Adjustable Column Ring Support for LNG Tank Component Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complex and time-consuming process of installing and securing components on the loading and offloading columns of liquefied gas tanks, particularly due to the need for precise alignment and the mechanical strains caused by 'sloshing' during transportation, results in significant operational costs and downtime.
Innovation Solution
A holding device with a dissociable arm and adjustable positioning, featuring a ring and segments that can be securely fixed to the column, allowing for easier mounting and dismounting of components, and reinforced to withstand mechanical strains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fixed supports are used to secure pump components on the loading/offloading column, then the components are firmly secured, but the installation process becomes lengthy and complex due to precise alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into a first segment bearing the ring and a second segment bearing the fixing interface. These segments can be displaced with respect to one another in at least two directions, allowing independent positioning. This segmentation enables the components to be secured reliably while simplifying the installation process, as each segment can be adjusted separately to achieve proper alignment without requiring precise pre-alignment of the entire support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure incorporates dynamic adjustability through the displacement capability of the first and second segments. This dynamic feature allows the support to adapt during installation and operation, enabling precise positioning of pump components on the loading/offloading column while reducing installation time. The dynamic segments can be repositioned as needed, providing both flexibility during installation and secure fixation during operation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple fixed supports are installed to prevent mechanical strains from sloshing, then component stability improves, but the device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into movable first and second segments that can displace relative to each other in at least two directions. This segmentation provides inherent flexibility and stability without requiring multiple separate fixed supports. The segmented design allows the structure to absorb and adapt to mechanical strains from sloshing while maintaining component stability, thereby reducing overall device complexity compared to using multiple rigid fixed supports.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment of pump components on the column is enforced, then component positioning accuracy improves, but operational costs and downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates dynamic adjustability through segments that can be displaced in at least two directions, allowing precise positioning of pump components during installation. This dynamic capability enables high positioning accuracy without requiring time-consuming manual alignment procedures. The segments can be quickly adjusted to the correct position and then secured, maintaining manufacturing precision while significantly improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The support segments are designed to enable preliminary positioning adjustments before final securing. This preliminary action allows the pump components to be quickly positioned with the required precision during installation, without needing extensive time for manual alignment and adjustment. The segments can be pre-positioned in the correct locations, and then firmly secured, thereby maintaining high positioning accuracy while reducing installation time and improving operational efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a holding device (9) for holding at least one component on a loading and/or offloading column (5) of a tank (2) of a ship (1) intended to contain a liquefied gas, the holding device (9) comprising at least one ring (91), through which passes the component, and at least one arm (92) which comprises at least one first segment (921, 924) bearing the ring (91) and one second segment (922, 925) bearing a fixing interface (923) for fixing the holding device (9) onto the loading and/or offloading column (5), the first segment (921, 924) and the second segment (922, 925) being configured to be displaced with respect to one another in at least two directions lying in a same plane (100, 400).