Mobile Working Deck for Semi-Submersible BOP Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semi-submersible drilling vessels face challenges in efficiently utilizing deck space, particularly when storing Blow Out Preventers (BOPs), which occupy substantial space due to their large footprint and height, necessitating innovative solutions for more efficient deck layout and operation.
Innovation Solution
The semi-submersible design incorporates a mobile working deck that can be vertically positioned between different levels, allowing for efficient use of deck space by combining with the upper deck and equipment deck, and includes a BOP garage for sheltering BOPs, along with a hoisting system and BOP transport system to manage BOPs efficiently during operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If BOPs are stored on the deck box structure, then BOP storage capacity is improved, but deck space utilization deteriorates due to substantial footprint and height
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning the BOP storage deck below the upper deck level, effectively moving storage from horizontal deck space to vertical subsurface space. The moonpool provides vertical access to retrieve BOPs from this lower storage location, resolving the contradiction between storage capacity and deck space utilization.
2Productivity
If BOPs are stored close to the firing line, then transport efficiency is improved, but deck space availability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The BOP storage deck is positioned vertically below the upper deck in proximity to the moonpool and firing line. This vertical arrangement allows BOPs to be stored close to the firing line for efficient transport, while utilizing subsurface space that does not consume horizontal deck area.
Solution Approach 2:
The moonpool serves as an intermediary vertical shaft that connects the BOP storage deck below with the upper deck and firing line above. This intermediary structure enables efficient vertical transport of BOPs close to the firing line without occupying horizontal deck space.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a mobile working deck is added for vertical positioning, then deck space flexibility is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile working deck is designed to be vertically movable between different positions, transforming the static deck structure into a dynamic system. This allows the deck to adapt to different operational requirements and be positioned optimally for various activities, improving flexibility despite added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile working deck serves multiple functions: it can be positioned at different vertical levels to support various operations, provide additional working space when needed, and be moved out of the way when not required. This multi-functionality justifies the added structural complexity by providing versatile adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
Semi-submersible for subsea wellbore related activities, wherein a floating structure comprises firstly an equipment deck, for storage of wellbore equipment located at a third level, higher than the upper deck, adjacent the moonpool, opposite the tower, and above the BOP storage deck. It secondly comprises a vertically mobile working deck, arranged above the moonpool and adjacent the towerandsupported by a compensator,such that itis movable between a lowered position at asecond levelandflush with an adjoining area of the upper deck of adeckbox structure, and a raised position at the third level andflush with an adjoining deck area of the equipment deck.