Floating Module Extensions for Offshore Stability and Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Monolithic floating structures have limited dimensions and require specific infrastructure for transport, increasing manufacturing costs, while existing modular structures lack stability and functionality adaptations for offshore environments.
Innovation Solution
A floating module with extensions projecting beyond its lateral walls, designed to enhance stability and functionality by providing wave protection, storage, or support, and enabling connection with other modules through removable or integrated extensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If monolithic floating structures are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but manufacturing cost increases and transport infrastructure requirements increase due to limited dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The floating structure is divided into multiple modular units that can be manufactured separately and then assembled together. Each module has standardized connection interfaces that enable simple assembly, reducing the need for complex monolithic construction and specialized transport infrastructure.
2Ease of manufacture
If modular floating structures are used, then manufacturing cost decreases and transport becomes easier, but stability and functionality for offshore environments are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The module design incorporates extensions that protrude from the lateral walls in the vertical dimension, creating additional stability elements. These extensions can be configured to interact with the seabed or provide wave protection, enhancing the overall stability of the modular structure in offshore environments.
3Stability of the object's composition
If extensions are added to modular structures, then stability and functionality are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extensions on the modular structures are designed to serve multiple functions: providing stability through seabed interaction, offering wave protection, enabling module connections, and potentially serving as structural supports. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
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 module enhances stability and functionality of floating structures, allowing for customizable dimensions and efficient assembly into larger structures with improved mechanical continuity and reduced transport costs.
Implementation Method 1
the extension can serve as wave protection, preventing water from entering the module
Implementation Method 2
Floating structures, whether monolithic or modular, require, by virtue of their buoyant nature, means capable of ensuring their stability
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a module intended to be at least partially submerged (1) extending between a first longitudinal end (4) and a second longitudinal end (6) and comprising a bottom (20) and a plurality of lateral walls (12) defining an internal volume (14), the module (1) comprising at least one extension (34) extending, at one of the longitudinal ends (4, 6), from an external face (18) of one of the lateral walls (12), the module (1, 1A, 1B) comprising at least one extension (36) which extends at least in a principal elongation plane of the extension (34) and beyond a plane in which are inscribed edges (32) of the lateral walls (12).