Deflector Grip Adapter for Marine Seismic Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for handling seismic deflectors during launching and hauling are vulnerable to damage, particularly when transitioning from towing line to crane grip, due to the bridle block's design being suited for dynamic loads rather than crane handling, and the load cell cables being exposed and prone to damage.
Innovation Solution
A deflector grip adapter is introduced, which includes a grip adapter axle between the bridle block and the towing line sheave block, allowing a crane to securely grip the adapter axle, thereby transferring the load and preventing damage to the bridle block and load cell cables, and facilitating safe handling by relocating the sheave block from the hinge bearing block to a new position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the bridle block is designed for dynamic loads from towing line, then it can handle towing operations effectively, but it becomes vulnerable when gripped by crane during launching and hauling
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two functional parts: the original bridle block for towing operations and a separate adapter assembly with grip adapter axle for crane handling. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter acts as an intermediary component between the bridle block and the crane gripper. It transfers the crane grip force to the towing line sheave block, protecting the bridle block from direct crane handling forces while enabling secure crane attachment.
2Ease of operation
If the load cell cable runs outside the bridle block along the bridle line, then it can be connected to the force sensor, but it becomes vulnerable to being torn off or damaged during crane handling
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly serves as a protective intermediary that shields the load cell cable and force sensor during crane operations. The cable runs through the protected interior of the adapter rather than externally, preventing damage while maintaining electrical connection.
3Device complexity
If the sheave block is positioned in the hinge bearing block, then the structure is compact, but the crane gripper cannot easily access and grip the bridle block during handling
Solution Approach 1:
The sheave block is separated from the hinge bearing block and repositioned on the adapter assembly. This segmentation creates distinct functional zones: the hinge bearing block remains compact for towing, while the adapter provides external grip points for crane operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The grip adapter axle extends in a transverse direction perpendicular to the main bridle block structure, creating a new dimensional access point for the crane gripper without increasing the footprint of the original compact assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A marine deflector handling system includes a seismic survey vessel with a deflector towing sheave with a towing line to a seismic deflector bridle block. The bridle block includes, as counted from its outer end to its inner end: two triple head arms with each its triple head in their outer ends for fore and aft sets of bridle lines to a deflector, wherein said triple head arms in their inner ends are coupled together in a hinge bearing block which further holds an outer end of a grip adapter stem, wherein said grip adapter stem in its opposite, inner end is provided with a grip adapter axle block with a transverse through extending and protruding grip adapter axle arranged for being gripped by a crane jaw, wherein said grip adapter axle further holds an outer end of a sheave block stem with an inner end provided with a sheave block for said towing line.