Subsea Buoyancy Module Clamping With Single-Bolt Tensioners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing buoyancy modules for offshore applications face challenges in accurate and efficient installation, particularly when deployed at sea, leading to increased project costs and vessel stoppages due to cumbersome and labor-intensive processes.
Innovation Solution
A buoyancy module design comprising a pair of module bodies secured with single bolt tensioners, each with recesses and longitudinal channels, and pads, allowing for precise attachment to cables, pipes, or umbilicals using cylindrical washers and nuts, enabling efficient and accurate installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional clamping mechanisms with large hydraulic tools and multiple bolts are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation becomes cumbersome and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The buoyancy module is divided into multiple segmentable bodies that can be assembled together, with each body having simplified attachment features. This allows the complex attachment task to be broken down into smaller, more manageable steps that can be performed with simpler tools
Solution Approach 2:
The single bolt tensioner is designed with a nested structure where the bolt passes through aligned bolt channels in multiple module bodies, and the tensioning mechanism is contained within the module assembly itself, integrating multiple functions into a compact unit
2Manufacturing precision
If precise tensioning force is applied using traditional methods, then attachment precision is improved, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The module bodies are pre-configured with aligned bolt channels and recesses during manufacturing, so that during installation the bolt can be inserted through all bodies simultaneously without requiring complex alignment procedures, reducing installation time while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The single bolt tensioner design allows the bolt itself to serve multiple functions: it acts as the fastening element, the tensioning element, and the alignment reference, eliminating the need for separate alignment and tensioning tools
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple module bodies are secured together with traditional clamping mechanisms, then structural integrity is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fastening functions (clamping, tensioning, alignment) are merged into a single bolt tensioner mechanism. The bolt passes through aligned channels in all module bodies and, when tensioned, simultaneously secures all bodies together, reducing the number of separate mechanisms needed
Solution Approach 2:
The single bolt tensioner is designed as a multi-functional element that provides clamping force, maintains alignment, and secures multiple module bodies simultaneously, replacing what would traditionally require multiple separate fastening mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are novel buoyancy modules for attachment to a cable, pipe, or umbilical. The buoyancy modules include a pair of module bodies adapted to mate with each other. Each module body has a recess adapted to engage a single bolt tensioner and at least one of the module bodies includes a longitudinal channel running the length of the module body. Further, the module bodies include one or more pads positioned within a pad containment channel. A plurality of single bolt tensioners may be positioned within the recesses of the module bodies and tensioned to impart a compressive force such that the module bodies contact each other, generating a predetermined displacement of the pad and thereby imparting a known clamping force that results in a desired clamping pressure being applied by the pad to the cable pipe or umbilical.