Suction Pipe Anchoring for Dredging Vessel Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Plain suction dredging vessels have long mobilization and demobilization times due to the need for multiple anchors, which increases downtime and reduces operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The method involves anchoring the vessel using a single lower suction pipe section, with the suction mouth positioned at the anchoring location, allowing for reduced anchoring time and simplified anchoring processes, utilizing the suction pipe to apply forces and control anchoring, and incorporating a propulsion system to optimize positioning against wind and current conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If multiple anchors are used to hold the vessel in position, then the vessel stability is improved, but the mobilization and demobilization time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suction pipe is combined with anchoring functionality by extending it through the bottom of the vessel. The suction pipe serves dual purposes: performing suction operations and providing anchoring support, thereby eliminating the need for separate anchors and reducing mobilization/demobilization time while maintaining vessel stability
Solution Approach 2:
The suction pipe is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the suction device for dredging operations and the anchoring mechanism for positioning the vessel. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by reducing the number of components needed without compromising stability
2Measurement precision
If multiple anchors are deployed to maintain vessel position, then the positioning accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring function is merged into the suction pipe structure itself. The suction pipe extends through the bottom of the vessel and can be anchored in the bed, eliminating the need for separate anchor systems while maintaining positioning accuracy through the single integrated structure
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring function is extracted from the traditional separate anchor system and integrated into the suction pipe. This simplifies the overall device by removing redundant components while maintaining the essential anchoring capability for accurate positioning
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
This approach significantly reduces the time required for anchoring, increases operational uptime, and allows for more efficient use of resources by minimizing the number of anchors needed and improving control during dredging operations.
Implementation Method 1
an underpressure is created in said suction tube for suctioning a mixture of bottom material and water through the tube
Implementation Method 2
the at least one lower suction pipe section comprises an anchoring portion, and the method comprises the step of driving the at least one lower suction pipe section for the anchoring portion at least partly extending in the bottom at the suction location
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for operating a plain suction dredging vessel (1), the vessel comprising; . - a suction system having at least one lower suction pipe (2) at a respective suction location, the method comprising the step; . - anchoring the vessel (1) at an anchoring location (4) proximate the suction location, . - anchoring the vessel (1) via the at least one lower suction pipe (2) only.