Offshore Crane Boom Segmentation for Transport Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Offshore wind turbines require larger hoisting cranes for handling heavy components, but large cranes compromise the stability of the vessel during transport.
Innovation Solution
A hoisting crane system with a boom comprising a proximal, intermediate, and distal portion, allowing for adjustable length and configuration, enabling the crane to be extended for operation and retracted for transport, with a locking mechanism for stability and a lattice structure for increased strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a large hoisting crane is used to handle heavy wind turbine components, then the crane can handle larger and heavier components, but the vessel stability during transport is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The boom is divided into three segments (proximal portion, intermediate portion, and distal portion) that can be independently configured. The intermediate portion can be connected or disconnected, allowing the boom length to be adjusted between operational and transport states, thus resolving the contradiction between needing a long boom for high-altitude operations and maintaining vessel stability during transport
Solution Approach 2:
The boom system transitions from a static fixed-length structure to a dynamic adjustable-length structure. The intermediate portion can be connected during operations to extend the boom for handling components at heights over 100 meters, and disconnected during transport to reduce the overall size and maintain vessel stability
2Length of stationary object
If the boom length is extended to handle components at heights over 100 meters, then the crane can reach higher, but the crane occupies more space and reduces vessel stability
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate portion is designed to nest within the distal portion when disconnected, creating a compact configuration for transport. This nesting arrangement allows the boom to achieve extended length during operations while occupying minimal space during transport, resolving the contradiction between reach and footprint
3Adaptability or versatility
If a telescopic boom structure is used to adjust length, then the crane can adapt between operational and transport states, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The boom is segmented into three distinct portions with standardized connection interfaces. The intermediate portion can be connected or disconnected using simple mechanical joints, providing adaptability without requiring complex telescopic mechanisms. This segmentation approach achieves configuration flexibility while keeping the overall structure relatively simple
Data Source
AI summary
A hoisting crane or multi configurations crane system for use on an offshore vessel, such a vessel and methods for operating are disclosed. The hoisting crane comprises a boom having a proximal portion, an intermediate portion and a distal portion. An extension mechanism is provided that is configured to allow the distal portion to be slid relative to the intermediate portion from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration. In the retracted configuration, the intermediate portion is arranged substantially within the distal portion.