Quick Connector for Offshore Mooring Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting and disconnecting offshore floating structures from pre-laid mooring systems are complex, require multiple specialized vessels, and are time-consuming, especially for maintenance purposes.
Innovation Solution
A quick connector system that fluid-dynamically actuates a locking mechanism to coaxially couple and decouple an offshore floating structure to a pre-laid mooring system, allowing for easy and rapid connection and disconnection without the need for complex planning or multiple vessels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mooring line installation methods are used, then the offshore floating structure can be securely connected to the seabed, but the process requires multiple specialized vessels and complex planning
Solution Approach 1:
The mooring system is divided into two separate components: a pre-laid mooring system anchored to the seabed and a quick connector attached to the floating structure. This segmentation allows the mooring lines to be installed independently before the floating structure arrives, eliminating the need for complex coordinated operations during connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick connector acts as an intermediary device that simplifies the connection between the floating structure and the pre-laid mooring system. It provides a standardized interface with locking mechanism that enables reliable connection without requiring multiple specialized vessels or complex planning during the actual connection operation.
2Reliability
If conventional mooring line installation methods are used, then the offshore floating structure can be securely connected to the seabed, but the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The mooring lines are installed and anchored to the seabed in advance, before the floating structure arrives at the installation site. This preliminary action eliminates the time-consuming process of installing mooring lines during the connection operation, allowing the floating structure to be quickly connected to the pre-positioned mooring system.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick connector is designed with a self-contained locking mechanism that enables the floating structure to connect to the pre-laid mooring system independently, without requiring external assistance from multiple specialized vessels. The locking mechanism automatically secures the connection once the quick connector is positioned over the mooring interface.
3Ease of manufacture
If the floating structure is towed to installation site completely assembled, then the structure can be installed as a unit, but maintenance requires multiple towing operations and specialized vessels
Solution Approach 1:
The mooring connection is segmented into a permanent mooring system and a removable quick connector. This allows the floating structure to be installed as a complete unit initially, but enables rapid disconnection and reconnection during maintenance operations without requiring multiple towing operations or specialized vessels, significantly improving maintenance productivity.
4Ease of operation
If a quick connector system is used, then connection and disconnection becomes fast and easy, but a reliable locking mechanism must be implemented
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism utilizes hydraulic or pneumatic actuation to control the locking and unlocking of the quick connector. This fluid-dynamic actuation system provides reliable and controlled engagement of the locking mechanism, ensuring secure connection while maintaining ease of operation through remote or automated actuation.
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
The quick connector system enables fast, easy, and safe connection and disconnection of offshore floating structures, reducing the need for specialized vessels and improving operational efficiency, particularly for maintenance and maintenance-related towing.
Implementation Method 1
Each intermediate elastic element is fluid-dynamically expansible and retractable by actuation of the fluid-dynamic device. The inner cavity of the intermediate elastic element is in fluid communication with the source of pressurized fluid through the fluid conduit and through the valve arrangement.
Implementation Method 2
Each locking assembly is guided to slide perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and comprises a locking claw and an intermediate elastic element interposed between the locking claw and the base structure.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The quick connector coupling an offshore floating structure to a pre-laid mooring system comprises a base structure (6) coupled to an upper body (2) of the offshore floating structure, a mooring interface (13) attached to a lower body (3) of the pre-laid mooring system, and a locking mechanism comprising a grooved surface (16) formed in the mooring interface (13), locking claws (10) movably mounted on the base structure (6), and a fluid-dynamic device associated to the base structure (6) and operatively connected to move the locking claws (10) between a release position in which the locking claws (10) are withdrawn from the grooved surface (16) of the mooring interface (13) and a lock position in which the locking claws (10) are meshed with the grooved surface (16) of the mooring interface (13).