Multi-function Unit for Offshore Hydrocarbon Transfer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current hydrocarbon transfer systems for cryogenic fluids between LNG process vessels and carriers are heavy, expensive, operator unfriendly, prone to failure, and not suitable for harsh environments, especially due to the need for complex and heavy lifting equipment and potential hose clashes.
Innovation Solution
The CryoRide™ system provides a multi-function unit that acts as a fixation point, floating structure, and lifting device for cryogenic hoses, allowing for safe and efficient transfer by eliminating relative motion and enabling emergency shutdown and purging, without requiring additional modifications to the carrier.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If heavy lifting cranes and complex systems are used for hydrocarbon transfer, then the transfer system can handle the weight and complexity of cryogenic fluid transfer, but the system becomes very heavy, expensive, and difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer system is divided into modular components: a transfer unit with transfer arm, a multi-function unit with end fittings, and flexible hoses. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies maintenance and replacement of individual parts without affecting the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-function unit serves multiple purposes: it acts as a fixation point for end fittings, provides buoyancy when submerged, functions as a lifting device to raise end fittings to the carrier deck level, and enables emergency shutdown and purging operations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated equipment for each operation.
2Speed
If local cranes and winches are used to lift hoses to deck level, then the hoses can be positioned for connection, but additional lifting equipment must be installed on each carrier which is costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-function unit is equipped with its own integrated lifting device that can autonomously raise the end fittings and associated components to the required height for connection to the carrier manifold. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external cranes or winches on the carrier, making the system compatible with any standard carrier without modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-function unit acts as an intermediary between the submerged transfer hose and the carrier manifold. It provides the necessary lifting function and connection interface, mediating the transfer operation without requiring direct integration with the carrier's lifting equipment.
3Reliability
If complex transfer systems with multiple components are used, then the transfer capability is sufficient, but the system becomes operator unfriendly and prone to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The end fittings, buoyancy elements, lifting mechanisms, and connection interfaces are merged into a single integrated multi-function unit. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components that operators must handle and assemble, thereby simplifying operations and reducing the probability of assembly errors or component failures.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-function unit is pre-positioned and prepared in the water before the actual transfer operation begins. The end fittings are already attached and the lifting device is ready, eliminating the need for complex on-site assembly and reducing operational complexity during the critical transfer phase.
4Adaptability or versatility
If hoses are lowered into the sea for transfer, then the transfer can occur in harsh sea states, but means must be provided to transport and position the hoses which adds system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
Buoyancy elements are integrated into the multi-function unit to counteract the weight of the hose and end fittings when submerged in water. This allows the assembly to float or be easily positioned in the water column without requiring complex heavy-duty towing or positioning equipment, simplifying the transport and deployment system while maintaining harsh sea state capability.
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 solution simplifies and cost-reduces the offloading process, ensuring safe and efficient transfer of cryogenic fluids while maintaining the integrity of the hoses and equipment, even in harsh conditions, by providing a modular and adaptable system that can connect to various carriers without additional lifting equipment.
Implementation Method 1
as a floating structure for the end fittings of the transfer hoses
Implementation Method 2
both hoses are cooled down simultaneously by pumping a cold fluid within the interconnected hoses
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c
Figure 2a~2b
AI summary
This invention relates to a hydrocarbon transfer arrangement for transfer of fluids between an offshore unit and a carrier which are placed in an offloading configuration, comprising at least one transfer hose (3) and a gas return hose (4), wherein the end of the at least one transfer hose is connected to a floating multi-function unit (6) allowing for the transport of the transfer hose between the offshore unit and the carrier, wherein the floating multi-function unit can be lifted out of the water and can be held in a fixed position above water-level and is provided with connection means for making a fluid connection between the transfer hose end and a manifold of the carrier and with emergency disconnect means for the at least one transfer hose, placed at a distance from the connection means.