Remote Conduit Decoupling Linkage for Spill-Free Jack Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies for disconnecting fluid conductions from fluid jacks, particularly in underwater applications like off-shore wind turbines, face challenges in efficiently and environmentally sustainable disconnection, often requiring manual intervention and risking fluid spillage.
Innovation Solution
A de-coupling device with a link mechanism that moves between secured and disengaged positions, allowing for remote disconnection of fluid conductions from fluid jacks, utilizing pressurized fluid to actuate the link and disconnect the conduit, thereby avoiding manual cutting and minimizing environmental impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual disconnection of fluid conductions is used, then the connection can be disconnected, but fluid spillage occurs and environmental damage happens
Solution Approach 1:
A de-coupling device is introduced as an intermediary component between the fluid conduction and the fluid jack. This device includes a coupler that selectively engages with the fluid jack and a link that controls the engagement state. The intermediary device enables controlled disconnection without direct manual intervention on the fluid conduction itself, thereby preventing fluid spillage while achieving disconnection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical cutting or forcing apart of fluid conductions with a controlled mechanical linkage system. The link mechanism, actuated by applying force in a predetermined direction, substitutes uncontrolled manual disconnection with a structured mechanical process that maintains fluid containment until intentional release is achieved.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If remote disconnection is implemented, then environmental impact is minimized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The de-coupling device is segmented into distinct functional components: a coupler for engaging the fluid jack, a link for controlling engagement state, and a biasing mechanism for maintaining default position. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall device relatively simple and maintainable.
3Extent of automation
If link mechanism is used for remote operation, then manual intervention is avoided, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The link mechanism incorporates a biasing element (such as a spring) that automatically returns the link to its original position after actuation. This self-service feature eliminates the need for complex reset mechanisms or additional actuators to return the system to its initial state, thereby achieving automation while minimizing added complexity.
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
Enables remote and environmentally sustainable disconnection of fluid conductions from submerged fluid jacks, simplifying the installation process and preventing fluid spillage, while being reusable and adaptable to various applications.
Implementation Method 1
The link is moveable between a first position in which the coupler is secured in engagement with the connected device, and a second position in which the coupler is permitted to disengage the connected device. The link is biased toward the first position. The disconnect port is in fluid communication with a fluid source to receive pressurized fluid to move the link from the first position to the second position.
Data Source
AI summary
A jack assembly and a system for supporting a partially submerged structure. The jack assembly may include a fluid jack including a cylinder and a ram, the cylinder having at least one fluid chamber configured to receive a pressurized fluid to move the ram; and a valve housing removably coupled to the fluid jack for providing fluid communication between the fluid jack and at least one fluid conduit, the valve housing including a link movable from a first position toward a second position, the valve housing being secured to the jack while the link is in the first position, the valve assembly being disconnectable from the jack while the link is in the second position.