Semi-submersible LNG Transfer Structure with Passive Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid transfer systems for cryogenic liquids between floating structures and facilities are cumbersome due to excessive weight from insulation, complex and costly deployment systems, and harsh environmental conditions, which increase operational and initial costs, and are prone to failure.
Innovation Solution
A semi-submersible, floating transfer structure with passive-movable attachment means, such as vacuum or electromagnetic pads, that simplifies the transfer of fluids and electric power between floating and non-floating structures, particularly suitable for shallow waters, reducing weight, construction, and operational costs, while allowing precooling and integration of safety equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If extensive insulation is applied to pipes for cryogenic liquid transfer, then heat loss is reduced, but the weight per meter increases considerably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the insulation requirement from the transfer pipe by using a hose that does not require extensive insulation, thereby eliminating the weight penalty while maintaining acceptable heat loss levels through the specific hose configuration and material selection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the transfer medium by using a hose with different thermal properties than traditional insulated pipes, accepting a certain level of heat loss in exchange for dramatically reduced weight and improved handling characteristics
2Ease of operation
If a complex deployment system with positioning arm and truss work is used, then fluid transfer between vessels is enabled, but initial costs and operational costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex positioning arm and truss work deployment system, replacing it with a simplified mooring device that achieves the same fluid transfer capability through passive means, thereby eliminating the costly and complex active positioning infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The mooring device is designed to self-adjust and maintain connection between vessels without requiring active positioning systems, allowing the system to service itself through natural buoyancy and mooring forces rather than requiring powered positioning arms
3Ease of operation
If the mooring device attaches to the upper portion of floating structure freeboard, then the fluid conduit can be supported, but the weight-altitude on the transfer vessel increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from vertical attachment at high altitude to horizontal attachment at lower levels by distributing mooring points along the hull, thereby supporting the conduit while minimizing the weight-altitude product through spatial redistribution of attachment points
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 enables efficient, safe, and cost-effective transfer of cryogenic liquids and electric power with reduced weight and complexity, minimizing environmental impact and operational risks, and is suitable for milder conditions found in shallow waters.
Implementation Method 1
attachment means mounted to the transfer structure for releasable attachment of the transfer structure to the floating structure
Implementation Method 2
attachment means mounted to the transfer structure for releasable attachment of the transfer structure to the floating structure
Implementation Method 3
the transfer of cryogenic liquids requires precooling of transfer ducts to avoid extensive vapor generation
Data Source
AI summary
A transfer structure for transfer of a fluid between a floating structure and a floating or non-floating facility and/or transmission of electric power between the floating or non-floating facility and the floating structure is disclosed. The transfer structure includes at least one attachment means passive-movably mounted relative to the transfer structure for releasable attachment of the transfer structure to the floating structure. The transfer structure is semi-submersible and floating.