Seabed Mining Collector With Self-Latching Riser Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seabed mining apparatuses require manipulators or ROVs for connection, have reinforced umbilical cables with poor heat conductivity, risk of cable-conduit collision, and struggle with soft ground operation, leading to inefficiencies and environmental impact.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with vertical and horizontal moving means, separator means, and container design to separate nodular from non-nodular material, reducing the need for umbilical reinforcement and ROV assistance, minimizing non-nodular material removal, and enhancing operational efficiency on soft ground.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the umbilical cable is mechanically reinforced to support the apparatus weight, then the cable strength is improved, but the heat conducting properties deteriorate causing insulation heating and limiting electrical power supply
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into separate functional modules: a seabed-operating unit and a surface-vessel unit, connected by the umbilical cable. This segmentation allows the cable to be optimized for electrical power transmission rather than mechanical load bearing, as the weight support function is performed by the seabed unit's contact with the seabed and the surface vessel's buoyancy.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical reinforcement of the umbilical cable is replaced by using the seabed as a mechanical support structure. The apparatus rests on the seabed, transferring mechanical loads to the seabed rather than to the umbilical cable, thereby eliminating the need for mechanically reinforced cable construction.
2Strength
If the umbilical cable is mechanically reinforced, then the cable strength is improved, but the heat conducting properties deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into seabed-based operational components and surface-based support components. The umbilical cable serves primarily as an electrical power and data transmission medium, while mechanical support is provided by the seabed contact and vessel buoyancy, allowing optimized electrical conductivity without mechanical reinforcement constraints.
3Reliability
If manipulators or ROVs are used to assist in connecting the apparatus to the jumper hose, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is designed with self-connecting capabilities through automated coupling mechanisms that enable the seabed unit to connect to the surface vessel unit without requiring external manipulators or ROVs. The design incorporates alignment features and automated latching mechanisms that facilitate reliable connection through the umbilical cable interface.
4Productivity
If the apparatus operates in very soft ground, then the material removal capability is improved, but the operational stability and mobility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus incorporates buoyancy elements that provide upward force counteracting the downward pressure from soft ground conditions. This buoyancy support reduces the effective weight pressing into the soft seabed, preventing sinking and maintaining operational stability while enabling continuous material removal operations.
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 efficient separation of nodular material with reduced environmental impact by minimizing non-nodular material transport and umbilical cable collisions, allowing for more power delivery and easier deployment.
Implementation Method 1
at least one container for receiving liquid containing nodular material and non-nodular material
Implementation Method 2
entry of liquid via at least one said inlet into the container causes reduction in velocity of the liquid
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle (6) apparatus for removing material from the seabed is disclosed. The vehicle comprises first thrusters (10) for moving the vehicle vertically and second thrusters (12) for moving the vehicle horizontally. A collector unit (16) removes material from the seabed, and a latching mechanism (42) is adapted to be connected to a riser to enable removed material to be transported to a vessel on the surface.