Single-Sided Guide Support Arm for Marine Pipeline Launch Tower
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marine pipeline installation systems face challenges in accessing the firing line for accessory handling, particularly with the conventional guide support structure obstructing the path and limiting accessibility for end fittings and other accessories.
Innovation Solution
A single-sided guide support arm is introduced, mounted on one side of the pipeline guide with a cantilevered carrier, allowing for lateral access and adjustable positioning to clear the firing line, combined with movable tensioners and an A&R system that optimizes the positioning of A&R sheaves support structures without interference with the guide support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional guide support structure is used, then the pipeline guide is supported, but the firing line is obstructed and accessibility for accessory handling is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The guide support structure is segmented into a single-sided guide support arm with a cantilevered carrier, separating the support function from the firing line area. This segmentation allows the firing line to be accessible from the side opposite the guide support arm, resolving the contradiction between supporting the pipeline guide and maintaining accessibility for accessory handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide support arm is positioned in a different spatial dimension (on one side of the pipeline guide) rather than obstructing the firing line directly. This dimensional repositioning allows accessory handling to occur in the previously obstructed space, improving accessibility without compromising guide support functionality.
2Reliability
If the guide support structure is positioned to support the pipeline guide, then the pipeline guide is stable, but the path for accessories like end fittings is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The guide support structure is divided into a single-sided arm and cantilevered carrier, positioning the support function away from the accessory passage path. This segmentation maintains pipeline guide stability while clearing the path for accessories like end fittings to pass through the firing line unobstructed.
Solution Approach 2:
The cantilevered carrier acts as an intermediary element that supports the pipeline guide without requiring direct obstruction of the firing line. This intermediary structure provides the necessary support while allowing accessories to pass through the cleared path on the opposite side.
3Strength
If a traditional guide support structure is used, then the pipeline guide is supported, but the construction is heavier and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The guide support structure is segmented into a single-sided configuration with a cantilevered carrier, eliminating redundant support elements. This segmentation reduces the overall weight and complexity of the structure while maintaining sufficient support capability for the pipeline guide through optimized load distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide support arm is designed with adjustable positioning capabilities, allowing it to be moved to positions that optimize both support effectiveness and weight efficiency. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the structure to provide necessary support with minimal material, reducing overall weight while maintaining strength.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a marine pipeline installation system and marine pipeline installation method. The marine pipeline installation system comprises a pipeline launch tower for launching the pipeline in a firing line along said pipeline launch tower into the sea, and one or more tensioners supported by the pipeline launch tower. The system further comprises a pipeline guide supported in a pipeline launch trajectory between a pipeline storage and the firing line above the one or more tensioners, wherein the pipeline guide is provided opposite the firing line relative to the pipeline launch tower. A guide support structure is provided, which is embodied as a single-sided guide support arm arranged on one side of the pipeline guide only.