Rotating Skidding Pallet for Offshore Module Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current module deployment and recovery systems face challenges in adjusting the orientation of modules on skidding pallets to align with the vessel's heading, especially when weather conditions change, leading to potential postponements due to twisting guidewires and unreliable weather forecasts.
Innovation Solution
A skidding pallet system with a supporting means and actuation mechanism, allowing the mounting means to rotate relative to the skid rails, enabling the module to be repositioned for optimal alignment with the subsea template based on changing weather conditions without requiring significant vessel design changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the module is positioned on the pallet with a fixed orientation during mobilisation, then the setup is simple and quick, but the orientation may no longer coincide with the preferred vessel heading when reaching the installation site, leading to operational delays
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet is designed with a rotatable mounting means that allows the module to be dynamically repositioned and rotated to different orientations. The actuation means enables the mounting means to rotate relative to the supporting means and skid rails, transforming the static pallet into a dynamic system that can adapt to changing weather conditions and vessel headings while maintaining operational efficiency
2Reliability
If the vessel heading is changed to face against the weather, then the vessel operates in optimal conditions, but the module orientation on the pallet may no longer align with the subsea template, causing installation problems
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting means is designed to be rotatable relative to the supporting means, allowing the module orientation to be dynamically adjusted after the vessel changes heading. This dynamic repositioning capability ensures that the module can be realigned with the subsea template regardless of the vessel's orientation relative to the weather, maintaining both operational reliability and installation ease
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the orientation parameter of the module on the pallet by rotating the mounting means. This parameter change allows the module to be repositioned at different angles to coincide with the subsea template while the vessel maintains its optimal heading against the weather, resolving the conflict between vessel operation reliability and installation alignment
3Productivity
If the module orientation is adjusted to match changing weather conditions, then operational continuity is maintained, but the complexity of the pallet system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet incorporates a rotatable mounting means with actuation means that enables dynamic orientation adjustment of the module. This dynamic capability allows the system to maintain operational continuity by adapting to changing weather conditions while the vessel changes heading, ensuring the module can always be aligned with the subsea template
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting means serves multiple functions: it supports the module, allows repositioning along the pallet, and enables rotation to different orientations. This multi-functionality consolidates several operations into a single mechanism, achieving operational continuity without proportionally increasing system complexity
4Adaptability or versatility
If guidewires are used to carry the module to the template, then the module can be deployed to subsea locations, but the guidewires will twist when there is a large offset between module installation heading and weather direction
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the orientation parameter of the module on the pallet using the rotatable mounting means. By adjusting the module orientation to match the vessel heading, the offset between installation direction and weather direction is minimized, preventing guidewire twisting while maintaining deployment capability to subsea locations
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 safe and simple reorientation of modules at sea, allowing vessels to maintain optimal heading and installation alignment, even with changing weather conditions, thereby reducing operational delays and installation complexities.
Implementation Method 1
said actuation means may comprise a hydraulic cylinder
Implementation Method 2
when said ram is extended, one of said frame members rotates in relation to the other
Data Source
AI summary
A skidding pallet (200) for use on the skid rails (110, 115) of a vessel is disclosed, the pallet comprising a supporting means such as a frame (230), a mounting means for the mounting of an object thereon, and at least one actuation means, such as a cylinder (240), attached to one of the supporting means or mounting means. In use, the supporting means interfaces with the skid rails and the actuation means are actuatable to cause the mounting means to rotate in relation to said supporting means and the skid rails.