Storm-resistant seaborne rotary gangway ladder

By designing structures such as buffer seats, slewing mechanisms, and telescopic gangways, the swaying and stability problems of offshore gangways in complex marine environments have been solved, achieving improved stability and safety under severe weather conditions, and making it suitable for offshore wind power operation and maintenance.

CN120942487APending Publication Date: 2025-11-14SHENZHEN OFFSHORE OIL ENG UNDERWATER TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202510936224.1
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-07-08
Publication Date
2025-11-14

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing marine gangways lack sufficient wave compensation capabilities in complex marine environments, resulting in severe swaying. They also have limited resistance to wind and waves, making it difficult to maintain stability in severe weather conditions, which increases operational risks and maintenance costs.

Method used

A wind and wave resistant sea-turning gangway was designed, which adopts a structure including a buffer seat, a turning mechanism, a telescopic gangway and a reinforced frame. The rubber base of the buffer seat absorbs the impact, the multi-degree-of-freedom adjustment of the turning mechanism and the flexible adjustment of the telescopic gangway enhance the stability and adaptability of the gangway.

Benefits of technology

It improves the stability and safety of the gangway under adverse weather conditions, enhances the safety and efficiency of operation and maintenance personnel, reduces operational risks and operation and maintenance costs, and is applicable to fields such as offshore wind power operation and maintenance.

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Abstract

The invention provides an anti-storm marine rotary gangway ladder, and relates to the technical field of maritime work equipment, the anti-storm marine rotary gangway ladder comprises a base, the base comprises a base seat and a trapezoidal frame mounted on the base seat, the anti-storm marine rotary gangway ladder further comprises the trapezoidal frame, a buffer seat is mounted at the top of the trapezoidal frame, and the impact of sea waves on the gangway ladder can be absorbed and dispersed through the buffer seat; the slewing mechanism is rotationally connected to the base; the gangway ladder mechanism comprises an outer gangway ladder and an inner gangway ladder which can move telescopically, the end part of the outer gangway ladder is connected with the slewing mechanism, and the middle part of the outer gangway ladder is connected with the slewing mechanism through a pitching mechanism. Through the unique design of the reinforcing framework and the buffering seat, impact and vibration are effectively absorbed, the wave compensation capacity and the high wind wave resistance are achieved, the stability and safety under the severe weather condition are ensured, and a reliable and safe embarkation and operation platform is provided for the fields of offshore wind power operation and maintenance and the like.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of marine engineering equipment technology, and in particular to a sea-resistant rotating gangway for sea operations. Background Technology

[0002] As human understanding of marine resources deepens and technology advances, marine development activities are becoming increasingly frequent. The rapid development of offshore wind power, offshore oil and gas extraction, and marine scientific research has led to a rapid increase in the number of offshore facilities such as offshore work platforms and offshore wind power platforms. These facilities are often located in sea areas far from land, requiring personnel to be stationed regularly or long-term for operation, maintenance, and management. Therefore, equipment capable of safely and efficiently transporting personnel from ships to these offshore facilities is particularly important, and offshore gangways have emerged as a result.

[0003] Existing offshore gangways face two major problems when dealing with complex and ever-changing marine environments: First, their wave compensation capabilities are insufficient, lacking an effective wave compensation mechanism, causing the gangways to sway violently in wind and waves, seriously threatening the safe transport of materials and maintenance personnel. Second, their wind and wave resistance is limited; traditional designs struggle to maintain stability under adverse weather conditions, especially when not in operation. Due to their considerable length, gangways are significantly affected by wind and waves, making stability difficult and increasing operational risks and maintenance costs. These problems not only reduce the practicality and safety of gangways but also limit their application in critical areas such as offshore wind power operation and maintenance. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main technical problems to be solved by this invention are: first, insufficient wave compensation capability and lack of an effective wave compensation mechanism, which causes the gangway to sway violently in wind and waves, seriously threatening the safe transport of materials and maintenance personnel; second, limited wind and wave resistance performance, and traditional designs are difficult to maintain stability under adverse weather conditions, especially in non-working states, where the gangway is relatively long and is greatly affected by wind and waves, making it difficult to maintain stability, increasing operational risks and maintenance costs. In order to overcome the above-mentioned defects of the existing technology, a wind and wave resistant marine turning gangway is provided.

[0005] The technical solution adopted by this invention to solve its technical problem is: A wave-resistant sea-turning gangway, comprising: The base includes a base plate and a trapezoidal frame mounted on the base plate. The trapezoidal frame is also equipped with a buffer seat on top, which can absorb and disperse the impact of waves on the gangway. A rotary mechanism is rotatably connected to a base. The gangway mechanism includes an outer gangway and an inner gangway capable of telescopic movement. The end of the outer gangway is connected to a slewing mechanism, and the middle of the outer gangway is connected to the slewing mechanism via a pitching mechanism.

[0006] Furthermore, the buffer seat includes a base platform and a side platform, and a reinforcing frame corresponding to the position of the buffer seat is provided at intervals on the outer side of the outer gangway.

[0007] Furthermore, the base of the buffer seat is made of rubber.

[0008] Furthermore, the angle between the base and the side platform is greater than 90°.

[0009] Furthermore, a vertical ladder is installed at the front end of the gangway mechanism.

[0010] Furthermore, the slewing mechanism includes a rotary table and a cylinder disposed below the rotary table, with the rotary table rotatably connected to the base via the cylinder; the slewing mechanism is equipped with a pitch drive mechanism, a slewing drive mechanism, a telescopic drive mechanism, a driver's cab, and an electrical control room.

[0011] Furthermore, a telescopic winch is installed at the bottom of the gangway mechanism, and the telescopic winch is connected to the telescopic drive mechanism.

[0012] Furthermore, multiple tower units are installed at the bottom of the base, with adjacent tower units connected vertically.

[0013] Furthermore, the tower unit is composed of crossbeams, longitudinal beams and diagonal braces, with connecting plates at the joints between the crossbeams and longitudinal beams; adjacent tower units are connected by connecting plates and bolts.

[0014] Furthermore, the control tower unit is equipped with an inclined ladder for personnel to access the gangway mechanism.

[0015] The beneficial effects of this invention are: 1. This invention features a reinforced frame and a buffer seat. During the docking process between the gangway and the offshore platform, the wind and wave resistant offshore swivel gangway of this invention exhibits its unique buffering and limiting mechanism. As the pitching mechanism lowers the gangway mechanism, the reinforced frame gradually approaches and ultimately rests on the rubber base of the buffer seat. The rubber base, with its excellent elasticity and shock absorption performance, effectively absorbs the impact and vibration generated during descent. This not only protects the gangway mechanism from damage but also significantly improves the smoothness and comfort of the docking process. Furthermore, when the reinforced frame is mounted on the base, the side platforms of the buffer seat play a crucial limiting role, effectively preventing excessive movement or swaying of the reinforced frame in wind and waves, thereby further enhancing the gangway's wind and wave resistance. This design ensures the stability and safety of the gangway under adverse weather conditions, possesses wave compensation capabilities, and provides maintenance personnel with a more reliable and safer platform for boarding and working.

[0016] 2. The wind and wave resistant offshore swivel gangway of this invention comprises key components such as a base, a swivel mechanism, and a gangway mechanism. The base features a stable foundation and trapezoidal frame, providing a solid foundation for the entire gangway. The gangway mechanism employs a retractable external and internal gangway design. This structure not only improves the safety of maintenance personnel but also significantly enhances maintenance efficiency. In offshore wind power operation and maintenance, this basic structure provides strong support for maintenance personnel, enabling them to complete inspection, repair, and maintenance tasks more safely and efficiently.

[0017] 3. Regarding stability and safety, this invention incorporates several innovative measures. The buffer base is made of rubber, effectively reducing the impact of wind and waves on the gangway. Its 120° angle design enhances the stability of the buffer base, further improving the gangway's resistance to wind and waves. The vertical ladder installed at the front of the gangway mechanism provides a fast and safe passage for personnel to ascend and descend. In terms of flexibility and ease of operation, the integrated drive mechanism on the slewing mechanism enables multi-degree-of-freedom adjustment of the gangway, while the telescopic winch allows the gangway's length to be adjusted as needed, increasing its adaptability. Furthermore, the tower unit design at the base not only enhances the stability and load-bearing capacity of the base but also facilitates height adjustment, improving the gangway's applicability. The inclined ladder design within the tower unit also facilitates personnel access to the gangway mechanism from the base, further enhancing safety and convenience. These innovative designs collectively constitute the core advantages of this invention's wind and wave resistant offshore slewing gangway, making it widely applicable in the field of offshore wind power operation and maintenance. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the gangway mechanism and slewing mechanism of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the gangway mechanism, slewing mechanism, and base structure of the present invention; Figure 4 For the invention Figure 3 Enlarged view of the structure at point C; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the gangway mechanism and rotating platform structure of the invention. Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the base structure of the invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the invention's gangway mechanism, slewing mechanism, pitch drive mechanism, and slewing drive mechanism. Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the tower unit structure of the invention; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the gangway mechanism of the invention.

[0020] Explanation of the labels in the diagram: 1. Gangway mechanism; 11. External gangway; 12. Internal gangway; 13. Reinforcing frame; 14. Vertical ladder; 2. Slewing mechanism; 21. Bridge; 22. Electrical control room; 23. Rotary platform; 24. Cylinder; 3. Base; 31. Base base; 32. Trapezoidal frame; 33. Buffer seat; 4. Tower unit; 41. Crossbeam; 42. Longitudinal beam; 43. Diagonal brace; 44. Connecting plate; 5. Telescopic winch; 6. Pitch drive mechanism; 7. Slewing drive mechanism; 8. Inclined ladder. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The present invention will be further described below with reference to specific embodiments. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions herein are used to explain the present invention, but are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0022] Example: Figures 1-9 The image shows a sea-resistant rotating gangway for use in wind and waves.

[0023] Reference Figures 1-9 As shown, this invention discloses a wind and wave resistant sea-turning gangway, which mainly includes the following parts: The base 3 includes a base 31, which forms the foundation of the base 3 and stabilizes the entire gangway structure. It also includes a trapezoidal frame 32 mounted on top of the base 3, providing additional support and stability. Furthermore, it includes a buffer seat 33 mounted on top of the trapezoidal frame 32. The buffer seat 33 has a base and side platforms, with an angle between the base and side platforms greater than 90°, preferably 120°. The base is made of rubber to increase cushioning and reduce vibration.

[0024] Tower unit 4, which consists of multiple interconnected units, is composed of several horizontal beams 41, longitudinal beams 42, and diagonal braces 43. A connecting plate (44) is provided at the connection between the horizontal beams (41) and the longitudinal beams (42). The tower unit 4 is installed at the bottom of the base 3, and adjacent tower units 4 are vertically connected by the connecting plate 44 and bolts to form a stable support structure. An inclined ladder 8 is also provided inside the tower unit 4 for personnel to climb the gangway mechanism 1.

[0025] Rotary mechanism 2 is rotatably connected to base 31. Rotary mechanism 2 includes a rotating platform 23 and a cylinder 24 disposed at the bottom of rotating platform 23. Rotating platform (23) is rotatably connected to base 31 through cylinder (24). Rotary mechanism 2 drives gangway mechanism 1 to rotate horizontally to adapt to docking requirements at different angles.

[0026] The gangway mechanism 1 includes an outer gangway 11, which is a relatively telescopic and movable part. Its end is connected to a slewing mechanism 2, and its middle part is connected to the slewing mechanism 2 via a pitch mechanism, enabling pitch adjustment. It also includes an inner gangway 12, which is opposite to the outer gangway 11 and together constitutes the telescopic part of the gangway. A reinforcing frame 13 is also included, located on the outside of the outer gangway 11 and corresponding to the position of the buffer seat 33, increasing the strength and stability of the gangway. Finally, a vertical ladder 14 is included, installed at the front end of the gangway mechanism 1, providing a connection channel to the offshore platform.

[0027] The drive mechanism includes a pitch drive mechanism 6 for driving the outer gangway 11 to pitch. It also includes a slewing drive mechanism 7 for driving the slewing mechanism 2 to rotate. Furthermore, it includes a telescopic drive mechanism connected to a telescopic winch 5 at the bottom of the gangway mechanism 1 for driving the outer gangway 11 and inner gangway 12 to telescopically extend and retract. The pitch drive mechanism (6), slewing drive mechanism (7), and telescopic drive mechanism are all mounted on the slewing mechanism 2.

[0028] Other components, including the bridge 21 and the electrical control room 22, are mounted on the slewing mechanism 2, providing an environment for operators to control and monitor the operation of the gangway. A buffer platform, mounted on top of the trapezoidal frame 32, works in conjunction with the buffer seat 33 to increase the stability and safety of the gangway during docking.

[0029] The working process of this invention is as follows: Before using the gangway, the operator enters the cab 21 and electrical control room 22 located on the slewing mechanism 2 and starts the slewing drive mechanism 7, pitch drive mechanism 6 and telescopic drive mechanism through the electrical control system.

[0030] The operator in the driver's cab 21 monitors the surrounding environment through surveillance cameras and sensors to ensure the safe activation of the gangway.

[0031] The slewing drive mechanism 7 is activated, causing the slewing mechanism 2 to adjust its direction according to the wind direction and sea conditions, ensuring that the gangway can accurately dock with the wind power platform.

[0032] The pitch drive mechanism 6 adjusts the pitch angle of the outer gangway 11 according to the platform height and wave fluctuations to adapt to different docking conditions.

[0033] The telescopic drive mechanism is activated, and the telescopic winch 5 controls the telescopic length of the outer gangway 11 and the inner gangway 12, so that the gangway can reach the wind power platform.

[0034] Once the gangway is successfully connected to the wind power platform, maintenance personnel can safely ascend and descend the platform via the outer gangway 11, inner gangway 12, and vertical ladder 14.

[0035] Materials and equipment can also be transported via gangways to ensure the smooth operation of maintenance work.

[0036] After the maintenance work is completed, personnel and equipment evacuate the gangway. The telescopic drive mechanism, pitch drive mechanism 6 and slewing drive mechanism 7 are activated to retract the gangway to its initial position. After the operator in the cab 21 confirms that the gangway has been safely reset, the electrical control system is turned off and the operation ends.

[0037] It can maintain stability against wind and waves when not in operation: When not in operation, the buffer seat 33 of the gangway plays a crucial role. The buffer seat 33 consists of a base and a side platform with an included angle of 120°. The base is made of rubber material, which can absorb and disperse the impact of sea waves on the gangway. This design effectively reduces the direct impact of sea waves on the gangway and improves the stability of the gangway under severe weather conditions.

[0038] The outer gangway 11 is provided with reinforcing frames 13 at intervals corresponding to the positions of the buffer seats 33. These frames increase the structural strength of the gangway, enabling it to withstand stronger winds and waves.

[0039] Several tower units 4 are installed at the bottom of the base 3. Adjacent tower units 4 are connected in the vertical direction to form a stable support structure. The tower unit 4 is composed of a crossbeam 41, a longitudinal beam 42 and a diagonal brace 43. A connecting plate 44 and bolts are set at the connection to ensure that the structure is stable and reliable.

[0040] An inclined ladder 8 is installed inside the tower unit 4 to facilitate personnel going up and down the base 3 when the gangway is not in use.

[0041] When not in operation, the slewing drive mechanism 7, the pitch drive mechanism 6, and the telescopic drive mechanism are all locked to prevent the gangway from moving unexpectedly due to wave fluctuations.

[0042] The electrical control system is also in standby mode to ensure that the gangway can be quickly started and controlled when needed. The slewing mechanism 2 is rotatably connected to the base 31. The slewing mechanism 2 is driven by a motor, hydraulic system or other power source, enabling the gangway mechanism 1 to rotate 360 ​​degrees around the base 31.

[0043] The electrical control room 22 receives operating instructions and sends signals to the rotary mechanism 2 through the control system to control its rotation.

[0044] The cab 21 is equipped with an operating panel or remote control, where maintenance personnel can issue turning commands.

[0045] The pitch mechanism is connected between the middle of the outer gangway 11 and the slewing mechanism 2, controlling the pitch movement of the outer gangway 11. The pitch mechanism includes components such as hydraulic cylinders, connecting rods, and hinges, and the lifting and lowering of the outer gangway 11 is achieved through the coordinated action of these components.

[0046] The pitch drive mechanism 6 is the power source of the pitch mechanism, including a motor, hydraulic pump, etc., which provides the driving force required for pitch movement.

[0047] The electrical control room 22 receives operating instructions and sends signals to the pitch drive mechanism 6 through the control system to control the movement of the pitch mechanism.

[0048] The inner gangway 12 and the outer gangway 11 are designed as structures that can move relatively telescopically, and the telescopic function is achieved through a specific connection and guidance mechanism.

[0049] The telescopic drive mechanism is the key component controlling the extension and retraction of the gangway, and includes components such as a motor, hydraulic cylinder, chain, and gears. By providing driving force, the telescopic drive mechanism enables the inner gangway 12 and the outer gangway 11 to move relative to each other, thereby adjusting the length of the gangway.

[0050] The telescopic winch 5 is installed at the bottom of the gangway mechanism 1 and connected to the telescopic drive mechanism. It is connected to the inner gangway 12 or the outer gangway 11 via steel wire ropes, chains and other components, providing the traction force required for telescopic movement.

[0051] The electrical control room 22 receives operating instructions and sends signals to the telescopic drive mechanism through the control system to control the telescopic winch 5 and the telescopic movement of the entire gangway mechanism 1.

[0052] The pitch mechanism is connected between the middle of the outer gangway 11 and the slewing mechanism 2, and is used to control the pitch movement of the outer gangway 11. When not connected to the offshore platform, the pitch mechanism will first drive the gangway mechanism 1 to rise. This rising action is to enable the gangway mechanism 1 to overcome any existing obstacles.

[0053] During or after the lifting process, the slewing mechanism 2 continues to drive the gangway to rotate until the gangway rotates to a stable position. At this position, the reinforcing frame 13 rotates above the buffer seat 33. The reinforcing frame 13 is a structure provided on the outside of the gangway mechanism 1 to enhance the strength and stability of the gangway.

[0054] Subsequently, the pitching mechanism will cause the gangway mechanism 1 to descend, allowing the reinforcing frame 13 to gradually approach and eventually rest on the base of the buffer seat 33. During this process, the rubber base of the buffer seat 33 will effectively buffer the impact and vibration generated by the descent.

[0055] When the reinforcing frame 13 is mounted on the base of the buffer seat 33, the side platforms of the buffer seat 33 will limit the reinforcing frame 13. This limiting effect can prevent the reinforcing frame 13 from moving or swaying excessively in wind and waves, thereby further enhancing the wind and wave resistance of the gangway.

[0056] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the technical solution of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sea-resistant swivel gangway, characterized in that, include: The base (3) includes a base (31) and a trapezoidal frame (32) installed on the base (31). The trapezoidal frame (32) is equipped with a buffer seat (33) on top of the trapezoidal frame (32). The buffer seat (33) can absorb and disperse the impact of sea waves on the gangway. Rotary mechanism (2), which is rotatably connected to the base (31); The gangway mechanism (1) includes an outer gangway (11) and an inner gangway (12) capable of telescopic movement. The end of the outer gangway (11) is connected to the slewing mechanism (2), and the middle part of the outer gangway (11) is connected to the slewing mechanism (2) through a pitching mechanism.

2. The sea-resistant swivel gangway according to claim 1, characterized in that, The buffer seat (33) includes a base platform and a side platform, and a reinforcing frame (13) corresponding to the position of the buffer seat (33) is provided at intervals on the outer side of the outer gangway (11).

3. The sea-resistant swivel gangway according to claim 2, characterized in that, The base of the buffer seat (33) is made of rubber.

4. The sea-resistant swivel gangway according to claim 2, characterized in that, The angle between the base and the side platform is greater than 90°.

5. The sea-resistant swivel gangway according to claim 1, characterized in that, A vertical ladder (14) is installed at the front end of the gangway mechanism (1).

6. The sea-resistant swivel gangway according to claim 1, characterized in that, The slewing mechanism (2) includes a rotating platform (23) and a cylinder (24) located below the rotating platform (23). The rotating platform (23) is rotatably connected to the base (31) via the cylinder (24). The slewing mechanism (2) is equipped with a pitch drive mechanism (6), a slewing drive mechanism (7), a telescopic drive mechanism, a driver's cab (21), and an electrical control room (22).

7. A wave-resistant seaplane gangway according to claim 6, characterized in that, The bottom of the gangway mechanism (1) is equipped with a telescopic winch (5), which is connected to the telescopic drive mechanism.

8. The sea-resistant swivel gangway according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple tower units (4) are installed at the bottom of the base (3), and adjacent tower units (4) are connected in the vertical direction.

9. A sea-resistant swivel gangway according to claim 8, characterized in that, The tower unit (4) is composed of a crossbeam (41), a longitudinal beam (42) and a diagonal brace (43). A connecting plate (44) is provided at the connection between the crossbeam (41) and the longitudinal beam (42). Adjacent tower units (4) are connected by the connecting plate (44) and bolts.

10. A wave-resistant seaplane gangway according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tower unit (4) is equipped with an inclined ladder (8) for personnel to board the gangway mechanism (1).