Self-Contained Tank Modules for Modular Tanker Construction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tanker construction methods with integrated steel tanks are inflexible, prone to stress and fatigue, and costly to modify or reuse, limiting their operational efficiency and adaptability to changing market demands.
Innovation Solution
A method for constructing tankers with self-contained tank modules that are structurally independent from the hull, allowing for easy removal, replacement, and re-use, and can be standardized for cost-effective production and adaptation to different market demands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If integrated steel tanks are used as part of the tanker structure, then structural strength is improved, but adaptability and ease of modification deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The tanker is divided into two independent parts: the hull structure and the tank module. The tank module is a self-contained unit that can be removed and replaced independently from the hull, allowing the tanker to be adapted to different market demands by swapping tank modules without modifying the hull structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The tank module is extracted from the integrated structure and made into a separate, removable component. This allows the tank module to be taken out, replaced, or modified independently while the hull remains intact, resolving the contradiction between structural strength and adaptability.
2Strength
If integrated steel tanks are used, then structural integrity is improved, but ease of repair and reuse deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The tank module is segmented as a separate repairable unit. When repair or reuse is needed, only the tank module needs to be removed and replaced, not the entire hull structure. This significantly reduces repair time and cost while maintaining structural integrity of the hull.
Solution Approach 2:
The tank module can be recovered, refurbished, and reused in another hull or a different configuration. This extends the lifecycle of the tank module and reduces the need for extensive modifications to the hull structure.
3Strength
If integrated steel tanks are used, then structural strength is improved, but construction cost deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tanker construction is segmented into hull construction and tank module construction that can occur independently and in parallel. This allows for standardized mass production of tank modules, reducing construction costs while maintaining the structural strength of the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
Tank modules can be pre-fabricated, tested, and certified independently before being installed in the hull. This preliminary action reduces on-site construction time and cost, and allows for quality control to be performed on the tank modules separately from the hull construction.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for tanker, preferably parcel tanker, construction. According to the invention the method comprises the steps of: - providing a hull having arranged therein at least one hold which is accessible via a hatch opening; - providing at least one self-contained tank module comprising a number of cargo tanks; and - arranging in the hold the self-contained tank module to provide a tanker, wherein the tank module is arranged in the hold such that the tank module and the hull are structurally independent and such that the tank module is removable via said hatch opening of the hold after a period of use of the tanker.