Flexible Storage Container

Abstract

1. A fluid storage system for an aquatic environment, comprising: an outer casing and a first bladder; the outer casing having an outer layer arranged to form a cavity; and an inner layer positioned within the cavity formed by the outer layer and defining an inner surface of the outer casing; the cavity comprising a first cavity and a second cavity; the first cavity formed between the outer layer and the inner layer; the second cavity defined by the inner surface of the outer casing; the outer casing configured to receive and retain a first substance within the first cavity; the first bladder suitable for storing a fluid to be stored; the first bladder configured to receive and retain a second fluid; and the first bladder positioned within the second cavity.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The invention disclosed herein relates to a storage system for storing a fluid and a method of providing a storage system for storing a fluid, the storage system preferably being used underwater. [Background technology]

[0002] Currently, gases are stored primarily in two different systems: fixed volume vessels (e.g., tanks) or variable volume vessels (e.g., flexible vessels). In tanks, the maximum mass of fluid that can be stored is defined by the volume of the tank and the maximum allowable pressure to which the fluid can be subjected. Tanks are usually cylindrical and manufactured from steel or composite materials.

[0003] In a flexible container, the maximum mass of fluid that can be stored is defined by the maximum displacement of the container's boundary limits at a given pressure, usually in equilibrium with ambient pressure. Flexible containers can be made from flexible elements such as telescoping cylinders or rubber membranes that allow for internal volume changes and pressure equilibrium with the external environment.

[0004] There is often a desire to store fluids underwater. When such systems are deployed underwater, one or more tanks may be installed within a single system, or one or more flexible containers may be installed within the system.

[0005] There are many problems associated with providing storage systems, particularly in underwater environments. For example, the bulk of the systems can make them difficult to transport and install, especially if the systems are to be installed underwater, which can require the systems to be transported far from the manufacturing facility. Furthermore, if the systems are to be installed underwater, they must be sufficiently secured to the seabed to prevent them from floating up due to the buoyancy of the stored fluid. Furthermore, the systems must be sufficiently protected from objects falling from above (regardless of where the storage system is located) so that the integrity of the storage system is maintained and leakage does not occur.

[0006] The present invention aims to solve at least one problem associated with the storage of fluids in storage systems, particularly when the fluids are intended to be stored underwater. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] In a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a storage system for storing a fluid (e.g., a liquid, e.g., a gas) in an underwater environment, the storage system comprising an outer casing and a first bladder; The outer casing comprises: an outer layer arranged to form a cavity; an inner layer positioned within the cavity formed by the outer layer and defining an inner surface of the outer casing; the cavity comprises a first cavity and a second cavity; the first cavity is formed between the outer layer and the inner layer; the second cavity is defined by an inner surface of the outer casing; the outer casing is configured to receive and retain a first substance within the first cavity; the first bladder is adapted to store a fluid to be stored; The first bladder is configured to receive and retain a second fluid, the first bladder being positioned within the second cavity.

[0008] A first aspect of the present invention provides an improved storage system for storing fluids (e.g., liquids, e.g., gases) particularly suitable for use in an aquatic environment, whereby an outer casing of the storage system is configured to provide a protective casing for the first bladder such that the first bladder is protected from damage (e.g., puncture or tearing due to the force of a falling object), thereby improving the integrity of the storage system and reducing the occurrence of leakage and loss of the stored fluid.

[0009] In some embodiments, the protective benefit provided by the outer casing may be due (e.g., partially, e.g., exclusively) to a first material received and retained within the first cavity. For example, the first material may be selected to impart desired properties to the outer casing, i.e., strength and durability, such that the kinetic energy of a drop impact is absorbed (at least in part) by the outer casing without damaging the first bladder.

[0010] The outer casing also has the advantageous effect of adding weight to the storage system, which can counteract the buoyancy of the stored gas and thus contribute (at least in part) to anchoring the storage system in an aquatic environment. In some embodiments, anchoring of the storage system may be achieved (e.g., substantially) solely by the outer casing. In preferred embodiments, the anchoring effect is primarily due to the weight provided by the first material held within the first cavity.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first substance has a density greater than the density of water, for example, about 1 g / cm of pure water at about 4°C. 3 , 1.03 g / cm of seawater 3 For example, the density of the first substance is 1.05 g / cm 3 greater than, e.g., 1.1 g / cm 3 Larger, e.g. 1.2g / cm 3 Larger, e.g. 1.3g / cm 3 Larger, e.g. 1.4g / cm3 Larger, e.g. 1.5g / cm 3 Larger, e.g. 1.6g / cm 3 Larger, e.g. 1.7g / cm 3 Larger, e.g. 1.8g / cm 3 Larger, e.g. 1.9g / cm 3 Larger, e.g. 2g / cm 3 Larger, e.g. 2.5g / cm 3 In some embodiments, the density of the first material is 1 g / cm 3 ~10g / cm 3 , preferably 1.1 g / cm 3 ~5g / cm 3 , e.g., 1.5 g / cm 3 ~2.5g / cm 3 , e.g., 2 g / cm 3 ~2.5g / cm 3 It could be.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first substance is a fluid. Having the first substance be a fluid provides the advantage that its fluid properties can be utilized to easily introduce (e.g., insert, e.g., inject) the first substance into the first cavity by any suitable and desired means. For example, the first substance can be injected or poured into the first cavity so as to take the shape of the first cavity defined by the outer and inner layers.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first substance is a hardenable fluid. For example, the first substance may be a fluid when introduced (e.g., inserted, e.g., injected) into the first cavity and then harden to a solid such that the first substance is in a solid state when the storage system is installed. The hardenable fluid may be hardened by any suitable and / or desirable means, such as by heating, drying, or irradiating the outer casing. In some embodiments, the hardenable fluid is concrete.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first material is a solid (i.e., a pseudo-fluid) that has bulk fluid properties. For example, the first material may be composed of a plurality of small solid units, e.g., granular material. For example, the first material may include (e.g., consist of) sand. For example, the first material may include (e.g., consist of) metal, e.g., metal powder.

[0015] The outer layer (and / or inner layer) of the outer casing may itself be made from an abrasion-resistant (i.e., strong and / or durable) material, thereby contributing to the protection provided by the outer casing. For example, the material used for the outer casing may be made from a material with a high tensile strength, thereby reducing the effective force (i.e., force transmitted through the system) experienced by the bladder due to an object being dropped on the system. In some embodiments, the outer layer and / or inner layer are made from a material that includes a fiber fabric.

[0016] In some embodiments, the outer layer defines at least a portion of the outer surface of the storage system. In some embodiments, the outer casing (substantially as a whole) surrounds the second cavity such that the first bladder is protected from (substantially) all directions. In other embodiments, the outer casing provides at least the outer surface of the storage system that engages with a floor surface (e.g., the ground, e.g., the ocean floor, e.g., the riverbed) and that provides protection against objects falling from above (e.g., directly above). In other words, in some embodiments, the outer casing does not completely surround the second cavity and / or the first bladder.

[0017] In some embodiments, the outer casing has a tubular shape. For example, the outer casing has at least one wall that defines a tubular cavity. In the sense of the present invention, a tubular shape (e.g., a tube) is a hollow structure that has at least one wall (e.g., formed by the outer casing) that surrounds a cavity (e.g., a second cavity), and that extends from one end of the tube to the other, essentially providing a passageway. The tube may have a circular or non-circular cross-section (i.e., a cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the wall is circular or non-circular, e.g., the wall of the tube defines a non-circular cavity shape). In some embodiments, the non-circular cross-section may be a regular shape (e.g., an oval, square, or rectangle) or an irregular shape (e.g., a rectangle with rounded corners, a flattened oval, or any other irregular shape).

[0018] In some embodiments, the (e.g., tubular) outer casing has two ends. In some embodiments, the outer layer and inner layer are fixedly joined at least one of the two ends so that a first substance can be introduced (e.g., inserted, e.g., injected) into and retained in the first cavity. In some embodiments, the outer casing is (e.g., partially) open at one end, whereby the outer casing includes an opening at said end for introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) the first substance into the first cavity.

[0019] The outer casing may be formed in any suitable and / or desirable manner, for example, by joining two separate sheets of material (each sheet forming either an outer layer or an inner layer) to provide a (e.g., tubular) outer casing.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first cavity is continuous (e.g., in at least one direction). For example, the first cavity is integral. For example, the first cavity extends continuously (without interruption) from the outer layer to the inner layer and / or from a first end of the (e.g., tubular) outer casing to a second end of the (e.g., tubular) outer casing. Thus, when the continuous first cavity receives the first material, the first material takes the shape of the continuous first cavity (e.g., the first material forms an integral shape). In such embodiments, the thickness of the first cavity (and therefore the thickness of the first material contained therein) is substantially uniform throughout the outer casing.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first cavity comprises at least two (e.g., a plurality) separate cavity segments. In some embodiments, the cavity segments are formed by (e.g., fixedly) joining an outer layer to an inner layer at at least one (e.g., a plurality) joint sites between two ends of the outer casing. For example, the outer and inner layers of the outer casing may be fixedly joined at each end (i.e., to prevent leakage of the first substance) and further joined at joint sites located between the ends of the outer casing.

[0022] In other words, in some embodiments, the first cavity is discontinuous (e.g., divided into separate cavity segments). For example, the first cavity may extend discontinuously from an outer layer to an inner layer, and / or from a first end to a second end of the (e.g., tubular) outer casing, and / or may be discontinuous in at least one direction. For example, when a cross-section of the storage system is taken, the first cavity may be discontinuous in a plane parallel to the cross-sectional plane, but may be (substantially) continuous in a plane perpendicular to the cross-sectional plane, e.g., from one end of the storage system to the other end of the storage system. Thus, when the first cavity receives the first material, the first material takes on the discontinuous shape of the first cavity. In such embodiments, the thickness of the first cavity (and therefore the thickness of the first material contained therein) is non-uniform throughout the outer casing.

[0023] In some embodiments, at least one bond site is linear. For example, the bond site has a length and a width, over which the outer and inner layers are bonded, and the length is greater than the width. In preferred embodiments, the length of the bond site is less than the overall length (i.e., end to end) of the (e.g., tubular) casing. In some embodiments, the bond site is continuous (i.e., the outer and inner layers are fixedly joined along the entire length of the bond site). In some embodiments, the bond site is discontinuous (i.e., the outer and inner layers are not fixedly joined along the entire length of the bond site).

[0024] In some embodiments, the outer layer and the inner layer are fixedly joined at a plurality of bonded regions (e.g., between two ends). In some embodiments, at least two of the bonded regions are disposed on a common axis (e.g., the longitudinal axes of at least two bonded regions are on the same common axis), such that the at least two bonded regions together form a discrete line. In some embodiments, the common axis is parallel to an axis defined from one end of the outer casing to the other (i.e., the common axis extends along the (e.g., tubular) outer casing). In some embodiments, the common axis is perpendicular to an axis defined from one end of the outer casing to the other (i.e., the common axis circumferentially around the (e.g., tubular) outer casing). It will be understood that two linear bonded regions disposed along a common axis and spaced apart substantially correspond to one discrete linear bonded region.

[0025] In some embodiments, the plurality of junction sites are arranged such that the first cavity is divided into a plurality of (e.g., substantially equally sized) separate cavity segments. Preferably, each cavity segment is fluidly connected to at least one of the other cavity segments by a channel, thereby allowing the first substance to flow between the connected cavity segments. In some embodiments, the channel is formed in a gap between two junction sites or a discontinuity within a junction site.

[0026] It will be appreciated that providing channels between the cavity segments allows the first substance to be introduced (e.g., inserted, e.g., injected) into the entire first cavity through a single opening (rather than having to fill each segment individually). In a preferred embodiment, the channels are appropriately sized so that, when the first substance is a hardenable fluid, movement of the outer casing (e.g., in response to underwater currents or when an object is dropped onto the outer casing) causes the hardened fluid to break. This allows the cavity segments to move independently of each other. In other words, the outer casing has a flexible joint (e.g., formed by the joint and the breakage of the solidified (e.g., hardened) first substance within the channel). This flexible structure also allows the outer casing to better absorb external forces (e.g., a dropped object) without damaging the first bladder. Another advantage of the flexible structure is that it can more easily adapt to the shape of the first bladder.

[0027] In some embodiments, the plurality of bond sites are arranged in a regular pattern along (e.g., end to end) and / or around (e.g., around, e.g., circumferentially) the outer casing. In a preferred embodiment, the regular pattern comprises a plurality of linear bond sites forming a plurality of (e.g., discontinuous or continuous) parallel lines extending along (e.g., end to end) the outer casing, with the outer and inner layers bonded along the length of each parallel line, thereby providing cavity segments between the parallel lines.

[0028] It will be appreciated that the pattern of bond sites can provide any suitable and / or desirable arrangement of cavity segments. For example, the bond sites may be arranged so that the outer casing is substantially quilted.

[0029] The outer and inner layers may be joined at the joinder site in any suitable and / or desirable manner. In some embodiments, the outer and inner layers are glued at the joinder site. In some embodiments, the outer and inner layers are sewn together at the joinder site.

[0030] As discussed above, the use of bladders (e.g., flexible or deformable containers) provides the advantage of being able to effectively store a variable mass of fluid (e.g., gas, e.g., liquid). In some embodiments, a first bladder is configured to assume a first expanded shape when it contains (e.g., holds) a second fluid. Preferably, the bladder assumes the first expanded shape when it contains a predetermined mass of fluid. For example, the predetermined mass of fluid may be selected to expand the first bladder to (e.g., approximately) its elastic limit. The elastic limit is understood to be the maximum point at which a material (e.g., the material of the first bladder) can be stretched, deformed, or expanded before returning to its original shape (i.e., the deformation is not permanent). Thus, at or near its elastic limit, the first bladder can hold a maximum amount of fluid while retaining its elastic properties. Thus, when the first bladder is in the first expanded shape (i.e., near its elastic limit), it can be considered "full."

[0031] It will be appreciated that as the first bladder fills with the second fluid (e.g., when the first cavity is empty or filled with a fluid substance in a fluid state), the first bladder expands and displaces the outer casing. Thus, the outer casing is configured to assume a shape complementary to the first expanded shape (e.g., when the first cavity is empty or contains a fluid). In some embodiments, the first cavity is filled with the first substance only after the first bladder is filled with the second fluid and assumes the first expanded shape, thereby causing the outer casing (e.g., the first cavity) to assume a shape complementary to the shape of the first bladder. In this regard, if the first substance is a hardenable fluid, the first substance will harden in a shape complementary to the first expanded shape, so long as the first substance hardens while the first bladder is in the first expanded shape. Thus, the outer casing can maintain the complementary shape even after the first bladder is (at least partially) deflated. Alternatively, it may be envisaged that the first cavity contains a hardenable fluid in a fluid state before the second fluid is introduced into the first bladder, the hardenable fluid being hardened only after the first expanded shape is achieved, so that the outer casing can maintain a complementary shape even after the first bladder has (at least partially) deflated.

[0032] Thus, in preferred embodiments, the outer casing assumes a shape complementary to the first expanded shape of the first bladder. Similarly, when the first cavity contains a hardenable fluid in a hardened state, the outer casing preferably (substantially) maintains a shape complementary to the first expanded shape even when the bladder no longer assumes the first expanded shape. For example, the outer casing is a freestanding structure that assumes a shape complementary to the first expanded shape of the bladder.

[0033] In some embodiments, the second fluid is a liquid or a gas. In some embodiments, the second fluid may be a fluid (e.g., a liquid or a gas) to be stored. In some embodiments, the second fluid comprises (e.g., consists of) hydrogen gas. In some embodiments, the second fluid comprises (e.g., consists of) water (e.g., seawater).

[0034] In some embodiments, the second fluid is a different fluid from the gas to be stored. For example, the second fluid (used to fill the first bladder to assume the first expanded shape) may be water, which may then be removed (e.g., after the first material has hardened) and replaced with the fluid to be stored (e.g., a liquid or gas). Thus, in some embodiments, the first bladder may be configured to reversibly receive and retain the second fluid before the second fluid is removed, after which the first bladder is configured to receive and store a third fluid (e.g., the fluid to be stored). In other embodiments, the second fluid is the fluid to be stored (e.g., a gas or liquid).

[0035] It will be understood that the first expanded shape (and the complementary shape of the outer casing) is a three-dimensional shape (e.g., the shape of the storage system). In some embodiments, the three-dimensional shape is generally a rectangular parallelepiped shape (e.g., with filleted corners). In some embodiments, the three-dimensional shape is generally a mattress shape.

[0036] In some embodiments, when the first bladder is in the first expanded shape and the first cavity contains the hardened first substance, the outer casing has length, width, and height dimensions. In some embodiments, the length dimension is between 50 m and 2000 m, such as between 100 m and 1500 m, such as between 300 m and 1000 m, such as between 500 m and 800 m, e.g., about 800 m. In some embodiments, the width dimension is between 0.5 m and 100 m, such as between 1 m and 80 m, such as between 5 m and 50 m, such as between 10 m and 30 m, e.g., about 20 m. In some embodiments, the height dimension (which may be equal to the width dimension if the outer casing has a circular cross-section) is between 0.01 m and 100 m, such as between 0.05 m and 80 m, such as between 0.1 m and 50 m, such as between 0.25 m and 25 m, such as between 0.5 m and 5 m, e.g., about 0.5 m.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first bladder is positioned to extend into the second cavity when in the first expanded shape or when filled with the fluid to be stored. In some embodiments, when the first bladder is in the first expanded shape, the first bladder is only partially located within the second cavity, i.e., a portion of the first bladder extends outward from the second cavity defined by the outer casing. Preferably, at least 50% (e.g., by volume) of the first bladder is located within the second cavity when the first bladder is in the first expanded shape. Thus, 50% (e.g., by volume) of the first bladder is protected by the outer casing when the first bladder is in the first expanded shape. More preferably, at least 60% (e.g., by volume) of the first bladder is located within the second cavity when the first bladder is in the first expanded shape (e.g., at least 70%, e.g., at least 75%, e.g., at least 80%, e.g., at least 85%, e.g., at least 90%, e.g., at least 95%, e.g., 100%).

[0038] In some embodiments, when the first bladder contains a fluid (e.g., a gas or a liquid) to be stored, the first bladder is only partially located within the second cavity, i.e., a portion of the first bladder extends outward from the second cavity defined by the outer casing. Preferably, at least 50% (e.g., by volume) of the first bladder is located within the second cavity when the first bladder contains a fluid to be stored. Thus, 50% (e.g., by volume) of the first bladder is protected by the outer casing when the first bladder contains a fluid to be stored. More preferably, at least 60% (e.g., by volume) of the first bladder (e.g., at least 70%, e.g., at least 75%, e.g., at least 80%, e.g., at least 85%, e.g., at least 90%, e.g., at least 95%, e.g., 100%) is located within the second cavity when the first bladder contains a fluid to be stored.

[0039] In some embodiments, the storage system further comprises a second bladder, the second bladder being located within the second cavity. The second bladder is configured to receive and retain a third fluid (e.g., a liquid or a gas). In some embodiments, the second fluid and the third fluid are different. Preferably, the second fluid is a fluid (e.g., water, e.g., seawater) used to provide the first expanded shape of the first bladder, and the third fluid is a fluid (e.g., a gas or a liquid) to be stored in the second bladder. Providing two bladders provides the advantage that the bladder used to store the fluid to be stored (e.g., a gas or a liquid) is not initially contaminated with the other fluid.

[0040] For example, in a storage system with only one bladder (i.e., a first bladder), the first bladder is first filled with a second fluid (e.g., water) to assume a first expanded shape. The first substance is then allowed to harden, after which the second fluid is removed and replaced with the fluid to be stored (e.g., a third fluid). Using water as the second fluid is very convenient when the storage system is installed underwater because water is naturally occurring and therefore requires little cost or significant logistical considerations to provide the second fluid to the system. However, because water is a very viscous substance, if water is used as the second fluid, it is nearly impossible to completely remove the water from the second bladder before introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) the third fluid (e.g., the fluid to be stored). Therefore, the fluid to be stored will become contaminated. The inclusion of a second bladder reduces (or even eliminates) this contamination because the two bladders serve different, separate purposes.

[0041] In some embodiments, when the first bladder is substantially empty, the second bladder contains a third fluid. In some embodiments, the first bladder contains the second fluid at the same time that the second bladder contains the third fluid. In such embodiments, when the second bladder contains the third fluid, the first bladder does not assume the first expanded shape. Indeed, in some embodiments, the first expanded shape is formed as the sum of the shapes assumed by the first and second bladders at (or near, but not exceeding) their elastic limits. In preferred embodiments, the first bladder assumes the first expanded shape when the second bladder is substantially (e.g., substantially completely) empty. Thereafter, the second fluid is (at least partially) removed from the first bladder, and then a third fluid is introduced into the second bladder.

[0042] In some embodiments, the first and second bladders may have substantially the same properties, i.e., are made from the same material and have the same elastic limit. In some embodiments, the first and second bladders may have different properties, i.e., are made from different materials and therefore have different elastic limits.

[0043] In some embodiments, the outer casing further comprises a connection structure configured to connect the outer casing to a first substance source. The connection structure thus provides a means for introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) the first substance into the first cavity. In some embodiments, the connection structure allows fluid communication between the first cavity and the first substance source. In some embodiments, the connection structure comprises a pipe or line. In some embodiments, the connection structure comprises a control (e.g., a one-way valve) for the flow of the first substance into the first cavity. In some embodiments, the connection structure comprises a connection for a remotely operated underwater vehicle.

[0044] In some embodiments, the first bladder comprises a connection structure configured to connect the first bladder to a second fluid source. Thus, the connection structure provides a means for introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid into the first bladder. In some embodiments, the connection structure allows fluid communication between the first bladder and the second fluid source. In some embodiments, the connection structure comprises a pipe or line. In some embodiments, the connection structure comprises a valve (e.g., a two-way valve) for controlling the flow of the second fluid into and / or out of the first bladder. In some embodiments, the connection structure comprises a connection for a remotely operated underwater vehicle.

[0045] In some embodiments, the second bladder comprises a connection structure configured to connect the second bladder to a third fluid source. Thus, the connection structure provides a means for introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a third fluid into the second bladder. In some embodiments, the connection structure allows fluid communication between the second bladder and the third fluid source. In some embodiments, the connection structure comprises a pipe or line. In some embodiments, the connection structure comprises, e.g., a two-way valve, that controls the flow of the second fluid into and / or out of the second bladder. In some embodiments, the connection structure comprises a connection for a remotely operated underwater vehicle.

[0046] In a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of providing a storage system for storing a gas, the method comprising: providing a storage system comprising an outer casing and a first bladder suitable for storing the fluid to be stored, The outer casing comprises: an outer layer arranged to form a cavity; an inner layer positioned within the cavity formed by the outer layer and defining an inner surface of the outer casing; the cavity comprises a first cavity and a second cavity; the first cavity is formed between the outer layer and the inner layer; the second cavity is defined by an inner surface of the outer casing; the outer casing configured to receive and retain a first substance within the first cavity; the first bladder is configured to receive and retain a second fluid, the first bladder being positioned within the second cavity; placing the storage system in a desired environment; introducing the second fluid into the first bladder such that the first bladder assumes a first expanded shape; and introducing a first material into the first cavity such that when the first bladder assumes the first expanded shape, the outer casing assumes a shape complementary to the first expanded shape.

[0047] It will be understood that the storage system used in the method of the second aspect corresponds to the storage system of the first aspect. Accordingly, the features and embodiments described above in relation to the first aspect also apply directly to the features of the second aspect. In other words, the independent features described above in relation to different embodiments of the first aspect can be combined with the features of the method of the second aspect in any suitable combination.

[0048] Thus, a second aspect of the present invention provides a method for enabling the improved storage system of the first aspect to be installed in an aquatic environment.

[0049] It will be understood that the desired environment is the environment in which the fluid (e.g., gas, e.g., liquid) is stored. In some embodiments, the desired environment is an underwater environment, such as a river bed or ocean floor.

[0050] In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid into the first bladder after placing (e.g., installing) the storage system in a desired environment. For example, the method may include introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid into the first bladder after placing the storage system in a desired environment (e.g., underwater, e.g., on the ocean floor) to expand the first bladder to form a first expanded shape. In some embodiments, the method includes expanding (e.g., at least partially, e.g., to provide the first expanded shape) the first bladder in an underwater environment.

[0051] In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid into the first bladder and then disposing (e.g., installing) the storage system in a desired environment. For example, the method may include introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid to (at least partially) expand the first bladder to form a first expanded shape, and then disposing the storage system in the desired environment (e.g., underwater, e.g., the ocean floor). In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid to partially expand the first bladder and then disposing the storage system in the desired environment (e.g., underwater, e.g., the ocean floor), and then, after disposing the storage system, further expanding (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) the first bladder to form the first expanded shape.

[0052] In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) the first substance into the first cavity after placing (e.g., installing) the storage system in the desired environment. For example, the method may include introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) the first substance into the first cavity after placing the storage system in the desired environment (e.g., underwater, e.g., the seabed). Thus, in some embodiments, when the storage system is placed in the desired environment (e.g., underwater, e.g., the seabed), the first cavity does not contain the first substance. In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) the first substance in an underwater environment.

[0053] In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid into the first bladder, followed by disposing (e.g., installing) the storage system in a desired environment. Thus, in some embodiments, when the storage system is disposed in the desired environment (e.g., underwater, e.g., the ocean floor), the first cavity contains a first material (e.g., in a liquid state or a hardened (e.g., solid) state). For example, the method may include introducing (at least partially) the first material into the first cavity, followed by disposing the storage system in the desired environment (e.g., underwater, e.g., the ocean floor). Because the first material adds weight to the storage system, inserting the first material before disposing the storage system may cause the added weight to help the storage system sink to the bottom of the underwater environment.

[0054] In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a hardenable fluid (at least partially) into the first cavity, hardening the hardenable fluid in the first cavity, and then disposing the storage system in a desired environment (e.g., underwater, e.g., the seabed). In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a hardenable fluid (at least partially) into the first cavity, hardening the hardenable fluid in the first cavity, and then disposing the storage system in a desired environment (e.g., underwater, e.g., the seabed).

[0055] In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid into the first bladder, followed by introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a first substance into the first cavity. For example, the method may include expanding the first bladder to form a first expanded shape by introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid, followed by introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a first substance into the first cavity.

[0056] In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a first substance into the first cavity, followed by introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid into the first bladder. For example, the method may include introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a first substance into the first cavity, followed by introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid to expand the first bladder to form a first expanded shape.

[0057] In embodiments in which the first material is a hardenable fluid, the method further includes expanding the first bladder (e.g., by introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid) to form the first expanded shape, and then hardening the hardenable fluid. For example, the method includes hardening the hardenable fluid as the first bladder assumes the first expanded shape, thereby hardening the first material in a shape complementary to the first expanded shape, such that the outer casing maintains that complementary shape when the first bladder contracts. However, if the outer layer has a (e.g., sufficiently) flexible structure, it may be possible to expand the first bladder to form the first expanded shape after hardening the hardenable fluid, in which case the outer casing can conform to the shape of the first bladder as it expands to form the first expanded shape, even after the first material has hardened. For example, in an embodiment including multiple cavity segments and channels between the cavity segments (as described in detail with respect to the first aspect), the force exerted by the first bladder on the outer casing as the first bladder expands (e.g., expands) may be sufficient to rupture the solidified fluid within the channels, thereby allowing the cavity segments to move independently of one another and the outer casing (due to the flex joints formed by the ruptured first material within the channels) to form a shape complementary to the first expanded shape of the first bladder.

[0058] In some embodiments, the method further includes replacing the second fluid in the first bladder with a third fluid (e.g., a gas, e.g., a liquid). After the second fluid has been (substantially completely) replaced with the third fluid, the first bladder assumes a second expanded state. Preferably, the second fluid is a fluid (e.g., a liquid, e.g., a gas) used to inflate the first bladder to form the first expanded shape. Preferably, the third fluid is a fluid (e.g., a gas) to be stored in the storage system. In some embodiments, when the first substance is a hardenable fluid, replacing the second fluid in the first bladder with the third bladder occurs after introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a hardenable fluid into the first cavity and hardening the hardenable fluid.

[0059] In some embodiments, the step of replacing the second fluid comprises (substantially) completely removing the second fluid from the first bladder followed by introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a third fluid (e.g., a gas, e.g., a liquid) into the first bladder. In some embodiments, the step of replacing the second fluid comprises displacing the second fluid in the bladder with the third fluid (e.g., during the replacing step, the first bladder may contain both the second and third fluids).

[0060] In some embodiments, the method further comprises: placing the storage system in a compact state; (e.g., in a collapsed state) and deploying the storage system in (e.g., near) the desired environment. In some embodiments, the method further includes transporting the storage system to a vicinity of the desired environment. In some embodiments, the method may include transporting the storage system to a vicinity of the desired environment while the storage system is in a compact state (e.g., collapsed state).

[0061] In some embodiments, the method further includes transporting the storage system to (e.g., near) the desired environment after inflating (at least partially) the first bladder with a fourth fluid (e.g., transporting the first bladder in a (e.g., partially) inflated state). In some embodiments, the method further includes inflating (at least partially) the first bladder with a fourth fluid while the first bladder is in a collapsed state. In some embodiments, the method further includes placing the storage system in the desired environment after deflating the first bladder. Deflating the first bladder may include removing the fourth fluid from the bladder at (e.g., near) the desired environment. In embodiments where the storage system is placed in the desired location after deflating the first bladder (e.g., by removing the fourth fluid), the method further includes re-inflating the first bladder with a second fluid. The second and fourth fluids may be the same fluid (e.g., a gas, e.g., a liquid, e.g., water, e.g., seawater) or different fluids.

[0062] In some embodiments, the desired environment is near at least one of a production facility, a wind turbine, or an offshore structure.

[0063] In some embodiments, the method further includes connecting the outer casing to a source of the first substance. In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) the first substance into the first cavity via a connecting structure. In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) the first substance into the first cavity via a pipe or line. In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) the first substance into the first cavity via (e.g., a one-way valve). In some embodiments, the method further includes controlling (e.g., with a one-way valve) the flow of the first substance into the first cavity. In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) the first substance into the first cavity via a connection to the remotely operated underwater vehicle.

[0064] In some embodiments, the method further includes connecting the first bladder to a second fluid source. In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid into the first bladder through a connection structure. In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid into the first bladder through a pipe or line. In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid into the first bladder through (e.g., a two-way valve, e.g., a one-way valve). In some embodiments, the method further includes controlling the flow of the second fluid into the first bladder (e.g., with a two-way valve, e.g., with a one-way valve). In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a second fluid into the first bladder through a connection to a remotely operated underwater vehicle.

[0065] In some embodiments, the storage system further comprises a second bladder, the second bladder being located within the second cavity. In such embodiments, the method further comprises removing the second fluid from the first bladder and introducing a third fluid (e.g., a gas, e.g., a liquid) into the second bladder. In some embodiments, removing the second fluid from the first bladder occurs before introducing the third fluid into the second bladder.

[0066] In some embodiments, removing the second fluid from the first bladder occurs after introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a first substance (e.g., a hardenable fluid) into the first cavity. In some embodiments, removing the second fluid from the first bladder occurs after introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a hardenable fluid into the first cavity and hardening the hardenable fluid within the first cavity.

[0067] In some embodiments, the method further includes replacing the first bladder with a second bladder. For example, the method includes removing the first bladder from the second cavity and inserting the second bladder into the second cavity. In some embodiments, removing the first bladder from the second cavity occurs before inserting the second bladder into the second cavity. In some embodiments, removing the first bladder from the second cavity occurs after inserting the second bladder into the second cavity. In some embodiments, removing the first bladder from the second cavity occurs simultaneously (e.g., substantially simultaneously) with inserting the second bladder into the second cavity.

[0068] In some embodiments, the method further comprises optionally removing the first bladder from the second cavity after removing the second fluid from the first bladder, hi some embodiments, the method further comprises removing the second fluid from the first bladder after removing the first bladder from the second cavity.

[0069] In some embodiments, the method further includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a third fluid into the second bladder. In some embodiments, introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) the third fluid into the second bladder occurs before inserting the second bladder into the second cavity. In some embodiments, introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) the third fluid into the second bladder occurs after inserting the second bladder into the second cavity.

[0070] In some embodiments, the method further includes connecting the second bladder to a third fluid source. In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a third fluid into the second bladder via a connecting structure. In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a third fluid into the second bladder via a pipe or line. In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a third fluid into the second bladder via (e.g., a two-way valve, e.g., a one-way valve). In some embodiments, the method further includes controlling the flow of the third fluid into the second bladder (e.g., with a two-way valve, e.g., with a one-way valve). In some embodiments, the method includes introducing (e.g., inserting, e.g., injecting) a third fluid into the second bladder via a connection to a remotely operated underwater vehicle.

[0071] In some embodiments, the method further includes generating a LIDAR map of the topography of the storage system. In some embodiments, the method further includes measuring the volume of the hardenable fluid using the LIDAR. In some embodiments, the method further includes periodically (e.g., at regular time intervals) monitoring the storage system using the LIDAR. In some embodiments, the method further includes monitoring the storage system for leaks using an acoustic sensor.

[0072] At least one of the above embodiments provides one or more solutions to the problems and disadvantages in the background art. Other technical advantages of the present disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description and claims. Various embodiments of the present application obtain only some of the described advantages. None of the advantages are essential to an embodiment. Any disclosed embodiment can be technically combined with any other disclosed embodiment or embodiments.

[0073] The accompanying drawings illustrate presently exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and serve to explain, by way of example, the principles of the disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0074] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a storage system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a storage system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the presence of a second fluid in the bladder. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a storage system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a second fluid present in the bladder and a first substance present in the first cavity. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a storage system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a storage system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the presence of a second fluid in the bladder. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the storage system of FIG. 5, showing the bladder partially filled with the fluid to be stored. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a storage system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 8a and 8b illustrate a method for installing a storage system in an underwater environment according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates a method for installing a storage system in an underwater environment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0075] Several embodiments will now be described with reference to the drawings, in which: A method for providing a storage system for storing a fluid and a storage system for storing a gas in an underwater environment will now be described with reference to the drawings.

[0076] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a storage system 100 having an outer casing 110 and a bladder (e.g., a first bladder) 120. The outer casing 110 provides the exterior of the storage system 100, with the bladder 120 accommodated within a cavity 118 (i.e., a second cavity). The outer casing 110 has an outer layer 112, which forms the outer surface of the outer casing and defines a cavity within which an inner layer 114 and the bladder 120 are located. The inner layer 114 serves to divide the cavity formed by the outer layer into a first cavity 116 and a second cavity 118. The first cavity 116 is formed as part of the outer casing and is located between the outer layer 112 and the inner layer 114. The second cavity 118 is defined by the inner layer 114 and is the space into which the bladder 120 is inserted. In storage system 100, outer layer 112 and inner layer 114 are not joined, so that first cavity 116 is essentially continuous in all directions.

[0077] 1 is shown in a deflated or unfilled state, i.e., the storage system 100 does not contain a first substance within the first cavity 116 and does not contain a second fluid within the bladder. Thus, the storage system 100 is in a collapsible state and can be easily transported to a location where fluid storage is required.

[0078] FIG. 2 illustrates a storage system 200. There are two differences between the storage system 200 of FIG. 2 and the storage system 100 of FIG. 1. The first difference is that the outer layer 214 and the inner layer 216 of the storage system 200 are connected at several bonded locations 224, and the first cavity 216 is divided into multiple cavity segments, such that the first cavity 216 is discontinuous in the cross-sectional plane (but continuous in a plane perpendicular to the cross-sectional plane). The second difference is that the second fluid 222 is provided within the bladder 220 of the storage system 200. Despite these differences, the features of the storage system 100 apply equally to the storage system 200.

[0079] 2, after second fluid 222 is provided within bladder 220, the bladder expands and assumes a first expanded shape. Because outer casing 210 does not (yet) contain the first substance within first cavity 216, outer casing 210 can assume a shape complementary to the first expanded shape of bladder 220 when bladder 220 is filled with second fluid 222.

[0080] 3 illustrates storage system 300 with outer casing 310 having multiple bond sites 324 connecting outer layer 312 and inner layer 314. Bond sites 324 are shown to be substantially uniformly distributed along outer casing 310, thereby dividing first cavity 316 into substantially uniformly sized cavity segments 316a-d, each having a substantially hexagonal cross-section. Each cavity segment 316a-d forms an essentially tubular structure (having a hexagonal cross-section), thereby making first cavity 316 discontinuous in the cross-sectional plane shown (but continuous in a plane perpendicular to the cross-sectional plane). Thus, storage system 300 differs from storage system 200 in the arrangement of cavity segments 316a-d and in that first cavity 316 (and thus cavity segments 316a-d) are filled with a first substance.

[0081] The presence of the first substance causes first cavity 316 to expand and assume a shape complementary to the first expanded shape of bladder 320. If the first substance is a hardenable substance (e.g., a hardenable fluid), the first substance is hardened within first cavity 316. Thus, outer casing 310 essentially provides a rigid outer shell that can protect flexible bladder 320 from external forces (e.g., objects falling from above) that could damage or tear bladder 320 and cause leakage of the fluid contained therein.

[0082] 3, bond sites 324 allow outer casing 320 to assume a flexible configuration, allowing cavity segments 316a-d to move relative to one another even after the first substance has hardened, so that when bladder 320 contracts (i.e., no longer assumes its first expanded shape), outer casing 320 can adapt appropriately to compensate for this change in shape.

[0083] 3, FIG. 4 illustrates a storage system 400 in which the outer casing does not have a curved structure due to the absence of a bond between the outer layer 412 and the inner layer 414. As a result, when the first cavity 416 is filled with the hardenable first substance, the outer casing maintains the first expanded shape of the bladder 420 (i.e., the shape it assumes when filled with the second fluid 422), even after the second fluid is at least partially removed. Thus, the outer casing of the storage system 400 essentially provides a rigid, pipe-like shell when the first substance in the first cavity 416 hardens.

[0084] 4 and 5 illustrate a storage system 500 in which the outer casing does not have a flexure, but the first cavity 516 is divided into multiple cavity segments 516a-b by the presence of a joint 524 connecting the outer layer 512 and the inner layer 514. The absence of a flexure (e.g., in contrast to the storage system 300 of FIG. 3) is believed to be due to the substantial length along which the outer layer 512 and the inner layer 514 are connected in the cross-sectional plane (i.e., the joint is two-dimensional in the illustrated cross-sectional plane). Thus, the joint 524 essentially provides a rigid wall between the cavity segments 516a and 516b. In contrast, because the joint 324 of the storage system 300 of FIG. 3 is substantially one-dimensional in the cross-sectional plane, the joint 324 functions as a hinge or flexure joint about which the cavity segments can move.

[0085] 4 shows that when bladder 520 is filled with second fluid 522, the outer casing assumes a shape complementary to the first expanded shape of bladder 520. A first material can then be inserted into first cavity segments 516a-b, causing the outer casing to similarly expand around first bladder 520 and assume a shape complementary to the first expanded shape.

[0086] FIG. 5 shows that when the first material is hardenable (e.g., concrete), after the first material hardens, the outer casing maintains a shape complementary to the first expanded shape even after the bladder 520 no longer has the first expanded shape (e.g., after the second fluid is partially removed and / or the fluid to be stored is siphoned off).

[0087] 7 illustrates a storage system 700 including multiple storage systems 600a-c. Note that any of the storage systems shown in FIGS. 1-6 (or their equivalents) may be substituted for any or all of storage systems 600a-c. Furthermore, storage system 700 is not limited to including only three storage systems, which are shown for clarity.

[0088] 8 and 9 are diagrammatic representations of an exemplary method of installing a storage system 800 in an aquatic environment 830. The storage system 800 may be in any desired configuration (i.e., any of Figures 1-6 or equivalents).

[0089] As shown in Figure 9, storage system 800 can be provided in a collapsed state for transportation to a desired installation location. In Figure 8a, storage system 800 is provided in a partially inflated state by partially filling the storage system's bladder with a fluid (e.g., gas), which causes storage system 800 to at least partially float above water surface 830. This allows storage system 800 to be towed to a desired location by a vessel 900 (or other suitable means). Once storage system 800 has been transported to the correct location, the bladder can be deflated, allowing storage system 800 to sink (i.e., become less buoyant), as shown in Figure 8b.

[0090] Storage system 800 can then be deployed (see FIG. 9) and lowered to the surface 840 (e.g., the ocean floor) of the underwater environment for installation. To facilitate lowering of storage system 800, the first cavity can be partially filled with a first substance that is denser than water, allowing storage system 800 to sink faster and be more precisely positioned.

[0091] After the storage system is installed in the ground 840, a second fluid can be introduced into the first bladder, causing the first bladder to assume a first expanded shape, and the first cavity can then be filled (completely) with a first substance (which can be cured if the first substance is curable), and the outer casing can provide a hard, protective shell for the bladder (e.g., first or second).

[0092] While the above examples are shown with particular cross-sectional shapes and / or configurations, these are illustrative only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. It will be understood that any suitable variation of the examples shown may be used as long as the resulting storage system falls within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A storage system (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600a-c, 700, 800) for storing a fluid in an underwater environment, the storage system (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600a-c, 700, 800) comprising an outer casing (110, 210, 610a-c, 810) and a first bladder (120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620a-c); The outer casing (110, 210, 610a-c, 810) comprises: an outer layer (112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612a-c) arranged to form a cavity; an inner layer (114, 214, 314, 414, 514, 614a-c) positioned within the cavity formed by the outer layer (112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612a-c) and defining the inner surface of the outer casing (110, 210, 610a-c, 810); The cavities include a first cavity (116, 216, 316, 416, 516, 616a-c) and a second cavity (118, 218, 318, 418, 518, 618a-c); the first cavity (116, 216, 316, 416, 516, 616a-c) is formed between the outer layer (112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612a-c) and the inner layer (114, 214, 314, 414, 514, 614a-c); the second cavity (118, 218, 318, 418, 518, 618a-c) is defined by an inner surface of the outer casing (110, 210, 610a-c, 810); the outer casing (112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612a-c) is configured to receive and retain a first substance within the first cavity (116, 216, 316, 416, 516, 616a-c); said first bladder (120, 220, 320, 420a-c) is suitable for storing a fluid to be stored; The storage system (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600a-c, 700, 800), wherein the first bladder (120, 220, 320, 420a-c) is configured to receive and retain a second fluid, and the first bladder (120, 220, 320, 420a-c) is located within the second cavity (118, 218, 318, 418a-c).

2. The storage system of claim 1 , wherein the first material is selected as either a fluid, a hardenable fluid, or a solid with bulk fluid properties.

3. 3. The storage system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the outer casing is tubular in shape, the tubular shape having a circular or non-circular cross section.

4. 4. The storage system according to claim 1, wherein the outer casing has two ends, and the first cavity is continuous from one end to the other end.

5. The storage system of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first cavity comprises at least two separated cavity segments.

6. 6. The storage system of claim 5, wherein the outer casing has two ends, and the separated cavity segments are formed by joining the outer layer to the inner layer at at least one joint location between the two ends.

7. 7. The storage system of claim 5 or 6, wherein each of the at least two separated cavity segments is fluidly connected to at least one of the other cavity segments by a channel.

8. The storage system according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the at least two cavity segments are movable independently of each other such that the outer casing has a curved structure.

9. 9. The storage system of claim 1, wherein the first bladder is arranged to assume a first expanded shape when containing the second fluid, and the outer casing is arranged to assume a shape complementary to the first expanded shape.

10. 10. The storage system of claim 9, wherein the first substance is a hardenable fluid and the first cavity contains the hardenable fluid in a hardened state such that the outer casing maintains a shape substantially complementary to the first expanded shape even when the bladder no longer assumes the first expanded shape.

11. The storage system of claim 10 , further comprising a second bladder positioned within the second cavity and configured to receive and retain a third fluid.

12. 1. A method of providing a storage system for storing a gas, comprising: A storage system is provided, comprising an outer casing and a first bladder suitable for storing a fluid to be stored, The outer casing comprises: an outer layer arranged to form a cavity; an inner layer positioned within the cavity formed by the outer layer and defining an inner surface of the outer casing; the cavity comprises a first cavity and a second cavity; the first cavity is formed between the outer layer and the inner layer; the second cavity is defined by an inner surface of the outer casing; the outer casing configured to receive and retain a first substance within the first cavity; the first bladder is configured to receive and retain a second fluid, the first bladder being positioned within the second cavity; placing the storage system in a desired environment; introducing the second fluid into the first bladder such that the first bladder assumes a first expanded shape; and introducing a first material into the first cavity such that when the first bladder assumes the first expanded shape, the outer casing assumes a shape complementary to the first expanded shape.

13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the desired environment is an aquatic environment.

14. 14. The method of claim 12 or 13, wherein the first substance is a hardenable fluid, the method further comprising: hardening the hardenable fluid after the step of introducing the second fluid into the first bladder such that the first bladder assumes the first expanded shape.

15. The method of any one of claims 12 to 14, further comprising: replacing the second fluid in the first bladder with a third fluid.

16. 15. The method of any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the storage system further comprises a second bladder, and further comprising: removing the second fluid from the first bladder; introducing a third fluid into the second bladder.

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