Mechanical Interlock for Tensile Load Transfer in Flexible Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for repairing or replacing tensile loads on flexible links, such as those in floatation systems and mooring lines, face challenges due to the difficulty in transferring loads without compromising the structural integrity of the system, particularly when hydraulic pressure leaks or fails, leading to increased costs and logistical complexities.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a tether assembly with a hydraulic cylinder and a mechanical interlock that allows for the transfer of tensile loads from flexible links to a tether assembly, maintaining the load independently of hydraulic pressure, enabling in-situ repair or replacement of flexible links without disrupting the structural support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hydraulic cylinder is used to transfer the tensile load, then the load transfer can be achieved, but the system becomes vulnerable to hydraulic pressure leaks or failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mechanical interlock as an intermediary device that bridges the gap between the flexible link and the tether assembly. This interlock provides a purely mechanical load transfer path that does not depend on hydraulic systems, thereby eliminating the reliability issues associated with hydraulic pressure leaks while still enabling effective load transfer during repair operations
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical interlock is designed to engage before the hydraulic system is fully pressurized or before any potential hydraulic failure occurs. By establishing a mechanical load path in advance, the system cushions against the potential harmful effects of hydraulic system failures, ensuring continuous load support capability
2Strength
If the flexible link is under tensile load, then the system maintains structural integrity, but repair or replacement of the flexible link becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical interlock is engaged in advance before the flexible link needs to be repaired or replaced. By pre-establishing the load transfer path through the tether assembly and mechanical interlock, the system allows the flexible link to be safely disconnected and removed without compromising structural integrity, thereby enabling easy repair and replacement operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the load-bearing function into two independent components: the flexible link for normal operation and the tether assembly with mechanical interlock for repair operations. This segmentation allows each component to be independently maintained or replaced without affecting the other, significantly improving repairability while maintaining structural integrity
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides an in-situ system and method for transferring a load from a tensioned flexible link between at least two bodies, such as between a buoyancy can and a subsea riser or between a moored offshore platform and a pile. The system and method provides a tether assembly having a hydraulic cylinder and/or a transfer assembly, where the hydraulic cylinder is configured upon actuation to decrease a distance between the two bodies; and the transfer assembly includes a mechanical interlock configured upon actuation to maintain the decreased distance between the two bodies independent of the hydraulic cylinder. The mechanical interlock can include various embodiments that can be selectively activated and deactivated position to allow the hydraulic cylinder to operate at various times in the transfer process. A support assembly can provide additional support to the flexible link independent of or in addition to the transfer assembly.