Vessel Module Support Deck with Ballast Draft Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing offshore installation vessels have limited functionality and are unsuitable for varying sizes of floating modules, particularly those with high superstructures like cranes, due to size constraints and difficult alignment issues, and require modules to be installed in a lengthwise LIFO principle.
Innovation Solution
A vessel design featuring a work deck and a module support deck with a ballast system that allows for controllable draft variation, enabling flexible positioning and lifting of larger, differently equipped floating modules, including those with cranes, by submerging the support deck to connect and lifting them for operational use, with cranes on both decks for enhanced operational flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modules are inserted into the housing part of the installation vessel, then modules can be installed and extracted, but the size of modules is limited to the opening in the housing and alignment with the sides of the housing part is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from vertical insertion (single dimension) to horizontal floating placement (multiple dimensions). Modules are floated alongside the vessel and then winched horizontally onto the support deck, eliminating the need to fit through vertical openings and simplifying alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a support deck as an intermediary platform between the sea and the vessel's housing. This support deck allows modules to be positioned and secured in a controlled manner before being integrated into the vessel, facilitating easier alignment and placement.
2Productivity
If floating modules are installed via LIFO principle through the housing opening, then modules can be installed, but the installation process is constrained and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of installing modules vertically from top to bottom through the housing opening (LIFO), the patent enables horizontal installation from the side of the vessel. Modules are floated alongside and winched onto the support deck, allowing for more flexible and parallel installation operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic ballast control to adjust the vessel's draft and the support deck's position. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the support deck to be positioned at optimal levels for module installation and operation, improving installation efficiency and operational flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the vessel uses a fixed draft design, then the structure is simple, but the vessel cannot accommodate modules of varying sizes or optimize operational characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic ballast system with controllable ballast tanks that can adjust the vessel's draft and the support deck's position. This dynamic capability allows the vessel to optimize its characteristics for different operational modes (transit, installation, operation) and accommodate modules of varying sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The ballast system serves multiple functions: adjusting draft for sea transit, positioning the support deck for module installation, and optimizing operational characteristics. This multi-functionality increases versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
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 design enhances the flexibility and versatility of offshore module installation, allowing for a wide range of module sizes and types, reduces connection time, and improves operational stability and sailing properties by enabling modules to project beyond the support deck, thus increasing operational efficiency and reducing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
The vessel further has a ballast system for controllably varying a draft of the vessel with one or more water ballast tanks, one or more ballast pumps for pumping water into and out of the ballast tanks
Implementation Method 2
lower the module support deck below water level to a connecting level such that the longitudinal access side section and the transverse access section are submerged
Implementation Method 3
raise the module support deck and the floating module to an operational level that is higher than the connecting level, such that the floating module is lifted by the module support deck
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to an assembly of a vessel and a floating module. The vessel has a work deck extending in the longitudinal direction over at least 1/3 of the length of the vessel. The work deck has a width no larger than half the width of the vessel. The vessel further has a module support deck, at a lower level than the work deck, extending in the transverse direction from the work deck to a longitudinal access side section. The vessel further comprises a ballast system for controllably varying a draft of the vessel and a ballast control unit adapted to: - lower the module support deck below water level to a connecting level for floating the module above the module support deck, and - raise the module support deck and the floating module to an operational level that is higher than the connecting level.