Seabed Cable Deployment Multi-Reel System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems are not adequately suited for efficiently and reliably deploying and retrieving branched cable networks on the seabed, particularly from a vessel deck, as they are complex to operate and not designed for handling branched configurations effectively.
Innovation Solution
A multi-reel system with a primary reel and independently rotatable secondary reels, along with a reel driving mechanism and cable guides, allows for simultaneous but independent deployment or retrieval of primary and secondary cables, enabling flexible handling of cables with different diameters and speeds to manage slack and twisting issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single reel system is used for deploying primary and secondary cables, then the device complexity is reduced, but it becomes impossible to handle cables with different diameters and deployment speeds independently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cable deployment system into multiple independent reels - a primary reel for the main cable and secondary reels for branched cables. Each reel can rotate independently at different speeds, allowing separate control of deployment rates for cables with different diameters and requirements. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by providing the needed adaptability while keeping each reel unit relatively simple in design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control by allowing the secondary reels to rotate independently from the primary reel. The secondary reels can be driven at variable speeds relative to the primary reel, enabling real-time adjustment to handle different cable characteristics, prevent slack, and manage twisting issues during deployment. This dynamic capability provides adaptability without requiring a completely complex integrated system.
2Ease of operation
If secondary reels are fixed to the reel body, then the structure is simpler, but independent rotation and speed control of secondary reels is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the secondary reels rotatably connected to the reel body rather than fixed, enabling independent rotation. This dynamic connection allows the secondary reels to spin freely at different speeds from the primary reel while still being supported by the reel body structure. The operational flexibility gained enables independent speed control and handling of different cable types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the reel system into a stationary reel body and independently rotatable secondary reels. The reel body provides structural support and holds the primary cable, while the secondary reels can rotate independently to deploy branched cables at different rates. This segmentation achieves ease of operation through independent control while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
3Reliability
If primary and secondary cables are deployed at the same speed, then the deployment process is simpler to control, but slack or twisting issues occur when cable diameters differ
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic speed control by allowing secondary reels to rotate at variable speeds independent of the primary reel. This enables the system to adjust rotation rates in real-time to match cable characteristics, preventing slack and twisting issues that would occur with uniform speed deployment. The dynamic control capability ensures reliable deployment without requiring an overly complex control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter of reel rotation speed by allowing each reel to operate at different speeds based on cable requirements. The secondary reels can be driven faster or slower than the primary reel depending on cable diameter, material properties, and deployment conditions. This parameter flexibility ensures reliable cable deployment while keeping the control system manageable.
4Ease of manufacture
If an underwater deployment system is used, then cable installation on the ocean floor is achieved, but the operational complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a reel body as an intermediary structure that simplifies operation by providing a centralized platform for mounting multiple reels. The reel body handles the complexity of coordinating primary and secondary cable deployment, allowing operators to control the system from the vessel deck rather than requiring complex underwater operations. This intermediary structure reduces operational complexity while maintaining full deployment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the deployment system into distinct functional units (primary reel, secondary reels, reel body) that can be independently controlled and operated. This segmentation allows the system to be operated from the vessel deck with simpler procedures compared to integrated underwater systems, as each reel unit can be managed separately while working together to achieve the overall deployment goal.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for retrieval and deployment of a cable distribution network comprising a main cable and secondary cable sections branched off from the main cable. Retrieval and deployment of the cable network is accomplished by use of a multi-reel system having separate primary and secondary reels for accommodating sections of the main cable and the secondary cable sections. Since the primary and secondary reels are independently rotatable, the cable network can be installed efficiently and reliably.