Adjustable Buoyancy Clamp for Marine Hose
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing buoy systems for marine hoses are not easily adjustable to accommodate different products of varying densities, leading to potential premature failure and requiring external assistance, such as divers, to adjust buoyancy configurations.
Innovation Solution
A buoy device comprising a shell unit and an inflatable/deflatable bladder unit, allowing for adjustable buoyancy without the need for external help, with two separate bladder elements for redundancy and protection, and a control system for precise fluid management through openings and pressure relief valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If permanent buoy systems are used, then the hose can maintain stable buoyancy configuration, but the system cannot be easily adjusted to accommodate different product densities and requires divers for modification
Solution Approach 1:
The buoy system transitions from a static permanent configuration to a dynamic adjustable system. The bladder units can be inflated or deflated to change buoyancy levels, allowing the hose to adapt to different product densities and operational requirements without requiring physical modification or diver intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The buoyancy parameters are made variable through inflatable bladder units. By changing the inflation state of the bladders, the overall buoyancy of the hose system can be adjusted to match different product densities, replacing fixed buoyancy configurations with可调 parameters.
2Ease of operation
If permanent buoy systems are used, then the hose structure is stable, but external assistance such as divers is required to adjust buoyancy configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The buoy system is designed to be self-adjustable through inflatable bladder units that can be inflated or deflated using standard equipment. This eliminates the need for diver intervention and external assistance, allowing operators to adjust buoyancy configuration independently and immediately.
3Reliability
If single bladder unit is used, then the device structure is simple, but the risk of complete failure upon puncture is high
Solution Approach 1:
The buoy system is divided into multiple independent bladder units distributed along the hose. Each bladder operates independently, so that a puncture in one bladder does not compromise the entire system. The segmented structure provides redundancy and continues to provide buoyancy through remaining intact bladders.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates redundant bladder units as a preventive measure against failure. By having multiple bladders instead of a single unit, the system is prepared in advance to withstand puncture damage, ensuring continued operational reliability even when one bladder is compromised.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables flexible and remote adjustment of buoyancy, reducing the risk of damage and allowing for seamless integration with existing hoses, enhancing operational safety and efficiency by minimizing the need for costly special equipment and diver intervention.
Implementation Method 1
a bladder unit (3) arranged within said shell unit (2) and which is inflatable and/or deflatable by means of a fluid in order to adjust the buoyancy of the buoy device (1) during use
Data Source
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AI summary
A buoy device (1) for a marine hose or the like, wherein the buoy device (1) is configured to at least partly enclose said hose (H), and wherein the buoy device (1) comprises a shell unit and a bladder unit which is arranged within the shell unit and which is inflatable and/or deflatable by means of a fluid in order to adjust the buoyancy of the buoy device (1) during use.