphery of the optical unit 10, protecting it. After the optical unit 10 is inserted into the locking space 55, a buffer gap is formed between the optical unit 10 and the second hollow buffer structure 50 on the side near the first sheath 61. This buffer gap can absorb and disperse external impacts or vibrations, thereby protecting the optical unit 10 from damage.

[0043] In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the mounting space 55 is S5, the cross-sectional area of ​​the optical unit 10 is S6, and the ratio of S5 / S6 ranges from 1.1 to 1.2. This configuration provides better protection for the optical unit 10.

[0044] See also Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, two third conveying pipes 33 and one first conveying pipe 31 are provided on the outer periphery of the second hollow buffer structure 50. The two third conveying pipes 33, one first conveying pipe 31, and the first sheath 61 together form a second accommodating space. The side of the first hollow split body 53 and the second hollow split body 54 that is away from each other is a sixth arc surface. The sixth arc surface can be adapted to the third conveying pipe 33 located on its side.

[0045] In this embodiment, the first delivery pipe 31 is located between the two third delivery pipes 33, and the first delivery pipe 31, the two third delivery pipes 33, and the first sheath 61 together form the second accommodating space. The sides of the first hollow split 53 and the second hollow split 54 closest to the first delivery pipe 31 are both seventh arc surfaces, which fit the outer wall surface of the first delivery pipe 31. The sides of the first hollow split 53 and the second hollow split 54 closest to the first sheath 61 are both eighth arc surfaces, which fit the side of the first sheath 61 facing the first hollow split 53. Through the above arrangement, the structure of the central main body can be made more compact, thereby ensuring the roundness and tightness of the umbilical cable.

[0046] In one embodiment, the first delivery pipe 31, the second delivery pipe 32, and the third delivery pipe 33 are all steel pipes, and the steel pipes are provided with a layer of polyethylene protective sleeve. The thickness of the polyethylene protective sleeve can be set according to actual needs. The polyethylene protective sleeve can provide mechanical protection for the steel pipes, reduce frictional contact between the steel pipes, and extend the service life of the umbilical cable.

[0047] In one embodiment, the first conveying pipe 31 has an inner diameter of 31.75 mm and a wall thickness of 1.5 mm, the second conveying pipe 32 has an inner diameter of 19.05 mm and a wall thickness of 1.1 mm, and the third conveying pipe 33 has an inner diameter of 12.7 mm and a wall thickness of 1.0 mm.

[0048] In one embodiment, the electrical unit 20 includes four power line cores, which, from the inside out, consist of a conductor, an insulation layer, a metal shielding layer, and a polyethylene sheath. The specific structure of the optical unit 10 is prior art and will not be described in detail here.

[0049] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first hollow buffer structure 40 and the second hollow buffer structure 50 are both made of polyethylene material, and the conveying unit is made of metal material.

[0050] In one embodiment, both the first hollow buffer structure 40 and the second hollow buffer structure 50 are made of high-density polyethylene material.

[0051] Existing umbilical cables mainly consist of two types: double-armored and unarmored. For double-armored umbilical cables, the armor typically has two layers twisted in opposite directions. This design can withstand greater tensile force and maintain torque balance within the armor layers, while also providing good mechanical protection and seabed stability. However, double-armored umbilical cables are very heavy, significantly increasing the required installation tension, construction difficulty, and cost at greater water depths. While unarmored umbilical cables are lighter overall, the internal cable stranding is unidirectional, leading to torque imbalance. Under high tension and deep water, this makes them highly susceptible to twisting and breakage. Furthermore, the lack of armor significantly reduces mechanical protection, resulting in poor impact and flattening resistance. Damage to the outer sheath exposes the internal structure, causing further damage. The significantly lighter weight of unarmored cables also reduces stability, requiring additional measures to maintain stability and further increasing construction costs.

[0052] To solve the above problems, see [reference] Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, the umbilical cable further includes an armor structure 70, which covers the outer periphery of the protective structure. The armor structure 70 includes a first armor layer 71 and a second armor layer 72 with opposite twisting directions. Both the first armor layer 71 and the second armor layer 72 include multiple steel wire units and multiple PE strips 74. The multiple steel wire units are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the protective structure. At least one PE strip 74 is provided between two adjacent steel wire units. The steel wire unit includes at least two steel wires 73.

[0053] In this embodiment, the PE strip is a cylindrical structure made of polyethylene material with a circular cross-section. The diameter of the steel wire 73 is the same as the diameter of the PE strip 74. The ratio of the number of steel wires 73 to the number of PE strips 74 in the first armor layer 71 and the second armor layer 72 is 2:1. The PE strip 74 reduces the weight of the umbilical cable, lowers production and installation costs, and provides strong mechanical protection, extending the service life of the umbilical cable.

[0054] In one embodiment, the twisting direction of the first armor layer 71 is clockwise, the twisting direction of the second armor layer is counterclockwise, and the cabling direction of the umbilical cable is counterclockwise. The overall torque after cabling is T1, the torque of the first armor layer is T2, and the torque of the second armor layer is T3. By adjusting the pitch of the cabling and armor structure 70, the overall torque of the internal structural unit (referring to the central main structure and the first sheath 61) and the armor structure 70 is made equal, so that the design satisfies T1+T2+T3=0, thereby achieving torque balance. In this way, during the installation and construction at great water depth, the umbilical cable will not twist under the action of tension, avoiding torsional damage to the umbilical cable, thus ensuring the smooth progress of the installation and construction process. At the same time, the first armor layer 71 and the second armor layer 72 jointly bear the tension of the installation and construction, jointly protecting the central main structure, so that the umbilical cable has better mechanical properties.

[0055] In one embodiment, the outer surface of the steel wire 73 is galvanized to give the steel wire 73 good corrosion resistance, which can effectively prevent seawater from corroding the steel wire 73 and extend the service life of the steel wire 73.

[0056] See also Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, the umbilical cable further includes a first wrapping tape 91, a second wrapping tape 92, and a third wrapping tape 93. The first wrapping tape 91 is used to tighten the central main structure, the second wrapping tape 92 is used to tighten the first armor layer 71, and the third wrapping tape 93 is used to tighten the second armor layer 72. The first sheath 61 and the second sheath 62 are both made of high-density polyethylene material. The first sheath 61 is directly extruded around the outer periphery of the first wrapping tape 91, and the second sheath 62 is directly extruded around the outer periphery of the third wrapping tape 93.

[0057] See also Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the protective structure also includes a second sheath 62. Along the length of the umbilical cable, the first sheath 61 is provided with a plurality of first through holes 611 at intervals, and the second sheath 62 is provided with a plurality of second through holes (not shown in the figure) at intervals.

[0058] In this embodiment, the first sheath 61 is provided with a plurality of first through holes 611 spaced apart, and the second sheath 62 is provided with a plurality of second through holes spaced apart. During installation and laying in deep water, seawater can enter the interior of the umbilical cable through the first through holes 611 and the second through holes, filling the gaps inside the umbilical cable and timely expelling the air inside the umbilical cable. This allows the umbilical cable to achieve internal and external pressure balance in deep water environments, thereby meeting the requirements for use in deep water. In addition, the above-mentioned arrangement can prevent air from accumulating inside the umbilical cable and forming huge air pressure, which could cause the umbilical cable to bulge and damage the first sheath 61. It can also prevent the structure of the umbilical cable from deforming due to the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the cable under high water pressure.

[0059] In one embodiment, the second sheath 62 is made of polyethylene material, and yellow masterbatch is added to the polyethylene material, so that the second sheath 62 is yellow in color. The bright yellow color helps to locate the umbilical cable at great water depths. The second sheath 62 is provided with a black stripe 100, which can be used to monitor the degree of twisting of the umbilical cable during the installation and laying of the umbilical cable.

[0060] See also Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, the central main structure further includes a plurality of circular filler strips 80, which are spaced apart along the circumference of the umbilical cable. The arrangement of the circular filler strips 80 can ensure the roundness of the umbilical cable.

[0061] As can be seen from the above description, the above embodiments of the present invention achieve the following technical effects: the first hollow buffer structure is set in the first accommodating space surrounded by the conveying unit and the electrical unit, and the second hollow buffer structure is set in the second accommodating space surrounded by the conveying unit and the first sheath. Since both the first hollow buffer structure and the second hollow buffer structure are hollow structures, they can play a buffering role when the optical unit, the electrical unit, and the conveying unit are squeezed against each other. At the same time, they can also resist external impact forces, thereby improving the impact resistance and flattening resistance of the umbilical cable, making the umbilical cable less likely to be damaged during construction, installation, and use, thereby reducing the maintenance cost of the umbilical cable.

[0062] Obviously, the embodiments described above are merely some, not all, embodiments of the present invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without inventive effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0063] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0064] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A umbilical cable characterized in that, The application relates to a center body structure of an umbilical cable, which comprises an optical unit (10), an electric unit (20), a conveying unit, a first hollow buffer structure (40) and a second hollow buffer structure (50). The application further relates to a protective structure of the umbilical cable, which comprises a first sheath (61) covering the outer periphery of the center body structure. The conveying unit and the electric unit (20) form a first containing space, the conveying unit and the first sheath (61) form a second containing space, the first containing space and the second containing space are arranged in a circumferential direction of the umbilical cable, the first hollow buffer structure (40) is arranged in the first containing space, the second hollow buffer structure (50) and the optical unit (10) are arranged in the second containing space, and the second hollow buffer structure (50) is configured to cover at least part of the optical unit (10). The first hollow buffer structure (40) extends along the length direction of the umbilical cable, the first hollow buffer structure (40) comprises a first hollow region (41) and a first solid region (42), the first solid region (42) surrounds the first hollow region (41), in a cross section of the first hollow buffer structure (40), the area of the first solid region (42) is S1, the area of the first hollow region (41) is S2, and the ratio of S1 / S2 is in the range of 1.8-2.

2. The conveying unit comprises a first conveying pipe (31) and a second conveying pipe (32), the first conveying pipe (31), the second conveying pipe (32) and the electric unit (20) form the first containing space, and the outer periphery of the first hollow buffer structure (40) can be tangent to the first conveying pipe (31), the second conveying pipe (32) and the electric unit (20).

2. The umbilical cable according to claim 1, characterized in that ​ 3. The umbilical of claim 2, wherein, The first hollow buffer structure (40) is provided with two first conveying pipes (31), two electric units (20) and a second conveying pipe (32) on the outer periphery, and the two first conveying pipes (31), the two electric units (20) and the second conveying pipe (32) jointly enclose the first containing space, wherein the two first conveying pipes (31) are arranged adjacently, the two electric units (20) are located on the same side of the two first conveying pipes (31), and the second conveying pipe (32) is located between the two electric units (20); the first hollow buffer structure (40) comprises a first arc surface (43), a second arc surface (44), a third arc surface (45) and a fourth arc surface (46) arranged in sequence in the circumferential direction, the first arc surface (43) and the third arc surface (45) are oppositely arranged, the second arc surface (44) and the fourth arc surface (46) are oppositely arranged, the first arc surface (43) is tangent to the two first conveying pipes (31), the second arc surface (44) is tangent to the second conveying pipe (32), the first conveying pipe (31) located on the side where the second arc surface (44) is located and the second conveying pipe (32), the fourth arc surface (46) is tangent to the second conveying pipe (32), the first conveying pipe (31) located on the side where the fourth arc surface (46) is located and the second conveying pipe (32), and the third arc surface (45) is tangent to the second conveying pipe (32).

4. The umbilical of claim 3, wherein, The outer contour of the first hollow buffer structure (40) is formed by three circular segments, the first arc surface (43) and the third arc surface (45) belong to one of the three circular segments, the second arc surface (44) belongs to one of the other two circular segments, and the fourth arc surface (46) belongs to the other of the other two circular segments.

5. The umbilical of any of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The second hollow buffer structure (50) extends along the length direction of the umbilical cable, and comprises a second hollow region (51) and a second solid region (52); in the cross section of the second hollow buffer structure (50), the area of the second solid region (52) is S3, the area of the second hollow region (51) is S4, and the ratio of S3 / S4 is in the range of 1.3-1.

7.

6. The umbilical of claim 1, wherein, The conveying unit comprises a first conveying pipe (31) and a third conveying pipe (33), the first conveying pipe (31), the third conveying pipe (33) and the first sheath (61) enclose the second containing space, and the outer peripheral surface of the second hollow buffer structure (50) can be adapted to the inner wall surface of the second containing space.

7. The umbilical of claim 6, wherein, The second hollow buffering structure (50) comprises a first hollow part (53) and a second hollow part (54), one side of the first hollow part (53) and the second hollow part (54) facing each other is a fifth arc surface, the first hollow part (53) and the second hollow part (54) are connected, and the two fifth arc surfaces form an open-end clamping space (55), the light unit (10) is placed in the clamping space (55), and the light unit (10) and the second hollow buffering structure (50) form a buffering gap on a side close to the first sheath (61).

8. The umbilical of claim 7, wherein, Two third conveying pipes (33) and one first conveying pipe (31) are arranged on the outer circumferential side of the second hollow buffering structure (50), the two third conveying pipes (33) and the first conveying pipe (31) and the first sheath (61) jointly form the second containing space, one side of the first hollow part (53) and the second hollow part (54) facing away from each other is a sixth arc surface, and the sixth arc surface is adapted to the third conveying pipe (33) located on the side.

9. The umbilical of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The first hollow buffering structure (40) and the second hollow buffering structure (50) are made of polyethylene material, and the conveying unit is made of metal material; and / or the umbilical cable further comprises an armored structure (70), the armored structure (70) is wrapped on the outer periphery of the protection structure, the armored structure (70) comprises a first armored layer (71) and a second armored layer (72) with opposite twisting directions, the first armored layer (71) and the second armored layer (72) each comprise a plurality of steel wire units and a plurality of PE strips (74), a plurality of the steel wire units are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the protection structure, at least one PE strip (74) is arranged between adjacent two steel wire units, and the steel wire unit comprises at least two steel wires (73).

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