Dismantlable Link for Anchor Chains Using Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current removable links for anchoring floating installations are not ergonomically designed for easy assembly/disassembly and lack sufficient resistance, particularly in the context of connecting anchor chains to the seabed, where they are often heavy and complex to handle.
Innovation Solution
A removable link with an oblong ring shape, comprising two rectilinear sections connected by bent sections, utilizing U-shaped side pieces and straight connecting pieces with removable securing means, including interlocking end portions and a removable indexing member, to provide high resistance and ease of assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional C-link removable links are used, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the assembly and disassembly operations become complex and difficult to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The removable link is divided into multiple independent components: a body portion and a closing portion that can be separated. The closing portion includes a closing element that can be inserted through the body portion and locked into place, allowing the link to be opened for assembly and closed for strength, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The link transitions from a static closed form to a dynamic openable/closable structure. The closing element can be maneuvered between an inserted position (providing strength) and a removed position (enabling assembly), allowing the link to adapt its state based on operational requirements
2Shape
If the removable link is designed with standard geometry identical to anchor chain links, then the visual standardization is achieved, but the handling complexity during assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the link into a body portion and a separate closing portion, the design maintains the external standard geometry when closed while enabling simplified assembly operations. The closing portion can be independently manipulated without affecting the overall link shape when assembled
Solution Approach 2:
The closing element acts as an intermediary component that facilitates assembly operations. It can be independently inserted and locked without requiring manipulation of the entire link structure, thus maintaining standard geometry while improving handling ease
3Reliability
If the link resistance is increased to withstand higher forces, then the safety factor is improved, but the weight and handling difficulty of the link increase
Solution Approach 1:
The link provides high resistance only when in the closed state with the closing element inserted and locked. During assembly and disassembly operations, the link can be opened, reducing the effective weight and handling difficulty. This dynamic state change allows the system to achieve high safety factors when needed without permanently increasing weight
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the closing element from the body portion, the design allows the main body to maintain optimal strength characteristics while the closing element can be designed for ease of manipulation. The segmented structure enables high resistance in the assembled state without requiring the entire link to be excessively heavy
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
The present invention relates to a dismantlable link (1), suitable in particular for interconnecting two chains for anchoring floating equipment to the ground. This dismantlable link (1), shaped like an oblong ring, comprises two straight sections (2) connected by two curved sections (3), and includes: • - two side parts (6) each forming one of said curved sections (3), • and - two connecting parts (5), each forming at least one portion of one of said straight sections (2),