External and Internal Lifting Rings for Single-Tool Monopile Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lifting tools for secondary steel components in offshore wind turbine installations are inefficient, requiring multiple tools due to varying shapes, centers of gravity, and mounting features, leading to time inefficiencies, space constraints, and potential damage risks.
Innovation Solution
A support apparatus with pivotable restraining members that engage either the inner or outer surface of a hollow support, allowing stable mounting and single-tool operation, combined with indexing and winch mechanisms for precise lifting and lowering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialist lifting tools are used for different secondary steel components, then each component can be lifted with appropriate specialization, but the device complexity and deck space requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting tool is designed with a universal body structure that can handle multiple secondary steel components through interchangeable end effectors. The body includes a standardized interface system that accepts various specialized attachments, allowing one base tool to perform multiple lifting functions rather than requiring separate dedicated tools for each component type.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting tool is divided into modular segments: a standardized body portion and interchangeable end effector components. This segmentation allows the core lifting mechanism to remain constant while only the task-specific attachment needs to be changed, reducing the complexity of the main tool while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialist lifting tools are used for different secondary steel components, then each component can be lifted with appropriate specialization, but the deck space occupied by multiple tools increases
Solution Approach 1:
By creating a universal lifting tool that can handle multiple component types, the total number of tools stored on deck is reduced from multiple specialized tools to a single base tool with various attachments, thereby freeing up significant deck space for secondary steel storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The interchangeable end effectors are designed to be stored within or attached to the main tool body when not in use, similar to nested dolls. This nesting arrangement minimizes the space required to store the complete tool system on the vessel deck.
3Area of stationary object
If a single lifting tool is used for all secondary steel components, then deck space is reduced, but the tool cannot accommodate varying shapes, centers of gravity, and mounting features
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting tool incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that can be dynamically modified between lifts. The end effectors can be changed to match the specific geometry and mounting features of each secondary steel component, allowing the tool to adapt its configuration rather than requiring multiple fixed-purpose tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool system allows changes in operational parameters by swapping end effectors with different geometric configurations, gripping mechanisms, and attachment points. These parameter changes enable the same base tool to accommodate varying component shapes, centers of gravity, and mounting features.
4Measurement precision
If multiple lifting tools are used, then each component can be lifted accurately, but the time required to change between tools increases operational time
Solution Approach 1:
The appropriate end effector is selected and attached to the tool body in advance before the lifting operation begins. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for tool changes during the installation sequence, as the tool is pre-adapted to handle the specific component being installed.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick-change mechanism for end effectors allows rapid reconfiguration of the tool between components. The dynamic attachment system enables operators to swap between different specialized attachments quickly without time-consuming tool changes, maintaining positioning accuracy while minimizing operational delays.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A secondary steel installation tool (SSIT) 2 is disclosed. A lifting and/or lowering apparatus (12) comprises a base structure (8) adapted to be supported by a monopile (4), an external lifting ring (14) for engaging an external surface of the base structure (8) and/or monopile (4) and providing access to said external surface, and an internal lifting ring (20) for engaging an internal surface of the base structure (8) and/or monopile (4) and providing access to said internal surface. Lifting winches (24) selectively lift and/or lower the external or internal lifting ring relative to the monopile (4), and one or more pins selectively fix the external or internal lifting ring in position relative to the base structure (8).