In Situ 3D Mooring Line Assessment via Multi-Angle Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies lack the capability to capture comprehensive three-dimensional images of subsea mooring lines in deep water environments, hindering the assessment of their health and integrity, which is crucial for preventing failures and reducing maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a measuring device capturing two-dimensional images of mooring lines, which are then processed by a controller to generate accurate three-dimensional reconstructions, allowing for in situ assessment and health evaluation of the mooring lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional imaging methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability of mooring line assessment deteriorate due to inability to capture three-dimensional images in deep water
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional image capture to three-dimensional reconstruction by combining multiple two-dimensional images taken from different angles. The controller processes these multiple 2D images to generate a 3D model of the mooring line, enabling comprehensive assessment of its condition, corrosion, and integrity without requiring complex specialized 3D imaging hardware for deep water environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital three-dimensional copy or reconstruction of the mooring line based on processed two-dimensional images. This virtual 3D model serves as a accurate representation that can be analyzed for defects, corrosion, and structural integrity, eliminating the need for physical inspection or complex in-situ 3D imaging equipment.
2Reliability
If mooring lines are inspected frequently to ensure safety, then reliability improves, but loss of time and productivity increase due to potential shutdowns for physical inspection
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-assessment of the mooring line by capturing and processing images while the line remains in its operational position in deep water. The imaging and 3D reconstruction process occurs in-situ without requiring the mooring line to be removed or the platform to shut down, allowing continuous monitoring and assessment without operational interruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical mechanical inspection methods with optical imaging and digital processing. Instead of requiring physical access, manual examination, or shutdown procedures, the system uses cameras and computational algorithms to automatically assess the mooring line condition, eliminating the time-consuming aspects of traditional mechanical inspection.
3Reliability
If comprehensive mooring line assessment is performed, then reliability and safety improve, but loss of substance and maintenance costs increase without efficient evaluation methods
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary assessment by generating a three-dimensional model that identifies potential issues such as corrosion, damage, or wear before they lead to failure. This advance detection allows for planned, targeted maintenance interventions rather than reactive repairs, optimizing the use of maintenance resources and preventing unnecessary replacements.
Solution Approach 2:
The 3D reconstruction provides detailed feedback on the actual condition of the mooring line, showing specific areas of concern with precise spatial information. This feedback enables maintenance teams to target only the affected areas, reducing material waste and optimizing resource allocation for repairs or replacements.
Data Source
AI summary
A system can include at least one measuring device that captures and collects multiple two-dimensional images of a mooring line disposed in water. The system can also include a mooring line assessment system that includes a controller communicably coupled to the at least one measuring device. The controller can receive the two-dimensional images from the at least one measuring device. The controller can also generate a three-dimensional reconstruction of the mooring line based on the two-dimensional images. The controller can further present the three-dimensional reconstruction to a user. The two-dimensional images can be captured and the recommendation can be made while the mooring line is in situ.