Disconnectable medium transfer system for a vessel and vessel provided therewith

Abstract

A disconnectable medium transfer system for a vessel comprises a moonpool provided in the vessel, a turret structure mounted in said moonpool for a rotation around a substantially vertically extending axis and a buoy, wherein the turret structure has a lower end which is connectable to the buoy. The turret structure and the buoy each are provided with at least one turret medium line and at least one buoy medium line, respectively, which end at respective connecting members that are intended for, in a connected state of the buoy, interconnecting the turret and buoy medium lines. The turret and buoy medium lines in said connected state define a local central axis which, in the connected state of the buoy, extends in a direction which includes an angle not being zero with a vertical direction.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application is based on and claims the benefit of European patent application Serial No. 25152441.9, filed January 17, 2025, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] The discussion below is merely provided for general background information and is not intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0003] In a first aspect the invention relates to a disconnectable medium transfer system for a vessel comprising a moonpool provided in the vessel, a turret structure mounted in said moonpool for a rotation around a substantially vertically extending axis and a buoy, wherein the turret structure has a lower end which is connectable to the buoy, wherein the turret structure and the buoy each are provided with at least one turret medium line and at least one buoy medium line, respectively, which end at respective connecting members that are intended for, in a connected state of the buoy, interconnecting the turret and buoy medium lines and wherein the turret and buoy medium lines in said connected state define a local central axis.

[0004] Within the context of the present disclosure, the indication ‘medium line’ among others intends to include tubular members for transferring or conveying fluids (such as gases and liquids), but also conductors for transferring or conveying electric current (or, even, optical signals).SUMMARY

[0005] This Summary and the Abstract herein are provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary and the Abstract are not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor are they intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. The claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any or all disadvantages noted in the Background.

[0006] In accordance with an aspect of the present invention a disconnectable medium transfer system for a vessel, in the connected state of the buoy, said local central axis extends in a direction which includes an angle not being zero with a vertical direction.

[0007] The advantages obtained with such a design mainly depend on the type of medium line and will be discussed below with respect to different types of medium lines.

[0008] In a first embodiment at least one turret medium line and at least one buoy medium line are a turret fluid line and buoy fluid line, respectively, and the connecting members are connecting flanges that extend perpendicularly to said local central axis of the interconnected turret and buoy fluid lines, and wherein said angle is in a range between 30 and 100 degrees.

[0009] In a state of the art system in which the local central axis in the connected state of the buoy extends substantially vertically, at the start of a connecting process for connecting the buoy to the turret structure commonly seawater will be present within the flange of the buoy fluid line (because the buoy initially floats below sea level before being picked up and lifted to be connected to the turret structure) and this seawater can severely disturb the connecting process (which, for example, may lead to a leaking connection, or to a connection which is blocked, or to pollution of the fluid, or may require the removal of the seawater previous to establishing the connection, which may be a time-consuming and / or complicated process).

[0010] By orienting the local central axis (that means the central axis at the connection location) at said angle not being zero, at least part of the seawater (or other substance) within the flange of the buoy fluid line already will be drained automatically when the buoy at least partially is lifted above sea level before the connecting process begins (or the turret structure enclosed volume is being pumped dry after the buoy is connected, but before the fluid lines are connected to each other).

[0011] Another problem which could be encountered with a possible embodiment of a state of the art transfer system relates to the manner in which a buoy could be connected to a turret structure. For such a specific manner of connecting it is envisaged that the buoy is approached by a hoisting line which at its lower end is provided with a guiding cone having a lower entrance opening intended to cooperate with an upper part of the buoy. Such a guiding cone may hinder a connection process between the turret and buoy fluid lines when latter are oriented vertically. However, when said angle is provided, the central axis extends in an oblique manner which allows to reduce the negative impact of the guiding cone by connecting from the side, underneath the guiding cone.

[0012] For optimizing the beneficial effect, said angle may be in a range between 80 and 100 degrees, and preferably is 90 degrees (meaning that, in said connected state of the buoy, the local central axis substantially extends horizontally, and the flanges substantially extend vertically). The specific angle will depend on the specific conditions and thus will be chosen accordingly.

[0013] In one embodiment at least part of the turret fluid line is deformable, wherein the turret structure is provided with a manipulator arm for manipulating the turret fluid line during a process of interconnecting or disconnecting the turret fluid line and the buoy fluid line.

[0014] The indication ‘deformable’ among others intends to cover turret fluid lines which are made of a flexible material, but also turret fluid lines which are made of stiff sections that are connected by swivels.

[0015] Such a deformable turret fluid line and manipulator arm make it very easy to manipulate the turret fluid line into a correct position for establishing its connection with the buoy fluid line.

[0016] In another embodiment at least one turret medium line and at least one buoy medium line are a turret power line and a buoy power line, respectively, wherein the connecting members are cooperating power line sockets for, in a connected state of the buoy, interconnecting the turret and buoy power lines, wherein the power line sockets are embodied to be connected and disconnected by a relative movement in a defined direction and wherein the power line socket of the buoy power line is oriented such that said defined direction includes an angle with a vertical direction, wherein said angle is in a range between 30 and 60 degrees.

[0017] Generally, the cooperating power line sockets (and connectors) for obtaining a well-functioning electrical connection are of considerable length, and orienting them horizontally (angle 90 degrees) would require a large local diameter of the buoy. Orienting them vertically (angle zero degrees) again would lead to problems with respect to the use of a guiding cone (as explained above). An angle between 30 and 60 degrees (for example 45 degrees) yields a favorable trade-off.

[0018] In a further embodiment at least part of the turret power line is deformable, wherein the turret structure is provided with a manipulator arm for manipulating the turret power line during a process of interconnecting or disconnecting the turret power line and the buoy power line.

[0019] Here, the indication ‘deformable’ among others intends to cover turret power lines which are made of a flexible material.

[0020] Such a deformable turret power line and manipulator arm make it very easy to manipulate the turret power line into a correct position for establishing its connection with the buoy power line.

[0021] In yet a further embodiment the buoy comprises an upper part which houses the end of the buoy medium line that is provided with the respective connecting member, which upper part comprises a circumferential wall provided with at least one opening for introducing the end of the turret medium line to be connected to the buoy medium line.

[0022] Such upper part of the buoy can be used for picking up and lifting the buoy, for aiding the guidance of the guiding cone (if provided), and for protecting the buoy medium line and its flange against impact loads from the guiding cone, while the at least one opening provides the necessary access to the buoy medium line to which the turret medium line has to be connected.

[0023] The circumferential wall of the upper part of the buoy may be provided with multiple openings. One way to arrive at such multiple openings is to embody said upper part as a multi-legged structure, such as for example a tripod or quadpod structure, in which the separate legs meet at an upper tip of the upper part of the buoy.

[0024] Then, an embodiment is conceivable wherein the turret structure is provided with a hoisting arrangement with a hoisting cable and wherein said upper part of the buoy is provided with a hoisting eye to be coupled with the hoisting cable.

[0025] In a specific embodiment of the disconnectable medium transfer system for a vessel at least some of the turret and buoy medium lines are turret and buoy fluid lines for transferring CO2, wherein the medium transfer system is part of a system for injecting CO2 into a subsea field.

[0026] In yet another specific embodiment of the disconnectable medium transfer system for a vessel at least some of the turret and buoy medium lines are turret and buoy power lines for powering floating or subsea installations of a system for injecting CO2 into a subsea field.

[0027] Of course, the disconnectable medium transfer system for a vessel also may comprise any combination of different types of medium lines (e.g. fluid lines and power / optical lines).BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Hereinafter aspects of the invention will be elucidated while referring to the drawings, in which:

[0029] FIG. 1 schematically and in a side elevational view shows a first embodiment of a medium transfer system for a vessel;

[0030] FIG. 2 shows a detail of the medium transfer system, both for a state of the art embodiment and an embodiment, and

[0031] FIGS. 3 and 4 show different embodiments of a buoy.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the disconnectable medium transfer system is intended for use in a vessel which is provided with a moonpool 1. Vessels are well-known and comprise a hull, the moonpool 1 herein also represent the vessel and is attached directly or indirectly to to the hull.

[0033] Within said moonpool 1 a turret structure 2 is mounted for a rotation around a substantially vertically extending axis 3 by means of, for example, a lower bearing 4 positioned between the moonpool 1 and the turret structure 2. Other bearings (for example an upper bearing, not illustrated, likewise positioned between the moonpool 1 and the turret structure 2 may be provided as well).

[0034] The turret structure 2 has a lower end 2a which is connectable to (and disconnectable from) a buoy 5. The buoy 5 is moored to the seabed in a geostationary manner by means of mooring lines 6. In a connected state the buoy 5 and turret structure 2 have a fixed relation with respect to each other, but the vessel, as is known per se, is able to rotate (‘weathervane’) around the turret structure 2 for coping with different conditions (among which current, waves and wind).

[0035] Means for enabling the connection between the turret structure 2 and buoy 5 may come in many shapes and are not relevant for the scope of the present invention and thus are not elucidated here.

[0036] The turret structure 2 is provided with at least one turret medium line 7a which ends at a connecting member embodied as a coupling flange 8a. In a similar manner the buoy 5 is provided with at least one buoy medium line 7b which ends at a connecting member embodied as a coupling flange 8b. The coupling flanges 8a and 8b are intended for, in a connected state of the buoy 5, interconnecting the turret and buoy medium lines 7a, 7b. In such a connected state the turret and buoy medium lines 7a, 7b define a local central axis 9 (indicated by a dash dot line).

[0037] Referring to FIG. 2a, such a local central axis 9 extends substantially vertically in a state of the art situation (such that the local central axis 9 and a vertical direction 10 coincide). Again referring to FIG. 1, however, one can see that in the connected state of the buoy 5 said local central axis 9 extends in a direction which includes an angle α not being zero with said vertical direction 10. In the illustrated embodiment angle α is about 90 degrees, but other angles are possible too (varying, for example, from 30 degrees -see angle α in FIG. 2b- to 100 degrees –see angle α’ in FIG. 2b-). Such angles specifically are preferred in cases where the at least one turret medium line 7a and at least one buoy medium line 7b are a turret fluid line and buoy fluid line, respectively (for example for conveying CO2).

[0038] For allowing the turret medium line 7a to be connected with its coupling flange 8a to the coupling flange 8b of the buoy medium line 7b (which generally has a fixed position on the buoy, for example through a mount 11), it is conceivable that at least part of the turret medium line 7a is deformable (wherein the indication ‘deformable’ among others intends to cover a turret medium line 7a which is made of a flexible material, but also a turret medium line 7a which is made of stiff sections that are connected by hinges), whereas the turret structure 2 is provided with a manipulator arm 12 for manipulating the turret medium line 7a (with its coupling flange 8b) during a process of interconnecting (or disconnecting) the turret medium line 7a and the buoy medium line 7b.

[0039] Although FIG. 1 shows a single pair of medium (fluid) lines 7a, 7b, the invention also extends to embodiments with multiple pairs of such medium (fluid) lines (which then could be manipulated by the same manipulator arm 12 or each could have a different manipulator arm).

[0040] Again referring to FIG. 1, the turret structure 2 further comprises at least one turret power line 13a and the buoy 5 comprises at least one buoy power line 13b (the latter having a stationary position with respect to the buoy 5, for example through mount 14). The turret power line 13a and buoy power line 13b are provided with respective cooperating power line sockets / connectors 15a, 15b for, in a connected state of the buoy 5, interconnecting the turret and buoy power lines, wherein the power line sockets / connectors 15a, 15b are embodied to be connected and disconnected by a relative movement in a defined direction 16 (indicated as a dash dot line). The power line socket / connector 15b of the buoy power line 13b is oriented such, that said defined direction 16 includes an angle β with a vertical direction 10.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment said angle β is 45 degrees, but it may vary (for example within a range between 30 and 60 degrees).

[0042] Similar to what has been discussed above with respect to the turret medium line 7a, at least part of the turret power line 13a may be deformable, whereas the turret structure 2 then may be provided with a manipulator arm 17 for manipulating the turret power line during a process of interconnecting or disconnecting the turret power line 13a and the buoy power line 13b.

[0043] Of course, the system may comprise more than one power line with pairs of cooperating power line sockets, for example arrays of power line sockets arranged side-by-side in common supports (of which then one -on the turret structure- can be manipulated by a common manipulator arm).

[0044] As shown in FIG. 1, the buoy 5 comprises an upper part 18 which houses the end of the buoy medium line 7b that is provided with the respective coupling flange 8b, as well as the end of the buoy power line 13b with respective power line socket 15b. The upper part 18 comprises a circumferential wall 19 provided with openings 20 for introducing the end of the turret medium line 7a to be connected to the buoy medium line 7b, and also for introducing the turret power line 13a with its power line socket 15a to be connected to the power line socket 15b of the buoy power line 13b.

[0045] The circumferential wall 19, among others, protects the buoy medium line 7b and its flange 8b against damage by a collision. Further, the circumferential wall 19 may act as a guidance for a guiding cone that may cooperate with a hoisting connector (to be described below).

[0046] FIGS. 3 and 4 show respective schematic top plan views of embodiments of the buoy 5 in which said upper part 18 is embodied as a multi-legged structure, such as for example a tripod with three legs 19a-c (which then together define the circumferential wall 19 with three openings 20 therein) in FIG. 3 or a quadpod structure with four legs 19a-d in FIG. 4.

[0047] As visible in FIG. 1, the turret structure 2 may be provided with a hoisting arrangement 21 with a hoisting cable 22, wherein the top of the upper part 18 of the buoy 5 is provided with a hoisting connector (e.g. eye) 23 to be coupled with the hoisting cable 22.

[0048] As mentioned before, the turret and buoy medium lines 7a, 7b may be lines for transferring CO2, whereas the transfer system is part of a system for injecting CO2 into a subsea field. A riser 24 may connect the buoy 5 to the subsea field. The power lines 13a, 13b likewise may be power lines for powering floating or subsea installations of a system for injecting CO2 into a subsea field.

[0049] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described which may be varied widely within the scope of the invention as defined by the appending claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0032]As illustrated in FIG. 1, the disconnectable medium transfer system is intended for use in a vessel which is provided with a moonpool 1. Vessels are well-known and comprise a hull, the moonpool 1 herein also represent the vessel and is attached directly or indirectly to to the hull.

[0033] Within said moonpool 1 a turret structure 2 is mounted for a rotation around a substantially vertically extending axis 3 by means of, for example, a lower bearing 4 positioned between the moonpool 1 and the turret structure 2. Other bearings (for example an upper bearing, not illustrated, likewise positioned between the moonpool 1 and the turret structure 2 may be provided as well).

[0034]The turret structure 2 has a lower end 2a which is connectable to (and disconnectable from) a buoy 5. The buoy 5 is moored to the seabed in a geostationary manner by means of mooring lines 6. In a connected state the buoy 5 and turret structure 2 have a fixed relation with respect to each other, but ...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application is based on and claims the benefit of European patent application Serial No. 25152441.9, filed January 17, 2025, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] The discussion below is merely provided for general background information and is not intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0003] In a first aspect the invention relates to a disconnectable medium transfer system for a vessel comprising a moonpool provided in the vessel, a turret structure mounted in said moonpool for a rotation around a substantially vertically extending axis and a buoy, wherein the turret structure has a lower end which is connectable to the buoy, wherein the turret structure and the buoy each are provided with at least one turret medium line and at least one buoy medium line, respectively, which end at respective connecting members that are intended for, in a connected state of the buoy, interconnecting the turret and buoy medium lines and wherein the turret and buoy medium lines in said connected state define a local central axis.

[0004] Within the context of the present disclosure, the indication ‘medium line’ among others intends to include tubular members for transferring or conveying fluids (such as gases and liquids), but also conductors for transferring or conveying electric current (or, even, optical signals).SUMMARY

[0005] This Summary and the Abstract herein are provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary and the Abstract are not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor are they intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. The claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any or all disadvantages noted in the Background.

[0006] In accordance with an aspect of the present invention a disconnectable medium transfer system for a vessel, in the connected state of the buoy, said local central axis extends in a direction which includes an angle not being zero with a vertical direction.

[0007] The advantages obtained with such a design mainly depend on the type of medium line and will be discussed below with respect to different types of medium lines.

[0008] In a first embodiment at least one turret medium line and at least one buoy medium line are a turret fluid line and buoy fluid line, respectively, and the connecting members are connecting flanges that extend perpendicularly to said local central axis of the interconnected turret and buoy fluid lines, and wherein said angle is in a range between 30 and 100 degrees.

[0009] In a state of the art system in which the local central axis in the connected state of the buoy extends substantially vertically, at the start of a connecting process for connecting the buoy to the turret structure commonly seawater will be present within the flange of the buoy fluid line (because the buoy initially floats below sea level before being picked up and lifted to be connected to the turret structure) and this seawater can severely disturb the connecting process (which, for example, may lead to a leaking connection, or to a connection which is blocked, or to pollution of the fluid, or may require the removal of the seawater previous to establishing the connection, which may be a time-consuming and / or complicated process).

[0010] By orienting the local central axis (that means the central axis at the connection location) at said angle not being zero, at least part of the seawater (or other substance) within the flange of the buoy fluid line already will be drained automatically when the buoy at least partially is lifted above sea level before the connecting process begins (or the turret structure enclosed volume is being pumped dry after the buoy is connected, but before the fluid lines are connected to each other).

[0011] Another problem which could be encountered with a possible embodiment of a state of the art transfer system relates to the manner in which a buoy could be connected to a turret structure. For such a specific manner of connecting it is envisaged that the buoy is approached by a hoisting line which at its lower end is provided with a guiding cone having a lower entrance opening intended to cooperate with an upper part of the buoy. Such a guiding cone may hinder a connection process between the turret and buoy fluid lines when latter are oriented vertically. However, when said angle is provided, the central axis extends in an oblique manner which allows to reduce the negative impact of the guiding cone by connecting from the side, underneath the guiding cone.

[0012] For optimizing the beneficial effect, said angle may be in a range between 80 and 100 degrees, and preferably is 90 degrees (meaning that, in said connected state of the buoy, the local central axis substantially extends horizontally, and the flanges substantially extend vertically). The specific angle will depend on the specific conditions and thus will be chosen accordingly.

[0013] In one embodiment at least part of the turret fluid line is deformable, wherein the turret structure is provided with a manipulator arm for manipulating the turret fluid line during a process of interconnecting or disconnecting the turret fluid line and the buoy fluid line.

[0014] The indication ‘deformable’ among others intends to cover turret fluid lines which are made of a flexible material, but also turret fluid lines which are made of stiff sections that are connected by swivels.

[0015] Such a deformable turret fluid line and manipulator arm make it very easy to manipulate the turret fluid line into a correct position for establishing its connection with the buoy fluid line.

[0016] In another embodiment at least one turret medium line and at least one buoy medium line are a turret power line and a buoy power line, respectively, wherein the connecting members are cooperating power line sockets for, in a connected state of the buoy, interconnecting the turret and buoy power lines, wherein the power line sockets are embodied to be connected and disconnected by a relative movement in a defined direction and wherein the power line socket of the buoy power line is oriented such that said defined direction includes an angle with a vertical direction, wherein said angle is in a range between 30 and 60 degrees.

[0017] Generally, the cooperating power line sockets (and connectors) for obtaining a well-functioning electrical connection are of considerable length, and orienting them horizontally (angle 90 degrees) would require a large local diameter of the buoy. Orienting them vertically (angle zero degrees) again would lead to problems with respect to the use of a guiding cone (as explained above). An angle between 30 and 60 degrees (for example 45 degrees) yields a favorable trade-off.

[0018] In a further embodiment at least part of the turret power line is deformable, wherein the turret structure is provided with a manipulator arm for manipulating the turret power line during a process of interconnecting or disconnecting the turret power line and the buoy power line.

[0019] Here, the indication ‘deformable’ among others intends to cover turret power lines which are made of a flexible material.

[0020] Such a deformable turret power line and manipulator arm make it very easy to manipulate the turret power line into a correct position for establishing its connection with the buoy power line.

[0021] In yet a further embodiment the buoy comprises an upper part which houses the end of the buoy medium line that is provided with the respective connecting member, which upper part comprises a circumferential wall provided with at least one opening for introducing the end of the turret medium line to be connected to the buoy medium line.

[0022] Such upper part of the buoy can be used for picking up and lifting the buoy, for aiding the guidance of the guiding cone (if provided), and for protecting the buoy medium line and its flange against impact loads from the guiding cone, while the at least one opening provides the necessary access to the buoy medium line to which the turret medium line has to be connected.

[0023] The circumferential wall of the upper part of the buoy may be provided with multiple openings. One way to arrive at such multiple openings is to embody said upper part as a multi-legged structure, such as for example a tripod or quadpod structure, in which the separate legs meet at an upper tip of the upper part of the buoy.

[0024] Then, an embodiment is conceivable wherein the turret structure is provided with a hoisting arrangement with a hoisting cable and wherein said upper part of the buoy is provided with a hoisting eye to be coupled with the hoisting cable.

[0025] In a specific embodiment of the disconnectable medium transfer system for a vessel at least some of the turret and buoy medium lines are turret and buoy fluid lines for transferring CO2, wherein the medium transfer system is part of a system for injecting CO2 into a subsea field.

[0026] In yet another specific embodiment of the disconnectable medium transfer system for a vessel at least some of the turret and buoy medium lines are turret and buoy power lines for powering floating or subsea installations of a system for injecting CO2 into a subsea field.

[0027] Of course, the disconnectable medium transfer system for a vessel also may comprise any combination of different types of medium lines (e.g. fluid lines and power / optical lines).BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Hereinafter aspects of the invention will be elucidated while referring to the drawings, in which:

[0029] FIG. 1 schematically and in a side elevational view shows a first embodiment of a medium transfer system for a vessel;

[0030] FIG. 2 shows a detail of the medium transfer system, both for a state of the art embodiment and an embodiment, and

[0031] FIGS. 3 and 4 show different embodiments of a buoy.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the disconnectable medium transfer system is intended for use in a vessel which is provided with a moonpool 1. Vessels are well-known and comprise a hull, the moonpool 1 herein also represent the vessel and is attached directly or indirectly to to the hull.

[0033] Within said moonpool 1 a turret structure 2 is mounted for a rotation around a substantially vertically extending axis 3 by means of, for example, a lower bearing 4 positioned between the moonpool 1 and the turret structure 2. Other bearings (for example an upper bearing, not illustrated, likewise positioned between the moonpool 1 and the turret structure 2 may be provided as well).

[0034] The turret structure 2 has a lower end 2a which is connectable to (and disconnectable from) a buoy 5. The buoy 5 is moored to the seabed in a geostationary manner by means of mooring lines 6. In a connected state the buoy 5 and turret structure 2 have a fixed relation with respect to each other, but the vessel, as is known per se, is able to rotate (‘weathervane’) around the turret structure 2 for coping with different conditions (among which current, waves and wind).

[0035] Means for enabling the connection between the turret structure 2 and buoy 5 may come in many shapes and are not relevant for the scope of the present invention and thus are not elucidated here.

[0036] The turret structure 2 is provided with at least one turret medium line 7a which ends at a connecting member embodied as a coupling flange 8a. In a similar manner the buoy 5 is provided with at least one buoy medium line 7b which ends at a connecting member embodied as a coupling flange 8b. The coupling flanges 8a and 8b are intended for, in a connected state of the buoy 5, interconnecting the turret and buoy medium lines 7a, 7b. In such a connected state the turret and buoy medium lines 7a, 7b define a local central axis 9 (indicated by a dash dot line).

[0037] Referring to FIG. 2a, such a local central axis 9 extends substantially vertically in a state of the art situation (such that the local central axis 9 and a vertical direction 10 coincide). Again referring to FIG. 1, however, one can see that in the connected state of the buoy 5 said local central axis 9 extends in a direction which includes an angle α not being zero with said vertical direction 10. In the illustrated embodiment angle α is about 90 degrees, but other angles are possible too (varying, for example, from 30 degrees -see angle α in FIG. 2b- to 100 degrees –see angle α’ in FIG. 2b-). Such angles specifically are preferred in cases where the at least one turret medium line 7a and at least one buoy medium line 7b are a turret fluid line and buoy fluid line, respectively (for example for conveying CO2).

[0038] For allowing the turret medium line 7a to be connected with its coupling flange 8a to the coupling flange 8b of the buoy medium line 7b (which generally has a fixed position on the buoy, for example through a mount 11), it is conceivable that at least part of the turret medium line 7a is deformable (wherein the indication ‘deformable’ among others intends to cover a turret medium line 7a which is made of a flexible material, but also a turret medium line 7a which is made of stiff sections that are connected by hinges), whereas the turret structure 2 is provided with a manipulator arm 12 for manipulating the turret medium line 7a (with its coupling flange 8b) during a process of interconnecting (or disconnecting) the turret medium line 7a and the buoy medium line 7b.

[0039] Although FIG. 1 shows a single pair of medium (fluid) lines 7a, 7b, the invention also extends to embodiments with multiple pairs of such medium (fluid) lines (which then could be manipulated by the same manipulator arm 12 or each could have a different manipulator arm).

[0040] Again referring to FIG. 1, the turret structure 2 further comprises at least one turret power line 13a and the buoy 5 comprises at least one buoy power line 13b (the latter having a stationary position with respect to the buoy 5, for example through mount 14). The turret power line 13a and buoy power line 13b are provided with respective cooperating power line sockets / connectors 15a, 15b for, in a connected state of the buoy 5, interconnecting the turret and buoy power lines, wherein the power line sockets / connectors 15a, 15b are embodied to be connected and disconnected by a relative movement in a defined direction 16 (indicated as a dash dot line). The power line socket / connector 15b of the buoy power line 13b is oriented such, that said defined direction 16 includes an angle β with a vertical direction 10.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment said angle β is 45 degrees, but it may vary (for example within a range between 30 and 60 degrees).

[0042] Similar to what has been discussed above with respect to the turret medium line 7a, at least part of the turret power line 13a may be deformable, whereas the turret structure 2 then may be provided with a manipulator arm 17 for manipulating the turret power line during a process of interconnecting or disconnecting the turret power line 13a and the buoy power line 13b.

[0043] Of course, the system may comprise more than one power line with pairs of cooperating power line sockets, for example arrays of power line sockets arranged side-by-side in common supports (of which then one -on the turret structure- can be manipulated by a common manipulator arm).

[0044] As shown in FIG. 1, the buoy 5 comprises an upper part 18 which houses the end of the buoy medium line 7b that is provided with the respective coupling flange 8b, as well as the end of the buoy power line 13b with respective power line socket 15b. The upper part 18 comprises a circumferential wall 19 provided with openings 20 for introducing the end of the turret medium line 7a to be connected to the buoy medium line 7b, and also for introducing the turret power line 13a with its power line socket 15a to be connected to the power line socket 15b of the buoy power line 13b.

[0045] The circumferential wall 19, among others, protects the buoy medium line 7b and its flange 8b against damage by a collision. Further, the circumferential wall 19 may act as a guidance for a guiding cone that may cooperate with a hoisting connector (to be described below).

[0046] FIGS. 3 and 4 show respective schematic top plan views of embodiments of the buoy 5 in which said upper part 18 is embodied as a multi-legged structure, such as for example a tripod with three legs 19a-c (which then together define the circumferential wall 19 with three openings 20 therein) in FIG. 3 or a quadpod structure with four legs 19a-d in FIG. 4.

[0047] As visible in FIG. 1, the turret structure 2 may be provided with a hoisting arrangement 21 with a hoisting cable 22, wherein the top of the upper part 18 of the buoy 5 is provided with a hoisting connector (e.g. eye) 23 to be coupled with the hoisting cable 22.

[0048] As mentioned before, the turret and buoy medium lines 7a, 7b may be lines for transferring CO2, whereas the transfer system is part of a system for injecting CO2 into a subsea field. A riser 24 may connect the buoy 5 to the subsea field. The power lines 13a, 13b likewise may be power lines for powering floating or subsea installations of a system for injecting CO2 into a subsea field.

[0049] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described which may be varied widely within the scope of the invention as defined by the appending claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0032]As illustrated in FIG. 1, the disconnectable medium transfer system is intended for use in a vessel which is provided with a moonpool 1. Vessels are well-known and comprise a hull, the moonpool 1 herein also represent the vessel and is attached directly or indirectly to to the hull.

[0033] Within said moonpool 1 a turret structure 2 is mounted for a rotation around a substantially vertically extending axis 3 by means of, for example, a lower bearing 4 positioned between the moonpool 1 and the turret structure 2. Other bearings (for example an upper bearing, not illustrated, likewise positioned between the moonpool 1 and the turret structure 2 may be provided as well).

[0034]The turret structure 2 has a lower end 2a which is connectable to (and disconnectable from) a buoy 5. The buoy 5 is moored to the seabed in a geostationary manner by means of mooring lines 6. In a connected state the buoy 5 and turret structure 2 have a fixed relation with respect to each other, but ...

Claims

1. A disconnectable medium transfer system for a vessel, comprising a moonpool provided in the vessel, a turret structure mounted in said moonpool for a rotation around a substantially vertically extending axis and a buoy, wherein the turret structure has a lower end which is connectable to the buoy, wherein the turret structure and the buoy each are provided with at least one turret medium line and at least one buoy medium line, respectively, which end at respective connecting members that are intended for, in a connected state of the buoy, interconnecting the at least one turret medium line and the at least one buoy medium line and wherein the at least one turret medium line and the at least one buoy medium line in said connected state define a local central axis, wherein in the connected state of the buoy said local central axis extends in a direction which includes an angle not being zero with a vertical direction.

2. The disconnectable medium transfer system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one turret medium line and the at least one buoy medium line are a turret fluid line and buoy fluid line, respectively, and the connecting members are connecting flanges that extend perpendicularly to said local central axis of the interconnected turret and buoy fluid lines, and wherein said angle is in a range between 30 and 100 degrees.

3. The disconnectable medium transfer system according to claim 2, wherein said angle is in a range between 80 and 100 degrees.

4. The disconnectable medium transfer system according to claim 2, wherein said angle is 90 degrees.

5. The disconnectable medium transfer system according to claim 2, wherein at least part of the turret fluid line is deformable and wherein the turret structure is provided with a manipulator arm configured to manipulate the turret fluid line during a process of interconnecting or disconnecting the turret fluid line and the buoy fluid line.

6. The disconnectable medium transfer system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one turret medium line and the at least one buoy medium line are a turret power line and a buoy power line, respectively, wherein the connecting members are cooperating power line sockets for, in a connected state of the buoy, interconnecting the turret and buoy power lines, wherein the power line sockets are embodied to be connected and disconnected by a relative movement in a defined direction and wherein the power line socket of the buoy power line is oriented such that said defined direction includes an angle with a vertical direction, wherein said angle is in a range between 30 and 60 degrees.

7. The disconnectable medium transfer system according to claim 6, wherein said angle is 45 degrees.

8. The disconnectable medium transfer system according to claim 6, wherein at least part of the turret power line is deformable and wherein the turret structure is provided with a manipulator arm configured to manipulate the turret power line during a process of interconnecting or disconnecting the turret power line and the buoy power line.

9. The disconnectable medium transfer system according to claim 1, wherein the buoy comprises an upper part which houses the end of the at least one buoy medium line that is provided with the respective connecting member, which upper part comprises a circumferential wall provided with at least one opening for introducing the end of the at least one turret medium line to be connected to the at least one buoy medium line.

10. The disconnectable medium transfer system according to claim 9, wherein the circumferential wall of the upper part of the buoy is provided with multiple openings.

11. The disconnectable medium transfer system according to claim 9, wherein said upper part is embodied as a multi-legged structure.

12. The disconnectable medium transfer system according to claim 9, wherein the turret structure is provided with a hoisting arrangement with a hoisting cable and wherein said upper part of the buoy is provided with a hoisting connector to be coupled with the hoisting cable.

13. The disconnectable medium transfer system according to claim 1, wherein at least some of the at least one turret medium line and the at least one buoy medium line are turret and buoy fluid lines configured to transfer CO2 and wherein the medium transfer system is part of a system for injecting CO2 into a subsea field.

14. The disconnectable medium transfer system according to claim 1, wherein at least some of the at least turret medium line and the at least one buoy medium line are turret and buoy power lines for powering floating or subsea installations of a system for injecting CO2 into a subsea field.

15. A vessel having a disconnectable medium transfer system comprising a moonpool provided in the vessel, a turret structure mounted in said moonpool for a rotation around a substantially vertically extending axis and a buoy, wherein the turret structure has a lower end which is connectable to the buoy, wherein the turret structure and the buoy each are provided with at least one turret medium line and at least one buoy medium line, respectively, which end at respective connecting members that are intended for, in a connected state of the buoy, interconnecting the at least one turret medium line and the at least one buoy medium line and wherein the at least one turret medium line and the at least one buoy medium line in said connected state define a local central axis, wherein in the connected state of the buoy said local central axis extends in a direction which includes an angle not being zero with a vertical direction.

16. The vessel according to claim 15, wherein the at least one turret medium line and the at least one buoy medium line are a turret fluid line and buoy fluid line, respectively, and the connecting members are connecting flanges that extend perpendicularly to said local central axis of the interconnected turret and buoy fluid lines, and wherein said angle is in a range between 30 and 100 degrees.

17. The vessel according to claim 15, wherein the at least one turret medium line and the at least one buoy medium line are a turret power line and a buoy power line, respectively, wherein the connecting members are cooperating power line sockets for, in a connected state of the buoy, interconnecting the turret and buoy power lines, wherein the power line sockets are embodied to be connected and disconnected by a relative movement in a defined direction and wherein the power line socket of the buoy power line is oriented such that said defined direction includes an angle with a vertical direction, wherein said angle is in a range between 30 and 60 degrees.

18. The vessel according to claim 15, wherein the buoy comprises an upper part which houses the end of the at least one buoy medium line that is provided with the respective connecting member, which upper part comprises a circumferential wall provided with at least one opening for introducing the end of the at least one turret medium line to be connected to the at least one buoy medium line.

19. The vessel according to claim 15, wherein at least some of the at least one turret medium line and the at least one buoy medium line are turret and buoy fluid lines configured to transfer CO2 and wherein the medium transfer system is part of a system for injecting CO2 into a subsea field.

20. The vessel according to claim 15, wherein at least some of the at least turret medium line and the at least one buoy medium line are turret and buoy power lines for powering floating or subsea installations of a system for injecting CO2 into a subsea field.

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