Crane Vessel Dynamic Behavior Adjustment System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Crane vessels used for offshore wind turbine installation and maintenance face challenges in controlling dynamic behavior, particularly roll motion, when operating in floating conditions, especially with taller turbines and in harsh sea environments, where existing stabilization systems are inadequate.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic behavior adjustment system is introduced, which includes a vertically mobile adjustment mass that can be positioned along the height of the crane structure to adjust the vessel's roll behavior, utilizing sensors and a computerized controller to monitor and control the mass's position and weight, synchronizing with the foundation's motion and compensating for wave-induced motions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a floating crane vessel is used instead of a jack-up vessel, then the time for jacking up and down is saved and the vessel can operate in deeper waters, but the vessel is subject to wave motion which complicates crane operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the crane structure itself movable relative to the floating hull through a motion-compensating platform. This platform can move vertically and rotate to counteract wave-induced motions, allowing the crane to maintain stability while the hull floats. The dynamic adjustment of the platform's position and orientation enables the crane to operate stably despite the floating condition.
2Ease of operation
If the crane is placed on a motion-stabilized platform, then roll compensation is achieved, but the maximum operating height and load handling capacity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional roll compensation to three-dimensional motion compensation by adding vertical heave movement capability to the platform. This allows the platform to counteract not only rolling motions but also pitching and heaving, enabling the crane to achieve greater operating heights while maintaining stability through multi-axis motion compensation.
3Length of moving object
If a crane vessel with a floating hull is used for tall wind turbines, then the required operating height is achieved, but the vessel motions due to wave motion become more significant
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a motion-compensating platform as an intermediary between the floating hull and the crane. This platform acts as a mediator that isolates the crane from the hull's wave-induced motions while allowing the hull to maintain its floating condition for deep water operations. The platform's ability to independently move and rotate creates a stable reference frame for the crane despite the moving hull.
4Ease of operation
If stabilizing systems like U-tanks or stabilizing pontoons are used, then roll compensation is provided, but the device complexity increases and the systems are inadequate for taller turbines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the stabilizing function with the crane's support structure by integrating the motion-compensating platform into the crane base. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate stabilizing systems like U-tanks or external pontoons, reducing overall device complexity while providing effective roll and pitch compensation suitable for tall wind turbines.
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
This system enhances the stability and control of the crane vessel during hoisting operations, allowing for more precise and secure installation of offshore wind turbines by adjusting the vessel's dynamic behavior to match the foundation's motion, reducing vessel motions and facilitating the transfer of the turbine components.
Implementation Method 1
adjust the dynamic behaviour, e.g. roll behaviour, e.g. roll period, of the vessel by moving and/or arranging an adjustment mass that is distinct from the offshore wind turbine or component thereof into or in at least one dynamic behaviour adjustment position along the height of the vertical crane structure
Data Source
AI summary
A crane vessel for hoisting of an offshore wind turbine or a component thereof, includes a hull having a deck. A crane configured for hoisting of an offshore wind turbine or a component thereof includes a vertical crane structure having a crane structure base fixed to the hull, the crane structure extending from the hull over a height thereof to a top along a vertical axis of the crane structure, a boom, and a slew bearing allowing to revolve the boom, about a slew axis. A main hoisting system includes at least one main hoisting winch, an associated main hoisting cable and a load connector, the main hoisting cable extending from the main hoisting winch to a main hoist cable guide on the boom and then to the load connector. The crane further includes a dynamic behaviour adjustment system that is configured to adjust the dynamic behaviour of the vessel by moving and/or arranging an adjustment mass that is distinct from the offshore wind turbine or component thereof into or in at least one dynamic behaviour adjustment position along the height of the vertical crane structure.