Buoyant Service Frame for Angled Marine Structure Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for servicing aquatic or marine support structures, such as risers and jetties, are hazardous and inefficient, particularly in the splash zone, where structures are prone to corrosion and biological growth.
Innovation Solution
A buoyant apparatus with adjustable buoyancy members and pivotable components allows for easy attachment and positioning around structures of varying angles, enabling efficient movement between multiple structures without the need for cranes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If divers are used for servicing structures in the splash zone, then human expertise and flexibility are utilized, but the operation becomes extremely difficult and hazardous
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is capable of self-positioning and self-adjustment through buoyancy control. The buoyancy members automatically adjust the apparatus's orientation and position around the structure without requiring human intervention for manual handling, making the system serve itself in critical positioning tasks
Solution Approach 2:
The buoyancy members act as an intermediary between the apparatus and the aquatic environment. They mediate the interaction by providing buoyant force to support the apparatus weight and enable controlled positioning, translating environmental conditions into manageable operational states
2Adaptability or versatility
If the apparatus is positioned around structures at various angles, then versatility is improved, but the complexity of positioning and attachment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The buoyancy members provide dynamic adjustment capability, allowing the apparatus to adapt its orientation to match structures at various angles. The buoyant force can be adjusted to rotate and position the apparatus appropriately, enabling versatile service operations without complex mechanical positioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus utilizes parameter changes in buoyancy force to achieve angular adjustment. By varying the buoyant force applied at different locations, the apparatus can change its orientation parameter to match the angle of the structure being serviced, simplifying the attachment process
3Ease of operation
If traditional lifting apparatus such as cranes are used to move the apparatus between structures, then positioning capability is improved, but the requirement for additional equipment and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The buoyancy members provide an anti-weight force that counteracts the gravity acting on the apparatus. This buoyant support eliminates the need for external lifting apparatus like cranes, as the apparatus can be moved between structures by controlling its buoyancy rather than mechanical lifting
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus uses its own buoyancy members for self-lifting and self-positioning between structures. Instead of requiring external cranes or lifting equipment, the system services itself by utilizing the buoyant force to raise and move between different structures independently
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
The apparatus facilitates safe and effective servicing of aquatic structures by allowing for precise angle adjustment and buoyant support, reducing the risk of accidents and improving the efficiency of maintenance operations.
Implementation Method 1
the apparatus is at least partially buoyant so as to support the apparatus while it is attached to the structure
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for servicing a structure has one or more buoyancy chambers attached thereto such that the angle of the apparatus when floating may be adjusted. The attachment may be by a pivotal connector with a pivot point at or near a midpoint or centre of gravity of the structure. The apparatus may comprise a frame that can be opened to fit around the structure to be serviced. This may facilitate attachment of the apparatus to angled structures in an aquatic environment.