Multi-Pile Offshore Foundation Installation via Push-In
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for installing offshore piles, such as hydraulic hammering, generate excessive noise harmful to marine life and cause equipment damage, and existing silent alternatives like screw piles are inefficient for offshore use due to high costs and limited capacity, while monopiles face challenges in deeper waters due to increased size and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A device and method for pushing or pulling multiple piles into the seabed in a polygonal configuration using a bridge assembly with actuators and pile connection assemblies, allowing for simultaneous installation of multiple piles without external cranes and enhancing tension and compression capacity, along with a helical pile design featuring varying pitches for improved soil engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If hydraulic hammering is used to install piles, then installation speed and force are improved, but noise levels increase harmful to marine life and equipment damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the hydraulic hammering system with a push-in system that uses controlled mechanical pushing forces. The device employs hydraulic actuators to apply gradual compressive forces to push piles into the seabed, eliminating the impact-based mechanical system that generates harmful noise while maintaining the necessary installation force.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes hydraulic actuators to generate and control the pushing forces. The hydraulic system provides controlled, gradual force application through fluid pressure, enabling pile installation without impact while maintaining sufficient installation force. The hydraulic system is contained within a floating device structure.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If screw piles are used as silent alternatives, then noise levels are reduced, but installation efficiency and capacity decrease for offshore use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple piles into a single integrated installation device. The floating device can accommodate and push multiple piles (at least five) simultaneously or in sequence, combining the quiet operation of push-in methods with increased installation capacity and efficiency suitable for offshore applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from single-pile to multi-pile installation capability by expanding the device's functional dimensions. The floating device structure provides multiple connection points and actuators, enabling simultaneous installation of multiple piles, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining low noise levels.
3Strength
If monopiles are used in deeper waters, then support capacity is improved, but structure size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the foundation support system into multiple separate piles instead of using a single large monopile. By installing multiple smaller piles (at least five) in a polygonal arrangement, the system achieves the required support capacity for deep water applications while using simpler, smaller individual pile structures and a modular floating installation device.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single vertical support element to a distributed multi-pile system arranged in a polygonal configuration. This spatial arrangement in multiple dimensions provides the necessary support capacity for deep water while keeping individual pile structures and the installation device simpler and more manageable.
4Ease of operation
If piles are installed in a row configuration, then installation simplicity is improved, but distance from structure increases making it uneconomical for offshore
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a polygonal configuration (such as triangular, square, or pentagonal arrangements) instead of a linear row configuration. This asymmetric geometric arrangement allows multiple piles to be positioned optimally around or near the offshore structure, reducing the distance to the structure and improving economic efficiency while maintaining the simplicity of the push-in installation method.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a support structure for supporting a top structure, in particular a wind turbine, above the ground or a seabed, the support structure comprising: one single support pile having a length and a first outer diameter, the one single support pile comprising an upper part configured and intended to extend above the ground or the seabed, wherein the upper part of the support pile is configured to be connected to the top structure; a lower part configured to be in contact with the ground or seabed, wherein the support pile is configured to exert an upward vertical force on the top structure in order to carry the top structure; a plurality of foundation guides connected to the lower part of the single support pile, each foundation guide having an opening extending in a direction of the support pile.