LNG Carrier Jumboisation Structural Block Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LNG carriers lack sufficient deck space and storage capacity to accommodate modern LNG production and regasification facilities, leading to scrapping and wastage of resources, as they cannot accommodate new-built FSRU vessels due to insufficient space and capacity.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the separation of an existing LNG carrier into forward and aft sections, fabrication of a structural block with a gas process facility, and integration of additional sponsons to create additional deck and storage space, allowing for the expansion of the vessel to accommodate LNG production and regasification facilities without the need for a new vessel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If jumboisation technique is adopted to add new built structural block to existing LNG carrier, then storage capacity and deck space are increased, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The existing LNG carrier is divided into forward and aft sections by separating it at a designated location. This segmentation allows independent fabrication and preparation of each section, as well as the new structural block, which can then be integrated together. The separation enables modular construction approach that manages complexity by breaking down the large-scale modification into manageable segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The new built structural block is fabricated in advance before the separation and integration process. This preliminary action allows the structural block to be prepared, inspected, and positioned ready for integration, reducing on-site construction complexity and enabling better project management of the overall jumboisation process.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If existing LNG carrier is modified through jumboisation, then service life is extended, but manufacturing precision and integration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the existing carrier into forward and aft sections, the integration process becomes more controllable. Each section can be prepared with precise connection interfaces, and the new structural block can be fabricated with matching precision. This segmentation approach enables better quality control and precision management compared to attempting a single large-scale modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The structural block is fabricated in advance with precise dimensions and connection interfaces prepared beforehand. This preliminary fabrication allows for thorough inspection and adjustment before the actual integration, ensuring high manufacturing precision is achieved during the assembly of the forward section, structural block, and aft section.
3Area of moving object
If sponsons are added to the new integrated vessel, then deck space is increased, but device complexity and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Sponsons are added as separate modular structures to the sides of the new integrated vessel. This segmentation allows the sponsons to be designed and integrated as distinct units, managing structural complexity by breaking down the deck space expansion into manageable additive components rather than redesigning the entire vessel structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The sponsons serve multiple functions: they provide additional deck space for equipment placement, enhance structural stability, and can accommodate various operational requirements. This multi-functionality justifies the added structural complexity by delivering multiple benefits from a single structural addition.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to creating additional LNG storage space and deck space for gas process production/regasification modules, which is achieved by enlarging an existing LNG carrier by jumboisation technique with new built structural block and then by adding newly built sponsons which are proposed to be integrated with the existing LNG carrier to increase the value of the existing LNG carrier without needing to purchase or build an entirely new floater.