Device and method for displacing a pile into a soil

Abstract

The invention provides a vibration device for displacing a pile in a soil like a seabed, in particular selected from inserting in a soil and raising from a soil, comprising: • a ring for engaging a said pile, the ring comprising at least two sections (2) coupled to one another to form the ring, the at least two sections coupled via at least one coupling actuator (3), the at least one coupling actuator for setting a circumferential size of the ring for setting an engaging force of the ring to the said pile (8), at least one of the sections (2) provided with at least one vibration actuator (7) adapted to provide a vertical vibration of the said pile at a first vibration frequency and torsion to the said pile at a second torsion frequency for in combination exerting an effective force to the said pile for displacing it in the soil, and the at least one coupling actuator adapted for applying the engaging force adapted to transfer the effective force to the said pile.

Description

[0001] Device and method for displacing a pile into a soil

[0002] Field of the invention

[0003] The invention relates to a device and method for displacing a pile into a soil.

[0004] Background of the invention

[0005] The present invention is in the field of pile-driving. Typically piles are driven into the soil using hammers or weights dropping repeatedly on top of the pile. In regions with relatively soft soils, or where piles are needed as supports for man-made structures or the like, a relatively large number of piles is driven into the soil. This driving causes noise radiation into the environment. In addition, such driving inflicts forces on the pile, which may weaken or damage the pile.

[0006] Currently, more gentle ways for driving a pile into a soil have been developed, in particular by the current patentee.

[0007] WO202 1 / 040523 of the current applicant in its abstract states: “The present invention is in the field of piles used for supporting buildings and the like. Piles can be used as support, for onshore or offshore structures such as tall buildings and wind turbines. The present invention is in particular suited for driving small- and mid-scale piles, which are often used in softer, non-cohesive, soils, such as sandy soils.”

[0008] NL2033620 of the current applicant in its abstract states: “The present invention is in the field of a pile foundation used for supporting buildings and the like. Piles can be used as support for onshore or offshore structures, such as tall buildings and wind turbines. The present invention is in particular suited for driving any size of piles, which are often used in softer, non-cohesive, soils, such as sandy soils.”

[0009] Current pile driving methods are either too noisy (impact hammers) and expensive (because of the required noise mitigation measures; or too ineffective (traditional vibrators), which are unable to drive to final penetration.

[0010] The present invention therefore relates to an improved pile and pile driver and a method for driving piles, which solves one or more of the above problems and drawbacks of the prior art, providing reliable results, without jeopardizing functionality and advantages. Summary of the invention

[0011] It is an object of the invention to overcome one or more limitations of pile drivers of the prior art and methods of driving piles and at the very least to provide an alternative thereto. Driving piles gently solves all these issues by providing the least noise levels, allowing fastest installation, driving piles to final penetration in all soil types. Furthermore and / or alternatively, easier way of handling a pile were investigated. Also, way of driving a pile that would decrease a load on a pile were researched.

[0012] Pile friction with the soil typically is considered to consist of two components: shaft resistance (along the side of the pile) and toe resistance (underneath the pile). The first one is naturally minimized by the torsional vibrations, hence solved mostly by the shaker for gentle driving of piles. Transferring the vibrations to a pile could be improved.

[0013] There is provide a vibration device for displacing a pile in a soil like a seabed, in particular selected from inserting in a soil and raising from a soil, comprising: a ring for engaging a said pile, the ring comprising at least two sections coupled to one another to form the ring, the at least two sections coupled via at least one coupling actuator, the at least one coupling actuator for setting a circumferential size of the ring for setting an engaging force of the ring to the said pile, at least one of the sections provided with at least one vibration actuator adapted to provide a vertical vibration of the said pile at a first vibration frequency and torsion to the said pile at a second torsion frequency for in combination exerting an effective force to the said pile for displacing it in the soil, and the at least one coupling actuator adapted for applying the engaging force adapted to transfer the effective force to the said pile, and a controller for controlling the at least one vibration actuator for controlling each individual angular velocity coi of individual vibration actuators for controlling a sum of horizontal forces produced by the respective vibration actuators, for balancing a sum of vertical forces produced by the respective vibration actuators for setting the effective force, and for controlling the at least one coupling actuator for setting the engaging force.

[0014] There is further provided a vibration assembly comprising at least two vibration devices according to any one of the preceding claims, one vibration device arranged for clamping around the said pile and one vibration device arranged for clamping inside the said pile.

[0015] There is further provided a method for displacing a pile in a soil, for instance in a seabed, comprising

[0016] - applying a vibration device around the pile;

[0017] - setting the coupling actuators to a pre-set engaging force for engaging the pile;

[0018] - setting the vibration actuators to a preset vibration pattern;

[0019] There is further provided a computer program product for operating a vibration device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the controller comprises a data processing device and which, when executed on the data processing device, preforms retrieving an engaging force set value; retrieving pile parameters; calculating vibration settings for the vibration actuators for applying a vibration pattern onto the pile;

[0020] There is further provided a kit of parts comprising a vibration device according to any one of the preceding claims, a controller, and a pile.

[0021] The current vibration device allows displacement of a pile into the ground or a soil, for instance a seabed. Such a displacement mainly relates to a vertical or largely vertical displacement. Mostly, a pile will be lowered or driven into the ground or the soil. The current device also allows a pile to be raised out of the soil. In this way, it is possible to fully retrieve a pile from the soil, for instance from a seabed.

[0022] The controller and close control of the vibration device allows measurement and control of the penetration and / or extraction speed of the pile. Using sensors, it is possible to measure vibrations in the vibration device / pile combination, and to avoid unwanted resonance. Finally, it is possible to measure and control energy consumption. In fact, placement position (along the pile) of the ring on the pile allows further control of the possible vibration patters.

[0023] An application of this vibration device is the installation and extraction of offshore monopiles used a support foundations for offshore windfarms. The technology has the least noise levels, which allows excluding expensive noise mitigation measures such as bubble curtains out of the equation. It would help wind park developers winning a tender because of the least environmental impact. The method is also versatile and allows driving monopiles to final penetration in all types of soils. This technology is a "killer" of the conventional impact hammers, which most likely will be banned in the future for over-excessive noise levels. It is also superior to conventional vibro-hammers that are very often unable to drive piles to final penetration. The average cost reduction for a wind park consisting of 60 foundations would be up to 15 million euros. A possibility to extract monopiles in the end of their lifecycle is also cost competitive compared to the current incomplete removal technique (it is about 4 times cheaper). It does also contribute to the circular economy as the entire monopile can be removed out of the ground.

[0024] Usually, a pile will have a length of 5-100 m. Such a pile often has a diameter of 0.5-20 m. These piles often have a wall thickness of 1 to 20 centimeters. In fact, the current vibration device and method allow a reduction of wall thickness that would normally be required for withstanding insertion forces. In fact, it may prove possible to reduce the wall thickness as far as prescribed and required for withstanding forces that are usually applied for driving the pile into a soil or needed for transferring forces applied for driving the pile onto that pile. In the context of the current device and method, displacing a pile means in fact driving the pile into soil.

[0025] The present invention may also and in addition be considered to relate to a vibration device causing torsional vibrations with around a vertical axis, in combination with vertical vibration. The vibration device comprises vibration actuators which, in cooperation, are configured to provide vertical vibration of the pile at a first vibration frequency and torsion to the monopile at a second torsion frequency. The torsional vibrations typically take place at a much higher frequency that the vertical vibrations and are considered to continuously break static friction of the pile with surrounding soil. As the coupling between the present pile and the surrounding soil is broken the vertical vibration drives the pile into the soil. In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a vibration device for gentle pile driving which can be mechanically fixed to a pile, and thus for transferring vibrational energy to the pile. In an embodiment, the vibration device is adapted to provide vertical vibration of the pile at a first vibration frequency and torsion to the pile at a second, typically much higher, torsion frequency. The vibration actuators of the vibration device cooperate to that end.

[0026] The nature and control of the vibrations that need to be applied to a pile were extensively explained in the documents of the current patentee and that were cited above. The references to the nature and control of these vibrations that were discussed in those documents are cited by reference as if fully set forth in this application.

[0027] In an embodiment, the vibration actuator comprises moving masses. In such an embodiment the vibration device comprises vibration actuators that provide at least two groups i>2 of eccentric masses, in an embodiment each group i comprising at least two equal masses j. In an embodiment, each individual mass mij is positioned at a distance di from its vibration actuator, typically a distance parallel to a rotation axis, such as at a distance di and d2. In an embodiment, such a mass mij is attached to at least one horizontal axis hai, at least vibration actuator is provided that has at least one motor for rotating the masses mij around their horizontal axis hai, such that in a group i masses mij rotate at a same angular velocity Oi along said horizontal axis hai, wherein angular velocity Oi is different from angular velocity Oi+i.

[0028] In an embodiment, the torsion frequency is larger than the vertical vibration frequency, typically several times larger. Furthermore in an embodiment, in a group i+1 masses, mi+ij rotates at an opposite angular velocity Oi+i along said horizontal axis hai+i.

[0029] In an embodiment, the controller is adapted for controlling the at least one vibration actuator, for instance by controlling and / or driving at least one motor. In an embodiment, the controller is adapted for controlling each individual angular velocity Oi of group i of masses mij. In this way, the controller is adapted for controlling a sum of horizontal forces produced by the respective masses, and for balancing a sum of vertical forces produced by the respective masses. This is done by controlling and synchronising the vibration actuators.

[0030] In addition to these forces, gravity pulls the mass of the pile downwards. As such the controller may balance forces in the z-direction, and sum forces in the x-direction (or equivalently, in the y-direction, or in a combined x+y-direction), the z-direction being parallel to the axis of the pile, and the x- and y- direction being perpendicular to the axis of the pile, such as in a Cartesian set of axes. The vibration device can drive piles into the soil by means of torsional vibration, typically at high frequencies (or vibration modes in case the excitation is hon-harmonic), in combination with vertical vibration, typically at lower frequencies (or vibration modes in case the excitation is hon-harmonic). No further driving means are required, such as a hammering device. Thereto in an embodiment eccentric masses of the vibration actuators rotate at typically high speed. Typically the masses are positioned such that at a specific position they generate two forces of opposite directions creating a moment in the torsional direction, along the longitudinal axis of the pile, and zero forces in another position. The vibration device, and the present method, are more rapid and less noisy. For instance for a midsized pile of e.g. 10 m length and with a diameter of about 75 cm the pile is driven about twice as fast compared to prior art techniques. The pile may move downward with a speed of some 9 cm / second for a 0.76 m cross section pile.

[0031] In particular in an embodiment, the vibration device comprises vibration actuators that are adapted to rotate horizontal rotation axes hai at a first vibration frequency of 10-50 Hz (600-3000 rpm), preferably at 12-30 Hz, more preferably at 15- 25 Hz, such as at 16-24 Hz.

[0032] In an embodiment the vibration actuators are is each individually adapted to rotate horizontal rotation axes hai at a second torsion frequency of 15-200 Hz (900- 12000 rpm), preferably at 30-150 Hz, more preferably at 50-100 Hz, such as at 60-80 Hz.

[0033] In an embodiment, the vibration device comprises vibration actuators comprising moving masses, wherein the masses are 5-5000 gr (each), preferably 10-1000 gr, such as 30-600 gr.

[0034] In an embodiment, wherein distance / radius ei is 1-50 cm, preferably 2-40 cm, such as 3-30 cm.

[0035] In an embodiment, the controller is adapted to drives the at least one vibration actuator in phase.

[0036] In an embodiment, the controller is configured to provide a vertical driving frequency of 10-50 Hz.

[0037] In an embodiment, the vibration actuator has at least one second angular torsion velocity coi is at least two times first angular vibration velocity coi+i, preferably wherein at least one angular velocity coi is at least four times angular velocity coi+i, more preferably at least ten times, such as at least 50 times.

[0038] Detailed description of the invention With respect to the vibration actuator, many devices are viable that enable a mass to be put into motion at a specified frequency and direction. For instance, both electrical and hydraulic drives are possible. Furthermore, the drive may be double acting and / or single acting. For instance, a linear actuator may drive one or more masses. Important is that a predefined force is applied as a function of time and workline. The sum of the applied forces generate a resulting force that drives a pile into the soil or into the ground. In many cases of use, this soil or ground can be a seafloor or river bed or lake floor. In an embodiment, the vibration device comprises at least three of the sections with at least two of the sections coupled using the coupling actuators for amending the ring circumference.

[0039] In an embodiment, the ring comprises at least two bands or sub-rings of said sections. In most constructions, the sections are coupled in transverse end and longitudinal direction.

[0040] In an embodiment, each section comprises at least one vibration actuator. In particular, in an embodiment each section comprises at least two vibration actuators. Vibration actuators are provided on the sections to allow the vibrations and vibration patterns that are required for driving a pile and that are describe above to be realized using the provided vibration actuators. In this respect, orientation of vibration actuators, positioning, and nature of the vibration actuators can be varied in order to be able to effectuate desired vibration patters and strength.

[0041] In an embodiment, the ring is adapted for clamping around the said pile. In particular the ring comprises an inner surface adapted for engaging around the said pile.

[0042] In an embodiment, at least two of the sections can disengage from one another for opening the ring for allowing the ring to engage around the said pile to grab the said pile. In particular, coupling actuators for holding two of said sections together can release from one the said sections for opening the ring. In the further description, such coupling actuators are referred to as releasing coupling actuators.

[0043] In an embodiment, the ring is adapted for engaging inside the said pile. In such an embodiment, the coupling actuator are adapted for expanding the said ring to engaged with its outer circumference the inner surface of the said pile.

[0044] In an embodiment, the vibration device further comprises an insert end for inserting into the said pile and comprising radial expansion actuators for increasing a circumferential size of the insert end for clamping the said pile between the ring and the insert end.

[0045] In an embodiment, the insert end comprises a further ring for positioning inside the said pile. In such a vibration device, the outer surface of the ring engages the inner surface of a pile. The vibration actuators of such an embodiment comprising an inner ring are provided on an inner surface of the ring. With respect to the vibration devices and controller, the following may apply in embodiments.

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment the present vibration device comprises vibration actuators that comprises at least one pair of at least two vertically oriented equal masses configured to move in a reciprocal manner, such as linear pistons vpij and at least one horizontally oriented mass configured to move in a reciprocal manner, such as at least one pair of at least two horizontally oriented equal masses configured to move in a reciprocal manner, such as linear pistons hpij .

[0047] In an embodiment of such vibration actuators, each individual piston is configured to provide linear motion of a cylinder thereof, wherein the cylinders of the at least two vertically oriented masses configured to move in a reciprocal manner, such as linear pistons vpij are each individually configured to operate at a frequency oVpi providing a reciprocating vertical velocity rvvi.

[0048] In an embodiment of such vibration actuators, the cylinders of the at least two horizontally oriented masses are configured to move in a reciprocal manner, such as linear pistons are each individually configured to operate at a frequency CDhpi providing a reciprocating horizontal velocity rhvj. In such an embodiment, each pair cylinders are configured to move in opposite directions, such as 180 degrees out of phase, and wherein in each pair of linear pistons wherein each piston individually is located at a distance di from a centre of rotation of the vibrator. The movement in reciprocal manner is in a vertical direction or in a horizontal direction respectively.

[0049] The mass in such vibration actuators may be driven in such a vibration actuator, such as in a piston wherein a mass is extracted and retracted, a motor, such as an electrical motor, and so on. Likewise, any pair of reciprocating masses, as the cylinders, can be used.

[0050] Provided is thus in an embodiment vibration actuators that for instance comprise a vertical cylinder located in the centre. It provides vertical vibrations. By varying (typically by selecting) the stroke of a cylinder the amplitude may be adapted, and by varying the speed (typically by controlling) of its movement, the frequency co pi may be adapted. In this way, the frequency and the amplitude remain independent from each other. In principle, more vertical cylinders may be used. If more are used, they are positioned on the vibration device that they effectively are positioned equidistantly from the centre of the pile, at least pairwise, and optionally all. The same goes for vibration actuators that provide the horizontal cylinders. They are positioned effectively tangentially, hence horizontal, to the to be driven pile. The strokes are synchronized, operating at the same frequency, but in opposite directions, such as 180 degrees out of phase, that is, one moving in a first direction, the other moving in the opposite direction thereof. There might be more cylinders placed over the vibration device and thus provided over pile. They extend and retract synchronously. The vertical and horizontal cylinders (or pistons) may operate at different frequencies, and typically Ohpi ^oVpi for any given horizontal and vertical pair. Also an array of the vibration actuators may be considered; therein each set or pair (e.g. horizontal cylinders) may have sub-sets operating at different frequencies (e.g. 50% of cylinders operating at a higher frequency and 50% operating at a lower one and so on). In this way, a not purely sinusoidal vibration is generated, and vibrations of a more complex form can be provided, if required.

[0051] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device a centre of mass of the vibration device and a rotation axis of the pile may coincide, typically within a few %, such as within 5%.

[0052] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device may comprise a least one gear adapted to be driven by the at least one vibration actuator and adapted to rotate at least one mass mij, preferably two masses within one group i. Therewith good and simple control of forces can be achieved, as well as adaption of forces during pile driving. In an example masses of different groups may be driven by the same gear.

[0053] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device a first group may comprise a mass mi,i and a mass mi, 2, a second group may comprise a mass m2,i and a mass m2, 2, and optional further groups may comprise a mass mi,i and a mass mi, 2. So a large variety of masses may be used, as well as a number of groups. Typically, in view of simplicity of construction only a limited number of groups is used, such as two, but the invention is not limited thereto. In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device the controller may be adapted to control the sum of vertical forces of the groups to be cancelled. By varying angular velocity and typically by carefully selecting and balancing masses, and radius and / or distance, the sum of vertical forces is cancelled. Such results in a very steady mode of operation with a minimum amount of noise.

[0054] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device the horizontal forces may be controlled to be added. As with the vertical forces, horizontal forces can be controlled by varying angular velocity and typically by carefully selecting and balancing masses, and radius and / or distance.

[0055] Also, vertical forces may still be generated, such as at low frequency. In any case the mass of the pile, and gravitational force, in combination with the torsion, drives the pile into the soil.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device in an ith group a first mass mi;imay be located at a first distance di from a vibrator side and a second mass m,.2 may be located at the same first distance di from a vibrator side opposite of the first mass. In a group masses are typically located “opposite” of one and another, with respect to the position of the vibrator.

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device the at least one vibration actuator may be each individually adapted to rotate horizontal rotation axes hai at 10-200 Hz (600-12000 rpm), preferably at 20-180 Hz, more preferably at 30-150 Hz, even more preferably at 40-120 Hz, such as at 50-100 Hz, e.g. 60-80 Hz.

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device at least one first actuator may each individually be adapted to rotate horizontal rotation axes hai at a first vibration frequency of 10-50 Hz (600-3000 rpm), preferably at 12-30 Hz, more preferably at 15-25 Hz, such as at 16-24 Hz.

[0059] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device at least one second actuator may each individually be adapted to rotate horizontal rotation axes hai at a second torsion frequency of 15-200 Hz (900-12000 rpm), preferably at 30-150 Hz, more preferably at 50-100 Hz, such as at 60-80 Hz.

[0060] In an example the first vibration frequency may be 1400 rpm and the second torsion frequency may be 4800 rpm.

[0061] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device at least one second angular torsion velocity Oi may be at least two times first angular vibration velocity Oi+i, preferably wherein at least one angular velocity Oi is at least four times angular velocity coi+i, more preferably at least ten times, such as at least 50 times.

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device masses mi;iand m,.2 may be located at a distance ei from horizontal rotation axis hai, and wherein masses mi+i,i and rm+1,2 may be located at a distance er+i from horizontal rotation axis hai+i.

[0063] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device wherein masses mij may be disc-shaped with a radius of ei and wherein a centre of mass of the disc-shaped mass coincide with the rotation axes hai, respectively. Therewith a well-balanced mass may be provided.

[0064] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device the ratio of masses mi+i,i / mi,i may be equal to ei / ei+i. Therewith forces of an ith group and an i+lth group can be balanced, typically well within 1% or better, such as fully balanced.

[0065] In an exemplary embodiment the present vibration device may comprise two groups of masses, wherein the horizontal rotation axes hai and ha2 are at equal distance from a central point of the vibration device. Therewith forces of an ith group and an i+lth group can be balanced.

[0066] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device masses may be disc shaped. Such is found to be easily attached to the axes.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device the masses may be 5-5000 gr, preferably 10-1000 gr, such as 30-600 gr, e.g. 50-400 gr. For larger piles and / or heavier soils and / or stiffer soils larger masses may be used. In addition, or as alternative, angular velocities may be increased.

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device the distance / radius ei is 1-50 cm, preferably 2-40 cm, such as 3-30 cm.

[0069] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device the controller may drive the at least one vibration actuator in phase, for instance such that Fzi= - FZ2, typically well within 1% accuracy, such as fully equal of size.

[0070] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device the vibration device may comprise a receiving structure, such as a groove. Therewith the pile can be firmly attached to the present vibration device.

[0071] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device the controller may be adapted to provide a vertical driving frequency of 10-50 Hz. In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device the vibration device is configured to adjust at least one distance di, in particular wherein the vibration device is configured to adjust all distances di.

[0072] In an exemplary embodiment of the present vibration device the vibration device is configured to be fixed or attached outside to the pile, inside to the pile, over an edge of the pile, and combinations thereof.

[0073] In an exemplary embodiment of the present method the vibration device is calibrated before driving the pile into the soil. As such, driving forces, angular velocities, soil properties, interaction between pile and soil, and so on, can be The term “substantially” herein, such as in “substantially all emission” or in “substantially consists”, will be understood by the person skilled in the art. The term “substantially” may also include embodiments with “entirely”, “completely”, “all”, etc. Hence, in embodiments the adjective substantially may also be removed. Where applicable, the term “substantially” may also relate to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, especially 99% or higher, even more especially 99.5% or higher, including 100%. The term “comprise” includes also embodiments wherein the term “comprises” means “consists of’.

[0074] The term "functionally" will be understood by, and be clear to, a person skilled in the art. The term “substantially” as well as “functionally” may also include embodiments with “entirely”, “completely”, “all”, etc. Hence, in embodiments the adjective functionally may also be removed. When used, for instance in “functionally parallel”, a skilled person will understand that the adjective “functionally” includes the term substantially as explained above. Functionally in particular is to be understood to include a configuration of features that allows these features to function as if the adjective “functionally” was not present. The term “functionally” is intended to cover variations in the feature to which it refers, and which variations are such that in the functional use of the feature, possibly in combination with other features it relates to in the invention, that combination of features is able to operate or function. For instance, if an antenna is functionally coupled or functionally connected to a communication device, received electromagnetic signals that are receives by the antenna can be used by the communication device. The word “functionally” as for instance used in “functionally parallel” is used to cover exactly parallel, but also the embodiments that are covered by the word “substantially” explained above. For instance, “functionally parallel” relates to embodiments that in operation function as if the parts are for instance parallel. This covers embodiments for which it is clear to a skilled person that it operates within its intended field of use as if it were parallel.

[0075] Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.

[0076] The devices or apparatus herein are amongst others described during operation. As will be clear to the person skilled in the art, the invention is not limited to methods of operation or devices in operation.

[0077] It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. Use of the verb "to comprise" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The invention may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements, and may include a suitably programmed computer or PLC, for instance. In the device or apparatus claims enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0078] The invention further applies to an apparatus or device comprising one or more of the characterising features described in the description and / or shown in the attached drawings. The invention further pertains to a method or process comprising one or more of the characterising features described in the description and / or shown in the attached drawings.

[0079] The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined in order to provide additional advantages. Furthermore, some of the features can form the basis for one or more divisional applications. Brief description of the drawings

[0080] Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, and in which:

[0081] Figure 1 schematically depicts a perspective view of an embodiment of the vibration device;

[0082] Figure 2 a top view of the embodiment of figure 1;

[0083] Figure 3 An alternative embedment of the vibration device, additionally including an insert end;

[0084] Figure 4 a cross sectional view of figure 3;

[0085] Figure 5 A a pile laying an a deck of a ship, and a further alternative embodiment of the vibration device;

[0086] Figure 5B a front view of a first step in applying the vibration device of figure 5A on a pile;

[0087] Figure 5C the applied vibration device, and

[0088] Figure 6 the vibration device used on a pile with a conical end.

[0089] The drawings are not necessarily on scale.

[0090] Description of preferred embodiments

[0091] Figure 1 schematically depicts an embodiment of a vibration device 1 in perspective view and figure 2 depicts the vibration device 1 schematically in top view.

[0092] In this embodiment, the vibration device 1 comprises a single ring of segments or sections 2. The vibration device in this embodiment has its engaging surface 4 for engaging a pile on the inner surface of the ring. The embodiment of figure 1 and 2 is therefore designed to be placed around a pile. This embodiment of the vibration device will grab or be placed around a pile. In an alternative embodiment, the vibration device has its engaging surface on the opposite, outer surface of the ring. This embodiment will be placed inside a (hollow) pile.

[0093] In alternative embodiments, not depicted, more than one ring can be provided. These rings can be coupled in a longitudinal direction. Other assemblies of sections or sections are also possible, as long as these sections of segments 2 form one or more rings. For instance, in figure 6 an example is illustrated of a vibration device 1 with two rings of sections 2.

[0094] A section 2 has an engagement surface 4 for engaging a surface of the pile, a longitudinal edge 6 and a transverse edge 5. Neighbouring sections 2 are coupled at their longitudinal edges 6 via one or more coupling actuators 3. In the illustrated embodiment of figures 1 and 2, three coupling actuators 3 are provided along a longitudinal edge 6. The coupling actuators 3 can be of electrical nature, for instance comprising electromotors or linear motors. Alternatively, they can be of a hydraulic nature.

[0095] The coupling actuators 3 are adapted for setting a clamping force at which a ring clamps around a pile or clamps inside a pile. In fact, control of the coupling actuators 3 allows accurate setting of an engaging force at which the vibration device 1 engages a pile.

[0096] A section 2 can be provided with one or more vibration actuators 7. These vibration actuators 7 can for instance be electrical in nature or hydraulic in nature. Most important is that they provide an effective vibration of the vibration device 1 that gently drives a pile into a soil or into the ground, or allows removal from the soil. In the embodiment of figures 1 and 2, each section2 is provided with several vibration actuators. The nature of the forces and fluctuations, resulting in vibrations, are for instance disclosed in the earlier applications of the applicant, mentioned in the background section. These parts are included here as if fully set forth.

[0097] The vibration device has a center line L which in an embodiment is the center of gravity line. Once installed on the pile, the center line L and a longitudinal axis of the pile will coincide.

[0098] In an embodiment, the number of sections may be modified to accommodate a pile diameter. In that way, the same vibration device may be used to drive piles of various diameters by simply changing the number of sections that are used.

[0099] Sections can be substantially identical, as indicated in the drawings. An advantage is that this would make design and production fairly less complicated. In the drawings, the number and distribution of vibration actuators 7 is schematically. In practice, each section 2 comprises at least one vibration actuator 7. In the drawings, all the vibration actuators 7 are indicated as oriented in the same direction and as being of the same type. Please note that vibration actuators are provided so as to be able to result in the strength and direction of vibrations as required and described above.

[0100] Figure 2 furthermore shows the controller 17. The controller can be functionally coupled to the vibration actuators 7 to control and in some embodiments receive input regarding operation. The controller 17 is also functionally coupled to a coupling actuator 3. In an embodiment, the controller 17 sends control signals, and also receives feedback on the operation of the coupling actuators. In figure 2, only one vibration actuators and one coupling actuator is functionally coupled, but in practise, each one is functionally coupled to the controller 17.

[0101] In figures 3 and 4, an embodiment of a vibration device 1 is illustrated that comprises a ring 9 around a pile 8 and an insert end 10 for inserting into the pile 8. This embodiment of the insert end 10 comprises radial expansion actuators 11 for increasing a circumferential size of the insert end for clamping the pile 8 between the ring 9 and the insert end 10. In the depicted embodiment, the expansion actuators 11 comprise actuator that can change its length in longitudinal direction and at both ends converters that can convert the force in longitudinal direction into a force in radial direction.

[0102] In this embodiment of figures 3 and 4 the insert end 10 does not comprise vibration actuators but is able to increase its circumference or circumferential size. In that way the insert end 10 is able to compensate radial forces from the outer or external ring 9. The insert end 10 illustrated here may in an alternative embodiment comprise vibration actuators.

[0103] In an alternative embodiment, not illustrated, a vibration assembly is provided that comprises a vibration device as illustrated in the preceding part around a pile, referred to as external vibration device, and a vibration device comprising a ring that can be placed inside a pile, which can also be referred to as an internal vibration device. Preferably the internal and external vibration devices are provided on the pile 8 much the same was as the vibration device illustrated in figures 3 and 4, on the same longitudinal position on the pile 8.

[0104] The external vibration device is clamped around the pile 8 through the coupling actuators that reduce the circumferential size of the external vibration device. In the internal vibration device, the coupling actuators reduce the circumferential size until the internal vibration device fits inside the pile 8, and then the coupling actuators increase the circumferential size until the internal vibration device engages the internal surface of the pile. The coupling actuator increases the circumferential size until the friction between the outer surface of the internal vibration device and the internal surface of the pile 8 is at a predetermined of pre-set level. This can be input in the controller 17 and the controller 17 subsequently controls the coupling actuators to provide the pre-set friction.

[0105] In an embodiment, sensors can be provided that provide a value indicative of the friction. Further sensors can provide various resulting vibration values of the vibration device or vibration assembly exerted upon the pile in order to provide a predetermined vibration pattern for displacing the pile in the soil.

[0106] The embodiment of the vibration device of figure 3 shows an embodiment in which the ring 9 in fact comprises a series of sub-rings. Here the ring, comprises three sub-rings providing three rows of sections2. Each row or sub-ring comprising 5 coupled sections 2. Other configurations of sections 2 may be possible to provide a ring 9. For instance, two or more sub-rings may be provided that can be coupled to form a ring.

[0107] Once the pile 8 is in place in the soil, the coupling actuators 3 can release their tension and vibration device 1 can be un-coupled and retrieved. For retrieving a pile 8, a vibration device 1 can be installed onto a pile 8, the coupling actuators can be activated to engage the pile 8. The vibration actuators 7 can be activated until a common vibration is generated that allows the pile 8 to be extracted.

[0108] In an alternative embodiment, not depicted, there is provide a vibration assembly comprising a ring inside a pile 8. As mentioned before, the vibration device 1 can comprise a ring engaging around the pile 8 or a ring engaging inside a pile 8. In this embodiment, the vibration device 1 comprises a ring around a pile 8 and a ring inside a pile 8.

[0109] Figures 5A-5C illustrate a further alternative embodiment of a vibration device 1. In this embodiment, at least one coupling actuators can actually be released from a section of a ring. The coupling actuator is referred to as releasing coupling actuator 16. There may be more than one releasing coupling actuator. In fact, it may be possible to implement all the coupling actuators as releasing coupling actuators.

[0110] In an embodiment, coupling actuators have two ends, each end fixed to one of the neighbouring sections. The releasing coupling actuators 16 comprise a release end that has a coupled and a released position, allowing the releasing coupling actuator to release one of the neighbouring sections and thus allowing opening of the ring.

[0111] In fact, in an embodiment releasing coupling actuators holding two neighbouring sections together can release one of the neighbouring sections in such a way that the ring can open as illustrated in figure 5C the vibration device can then be applied around a pile 8 from a direction normal to the longitudinal axis of the pile 8. The vibration device can actually grab the pile 8. In an embodiment, the releasing coupling actuators can rotate one or both neighbouring sections about an grab axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vibration device and between the neighbouring sections.

[0112] In figure 5B, the releasing coupling actuators are again holding the neighbouring sections together, closing the ring again around the pile 8. Now, the pile may be hoisted from the studs on the ships’ deck 13.

[0113] In figure 6 it is demonstrated how a vibration device 1 of the current type can be used to insert or extract a pile 8 with a conical end 19 into or from the soil. The external ring can easily be applied at a desired longitudinal position, for instance below the conical end 19 of the pile 8.

[0114] It will also be clear that the above description and drawings are included to illustrate some embodiments of the invention, and not to limit the scope of protection. Starting from this disclosure, many more embodiments will be evident to a skilled person. These embodiments are within the scope of protection and the essence of this invention and are obvious combinations of prior art techniques and the disclosure of this patent.

[0115] Reference numbers

[0116] 1 vibration device

[0117] 2 section

[0118] 3 coupling actuator

[0119] 4 engaging surface

[0120] 5 transverse section edge

[0121] 6 longitudinal section edge

[0122] 7 vibration actuator

[0123] 8 pile

[0124] 9 external ring

[0125] 10 insert end

[0126] 11 radial expansion actuator

[0127] 12 center part

[0128] 13 engagement section

[0129] 14 pile stand

[0130] 15 ship deck

[0131] 16 releasing coupling actuator

[0132] 17 controller

[0133] 18 section longtudinal rotation axis

[0134] 19 pile conical end

Claims

Claims1. A vibration device for displacing a pile in a soil like a seabed, in particular selected from inserting in a soil and raising from a soil, comprising: a ring for engaging a said pile, the ring comprising at least two sections coupled to one another to form the ring, the at least two sections coupled via at least one coupling actuator, the at least one coupling actuator for setting a circumferential size of the ring for setting an engaging force of the ring to the said pile, at least one of the sections provided with at least one vibration actuator adapted to provide a vertical vibration of the said pile at a first vibration frequency and torsion to the said pile at a second torsion frequency for in combination exerting an effective force to the said pile for displacing it in the soil, and the at least one coupling actuator adapted for applying the engaging force adapted to transfer the effective force to the said pile, and a controller for controlling the at least one vibration actuator for controlling each individual angular velocity coi of individual vibration actuators for controlling a sum of horizontal forces produced by the respective vibration actuators, for balancing a sum of vertical forces produced by the respective vibration actuators for setting the effective force, and for controlling the at least one coupling actuator for setting the engaging force.

2. The vibration device of claim 1, comprising a at least three of the sections with at least two of the sections coupled using the coupling actuators for amending the ring circumference.

3. The vibration device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the ring comprises at least two bands of said sections, or sections coupled in transverse end and longitudinal direction.

4. The vibration device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each section comprises at least two vibration actuators.

5. The vibration device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein said ring is adapted for clamping around the said pile, in particular comprising an inner surfaceadapted for engaging around the said pile.

6. The vibration device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least two of the sections can disengage from one another for opening the ring for allowing the ring to engage around the said pile to grab the said pile, in particular wherein coupling actuators for holding two of said sections together can release from one the said sections for opening the ring.

7. The vibration device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein said ring is adapted for engaging inside the said pile, wherein the coupling actuator are adapted for expanding the said ring to engaged with its outer circumference the inner surface of the said pile.

8. The vibration device of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an insert end for inserting into the said pile and comprising radial expansion actuators for increasing a circumferential size of the insert end for clamping the said pile between the ring and the insert end.

9. The vibration device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein said insert end comprises a further ring for positioning inside the said pile.

10. The vibration device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vibration actuator comprises at least two groups i>2 of eccentric masses, each group i comprising at least two equal masses j, wherein each individual mass mij wherein each individual mass mij is positioned at a distance di from the centre of rotation of the vibration actuator, and wherein a mass mi,i on one side is displaced 180 degrees with respect to a mass m,.2 on the other side, wherein the mass mij is attached to at least one horizontal axis hai, wherein the at least one vibration actuator is for rotating the masses mij around their horizontal axis hai, such that in a group i masses mij rotate at a same angular velocity Oi along said horizontal axis hai, and in a group i+1 masses mi+ij rotate at an opposite angular velocity Oi+i along said horizontal axis hai+i, wherein angular velocity Oi is different from angular velocity C0i+i,wherein the controller is configured for controlling each individual angular velocity Oi of group i of masses mij, for controlling a sum of horizontal forces produced by the respective masses, and for balancing a sum of vertical forces produced by the respective masses.

11. The vibration device according to any one of the preceding claims 1-9, wherein the vibration device comprises at least one pair of at least two vertically oriented equal masses configured to move in a reciprocal manner, such as linear pistons vpij and at least one horizontally oriented mass configured to move in a reciprocal manner, such as at least one pair of at least two horizontally oriented equal masses configured to move in a reciprocal manner, such as linear pistons hpij, wherein each individual piston is configured to provide linear motion of a cylinder thereof, wherein the cylinders of the at least two vertically oriented masses configured to move in a reciprocal manner, such as linear pistons vpij and at least one horizontally oriented mass configured to move in a reciprocal manner, such as at least one pair of at least two horizontally oriented equal masses configured to move in a reciprocal manner, such as linear pistons hpij, wherein each individual piston is configured to provide linear motion of a cylinder thereof, wherein the cylinders of the at least two vertically oriented masses configured to move in a reciprocal manner, such as linear pistons vpij are each individually configured to operate at a reciprocating vertical velocity rvv;, wherein the cylinders of the at least two horizontally oriented masses configured to move in a reciprocal manner, such as linear pistons are each individually configured to operate at a reciprocating horizontal velocity rhVJ, wherein in each pair cylinders are configured to move in opposite directions, such as 180 degrees out of phase, and wherein in each pair of masses configured to move in a reciprocal manner, such as linear pistons wherein each piston individually is located at a distance di from a centre of rotation of the vibrator.

12. The vibration device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein when clamping the said pile, a centre of mass cmof the vibration device and a rotation axis of thepile coincide.

13. The vibration device of any one of the preceding claims comprising a least one gear adapted to be driven by the at least one vibration actuator and adapted to rotate at least one mass m^, preferably two masses within one group i, and / or wherein at least one first actuator (4) is each individually adapted to rotate horizontal rotation axes hai at a first vibration frequency of 10-50 Hz (600-3000 rpm), preferably at 12-30 Hz, more preferably at 15-25 Hz, such as at 16-24 Hz, and / or wherein at least one second actuator (4) is each individually adapted to rotate horizontal rotation axes hai at a second torsion frequency of 15-200 Hz (900-12000 rpm), preferably at 30-150 Hz, more preferably at 50-100 Hz, such as at 60-80 Hz, and / or wherein at least one second angular torsion velocity Oi is at least two times first angular vibration velocity coi+i, preferably wherein at least one angular velocity Oi is at least four times angular velocity coi+i, more preferably at least ten times, such as at least 50 times, wherein a first group comprises a mass mi,i and a mass mi, 2, a second group comprises a mass m2,i and a mass m2, 2, and optional further groups comprise a mass mi,i and a mass mi, 2, wherein the controller is configured to control the sum of vertical forces of the groups to be cancelled, and wherein the horizontal forces are controlled to be added, and / or wherein in an ithgroup a first mass mi,i is located at a first distance di from a vibrator (3) side and a second mass mi, 2 is located at the same first distance di from a vibrator (3) side opposite of the first mass, and / or wherein the at least one actuator (4) is each individually adapted to rotate horizontal rotation axes hai at 10-200 Hz (600-12000 rpm), and / or wherein masses mi,i and mi, 2 are located at a distance eifrom horizontal rotation axis hai, and wherein masses mi+1,1 and mi+1,2 are located at a distance ei+i from horizontal rotation axis hai+i, or wherein masses mij are disc-shaped with a radius of ei and wherein a centre of mass of the disc-shaped mass coincide with the rotation axes hai, respectively, and / or wherein the ratio of masses mi+i,i / mi,i is equal to ei / ei+i, and / orcomprising two groups of masses, wherein the horizontal rotation axes hai and ha2 are at equal distance from a central point of the shaker, and / or wherein masses are disc shaped, and / or wherein the masses are 5-5000 gr, preferably 10-1000 gr, such as 30-600 gr, and / or wherein distance / radius er is 1-50 cm, preferably 2-40 cm, such as 3-30 cm, and / or wherein the controller drives the at least one actuator (4) in phase, and / or wherein the shaker comprises a receiving structure, such as a groove, and / or wherein the controller is configured to provide a vertical driving frequency of 10- 50 Hz, and / or14. A vibration assembly comprising at least two vibration devices according to any one of the preceding claims, one vibration device arranged for clamping around the said pile and one vibration device arranged for clamping inside the said pile.

15. A method for displacing a pile in a soil, for instance in a seabed, comprising- applying a vibration device according to any one of the preceding claims 1-13 around the pile;- setting the coupling actuators to a pre-set engaging force for engaging the pile;- setting the vibration actuators to a preset vibration pattern;16. A computer program product for operating a vibration device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the controller comprises a data processing device and which, when executed on the data processing device, preforms retrieving an engaging force set value; retrieving pile parameters; calculating vibration settings for the vibration actuators for applying a vibration pattern onto the pile.

17. A kit of parts comprising a vibration device according to any one of the preceding claims 1-13, and a pile.-o-o-o-o-o-

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