Offshore OTEC Suction Pipe Segmentation for Storm Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Ocean Thermal Energy (OTE) installations face mechanical strength issues due to harsh environmental conditions such as strong marine currents and storms, leading to degradation or failure of components, particularly at the junction between the rigid suction pipe and the floating platform, and pose navigation challenges with underwater equipment.
Innovation Solution
The offshore installation features a three-part suction pipe system with a rigid pipe immersed at great depth, a flexible pipe connection, and a lattice structure with rigid pumping pipes under the platform for water discharge, including an intermediate float for anchoring and navigation clearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid suction pipe is used to draw cold water from great depth, then the mechanical strength is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to degradation or failure under harsh environmental conditions such as strong marine currents and storms
Solution Approach 1:
The suction pipe is divided into multiple segments: a rigid lower portion for withstanding deep-sea pressure, flexible intermediate portions for absorbing environmental stresses, and a rigid upper portion for structural support. This segmentation allows each part to perform its optimal function while the whole system maintains high reliability
Solution Approach 2:
Flexible pipe portions are introduced into the suction pipe structure to accommodate strong marine currents and storm-induced movements. These flexible sections can deform elastically under environmental loads, preventing catastrophic failure while maintaining the integrity of the overall pipe system
2Strength
If rigid pipes are used for both pumping and discharging water, then the mechanical strength is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need to adapt pipe lengths and positions
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge pipe lattice structure incorporates adjustable and adaptable components that can be configured based on operational requirements. The rigid lattice framework provides structural strength while allowing for flexible arrangement of discharge points, simplifying adaptation to different operational conditions without compromising mechanical integrity
3Productivity
If underwater equipment is placed in the area surrounding the platform, then the productivity is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to navigation challenges
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge pipe lattice structure is designed to extend outward from the platform, effectively moving the discharge function away from the immediate platform area. This extraction of function creates clear navigation zones around the platform, allowing vessels to pass safely while maintaining high productivity through efficient water discharge capabilities
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design enhances mechanical integrity by decoupling relative movements between the rigid pipe and platform, adapts discharge pipe lengths, and simplifies navigation by clearing the surrounding area, thereby reducing failure rates and improving operational safety.
Implementation Method 1
a second portion formed with flexible pipes for connecting the upper end of this rigid suction pipe to a third portion of the means forming a suction pipe
Implementation Method 2
the lattice includes an intermediate float
Implementation Method 3
means for producing electrical energy from the temperature difference of water at the surface and of water deep down
Implementation Method 4
using the temperature difference which naturally exists between water at the surface and water deep down in the oceans for operating a heat engine
Data Source
AI summary
This offshore installation for producing electrical energy from thermal energy of the oceans includes a floating platform supporting a generator for producing electrical energy from the temperature difference of the water at the surface and at a depth and associated with a pipe for drawing up water from a depth, is characterized in that the pipe for drawing up water from a depth include three portions, including a first formed with a rigid pipe, the lower end of which is immersed at a great depth and the upper end of which is immersed in midwater at a reduced depth, a second portion formed with flexible pipes for connecting the upper end of this rigid suction pipe to a third portion forming a suction pipe, formed with rigid pumping pipes structuring a lattice of pipes attached under the platform.