Complementary Locking System for Offshore Jack-Up Platform Legs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Offshore drilling platforms face significant load on drive mechanism pinions due to the weight of the deck and shear forces from marine currents, which can lead to increased wear and reduced efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A complementary locking system is introduced, featuring counter-racks with internal and external connecting elements that can be parted and clamped onto the platform's racks, reducing the load on pinions by distributing the weight more effectively and maintaining the deck in its operating position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the deck is supported solely by drive mechanisms with pinions engaging racks on legs, then the deck can be displaced and maintained in operating position, but the pinions experience high load and wear from deck weight and marine current forces
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system divides the load-bearing function into separate components: counter-racks engage with the leg racks while internal and external connecting elements distribute the load. This segmentation reduces the load concentration on pinions by creating alternative load paths through the counter-rack assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The counter-racks serve as intermediary elements between the leg racks and the deck support system. These counter-racks with internal and external connecting elements act as mediators that redistribute forces, protecting the pinions from direct exposure to full deck weight and shear forces.
2Strength
If counter-rack plates are connected using traditional rigid methods, then structural integrity is maintained, but installation complexity and stress concentration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from rigid fixed connections to dynamic adjustable connections. The internal and external connecting elements can be adjusted during installation to accommodate tolerances and misalignments, then locked into position. This dynamic approach maintains connection strength while simplifying installation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism allows for parameter changes during installation, particularly in the positioning and orientation of counter-rack plates. The adjustable connecting elements enable modification of connection parameters to achieve optimal engagement while reducing installation complexity and avoiding stress concentration.
Data Source
AI summary
A complementary locking system for locking legs to the deck of a jack-up offshore drilling platform is disabled. The system includes at each leg, at least one assembly comprising plates forming two counter-racks that engage with a leg rack and, on one side of the plates, at least one internal element for connecting the internal edges of the plates, at least one external element for connecting the external edges of the plates and at least one intermediate member for connecting said at least one internal element to said at least one external element. Methods of installing said complementary locking system on the legs of a jack-up offshore drilling platform are also disclosed.