Offshore Column Working Platform With Releasable Clamp Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temporary working platforms for offshore structures often require permanent or semi-permanent modifications to the column structure, leading to damage and increased costs and time, and lack efficient attachment mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A telescopic gangway and temporary working platform with a releasable mounting mechanism, including clamping mechanisms like non-permanent adhesives, electromagnetic coupling, and clamping jaws, allowing attachment to columns without structural modification, and using motion-compensated access bridges for safe transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mounting constructions are permanently or semi-permanently provided in the exterior wall of columns, then the working platform can be securely attached, but damage is caused to the carrying structure of the columns reducing their operational lifetime
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism is divided into separate components: a clamp assembly with movable clamping elements that can grip the column externally without penetrating or permanently modifying the column structure. This segmentation allows the platform to be attached securely while preserving the integrity and operational lifetime of the column.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly acts as an intermediary between the working platform and the column. It provides a secure attachment interface through friction-based clamping without requiring permanent modifications to the column, thus protecting the column's operational lifetime while ensuring reliable platform attachment.
2Reliability
If permanent or semi-permanent modifications are made to the column structure for mounting, then the platform can be securely attached, but time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism transitions from static permanent modifications to dynamic reversible clamping. The clamp assembly can be quickly opened and closed to attach or detach the platform, eliminating the time-consuming processes of drilling, bolting, or welding required by permanent mounting solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly is designed as a temporary, reusable attachment device rather than a permanent modification. It can be quickly installed and removed multiple times without degrading the column structure, significantly reducing both installation time and overall costs compared to permanent mounting systems.
3Ease of manufacture
If mechanical permanent or semi-permanent modification is realized to the column structure, then the platform can be attached, but damage may occur at the columns even after removal of the temporary working platform
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces mechanical permanent fastening systems (bolts, welds, anchors) with a friction-based clamping mechanism. The clamp assembly uses normal force applied by actuating elements to create sufficient friction for secure attachment, eliminating the need for mechanical modifications that could damage the column structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly is designed to distribute clamping forces evenly around the column through its curved geometry and multiple contact points. The elastic layer on the clamping surface adapts to the column's curvature, ensuring uniform pressure distribution that prevents localized stress concentrations and potential damage to the column structure.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a clamping mechanism surrounds the column, then the platform can be releasably attached without structural modification, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is designed as a universal mounting solution that can attach to columns of various diameters and curvatures. The curved support elements and elastic clamping surfaces adapt to different column geometries, providing a versatile attachment mechanism that reduces overall system complexity by eliminating the need for multiple specialized mounting devices.
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
Reduces damage to offshore structures, saves time and costs, and enables efficient, damage-free attachment and detachment of the working platform.
Implementation Method 1
a clamping construction exploiting frictional forces between the column and the platform
Implementation Method 2
An elastic layer can be mounted on a clamping side of the jaws, e.g. to further reduce a chance that any damage occurs to the column
Implementation Method 3
an electromagnetic device for magnetic coupling with a column having magnetizable material such as steel
Data Source
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AI summary
A temporary working platform for removable attachment to a column of an offshore structure. The platform comprises a frame for carrying a working structure such as a working surface. Further, the platform comprises a mounting mechanism for releasably mounting the working platform to said column, from a side of the column. The mounting mechanism may include a clamping mechanism supporting the frame. The clamping mechanism may be arranged for at least partially surrounding a column of an offshore structure and for releasably clamping said column.