Pivoting Pile Holder Layout for Space-Efficient Offshore Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pile holding systems for offshore wind turbine installations are cumbersome, require extensive deck space, and are inefficient in transitioning between active and inactive positions, especially with larger and heavier piles, and current jack-up vessels are time-consuming due to leg deployment and retrieval.
Innovation Solution
A pile holding system with a pivotable jaw configuration and a support system that allows the pile holder to move between inboard and outboard positions on the vessel deck, minimizing deck space usage and enabling quick transitions, while incorporating pile engaging devices for precise pile orientation and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the pile holder is positioned outboard outside the vessel contour for supporting piles, then the pile installation capability is improved, but the vessel maneuverability and deck space utilization deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The pile holder is designed with movable mounting mechanisms that allow it to dynamically reposition between inboard storage position and outboard operational position. This dynamic configuration enables the system to adapt its spatial footprint based on operational requirements, minimizing deck space during transit while providing full pile installation capability during operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The pile holder system is divided into separable components that can be independently positioned and configured. This segmentation allows the pile holder to be mounted on the deck in a compact inboard position for storage, and repositioned to an outboard position when pile installation is required, thus resolving the conflict between deck space utilization and pile installation capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an elaborate frame structure is used to pivot the pile holder between inboard and outboard positions, then the positional flexibility is improved, but the system complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the pivotal movement function from a complex elaborate frame structure and implements it through simpler mounting mechanisms. By removing the need for intricate framing systems, the solution achieves positional flexibility through more straightforward mechanical arrangements that reduce overall system complexity and weight while maintaining the ability to transition between inboard and outboard positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex mechanical frame structure is replaced with alternative mounting and positioning mechanisms that achieve the same functional outcome with reduced complexity. This substitution eliminates the need for elaborate framing while maintaining the essential positional flexibility required for pile holder operation.
3Length of moving object
If the pile holder is positioned far from the vessel hull during installation, then the pile installation reach is improved, but the structural support requirements and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs counterbalancing mechanisms that offset the weight penalties associated with extended reach. By implementing counterweight systems, the pile holder can be positioned farther from the vessel hull to achieve greater installation reach without requiring excessively heavy supporting structures, as the counterweight mechanisms balance the moments and reduce the structural load requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a pile holding system to be mounted on a deck of a vessel, e.g. for installation of a pile adapted to support an offshore wind turbine, which pile holding system is configured to support the pile in an upright position at a pile installation location next to the vessel. The invention furthermore relates to a vessel provided with such a pile holder system, and to a method. The invention furthermore provide a pile holder.