Offshore Jacket Assembly with Modular A-Frames and Split Cross Nodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly and transportation of jacket structures for offshore wind turbines and other offshore installations are complex and resource-intensive due to their large size and the need for extensive equipment and infrastructure, requiring improvements to facilitate easier assembly and transport.
Innovation Solution
A method involving pre-assembled components with brace cross nodes that form A-frames, allowing for easier assembly by joining complementary parts at ground level, reducing the need for complex individual connections and enabling efficient transportation of partially assembled structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If jacket structures are assembled as complete large-scale structures, then structural integrity is ensured, but transportation and assembly become extremely complex and resource-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The jacket structure is divided into multiple modular components (legs, braces, node elements) that can be manufactured separately and transported independently. Each component maintains its structural integrity while the modular design simplifies transportation and assembly operations, resolving the contradiction between ensuring structural integrity and reducing assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Components are pre-assembled into sub-structures at the manufacturing site before transportation. The node elements are pre-configured with connection mechanisms, and braces are pre-attached to legs where possible. This preliminary assembly reduces on-site complexity while maintaining structural integrity through factory-controlled precision.
2Stability of the object's composition
If jacket structures are assembled at higher locations, then complete structure is achieved, but assembly difficulty and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is segmented into manageable components that can be assembled in a bottom-up or modular fashion. This allows workers to assemble components at ground level or lower elevations rather than working at great heights, improving safety and ease of operation while still achieving complete structural assembly through systematic component integration.
Solution Approach 2:
Components are prepared and pre-assembled at ground level before being lifted into position. Connection elements and fastening mechanisms are pre-installed on components before they are raised, reducing the need for high-altitude welding or fastening operations and thereby improving assembly ease and worker safety.
3Stability of the object's composition
If extensive equipment and infrastructure are used for assembly, then complete jacket structures can be erected, but resource requirements and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the structure into modular components reduces the size and weight of individual pieces that need to be handled, allowing the use of smaller, more numerous pieces of equipment rather than requiring one or two massive cranes. This segmentation reduces the overall equipment resources needed while still achieving complete structure erection.
Solution Approach 2:
Pre-assembly of components at the manufacturing site or nearby fabrication yards reduces the amount of work that must be performed on-site. This preliminary preparation reduces the need for extensive on-site equipment such as welding rigs, lifting equipment, and support infrastructure, thereby reducing resource requirements while maintaining structural completeness.
Data Source
AI summary
Assembling a jacket structure that includes two or more legs and crossing braces extending between the legs and forming cross joints. A first component of the jacket structure includes two or more legs and brace structures. Each brace structure includes a first brace and a second brace, sections of the first and second braces being at one end attached to the first leg at respective first and second leg-brace joints. The brace structure and the first leg form an A-frame. A second component of the jacket structure that includes a second set of brace structures and a second part of the brace cross node is further provided. The first component of the jacket structure is mounted to the second component of the jacket structure by joining the first and second parts of the brace cross nodes to form full brace cross nodes.