Subsea Cable Mounting Track and Sledge System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing cables to subsea pipelines face issues such as inability to reorient the cable post-installation, strap loosening due to hydrostatic pressure, exposure to compression forces, uneven length distribution, and vulnerability to external impacts like trawl boards.
Innovation Solution
A system featuring a track and sledge element connection that allows the cable to move along the pipeline's circumference, with a clamp and buoyant elements to secure and position the cable, preventing radial movement and ensuring even distribution and protection from impacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a strap is used to secure the cable to the pipeline, then the cable is mounted to the pipeline, but the strap may loosen due to hydrostatic pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the static strap system with a dynamic sledge element that can move along the track. The sledge element is retained by a retaining structure that allows controlled movement while preventing loosening, transforming the rigid strap connection into a flexible, self-adjusting mechanical system that maintains constant cable security without tension loss.
2Reliability
If the cable is strapped to the pipeline, then the cable is secured, but the cable cannot be reoriented after installation
Solution Approach 1:
The sledge element is designed to slide along the track, enabling the cable to be repositioned and reoriented after installation. The track provides guided movement constraints while the sledge element's mobility along the track allows adjustment of cable position and orientation, combining security with adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separate functional components: the track fixed to the pipeline, the movable sledge element, and the cable holding mechanism. This segmentation allows the cable to be secured while independently enabling movement and reorientation along the track.
3Reliability
If the cable is mounted using traditional strapping, then the cable is fixed to the pipeline, but the cable can be exposed to compression forces
Solution Approach 1:
The sledge element acts as an intermediary between the cable and the pipeline, providing a controlled mechanical interface. The retaining structure and track system mediate the forces between cable and pipeline, preventing direct compression of the cable while maintaining secure mounting through distributed mechanical engagement.
4Reliability
If the cable is secured to the pipeline, then the cable is fixed in position, but the overlength accumulates in certain areas unevenly
Solution Approach 1:
The movable sledge element along the track allows the cable to distribute its overlength evenly as it can shift position dynamically. The track-guided movement enables the cable to settle into an optimal configuration where excess length is distributed uniformly along the pipeline rather than accumulating at specific 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 secure, reorientable cable mounting that maintains even length distribution and protects against external impacts, ensuring the cable remains secure and protected along the pipeline.
Implementation Method 1
the holding means, or the cable, comprises buoyant elements, such that the cable will be positioned at the topside of the pipeline when in use
Data Source
AI summary
A subsea system I provided for mounting a cable to a pipeline (1), having a holding means (2) for holding the cable, where the system further comprises a track (3) around at least parts of the circumference of the pipeline (1). The holding means (2) has a sledge element (4), and the track (3) and the sledge element are slidably connected such that the sledge element may move along said track.