Chain Tensioner with Lateral Switch Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing chain tensioners for offshore applications are difficult to operate from an anchor handling vessel, particularly for newly installed floating offshore facilities, as they require complex maneuvers or the use of a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) to re-tension mooring lines.

Innovation Solution

A chain tensioner design featuring a frame with a chain lock and switch device that allows sideward movement of the tensioning chain, facilitated by a chain guide and control cam, enabling easy operation from a vessel, even when marine fouling or soil penetration occurs, with a skid for permanent positioning on the seabed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional chain stopper is used, then the tensioning chain can be locked, but the device is difficult to operate from a vessel and requires complex maneuvers or ROV intervention

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The chain tensioner is divided into functionally independent components: a chain lock for engagement and a chain switch device for release. The chain switch device includes a chain guide that can be independently actuated by a vessel, separating the locking function from the release function to enable easier operation from a distance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A chain guide is introduced as an intermediary component between the vessel and the chain lock. The chain guide redirects the tensioning chain laterally when actuated, enabling the chain lock to release without requiring direct vessel intervention or complex maneuvers, thus simplifying operation from a vessel.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If a one-way ratchet mechanism is used, then the chain can be locked automatically, but it requires ROV intervention for release

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovereliabilityVSAvoidease of operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The chain tensioner separates the automatic locking function (chain lock) from the release function (chain switch device). The chain lock provides reliable one-way engagement automatically, while the chain switch device with its laterally movable chain guide provides a separate, vessel-operatable release mechanism, eliminating the need for ROV intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring direct pulling or complex maneuvers to release the chain lock, the invention inverts the approach by using a lateral movement of the chain guide to trigger release. This indirect, lateral actuation method is easier to operate from a vessel compared to direct longitudinal pulling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Reliability

If complex maneuvers are required for operation, then the chain stopper can be activated, but the process time increases and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovereliabilityVSAvoidproductivity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The chain guide acts as a mediator that translates simple vessel movements into effective chain release actions. This eliminates the need for complex vessel maneuvers, reducing operation time and increasing productivity while maintaining reliable chain engagement and release.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention inverts the traditional operation method by using lateral chain guide movement instead of direct longitudinal pulling or complex vessel maneuvers. This simplified activation method reduces operation time and increases productivity while ensuring reliable chain tensioner operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS11639214B2Chain tensioner with chain switch device

Publication Date: 2023.05.02 STEVLOS BV

AI summary

Disclosed is a chain tensioner for employment on a bottom of a water body, wherein the chain tensioner is configured for adjustment of the length of a tensioning chain that extends between the chain tensioner and a floating offshore facility, wherein the chain tensioner includes a chain lock for engaging and confining a link of the tensioning chain in the chain passage from aside the tensioning chain, and a chain switch device having a chain guide for engaging the tensioning chain in the chain passage from aside the tensioning chain, wherein the chain guide is moveable between a first position in which the chain lock engages a link of the tensioning chain, and a second position in which the tensioning chain passes the chain lock.