Modular Diesel Thruster System for Semi-Submersible Dynamic Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current semi-submersible vessels lack a dynamic positioning system with removable and modular thrusters, which hinders their repositioning and maneuverability, especially in deep waters or environmentally sensitive areas, and requires costly vessel conversions and maintenance.

Innovation Solution

A modular, removable diesel electric thruster system with azimuthing thrusters and self-contained power units, mounted externally on pontoons, allowing for easy attachment and detachment at sea, enabling dynamic positioning without major vessel modifications, and facilitating quick upgrades and maintenance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If semi-submersibles are converted from anchor moored to dynamically positioned vessels, then maneuverability and repositioning capability are improved, but conversion cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovemaneuverabilityVSAvoidconversion complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The dynamic positioning system is divided into separate modular components: self-contained power units (SCPUs) with diesel engines and generators, azimuthing thrusters, and control systems. Each module can be independently installed, removed, and replaced without affecting the entire vessel or other DP modules, thereby improving maneuverability while keeping conversion complexity manageable through standardized interfaces and procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If semi-submersibles are converted from anchor moored to dynamically positioned vessels, then maneuverability and repositioning capability are improved, but conversion cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovemaneuverabilityVSAvoidconversion cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs azimuthing thrusters that can rotate 360 degrees to provide thrust in any direction, enabling the vessel to maneuver efficiently without requiring multiple fixed-direction propellers. This dynamic thrust vectoring capability achieves full maneuverability with a minimal number of thruster units, reducing overall system cost while maintaining high adaptability for repositioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If thruster systems are made removable and modular, then maintenance time and operational downtime are reduced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational continuityVSAvoidsystem modularity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each self-contained power unit is pre-assembled and factory-tested as an integrated module before delivery to the vessel. This preliminary integration and testing of the diesel engine, generator, and associated systems ensures that modules are ready for immediate installation and operation, reducing on-site complexity while enabling quick replacement to maintain operational continuity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

4Ease of operation

If externally mounted thrusters with self-contained power units are used, then installation and removal ease are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidsystem integration

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each self-contained power unit is equipped with its own diesel engine and generator, making it independently operable without relying on the vessel's main power system. This self-sufficiency allows modules to be installed or removed without complex electrical connections to the vessel, simplifying installation while the standardized mounting interfaces keep system integration manageable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 downtime and operational costs by allowing thruster systems to be leased rather than owned, and allowing vessels to operate continuously without interruption, even in hostile environments.

Implementation Method 1

Each self-contained power unit has a diesel engine

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCombustion: Combustion

Implementation Method 2

The diesel engine is coupled to a generator

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

An azimuthing thruster has an electric motor coupled to a propeller

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS7806065B1Modular system for fast and easy conversion of anchor moored semi-submersibles to dynamically positioned semis without the need for dry docking, using a diesel electric thruster system

Publication Date: 2010.10.05 THRUSTMASTER OF TEXAS

AI summary

A modular removable externally mountable diesel electric thruster system using azimuthing thrusters and a dynamic positioning system for positioning floating semi-submersible vessels with a ballasted waterline and at least one submerged pontoon.