Subsea Clamping Arrangement Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Underwater clamping arrangements for subsea applications are time-consuming, unable to provide adequate clamping loads, and are difficult to release, leading to increased costs and complexity in removal and salvage.
Innovation Solution
A clamping arrangement featuring a fixed portion attached to one member and a reaction portion that is removable, with a forcing portion applying a clamping force perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, utilizing a hydraulic cylinder for high clamping force and a releasable locking mechanism to maintain the force indefinitely, and including moveable parts for easy engagement and disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If permanent clamping arrangements are used, then reliable clamping force is maintained, but installation costs and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping arrangement is divided into permanent elements (fixed to the first member) and removable elements (the jack and reaction portion). This segmentation allows the complex forcing mechanism to be removable, reducing installation complexity while maintaining reliable clamping through the permanent fixed portion
Solution Approach 2:
The removable jack and reaction portion can be discarded after use, while the permanent fixed portion remains installed. This allows recovery and reuse of the expensive hydraulic components without permanently installing the entire clamping system, reducing installation costs
2Force
If clamping arrangements with protruding structures are used, then adequate clamping force is achieved, but hazards to underwater cables increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping force is applied perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the members rather than along the axis. This dimensional change allows adequate clamping force to be achieved while the forcing portion protrudes sideways rather than longitudinally, reducing hazard to passing cables
3Strength
If non-removable clamping arrangements are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but removal and salvage become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The arrangement separates permanent structural elements (fixed portion attached to first member) from removable operational elements (jack and reaction portion). This maintains structural integrity through the permanent fixed portion while allowing easy removal of the operational components when needed
4Force
If hydraulic cylinders are used, then high clamping force is achieved, but cost and complexity of faulty component replacement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic cylinder is segmented as part of the removable forcing portion, separate from the permanent fixed portion. This allows the hydraulic cylinder to be easily replaced by simply removing and replacing the entire forcing portion assembly without affecting the permanently installed structural elements
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 solution significantly reduces installation costs, minimizes hazards to underwater cables, provides reliable and adjustable clamping, and allows for easy replacement of faulty hydraulic components, ensuring safe and efficient operation in deep-sea environments.
Implementation Method 1
the forcing portion arranged to apply a clamping force in a direction along a forcing axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between the reaction portion and the second member
Data Source
AI summary
An underwater clamping arrangement (100, 100′) is provided for fixing at least a first and a second member (1, 2) together, to prevent relative movement between the members along at least a longitudinal axis (2L). The clamping arrangement comprises at least a fixed portion (102, 102′) attached to the first member and a reaction portion (104, 104′) attachable to the fixed portion, and a forcing portion (106, 106′). The forcing portion is arranged to apply a clamping force (4F, 4G) in a direction along a forcing axis (2F) substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between the reaction portion and the second member so to fix the two members together. The reaction portion and forcing portion are removable from the fixed portion when the clamping arrangement is clamped.