Catamaran Lifting Structure With Articulated Frames for Station-Keeping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marine lifting devices face challenges in maintaining stability and redundancy during offshore operations, particularly in harsh sea conditions, due to limited dynamic positioning capabilities and propulsion redundancy.
Innovation Solution
The integration of two dynamically positioned vessels with universal joints and hinged connections forms a catamaran lifting apparatus, enabling independent movement of frames and enhanced propulsion and positioning systems, resulting in a higher-class dynamic positioning system with increased redundancy and capability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single marine vessel is used for lifting operations, then the device complexity is reduced, but the propulsion redundancy and dynamic positioning capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting apparatus is divided into two separate hulls (first hull and second hull) that operate independently but work together to support the frame. Each hull has its own propulsion and dynamic positioning system, providing redundancy while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
Two independently equipped hulls are combined to form a single lifting apparatus with enhanced capabilities. The merging of two vessels with complete propulsion and positioning systems creates redundant functionality, ensuring continued operation even if one hull's systems fail
2Reliability
If two hulls are used with independent frames, then the dynamic positioning capability and redundancy are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each hull is equipped with universal dynamic positioning and propulsion systems that can independently maintain station-keeping. The frame structure also serves multiple functions by spanning between hulls and providing mounting for lifting equipment, reducing overall system complexity through multi-functional design
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between the frame and hulls uses universal joints that allow independent movement and adjustment, enabling the system to adapt dynamically to sea conditions while maintaining structural integrity and reducing complexity through flexible rather than rigid connections
3Adaptability or versatility
If universal joints and hinged connections are used to connect frames to hulls, then the adaptability to sea conditions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Universal joints and hinged connections are employed at the frame-hull interfaces, allowing the connections to move and adjust dynamically in response to wave action and sea conditions. This dynamic capability enables the structure to adapt to varying environmental conditions while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system uses different types of joints (universal joints on one side, hinged connections on the other) to optimize adaptability for different movement patterns and loading conditions, with each joint type selected for its specific adaptability characteristics
Data Source
AI summary
A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. Each of the frames provides a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a package to be lifted and/or a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames. In this fashion, an object that has been salvaged from the seabed can be placed upon the marine vessel that is positioned in between the barges and under the frames.