Heave Balancing Mechanism for Stable Offshore Load Decoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hoisting systems, particularly those used in offshore applications, face challenges in effectively decoupling the vertical movement of loads from the hoisting device, especially during heaving motions caused by waves, leading to limited and unsafe load movements.
Innovation Solution
A heave balancing device is introduced, comprising a connection unit and a load carrying unit, connected via a transmission with a spring force balancing arrangement and a leverage unit. This configuration allows for significant decoupling of the load from the hoisting device, maintaining a constant upward force on the load despite changes in the spring's extension, thereby stabilizing the load during heaving motions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a spring is coupled linearly to the load to provide decoupling, then some decoupling is provided, but the variable upward force on the load results in fast and dangerous motions of the load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the spring configuration from linear to non-linear arrangement, specifically positioning the spring at an angle rather than parallel to the load movement direction. This parameter change transforms the spring's force characteristics, allowing it to provide decoupling while maintaining more controlled load movements through geometric relationships between the spring, load, and hoisting device
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension by arranging the spring non-linearly, positioning it at an angle to the vertical axis rather than in direct line with the load. This dimensional repositioning creates a geometric configuration where the spring's extension and retraction occur in a different orientation, transforming how force is applied to the load and enabling decoupling without dangerous movements
2Stability of the object's composition
If an unlimited gas volume is engaged in a hydro-pneumatic spring, then decoupling can be provided, but the spring size and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The non-linear arrangement positions the spring in a spatial configuration that leverages geometric relationships to achieve decoupling. By positioning the spring at an angle and utilizing the triangular geometry formed by the spring, load, and hoisting device, the system achieves effective decoupling with a compact spring volume rather than requiring an unlimited gas volume
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spring's operational parameters through its non-linear configuration, allowing a smaller gas volume to achieve the same decoupling effect. The angular positioning and geometric relationships transform the spring's mechanical advantage, enabling reduced spring size while maintaining decoupling capability
3Reliability
If a linearly connected spring is used to suspend the load, then the load is stabilized in one vertical position, but the spring induces variable forces when the hoisting device moves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the spring in a non-linear, angular configuration rather than in direct line with the load. This spatial repositioning creates a geometric system where the spring's force is distributed and transformed through the angular relationship, providing stabilization while reducing variable force induction during hoisting device movement
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the spring directly connected in line with the load (linear arrangement), the patent inverts the configuration by positioning the spring at an angle, using the hoisting device structure and geometric relationships to transmit and transform the spring force, thereby achieving stabilization with reduced variable forces
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 heave balancing device achieves substantial decoupling of the load from the hoisting device, reducing the risk of dangerous load movements and enhancing safety during heaving operations. This solution allows for the use of smaller, more cost-effective gas or hydro-pneumatic springs and actuators, and can be integrated into existing hoisting systems without significant modifications.
Implementation Method 1
a spring force balancing arrangement with a leverage unit and with one or more (gas- or) hydro-pneumatic springs
Implementation Method 2
Passive spring-balanced systems generally use leaf springs that behave according to Hook's law
Implementation Method 3
The leverage unit and the spring are arranged in a spring balance configuration... providing a substantially constant upward force on the load
Implementation Method 4
a spring force balancing arrangement with a leverage unit and with one or more (gas- or) hydro-pneumatic springs... providing a substantially constant upward force on the load
Data Source
AI summary
Heave balance device (1) can balance a lifted or supported load (8). The load can be lifted by a hoisting device (10) or it can be supported. The heave balance device comprises a first frame (2) and a connection unit (22) that can be suspended, e.g. to a hoisting device. Further a moveable carrying unit (32) allows for carrying (suspending or supporting) a load. The device comprises a transmission that couples the connection unit and carrying unit, wherein said transmission is arranged to guide the connection unit and the carrying unit to move along a guideline with respect to each other, the transmission having a spring force balancing arrangement (4) with one or more leverage units, such as one or more pivoting arms (50, 51), and with one or more configurable (gas- or) hydropneumatic springs. A method comprises suspending the load via a (heave) balance device. Further a kit of parts for hoisting devices is provided to allow load decoupling.