Modular Diesel Hydraulic Thruster for Semi-Submersible Dynamic Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semi-submersible vessels in offshore oil operations require a portable and modular thruster system for dynamic positioning without anchor mooring, capable of easy installation, removal, and maintenance to reduce costs and downtime, while being adaptable to various vessel sizes and environments.
Innovation Solution
A removable externally mountable diesel hydraulic thruster system with azimuthing thrusters, self-contained power units, and a dynamic positioning control system, allowing for secure attachment and detachment from pontoons, and integration with environmental sensors for precise positioning and maneuvering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a portable and modular thruster system is used for dynamic positioning, then installation and removal time are reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thruster system is divided into modular components including self-contained power units, thruster assemblies, and control systems that can be independently installed and removed. Each module is designed as a discrete unit that can be quickly attached to or detached from the semi-submersible vessel without requiring complex integration procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular thruster system is designed with universal mounting interfaces and standardized connection points that can be applied across different semi-submersible vessel types and sizes. This universality allows the same thruster modules to be rapidly installed on various vessels without requiring custom fabrication or complex adaptation procedures.
2Loss of time
If a fully packaged self-contained thruster system is used, then installation time is reduced, but manufacturing and testing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thruster systems are pre-assembled, pre-tested, and pre-integrated into fully packaged modules at the manufacturing facility before delivery to the customer. All electrical connections, hydraulic systems, and control integrations are completed and tested in advance, allowing for rapid installation on the vessel without requiring on-site assembly or testing procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a modular system is used that can be increased or reduced in size, then adaptability to different vessels is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is configured using discrete modular thruster units that can be selectively combined in different numbers and arrangements depending on the specific vessel requirements. Each module maintains standardized interfaces, allowing systems to be scaled from small configurations for smaller vessels to larger configurations for bigger vessels without increasing per-module complexity.
4Ease of repair
If thrusters are positioned elevated for service and maintenance, then ease of repair is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thruster mounting system incorporates movable and adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow thrusters to be raised to elevated service positions for maintenance access, then lowered to operational positions for use. The mounting structures include adjustable arms, telescopic supports, or hydraulic positioning systems that enable dynamic repositioning of the thrusters between operational and maintenance configurations.
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
Enables efficient and cost-effective dynamic positioning of semi-submersibles, reducing installation time, minimizing downtime for maintenance, and allowing operation in sensitive environments without damaging coral reefs or existing infrastructure, while being easily scalable and transferable between vessels.
Implementation Method 1
each power unit having a diesel engine engaged to a hydraulic pump package
Implementation Method 2
hydraulic pump package that provides hydraulic power to the azimuthing thrusters
Data Source
AI summary
A removable retractable externally mountable dynamic positioning self contained diesel hydraulic thruster system for a floating semi-submersible vessel having a hull with a ballasted waterline, a first pontoon integral with the hull and a second pontoon integral with the hull. The hull supports a deck, wherein the system comprises: at least a pair of azimuthing thrusters, wherein at least one azimuthing thruster is removably mounted to a pontoon of a semi-submersible vessel.