Sea Platform Lifting Device With Flexible Console Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lifting systems for sea platforms face challenges in efficiently switching between low and high vertical stiffness modes, limiting freedom of movement during lifting operations and requiring complex, energy-intensive actuators, which complicates the lifting and transport processes.
Innovation Solution
A lifting device with a base frame, console frame, and suspension system that includes a pivotable beam actuator, allowing the system to switch between free-moving and supporting modes, providing adjustable stiffness and reducing energy consumption by using a flexible connection system and passive control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lifting system uses large actuators to compensate for relative movements between the sea platform and lifting vessel, then the stability and precision of the lifting operation is improved, but the device complexity and maintenance requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting device allows dynamic adjustment between two operational modes: a free-moving mode during lifting operations that permits relative movement between the lifting vessel and sea platform, and a supporting mode during transport that provides stability. This dynamic adaptability eliminates the need for complex active compensation actuators while maintaining reliability in both operational phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its mechanical parameters by switching between modes: in free-moving mode, the connection allows relative movement with lower stiffness; in supporting mode, the connection becomes stiffer to provide stability during transport. This parameter change approach replaces complex active control systems with a simpler passive mechanical solution.
2Reliability
If the lifting system maintains a rigid connection between the lifting vessel and sea platform, then the stability during transport is improved, but the freedom of movement during lifting operations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting device incorporates a dynamic mode-switching mechanism that transitions the connection characteristics based on operational phase. During lifting operations, the system operates in free-moving mode allowing relative movement between the lifting vessel and platform. During transport, it switches to supporting mode providing a stiff connection for stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The same lifting device structure serves multiple functions: it provides freedom of movement during lifting operations and provides stable support during transport operations. This multi-functionality is achieved through the mode-switching capability that adapts the mechanical characteristics of the connection to match operational requirements.
3Measurement precision
If the lifting system uses active control with large actuators to maintain position during lifting, then the precision of position control is improved, but the energy consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting device utilizes passive mechanical characteristics to achieve position control without requiring active energy input during the lifting operation. The free-moving mode allows the system to naturally accommodate relative movements between the lifting vessel and platform through mechanical flexibility, eliminating the need for energy-consuming active control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions between operational states (free-moving mode during lifting, supporting mode during transport) rather than maintaining continuous active control. This periodic switching between passive mechanical states reduces energy consumption compared to continuous active control.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a lifting device for lifting an upper part of a sea platform, the sea platform comprising a support structure and a top side, the lifting device being constructed to be positioned on a lifting vessel, the lifting device comprising: a base frame constructed to rest on the lifting vessel, at least one console frame connected to the base frame via a flexible connection system, a suspension system connected to the console frame and comprising a leg connector, wherein the suspension system is constructed to allow freedom of movement of the leg connector relative to the console frame, wherein the flexible connection system forms a flexible connection between the console frame and the base frame and allows a predetermined movement of the console frame.