Multi-sided semi-submersible column design for wave resistance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Offshore semi-submersibles require robust support structures that can withstand harsh marine environments and varying water depths, with existing structures facing challenges in stability and adaptability, especially in deep waters and rough conditions.
Innovation Solution
A multi-sided support column design with angled and tapered sides, allowing for enhanced stability and adaptability, which can be manufactured to fit various offshore structures, including semi-submersibles, to minimize the impact of waves and currents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional cylindrical or rectangular support columns are used in semi-submersibles, then the structure is simple to manufacture and install, but the stability and resistance to wave and current forces are insufficient in harsh marine environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by designing support columns with non-uniform cross-sections that have different dimensions along their length. The columns feature varying widths and depths at different heights, creating an asymmetric geometry that optimizes structural performance. This asymmetric design allows the column to better resist wave and current forces by positioning material where stresses are highest, thereby improving reliability without requiring additional support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by varying the cross-sectional dimensions of the support columns at different locations along their height. The columns have different width and depth measurements at various heights, concentrating structural strength where needed most. This localized optimization of material distribution enhances the column's ability to withstand environmental loads while maintaining overall structural efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If support structures are designed for deep water operations, then the operational capability in harsh marine environments is improved, but the manufacturing and adaptation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing support columns with standardized connection interfaces and modular geometric progressions that can be adapted to different water depths and operational requirements. The columns feature consistent flange configurations and connection mechanisms that allow the same basic design to serve multiple functions across various semi-submersible configurations, thereby improving adaptability while controlling manufacturing complexity through standardization.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the support column design is optimized for maximum stability, then the resistance to wave and current effects is improved, but the structural complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature principles by incorporating rounded corners and smooth transitions in the column cross-sections rather than sharp angles. The varying width and depth dimensions are connected through curved surfaces that distribute stresses more evenly and eliminate stress concentration points. This curved geometry approach improves resistance to wave and current effects while maintaining manufacturability through standard forming processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A support structure includes a column having multiple sides. A first side and a second side of the column are disposed at a first angle with respect to another. The second side and a third side of the column are disposed at a second angle with respect to another. The third side and a fourth side of the column are disposed at a third angle with respect to another. The fourth side and a fifth side of the column are disposed at a fourth angle with respect to another. The fifth side may be disposed at a fifth angle with respect to a sixth side and/or the first side of the column, in which the sixth side and the first side of the column may be disposed at a sixth angle with respect to another.