Deflection Absorbing Tensioner Frame for Offshore Vessels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tensioner frames in subterranean formations are prone to reduced fatigue life and static failure due to deflections from platform deck movements, which are not effectively absorbed by traditional designs.
Innovation Solution
A deflection absorbing tensioner frame with corner-mounted deflection absorbers, incorporating dynamic elements like springs and elastomeric bearings, which absorb and distribute axial, lateral, and rotational deflections, reducing stress on the frame and extending its operational life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the tensioner frame is rigidly bolted or welded to the platform deck, then the structural strength and stability are improved, but the frame is subjected to excess stress from platform deflections which reduces fatigue life and may cause static failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces deflection absorbers as intermediary elements between the tensioner frame and the platform deck. These absorbers act as mediators that decouple the rigid connection, allowing the frame to maintain structural strength while isolating it from platform deflections that would otherwise reduce fatigue life and cause failure
Solution Approach 2:
The deflection absorbers are pre-installed between the frame and deck to provide beforehand cushioning against platform movements. This prior cushioning protects the frame from excess stress before the deflections occur, preventing both fatigue damage and static failure while maintaining structural integrity
2Stability of the object's composition
If the tensioner frame is rigidly bolted or welded to the platform deck, then the structural stability is improved, but the frame experiences excess stress from platform deflections which reduces operational reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The deflection absorbers serve as intermediary elements that maintain structural stability by providing a controlled connection between the frame and deck, while simultaneously protecting operational reliability by absorbing platform movements and preventing excess stress transmission
3Device complexity
If traditional tensioner frame designs are used without deflection absorbers, then the device complexity is reduced, but the frame is directly exposed to platform deflections causing stress and potential failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds deflection absorbers as intermediary components between the simple frame structure and the platform deck. While this increases device complexity slightly, it effectively blocks the transmission of harmful deflection stresses, protecting the frame from failure while maintaining relative simplicity in the overall design
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 solution effectively isolates the tensioner frame from platform deck deflections, reducing stress and extending the useful life of the tensioner system by absorbing and distributing movement-induced loads, thereby enhancing the structural integrity and reliability of the equipment.
Implementation Method 1
A spring may be positioned within the base and configured to absorb axial deflection
Implementation Method 2
An elastomeric bearing may be positioned between the spring and the beam to absorb lateral and rotational deflections
Data Source
AI summary
An example deflection absorbing tensioner frame for a platform of an offshore vessel may include at least one metal beam supporting a tensioner. A deflection absorber may be coupled to at least one metal beam. The deflection absorber may be configured to absorb axial, rotational, and lateral deflections in a platform deck coupled to the deflection absorber.