Tension Rod Fixation for Offshore Jacking Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Offshore self-elevating platforms face challenges in securing the leg-deck connection when the seabed is uneven, requiring continuous support from hydraulic cylinders, which is unsustainable for long-term applications.
Innovation Solution
A fixation system utilizing adjustable tension rods that secure the jacking yoke to the deck structure, allowing the load to be transferred from hydraulic cylinders, enabling the cylinders to be stored or maintained without continuous weight-bearing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydraulic cylinders continuously support the deck structure weight, then the leg-deck connection remains secure, but the hydraulic cylinders require continuous operation and maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the load-bearing function from the hydraulic cylinders and transfers it to the tension rods. The hydraulic cylinders are removed from the continuous weight support role, allowing them to be stored or maintained, while the tension rods provide the permanent structural support for the leg-deck connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The tension rods act as intermediary elements that transfer the load path from the hydraulic cylinders to a permanent fixation system. These rods provide a direct load path between the leg and deck structure, eliminating the need for continuous hydraulic support while maintaining connection security.
2Stability of the object's composition
If hydraulic cylinders provide continuous support, then the platform remains stable on uneven seabed, but maintenance needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the stability-providing function from the hydraulic cylinders and assigns it to the tension rods and fixation system. This extraction allows the hydraulic cylinders to be taken out of service for maintenance or storage, while the platform maintains its stability through the permanent tension rod structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation system with tension rods provides self-sustaining structural support that does not require active maintenance like hydraulic systems. The direct load path created by the tension rods ensures long-term stability without continuous operational intervention.
3Ease of operation
If locking pins are used to secure legs, then the deck can be elevated, but the load path is not direct and continuous support is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The tension rods serve as intermediary elements that create a direct load path between the leg and deck structure. Unlike locking pins that only provide point contact, the tension rods distribute loads continuously along their length, providing both elevation capability and direct structural support.
Data Source
AI summary
A self-elevating platform comprises a deck structure, a plurality of legs, a plurality of footings, and a jacking system, wherein the plurality of legs pass through the deck structure and are supported by the plurality of footings; and wherein the jacking system comprises a jackcase structure with a first locking pin, a jacking yoke with a second locking pin, a plurality of jacking cylinders with a first end and second end, where the first end of the jacking cylinders is supported by the jackcase structure, and the second end of the jacking cylinders by the jacking yoke; and a fixation system comprising a plurality of tension rods, wherein each tension rod has a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of the tension rods is securely coupled with the jacking yoke, and the second end of the tension rods is securely coupled with the deck structure; thereby when the plurality of tension rods secures the jacking yoke to the deck structure, the load can be removed from the hydraulic cylinders and transferred to the fixation system.