Split-Ring Connector Assembly for Rapid Mooring Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mooring systems for connecting floating vessels to mooring structures are time-consuming and require complex systems, leading to undesirable lost production time and potential risks during severe weather events.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly comprising a stinger and a sleeve assembly with a latching mechanism that allows for quick connection and disconnection, utilizing actuators to secure split rings within grooves and shoulders for stable attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mooring systems are used to connect vessels to mooring structures, then the connection can be maintained even in severe weather conditions, but the connection and disconnection process becomes time-consuming and requires complex systems
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into separate components: a stinger with grooves and a sleeve assembly with shoulders and split rings. This segmentation allows for rapid connection by simply inserting the stinger into the sleeve, with the split rings automatically engaging the grooves and shoulders, eliminating the need for complex fastening systems while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The split rings are pre-positioned on the shoulders of the sleeve assembly and designed to automatically engage with the grooves on the stinger during insertion. This preliminary positioning of the locking elements ensures that the connection is secured automatically as part of the insertion process, eliminating the need for separate locking actions and reducing connection time.
2Reliability
If conventional mooring systems are used to ensure secure connection, then the system requires complex mechanisms, but this increases device complexity and operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into separate components: a stinger with grooves and a sleeve assembly with shoulders and split rings. This segmentation allows for rapid connection by simply inserting the stinger into the sleeve, with the split rings automatically engaging the grooves and shoulders, eliminating the need for complex fastening systems while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The split rings are designed to automatically engage with the grooves and shoulders when the stinger is inserted into the sleeve assembly. The connection mechanism is self-securing, requiring no external intervention or complex control systems, thereby reducing device complexity while ensuring reliable connection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If disconnectable mooring systems are used to allow vessel departure, then vessels can leave to avoid severe weather, but the disconnect and reconnect process requires external intervention even in limited sea states
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into separate components: a stinger with grooves and a sleeve assembly with shoulders and split rings. This segmentation allows for rapid connection by simply inserting the stinger into the sleeve, with the split rings automatically engaging the grooves and shoulders, eliminating the need for complex fastening systems while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The split rings are designed to automatically engage with the grooves and shoulders when the stinger is inserted into the sleeve assembly. The connection mechanism is self-securing, requiring no external intervention or complex control systems, thereby reducing device complexity while ensuring reliable connection.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly can include a stinger and a sleeve assembly that includes a latching mechanism. An outer surface of the stinger can define first and second grooves located toward first and second ends, respectively, thereof. An inner surface of the sleeve assembly can define first and second shoulders located toward first and second ends, respectively, thereof. The latching mechanism can be in an unlocked position or a locked position. When the latching mechanism is unlocked the stinger can be inserted into or removed from the sleeve assembly. When the stinger is within the sleeve assembly and the latching mechanism is locked, the latching mechanism can maintain a first split ring partially within the first groove and partially on the first shoulder and a second split ring partially within the second groove and partially on the second shoulder to secure the stinger within the sleeve assembly.