Segmented Chain Damping Assembly for Mooring Shock Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing chain damping systems for mooring chains are disadvantaged by point loading, which can lead to failure and disengagement of the watercraft from the mooring line, and require frequent replacement of damping devices to adapt to changing weather and mooring conditions.
Innovation Solution
A chain damping and shock absorber system that includes one or more damping devices installed to segments of the chain, utilizing an elastic rod that compresses the chain from its fully extended length to a shorter compressed length, allowing the chain to extend dynamically under tensile load while maintaining a residual damping response in case of elastic rod separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a secondary shock line is attached to two chain links to create slack and dampen loads, then the elastic response dampens shock loads, but point loading the chain at two links creates vulnerability to failure and disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The chain is divided into multiple segments with damping devices distributed along its length rather than concentrating the damping function at a single point. Each damping device independently dampens loads on its respective chain segment, and failure of one device does not compromise the entire mooring system.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the chain are equipped with damping devices at specific locations to provide localized shock absorption where needed, while maintaining the overall structural integrity of the chain. The damping function is applied locally at multiple points rather than globally at one point.
2Reliability
If a spring type mechanism is installed in line with the mooring chain to provide elastic response, then the spring provides damping, but metal spring components are subject to corrosion and corrosion related failures in marine environment
Solution Approach 1:
The damping devices use non-metallic, corrosion-resistant materials that may have simpler construction and can be replaced more easily than metal springs. The focus is on using materials that resist corrosion rather than attempting to protect metal components.
Solution Approach 2:
The damping devices incorporate non-metallic materials such as elastomers or polymers that provide the necessary elastic response without being susceptible to corrosion. These materials replace traditional metal spring components while maintaining the damping function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the length of chain is increased to deal with changes in water depth, then the mooring line can accommodate depth variations, but a very large scope of at least three to five times the water depth is required, consuming large mooring space
Solution Approach 1:
The chain assembly incorporates damping devices that dynamically respond to tensile loads by extending from a compressed state, allowing the system to adapt to changing water depths and loading conditions without requiring excessive chain length. The damping devices provide dynamic length adjustment through their elastic response.
Solution Approach 2:
The damping devices change their effective length parameter in response to loading conditions, extending when loaded and compressing when unloaded. This dynamic parameter change allows the mooring system to accommodate water depth variations without requiring a fixed, excessively long chain.
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
The system effectively dampens and absorbs shock and tensile forces, reduces the space envelope required for mooring, allows for a higher density of moored watercraft, and provides a controlled response to changes in loading conditions without the need for frequent component replacement.
Implementation Method 1
each damping device including an elastic rod, such that the chain segment is compressed by the damping device from the fully extended length of the chain segment to a compressed length
Implementation Method 2
The chain damping system includes one or more damping devices, each damping device installed to a segment of the chain, such that the chain and the one or more damping devices installed to a chain segment form a damped chain assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A chain damping and shock absorber system for a chain includes one or more damping devices, each damping device installed to a segment of the chain, such that the chain and the one or more damping devices installed to a chain segment form a damped and compressed chain assembly. In response to a tensile force applied to the chain, the chain segment is extendable to an extended length which is between its compressed length and its full length. Methods of installing the chain damping and shock absorber system are provided.