EP1181238A1 - Articulated fluid transmission device and loading crane comprising said device - Google Patents

Articulated fluid transmission device and loading crane comprising said device

Info

Publication number
EP1181238A1
EP1181238A1 EP00922772A EP00922772A EP1181238A1 EP 1181238 A1 EP1181238 A1 EP 1181238A1 EP 00922772 A EP00922772 A EP 00922772A EP 00922772 A EP00922772 A EP 00922772A EP 1181238 A1 EP1181238 A1 EP 1181238A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
support
elbow
pipe
segments
fixed
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP00922772A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1181238B1 (en
Inventor
Eugène Le Devehat
Renaud Le Devehat
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
FMC Technologies SAS
Original Assignee
FMC Europe NV
FMC Europe SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by FMC Europe NV, FMC Europe SA filed Critical FMC Europe NV
Publication of EP1181238A1 publication Critical patent/EP1181238A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1181238B1 publication Critical patent/EP1181238B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D7/00—Apparatus or devices for transferring liquids from bulk storage containers or reservoirs into vehicles or into portable containers, e.g. for retail sale purposes
    • B67D7/06—Details or accessories
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D9/00—Apparatus or devices for transferring liquids when loading or unloading ships
    • B67D9/02—Apparatus or devices for transferring liquids when loading or unloading ships using articulated pipes
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
    • Y10T137/8593—Systems
    • Y10T137/8807—Articulated or swinging flow conduit

Definitions

  • Articulated device for transferring fluid and loading crane comprising such a device
  • the present invention relates, in general, to systems for loading and / or unloading fluids, in particular ships for transporting such fluids.
  • a preferred field of application is the transfer of liquefied natural gas between a loading and / or unloading crane located on the seabed and a tanker moored near this crane. Examples of such loading and / or unloading systems are described in particular in documents FR-A-2 469 367 and EP-0020267. These systems include a device for transferring fluid between a loading boom and a coupling means provided on the ship.
  • the transfer device comprises a network of articulated multiple segments of deformable accordion type or diamond-shaped fluid line (s) and actuated by cable, the ends of the network being connected, by means of elbows and rotary joints, respectively.
  • the present invention aims to improve certain aspects of this type of system.
  • the present invention provides a device for transferring fluid between a loading boom comprising at least one section of pipe fixed to the boom and a coupling means, comprising a network of multiple articulated segments of fluid pipe of the type accordion or deformable diamond (s) and actuated by cable, at least one section of pipe intended to be connected to the coupling means, each section of pipe fixed to the arrow or intended to be connected to the coupling means being connected at one end of the network of articulated segments by means of an elbow and rotary joints, the elbow being fixed to a support suspended from the boom, which device is characterized in that each end of the network of articulated segments is fixed to a second support mounted mobile in rotation, by means of a bearing, on the support of the elbow to which the end is connected, concentrically to the rotating joint connecting the end to the elbow.
  • a coupling means comprising a network of multiple articulated segments of fluid pipe of the type accordion or deformable diamond (s) and actuated by cable, at least one section of pipe intended to be connected to the
  • the fluid transfer device comprises a structure for taking up the weight of the network of articulated multiple segments, carrying each section of pipe intended to be connected by means of coupling and mounted movable in rotation by means of at least one bearing on the first support carrying each elbow connected to a section of pipe intended to be connected by means of coupling, each bearing being disposed concentrically with the rotary joint connecting a section of pipe intended to be connected by means of coupling to an elbow , which weight recovery structure comprises a frustoconical centering piece, adapted to cooperate with a complementary piece of the coupling means;
  • the support carrying the elbow (s) for connection to the pipe section (s) fixed to the jib is suspended from the jib by means of legs, each of which is mounted movable in rotation, by means of a bearing, on this support, concentrically with the rotary joint (s) connecting the elbow (s) to the pipe section (s) fixed to the boom.
  • a free annular space preferably separates each rotating joint from the associated bearing, in the case of such an application.
  • the network end support is advantageously fitted with a square-shaped part, each end of the network of articulated pipe segments being fixed to one of the branches of a corresponding square-shaped part and connected to the elbow carried by the elbow support (s) by means of an additional elbow removably attached to this end of the network and connected to the elbow of the elbow support (s) by a seal turning concentric with a bearing connecting the other branch of the square-shaped part to the elbow support (s).
  • the fluid transfer device is suspended from a boom pivotally mounted in inclination on a boom support which is pivotally mounted in azimuth on a fixed base mounted on a platform, a first set of multiple pipe segments connects a pipe part carried by the boom to a pipe part fixed to the boom support and extending to the bottom of the base and a second set of multiple pipe segments extends by the down the pipe part running along the boom support to the platform, the first and second sets of segments being configured and articulated together by means of rotary joints so as to allow the tilting movement of the boom on the boom support and the rotation of the boom support on its base, the pipe part along the boom support as well as the first and second sets of segments being external any substantially closed part of the base or jib support.
  • Such provisions make it possible to avoid installing piping inside a closed or poorly ventilated enclosure, which could have serious consequences in the event of an accidental leak of liquefied gas.
  • such an arrangement of connecting segments between the boom and the boom support, on the one hand, and this boom support and the platform, on the other hand is characterized by its simplicity of design and, consequently , its lower manufacturing and assembly costs, particularly for the crane.
  • the fluid transfer device is suspended from a boom pivotally mounted in inclination on a boom support which is pivotally mounted in azimuth on a fixed base, the articulated multiple segments of pipe form a series of two articulated diamonds, two respective angles of which are opposed by the top, the intermediate pipe segments forming these two angles being secured at their intersection by an articulation connected by a first set of cables and pulleys to a first set of counterweights free balancing, mounted longitudinally movable along the boom support, while the support for elbows connecting the ends of the lower segments of the deformable diamonds to the pipe sections intended to be connected by means of coupling, is connected by a second cable set, to a second hydraulically controlled balancing counterweight e t mounted longitudinally movable on the boom support.
  • Such a balancing system also makes it easier to connect the fluid transfer device by means of coupling and disconnection of this same transfer device.
  • the pulling cable intended to allow this fluid transfer device to be extended to bring it into the connection position with the coupling means is wound on a winch mounted on the aforementioned weight recovery structure.
  • this winch as well as the hydraulic control winch of the aforementioned second set of balancing counterweights, are adapted to be controlled at constant speed and constant tension during the extension or retraction of the fluid transfer device.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a platform with a crane fluid transfer and a tanker moored to the platform;
  • - Figure 2 is a partial front view of a fluid transfer device according to the invention;
  • Figure 3 is a partial sectional view along the line IV-IV of Figure 2;
  • Figure 4 is a front view, with a partial section, showing the bottom of the fluid transfer device in connection with a coupling means located on the tanker;
  • - Figure 5 is a very schematic view of the transfer crane, on which the balancing system with free counterweight has been highlighted;
  • FIG. 6 is a view similar to FIG.
  • FIG. 6 showing the balancing system with hydraulically controlled counterweights.
  • Figure 1 is shown at 10 a part of a floating independent production platform.
  • a transhipment crane 11 comprising a boom 12 pivotally mounted in inclination on a boom support 13, itself pivotally mounted in azimuth on a fixed base 95 mounted on the platform 10.
  • a tanker 14 is moored by means of a hawser 15 to the platform 10.
  • a fluid transfer device 16 between the arrow 12 and a coupling means 17 provided on the tanker 14 is suspended from this arrow 12 and comprises a multiplicity of pipe segments articulated in deformable diamonds actuated by cable. More precisely, these deformable diamonds form a double pantograph constituted by two upper half-branches 18a, 18b, two entire middle branches 19a, 19b and two lower half-branches 20a,
  • the half-branches 18a, 18b and 20a, 20b and the whole branches 19a, 19b are assembled together in an articulated manner by cryogenic rotary joints 21 of the Chicksan® joint type.
  • This network of articulated pipe segments thus forms two pipe sections, one for the transfer of liquefied natural gas from the platform 10 to the tanker 14 and the other for the return of steam.
  • connection head 23 intended to couple the double pantograph 16 by means of coupling 17 located on the tanker 14.
  • This connection head 23 comprises coupling pipes 24a, 24b, intended to be connected to corresponding pipes 25a, 25b, of the coupling means 17 (see FIG. 4).
  • One of the pipes, namely the pipe section 24a, is intended for the transfer of the liquefied gas, while the other pipe section 24b is intended for the return of steam from the tanker 14.
  • Each of these pipes 24a, 24b is provided, at one of its ends, with a quick connection / disconnection element 26a, 26b equipped with a hemispherical ball valve 27a, 27b and locking members 28, 29
  • These coupling elements 26a, 26b are intended to be locked on complementary hemispherical ball valves 30a, 30b, provided at the ends of the pipes 25a, 25b (see FIG. 4).
  • each of the pipes or pipe sections 25a, 25b is connected by several other pipe sections and horizontal and vertical cryogenic rotary joints at pipe ends 31a, 31b, connecting these pipe sections articulated to tanks located inside the tanker 14.
  • the pipe sections located above the deck of the tanker 14 form two transfer lines or dog legs 32a, 32b, articulated around a central mast 33.
  • the combination of the rotations of each of the transfer lines 32a, 32b allows positioning of the hemispherical ball valves 30a, 30b in a horizontal plane, as well as their vertical displacement for their connection to the hemispherical ball valves 27a, 27b of the connection head 23.
  • each of the pipes 25a, 25b is mounted at the end of a console 34a, 34b, carried by a central sleeve 35 capable of turning on the mast 33, jacks 36 activate the vertical movement of the consoles 34a, 34b.
  • a motor 37 also makes it possible to rotate the sleeve 35 on itself.
  • a winch 43 on which is wound a pulling cable intended to allow the double pantograph 16 to be extended to bring it into the connection position with the coupling means 17, is also mounted on the central branch of this structure 42.
  • L the free end of this pulling cable is provided with a cylindrical piece 44 (see FIG. 4), intended to be hooked to an automatic hooking member 45, such as a clamp, housed inside the frustoconical piece 39 of the coupling means 17.
  • an automatic hooking member 45 such as a clamp
  • the structure 42 carries the pipe sections 24a, 24b, by means of a fixing (in a removable manner) of a rectilinear part thereof to arms 48 for lateral fixing integral with the structure 42.
  • the lateral branches 49 of the structure 42 are rotatably mounted by means of bearings 50 on a gimbal joint box 51 of the ends of the lower half-branches 20a, 20b and of the pipe sections 24a, 24b.
  • this lower support box 51 and the means for connecting the pipe sections to it are similar to that of a box 52 which will be described in more detail below, with reference to FIG. 4.
  • the pipe sections 24a, 24b each have a 90 ° bent portion at one end, which is connected, by means of a cryogenic rotary joint 53a, 53b, to the end of a connected elbow, by its other end, at one of the ends of the lower half-branches 20a, 20b in a similar manner to the connection of the ends of the upper half-branches 18a, 18b to the upper box 52 and to the corresponding elbows.
  • the bearings 50 are arranged concentrically with the rotary joints 53a, 53b, with a free annular space between the two.
  • the lateral branches 49 also surround the pipe sections 24a, 24b with a separation by a free annular space.
  • the upper half-branches 18a, 18b are also articulated to the gimbal by means of the upper support box 52 on the pipe sections 54a, 54b fixed to the arrow 12.
  • the box 52 is also fixed to the arrow 12, using two legs 56 suspended by means of ears 57 with two parallel beams 55, only one of which is visible in FIG. 2.
  • the ends of the legs 56 opposite the ears 57 are connected to each other by means of a transverse beam 58.
  • these legs 56 are also mounted so as to be able to rotate on two opposite walls 59, 60 of the support box 52.
  • these legs 56 are provided with a flange 61a, 61b mounted movably in rotation on the wall 59 or 60 by means of a bearing 62a, 62b.
  • This bearing 62a, 62b has an external annular element
  • Balls 65a, 65b are inserted between the external and internal annular elements of each of the bearings 62a, 62b.
  • Each of the sections 54a, 54b has a bent end portion connected to one end of an elbow 66a, 66b, by means of a cryogenic rotary joint 67a, 67b.
  • the flanges 61a, 61b, the bearing 62a, 62b and the walls 59, 60 are separated from the rotary joints 67a, 67b and the pipe sections 54a, 54b by a free annular space 68a, 68b.
  • the elbows 66a, 66b are fixed by means of flanges 69a, 69b to a base plate 70 integral with the side walls of the box 52 and perpendicular thereto.
  • Each of the other ends of the elbows 66a, 66b is connected to one end of one of the upper half-branches 18a, 18b of the double pantograph 16, by means of a removable 90 ° elbow 71a, 71b.
  • One end of the elbows 71a, 71b is connected to the end of the elbows 66a, 66b by means of a cryogenic rotary joint 72a, 72b, while the other end is fixed to an end of upper half-branch 18a , 18b.
  • this half-branch end 18a, 18b is provided with a flange 73a, 73b bolted to a branch of a square-shaped piece 74a, 74b, with the interposition of an insulation lining 75a, 75b.
  • Each of these branches 76a, 76b has the form of a plate provided with a central opening for passage of the elbow 71a, 71b.
  • the other branch 77a, 77b of the square-shaped parts 74a, 74b also has the form of a plate surrounding a corresponding rotary joint 72a, 72b with a free annular space between the two.
  • These branches 77a, 77b are, moreover, mounted mobile in rotation by means a ball bearing 78a, 78b on parallel walls 79, 80 of the box 52, perpendicular to the walls 59 and 60.
  • the bearings 78a, 78b are arranged concentrically with the corresponding cryogenic rotary joints 72a, 72b. Furthermore, the plate-shaped branches 77a, 77b are provided with a central opening forming, with the bearing 78a, 78b, an annular free space 81a, 81b between the rotary joints 72a, 72b and the means for rotationally mounting the branches 77a, 77b on the walls 79, 80.
  • the square-shaped parts 74a, 74b thus have the form of a force recovery chair.
  • this fluid transfer device 16 is deformable in its main plane to move its articulated pipe segments in height.
  • the articulation of the half-branches and whole branches between them by means of the revolving joints is, for its part, conventional and can for example be carried out as described in the document FR-2 469 367 cited above.
  • this device 16 can pivot in its main plane around the articulation axes of the seals 72a, 72b and bearings 78a, 78b.
  • the fluid transfer device 16 can also pivot perpendicular to its main plane around the articulation axes of the seals 67a, 67b and the bearings 62a, 62b.
  • the first balancing system comprises a first cable 85 which starts from the articulation 22 and passes over a first deflection pulley 86 of a pulley holder pivotally mounted on the beam 58, then over a second deflection pulley 87 fixed to the arrow 12, a third 180 ° deflection pulley 88 as well as a fourth deflection pulley attached to the front of the arrow 12, to return to a deflection pulley 90 of a second pulley holder mounted movable in pivoting on the beam 58 and finally lead again to the joint 22.
  • connection cable 91 is connected by one of its ends to the pulley holder of the deflection pulley 88 and by its other end to a set of balancing counterweights 92, passing over a pulley 93 of deflection at 90 ° fixed to the arrow 12.
  • This set of counterweights 92 moves freely inside a guide structure 94 of the arrow support 13 rotating around the fixed base 95 (see FIG. 1).
  • the second balancing system comprises a cable 96 passing over a second pulley 97 for deflecting the first pulley holder, over a second deflection pulley 98 fixed to the front of the arrow 12, substantially in the same location as the deflection pulley 89. Then, the cable passes over another pulley 99 of 180 ° return, located between the two longitudinal ends of the arrow 12, substantially at the same location as the pulley 88.
  • the cable 96 then returns by an additional return pulley 100 fixed to the arrow 12 between the return pulleys 98 and 99 and substantially at the same location as the pulley 87, and by a second pulley 101 of the second pulley holder, to the box 51.
  • the two ends of the cable 96 are fixed to the box 51 with the possibility of angular movement in the main plane of the double pantograph 16, for example by means of a fork joint 102.
  • the pivot axes of the fork joints 102 thus extend perpendicular to the main plane of the double diamond 16, just like the pivot axes of the first and second pulley supports.
  • connection cable 103 is connected by one of its ends to the pulley carrier of the pulley 99 then passes over a 90 ° deflection pulley 104 fixed to the arrow 12 before arriving at a 180 deflection pulley ° 105 fixed to a second set of balancing counterweights 106. Finally, the cable 103 rises to the arrow 12 where it is fixed to the support structure 13 of the arrow 12.
  • This second set of counterweights 106 also slides inside the guide structure 94, but is controlled in translation by an actuating system 107 comprising a hydraulic winch 108. It can also be seen in FIGS. 2, 5 and 6 that the cables 85 and 96 extend, below the first and second pulley carriers, in the main plane of the double diamond 16 and above these pulley carriers, in planes perpendicular to this main plane, so as not to not interfere with the extension and retraction maneuvers of the fluid transfer device 16. In FIG. 2 it can still be seen that the fluid transfer device 16 is provided with a locking device in the retracted position of the double diamond 16. This device comprises a male element 109 fixed to the beam 58 and a female element 110 fixed on the top of the articulation 22.
  • This female element 110 has a shape complementary to a recess provided on the male element 109 and enters it in the retracted position to lock the double diamond 16 in the retracted position. It will also be appreciated that the balancing counterweights 92 and 106 are easily accessible and connected by cables and pulleys always aligned with the structure of the crane 11.
  • the counterweight system 92 ensures constant balancing of the center of the double pantograph 16, while the counterweight system 106 allows, for its part, to apply a variable tension.
  • the speed of movement of the double pantograph 16 can be checked with precision both during a normal disconnection during which the articulated segments are empty and during an emergency disconnection during which the articulated segments are full of products and covered with ice.
  • connection head 23 and the coupling means 17, by their structures, of course also contribute to this smooth connection and to compensation for the relative movements between the tanker 14 and the platform 10.
  • winches 43 and 108 are adapted to be controlled at constant speed or at constant tension so as to be able to compensate for these relative movements between the tanker 14 and the platform 10.
  • this cable is pulled at a constant speed relative to the arrow 12 and at a constant tension with respect to the coupling means 17, by operating the winch 108 in speed constant and the winch 43 in constant force. This avoids any risk of collision between the double pantograph 16 and the arrow 12.
  • the two winches are operated with constant force.
  • the constant speed of the cable is then defined as a constant speed with respect to the coupling means 17, while it is pulled in constant tension relative to the arrow
  • the winch 43 is operated at constant speed, while the winch 108 is operated at constant force. It is thus possible to limit the risk of collision between the connection head 23 and the frustoconical part 39 of the coupling means 17.
  • the winch 43 In the opposite direction (disconnection) the winch 43 is first actuated at constant speed and the winch 108 at constant force. Then, during an intermediate step, the two winches are actuated in constant force and, finally, in the vicinity of the retracted position near the arrow 12, the winch 43 is actuated in constant force, while the winch 108 is actuated in speed. constant.
  • the double pantograph 16 can be brought into the connection position with the coupling means 17 and disconnected from it optimally.
  • position detectors and strain gauges are connected to a control system of the winches 43 and
  • the boom 12 On the side of the platform 10, the boom 12 is pivotally mounted in inclination on the boom support 13, by about 10 ° relative to its horizontal position.
  • the boom support 13 is, in turn, capable of rotating 250 ° around the base 95.
  • two sets 111 of multiple pipe segments hinged together by means of rotary joints connect the pipe sections 54a and 54b connected to the double pantograph 16 and along the arrow 12 to pipe sections 112a , 112b carried by the support structure 13 of the arrow 12 and along the outside of the base 95.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Loading And Unloading Of Fuel Tanks Or Ships (AREA)
  • Jib Cranes (AREA)
  • Earth Drilling (AREA)
  • Load-Engaging Elements For Cranes (AREA)
  • Gas Separation By Absorption (AREA)
  • Infusion, Injection, And Reservoir Apparatuses (AREA)
  • Manipulator (AREA)
  • Specific Conveyance Elements (AREA)

Abstract

The device for transmission between a jib comprising at least one pipe section (54a, 54b) fixed to said jib (12) and a coupling section comprises a network of articulated concertina or diamond-shaped articulated pipe sections which can be deformed and are actuated by a cable and at least one pipe section (24a, 24b) joined by coupling. Each section that is fixed to the jib or joined by coupling is joined to one end of the network by means of an elbow and pivoted connections (53a, 53b) whereby the elbow is fixed to a support (51) suspended on the jib. Each end of the network is fixed to a support (74a) which is moveably and rotationally mounted by means of a bearing (78a) on the support of the elbow to which the end is joined in a concentric position with respect to the joint (72a) connecting the end to said elbow. The invention can be used to transfer natural liquefied gas from a platform in the sea to a tanker.

Description

Dispositif articulé pour transfert de fluide et grue de chargement comportant un tel dispositifArticulated device for transferring fluid and loading crane comprising such a device
La présente invention a trait, de manière générale, aux systèmes de chargement et/ou de déchargement de fluides, en particulier de navires de transport de tels fluides. Un domaine d'application préféré est le transfert de gaz naturel liquéfié entre une grue de chargement et/ou de déchargement implantée sur le fond marin et un navire-citerne amarré près de cette grue. Des exemples de tels systèmes de chargement et/ou de déchargement sont notamment décrits dans les documents FR-A-2 469 367 et EP-0020267. Ces systèmes comportent un dispositif de transfert de fluide entre une flèche de chargement et un moyen de couplage prévu sur le navire. Le dispositif de transfert comprend un réseau de segments multiples articulés de conduite de fluide du type accordéon ou à losange(s) déformable(s) et actionnés par câble, les extrémités du réseau étant raccordées, au moyen de coudes et de joints tournants, respectivement à des tronçons de conduite fixés à la flèche et des tronçons de conduite destinés à être raccordés au moyen de couplage. Certains au moins de ces coudes sont fixés à un support suspendu à la flèche. La présente invention vise à améliorer certains aspects de ce type de système.The present invention relates, in general, to systems for loading and / or unloading fluids, in particular ships for transporting such fluids. A preferred field of application is the transfer of liquefied natural gas between a loading and / or unloading crane located on the seabed and a tanker moored near this crane. Examples of such loading and / or unloading systems are described in particular in documents FR-A-2 469 367 and EP-0020267. These systems include a device for transferring fluid between a loading boom and a coupling means provided on the ship. The transfer device comprises a network of articulated multiple segments of deformable accordion type or diamond-shaped fluid line (s) and actuated by cable, the ends of the network being connected, by means of elbows and rotary joints, respectively. pipe sections fixed to the arrow and pipe sections intended to be connected by means of coupling. At least some of these elbows are attached to a support suspended from the boom. The present invention aims to improve certain aspects of this type of system.
Selon un premier aspect, la présente invention propose un dispositif de transfert de fluide entre une flèche de chargement comportant au moins un tronçon de conduite fixé à la flèche et un moyen de couplage, comprenant un réseau de segments multiples articulés de conduite de fluide du type accordéon ou à losange(s) déformable(s) et actionnés par câble, au moins un tronçon de conduite destiné à être raccordé au moyen de couplage, chaque tronçon de conduite fixé à la flèche ou destiné à être raccordé au moyen de couplage étant raccordé à une extrémité du réseau de segments articulés par l'intermédiaire d'un coude et de joints tournants, le coude étant fixé à un support suspendu à la flèche, lequel dispositif est caractérisé en ce que chaque extrémité du réseau de segments articulés est fixée à un second support monté mobile en rotation, au moyen d'un roulement, sur le support du coude auquel l'extrémité est raccordée, concentriquement au joint tournant raccordant l'extrémité au coude.According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a device for transferring fluid between a loading boom comprising at least one section of pipe fixed to the boom and a coupling means, comprising a network of multiple articulated segments of fluid pipe of the type accordion or deformable diamond (s) and actuated by cable, at least one section of pipe intended to be connected to the coupling means, each section of pipe fixed to the arrow or intended to be connected to the coupling means being connected at one end of the network of articulated segments by means of an elbow and rotary joints, the elbow being fixed to a support suspended from the boom, which device is characterized in that each end of the network of articulated segments is fixed to a second support mounted mobile in rotation, by means of a bearing, on the support of the elbow to which the end is connected, concentrically to the rotating joint connecting the end to the elbow.
La mise en oeuvre de deux rotations concentriques permet de dissocier les fonctions de support et de jonction en rotation. On isole ainsi les joints tournants d'extrémités du réseau de segments articulés des forces agissant sur ces segments. Cela est particulièrement utile lors d'un transfert de gaz naturel liquéfié, car les joints tournants ou rotations sont alors soumis à une température de -160°C. Il est donc nécessaire de limiter les efforts sur ces rotations. Un tel montage permet également la reprise de forces d'équilibrage directement sur une structure de support des segments articulés, lorsque ce dispositif de transfert de fluide est pourvu de systèmes d'équilibrage.The implementation of two concentric rotations makes it possible to dissociate the support and junction functions in rotation. This isolates the rotating end joints of the network of articulated segments from the forces acting on these segments. This is particularly useful during a transfer of liquefied natural gas, since the rotating joints or rotations are then subjected to a temperature of -160 ° C. It is therefore necessary to limit the forces on these rotations. Such an arrangement also allows the recovery of balancing forces directly on a support structure of the articulated segments, when this fluid transfer device is provided with balancing systems.
Suivant des dispositions préférées, éventuellement combinées : le dispositif de transfert de fluide comporte une structure de reprise du poids du réseau de segments multiples articulés, portant chaque tronçon de conduite destiné à être raccordé au moyen de couplage et montée mobile en rotation au moyen d'au moins un roulement sur le premier support portant chaque coude raccordé à un tronçon de conduite destiné à être raccordé au moyen de couplage, chaque roulement étant disposé concentriquement au joint tournant raccordant un tronçon de conduite destiné à être raccordé au moyen de couplage à un coude, laquelle structure de reprise de poids comporte une pièce tronconique de centrage, adaptée à coopérer avec une pièce complémentaire du moyen de couplage ; le support portant le ou les coudes de raccordement au(x) tronçon(s) de conduite fixé(s) à la flèche est suspendu à la flèche au moyen de jambes dont chacune est montée mobile en rotation, au moyen d'un roulement, sur ce support, concentriquement au(x) joint(s) tournant(s) de raccordement du (des) coude(s) au(x) tronçon(s) de conduite fixé(s) à la flèche.According to preferred arrangements, possibly combined: the fluid transfer device comprises a structure for taking up the weight of the network of articulated multiple segments, carrying each section of pipe intended to be connected by means of coupling and mounted movable in rotation by means of at least one bearing on the first support carrying each elbow connected to a section of pipe intended to be connected by means of coupling, each bearing being disposed concentrically with the rotary joint connecting a section of pipe intended to be connected by means of coupling to an elbow , which weight recovery structure comprises a frustoconical centering piece, adapted to cooperate with a complementary piece of the coupling means; the support carrying the elbow (s) for connection to the pipe section (s) fixed to the jib is suspended from the jib by means of legs, each of which is mounted movable in rotation, by means of a bearing, on this support, concentrically with the rotary joint (s) connecting the elbow (s) to the pipe section (s) fixed to the boom.
Grâce à ces dispositions, aucun des joints tournants situés aux extrémités supérieure et inférieure du réseau de segments articulés n'est soumis aux charges ou contraintes mécaniques, en particulier celles liées à la masse du réseau de segments articulés et aux accélérations auxquelles sont soumis ces segments.Thanks to these provisions, none of the rotary joints located at the upper and lower ends of the network of articulated segments is subjected to mechanical loads or constraints, in particular those related to the mass of the network of articulated segments and the accelerations to which these segments are subjected.
En raison des phénomènes de rétraction se produisant lors du transfert de gaz naturel liquéfié, un espace annulaire libre sépare, de préférence, chaque joint tournant du roulement associé, dans le cas d'une telle application.Due to the shrinking phenomena occurring during the transfer of liquefied natural gas, a free annular space preferably separates each rotating joint from the associated bearing, in the case of such an application.
Afin de pouvoir accéder aux garnitures des joints tournants, le support d'extrémité du réseau est avantageusement équipé d'une pièce en forme d'équerre, chaque extrémité du réseau de segments articulés de conduite étant fixée à l'une des branches d'une pièce en forme d'équerre correspondante et raccordée au coude porté par le support de coude(s) au moyen d'un coude supplémentaire fixé de manière amovible à cette extrémité de réseau et raccordé au coude du support de coude(s) par un joint tournant concentrique à un roulement raccordant l'autre branche de la pièce en forme d'équerre au support de coude(s).In order to be able to access the linings of the rotary joints, the network end support is advantageously fitted with a square-shaped part, each end of the network of articulated pipe segments being fixed to one of the branches of a corresponding square-shaped part and connected to the elbow carried by the elbow support (s) by means of an additional elbow removably attached to this end of the network and connected to the elbow of the elbow support (s) by a seal turning concentric with a bearing connecting the other branch of the square-shaped part to the elbow support (s).
Selon un autre aspect original en soi de la présente invention, le dispositif de transfert de fluide est suspendu à une flèche montée pivotante en inclinaison sur un support de flèche qui est monté pivotant en azimut sur une embase fixe montée sur une plate-forme, un premier jeu de segments multiples de conduite relie une partie de conduite portée par la flèche a une partie de conduite fixée au support de flèche et s'étendant jusqu'au bas de l'embase et un second jeu de segments multiples de conduite prolonge par le bas la partie de conduite longeant le support de la flèche jusqu'à la plate-forme, les premier et second jeux de segments étant configurés et articulés entre eux au moyen de joints tournants de telle sorte à permettre le mouvement d'inclinaison de la flèche sur le support de flèche et la rotation du support de flèche sur son embase, la partie de conduite longeant le support de flèche ainsi que les premier et second jeux de segments étant extérieurs à toute partie sensiblement close de l'embase ou du support de flèche. De telles dispositions permettent d'éviter l'installation de tuyauteries à l'intérieur d'une enceinte fermée ou mal ventilée, qui pourrait avoir de graves conséquences en cas de fuite accidentelle de gaz liquéfié.According to another original aspect in itself of the present invention, the fluid transfer device is suspended from a boom pivotally mounted in inclination on a boom support which is pivotally mounted in azimuth on a fixed base mounted on a platform, a first set of multiple pipe segments connects a pipe part carried by the boom to a pipe part fixed to the boom support and extending to the bottom of the base and a second set of multiple pipe segments extends by the down the pipe part running along the boom support to the platform, the first and second sets of segments being configured and articulated together by means of rotary joints so as to allow the tilting movement of the boom on the boom support and the rotation of the boom support on its base, the pipe part along the boom support as well as the first and second sets of segments being external any substantially closed part of the base or jib support. Such provisions make it possible to avoid installing piping inside a closed or poorly ventilated enclosure, which could have serious consequences in the event of an accidental leak of liquefied gas.
En outre, il est possible d'agencer les segments dans la zone de liaison entre la flèche et le support de flèche de façon à ce qu'ils ne présentent aucune remontée de tuyauterie qui pourrait s'avérer préjudiciable à la circulation du fluide. En effet, un tel agencement facilite notamment le drainage de fluide par gravité.In addition, it is possible to arrange the segments in the connection zone between the boom and the boom support so that they do not have any rise in piping which could prove to be detrimental to the circulation of the fluid. Indeed, such an arrangement in particular facilitates the drainage of fluid by gravity.
Par ailleurs, tous les segments de liaison sont aisément accessible pour la maintenance.In addition, all the link segments are easily accessible for maintenance.
Plus généralement, un tel agencement de segments de liaison entre la flèche et le support de flèche, d'une part, et ce support de flèche et la plate-forme, d'autre part, se caractérise par sa simplicité de conception et, partant, son moindre coût de fabrication et de montage, particulièrement pour la grue.More generally, such an arrangement of connecting segments between the boom and the boom support, on the one hand, and this boom support and the platform, on the other hand, is characterized by its simplicity of design and, consequently , its lower manufacturing and assembly costs, particularly for the crane.
Selon encore un autre aspect original en soi de la présente invention, le dispositif de transfert de fluide est suspendu à une flèche montée pivotante en inclinaison sur un support de flèche qui est monté pivotant en azimut sur une embase fixe, les segments multiples articulés de conduite forment une suite de deux losanges articulés dont deux angles respectifs sont opposés par le sommet, les segments de conduite intermédiaires formant ces deux angles étant solidarisés à leur intersection par une articulation reliée par un premier jeu de câbles et de poulies à un premier jeu de contrepoids d'équilibrage libre, monté mobile longitudinalement le long du support de flèche, tandis que le support de coudes de raccordement des extrémités des segments inférieurs des losanges déformables aux tronçons de conduite destinés à être raccordés au moyen de couplage, est relié, par un second jeu de câbles, à un second contrepoids d'équilibrage commandé hydrauliquement et monté mobile longitudinalement sur le support de flèche. La mise en oeuvre de deux jeux de contrepoids d'équilibrage agissant en des points différents de la structure de segments multiples articulés permet d'ajuster précisément les forces d'équilibrage destinées à agir sur cette structure et, par conséquent, de limiter de façon optimale les efforts auxquels sont soumis les joints tournants raccordant les segments articulés entre eux.According to yet another original aspect in itself of the present invention, the fluid transfer device is suspended from a boom pivotally mounted in inclination on a boom support which is pivotally mounted in azimuth on a fixed base, the articulated multiple segments of pipe form a series of two articulated diamonds, two respective angles of which are opposed by the top, the intermediate pipe segments forming these two angles being secured at their intersection by an articulation connected by a first set of cables and pulleys to a first set of counterweights free balancing, mounted longitudinally movable along the boom support, while the support for elbows connecting the ends of the lower segments of the deformable diamonds to the pipe sections intended to be connected by means of coupling, is connected by a second cable set, to a second hydraulically controlled balancing counterweight e t mounted longitudinally movable on the boom support. The implementation of two sets of balancing counterweights acting at different points in the structure of multiple articulated segments makes it possible to precisely adjust the balancing forces intended to act on this structure and, consequently, to optimally limit the forces to which the rotary joints connecting the articulated segments are subjected.
Un tel système d'équilibrage permet également de rendre plus aisée la connexion du dispositif de transfert de fluide au moyen de couplage et la déconnexion de ce même dispositif de transfert.Such a balancing system also makes it easier to connect the fluid transfer device by means of coupling and disconnection of this same transfer device.
Afin de rendre la plus aisée possible la connexion du dispositif de transfert de fluide au moyen de couplage, le câble de tirage destiné à permettre d'étendre ce dispositif de transfert de fluide pour l'amener en position de raccordement au moyen de couplage, est enroulé sur un treuil monté sur la structure de reprise de poids précitée.In order to make the connection of the fluid transfer device to the coupling means as easy as possible, the pulling cable intended to allow this fluid transfer device to be extended to bring it into the connection position with the coupling means, is wound on a winch mounted on the aforementioned weight recovery structure.
Avantageusement, ce treuil, ainsi que le treuil de commande hydraulique du second jeu de contrepoids d'équilibrage précité, sont adaptés à être commandés en vitesse constante et en tension constante lors de l'extension ou de la rétraction du dispositif de transfert de fluide.Advantageously, this winch, as well as the hydraulic control winch of the aforementioned second set of balancing counterweights, are adapted to be controlled at constant speed and constant tension during the extension or retraction of the fluid transfer device.
En jouant sur la commande des treuils, il est ainsi possible de s'assurer que le câble de tirage est toujours tendu, tant en phase de connexion du dispositif de transfert de fluide au moyen de couplage qu'en phase de déconnexion. II est, par conséquent, possible de limiter au maximum les phénomènes de balancement parasites du dispositif de transfert de fluide et d'éviter les chocs au moment de la venue en contact du dispositif de transfert de fluide avec le moyen de couplage en vue de leur raccordement.By playing on the winch control, it is thus possible to ensure that the pulling cable is always taut, both in the connection phase of the fluid transfer device by means of coupling and in the disconnection phase. It is therefore possible to limit parasitic rocking phenomena of the fluid transfer device as much as possible and to avoid shocks when the fluid transfer device comes into contact with the coupling means with a view to their connection.
Les caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention ressortiront d'ailleurs de la description qui va suivre, à titre d'exemple, en référence aux dessins annexés, sur lesquels : la figure 1 est une vue en perspective représentant une plate-forme avec une grue de transbordement de fluide et un navire-citerne amarré à la plateforme ; - la figure 2 est une vue de face partielle d'un dispositif de transfert de fluide selon l'invention ; la figure 3 est une vue en coupe partielle selon la ligne IV-IV de la figure 2 ; la figure 4 est une vue de face, avec une coupe partielle, représentant le bas du dispositif de transfert de fluide en phase de connexion à un moyen de couplage situé sur le navire-citerne ; - la figure 5 est une vue très schématique de la grue de transbordement, sur laquelle le système d'équilibrage à contrepoids libres a été mis en évidence ; et la figure 6 est une vue similaire à la figure 6, avec mise en évidence du système d'équilibrage à contrepoids commandés hydrauliquement. Sur la figure 1 est représentée en 10 une partie d'une plate-forme flottante de production indépendante. Sur cette partie de plate-forme 10 est montée une grue de transbordement 11 comprenant une flèche 12 montée pivotante en inclinaison sur un support de flèche 13, lui-même monté pivotant en azimut sur une embase fixe 95 montée sur la plate-forme 10. Un navire-citerne 14 est amarré au moyen d'une aussière 15 à la plate-forme 10. Un dispositif de transfert de fluide 16 entre la flèche 12 et un moyen de couplage 17 prévu sur le navire-citerne 14 est suspendu à cette flèche 12 et comprend une multiplicité de segments de conduite articulés en losanges déformables actionnés par câble. Plus précisément, ces losanges déformables forment un double pantographe constitué par deux demi-branches supérieures 18a, 18b, deux branches entières médianes 19a, 19b et deux demi-branches inférieures 20a,The characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the description which follows, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a platform with a crane fluid transfer and a tanker moored to the platform; - Figure 2 is a partial front view of a fluid transfer device according to the invention; Figure 3 is a partial sectional view along the line IV-IV of Figure 2; Figure 4 is a front view, with a partial section, showing the bottom of the fluid transfer device in connection with a coupling means located on the tanker; - Figure 5 is a very schematic view of the transfer crane, on which the balancing system with free counterweight has been highlighted; and FIG. 6 is a view similar to FIG. 6, showing the balancing system with hydraulically controlled counterweights. In Figure 1 is shown at 10 a part of a floating independent production platform. On this platform part 10 is mounted a transhipment crane 11 comprising a boom 12 pivotally mounted in inclination on a boom support 13, itself pivotally mounted in azimuth on a fixed base 95 mounted on the platform 10. A tanker 14 is moored by means of a hawser 15 to the platform 10. A fluid transfer device 16 between the arrow 12 and a coupling means 17 provided on the tanker 14 is suspended from this arrow 12 and comprises a multiplicity of pipe segments articulated in deformable diamonds actuated by cable. More precisely, these deformable diamonds form a double pantograph constituted by two upper half-branches 18a, 18b, two entire middle branches 19a, 19b and two lower half-branches 20a,
20b. Les demi-branches 18a, 18b et 20a, 20b et les branches entières 19a, 19b sont assemblées entre elles de façon articulée par des joints tournants 21 cryogéniques du type joints Chicksan®. Ce réseau de segments de conduite articulés forme ainsi deux tronçons de conduite, l'un pour le transfert de gaz naturel liquéfié de la plate-forme 10 au navire-citerne 14 et l'autre pour le retour de la vapeur.20b. The half-branches 18a, 18b and 20a, 20b and the whole branches 19a, 19b are assembled together in an articulated manner by cryogenic rotary joints 21 of the Chicksan® joint type. This network of articulated pipe segments thus forms two pipe sections, one for the transfer of liquefied natural gas from the platform 10 to the tanker 14 and the other for the return of steam.
Les branches entières 19a, 19b sont solidarisées à leur intersection par une articulation à billes 22. Aux demi-branches inférieures 20a, 20b est suspendue, avec articulation à la Cardan, une tête de raccordement 23 destinée à assurer l'accouplement du double pantographe 16 au moyen de couplage 17 situé sur le navire-citerne 14. Cette tête de raccordement 23 comprend des tubulures d'accouplement 24a, 24b, destinées à être raccordées à des tubulures correspondantes 25a, 25b, du moyen de couplage 17 (voir figure 4). Une des tubulures, à savoir le tronçon de conduite 24a, est destiné au transfert du gaz liquéfié, tandis que l'autre tronçon de conduite 24b est destiné au retour de la vapeur à partir du navire-citerne 14.The entire branches 19a, 19b are joined at their intersection by a ball joint 22. From the lower half-branches 20a, 20b is suspended, with a Cardan joint, a connection head 23 intended to couple the double pantograph 16 by means of coupling 17 located on the tanker 14. This connection head 23 comprises coupling pipes 24a, 24b, intended to be connected to corresponding pipes 25a, 25b, of the coupling means 17 (see FIG. 4). One of the pipes, namely the pipe section 24a, is intended for the transfer of the liquefied gas, while the other pipe section 24b is intended for the return of steam from the tanker 14.
Chacune de ces tubulures 24a, 24b est pourvue, à l'une de ses extrémités, d'un élément de connexion/déconnexion rapide 26a, 26b équipé d'une vanne à boisseau hémisphérique 27a, 27b et d'organes de verrouillage 28, 29. Ces éléments de couplages 26a, 26b, sont destinés à être verrouillés sur des vannes à boisseau hémisphériques 30 a, 30b complémentaires, prévues aux extrémités des tubulures 25a, 25b (voir figure 4).Each of these pipes 24a, 24b is provided, at one of its ends, with a quick connection / disconnection element 26a, 26b equipped with a hemispherical ball valve 27a, 27b and locking members 28, 29 These coupling elements 26a, 26b are intended to be locked on complementary hemispherical ball valves 30a, 30b, provided at the ends of the pipes 25a, 25b (see FIG. 4).
Les organes de sécurité utilisés ici, en particulier pour la déconnexion d'urgence, sont des organes classiques et ne seront donc pas décrit plus en détails ici. Comme on peut le voir sur la figure 4, chacune des tubulures ou tronçons de conduite 25a, 25b est reliée par plusieurs autres tronçons de conduite et des joints tournants cryogéniques horizontaux et verticaux à des extrémités de conduite 31a, 31b, raccordant ces tronçons de conduite articulés à des citernes situées à l'intérieur du navire-citerne 14. Les tronçons de conduite situés au-dessus du pont du navire- citerne 14 forment deux lignes de transfert ou jambes de chien 32a, 32b, articulés autour d'un mât central 33. La combinaison des rotations de chacune des lignes de transfert 32a, 32b permet un positionnement des vannes à boisseau hémisphériques 30a, 30b dans un plan horizontal, ainsi que leur déplacement vertical en vue de leur connexion aux vannes à boisseau hémisphériques 27a, 27b de la tête de raccordement 23. A cet effet chacune des tubulures 25a, 25b est montée à l'extrémité d'une console 34a, 34b, portée par un manchon central 35 susceptible de tourner sur le mât 33, des vérins 36 activent le mouvement vertical des consoles 34a, 34b. Un moteur 37 permet également de faire tourner le manchon 35 sur lui-même.The safety devices used here, in particular for emergency disconnection, are conventional devices and will therefore not be described in more detail here. As can be seen in FIG. 4, each of the pipes or pipe sections 25a, 25b is connected by several other pipe sections and horizontal and vertical cryogenic rotary joints at pipe ends 31a, 31b, connecting these pipe sections articulated to tanks located inside the tanker 14. The pipe sections located above the deck of the tanker 14 form two transfer lines or dog legs 32a, 32b, articulated around a central mast 33. The combination of the rotations of each of the transfer lines 32a, 32b allows positioning of the hemispherical ball valves 30a, 30b in a horizontal plane, as well as their vertical displacement for their connection to the hemispherical ball valves 27a, 27b of the connection head 23. For this purpose each of the pipes 25a, 25b is mounted at the end of a console 34a, 34b, carried by a central sleeve 35 capable of turning on the mast 33, jacks 36 activate the vertical movement of the consoles 34a, 34b. A motor 37 also makes it possible to rotate the sleeve 35 on itself.
Il est ainsi possible de connecter avec précision les vannes à boisseau hémisphériques 30a, 30b aux vannes à boisseau hémisphériques 27a, 27b au niveau de la plate-forme d'accès 38 du navire-citerne 14. Le haut du mât 33 est également pourvu d'une pièce tronconiqueIt is thus possible to precisely connect the hemispherical ball valves 30a, 30b to the hemispherical ball valves 27a, 27b at the level of the access platform 38 of the tanker 14. The top of the mast 33 is also provided with '' a tapered piece
39 adaptée à recevoir une pièce tronconique de centrage complémentaire 40 montée sur la tête de raccordement 23. Des organes d'accrochage rapides 41 sont également prévus pour verrouiller ces deux pièces tronconiques 39, 40 l'une sur l'autre. La pièce tronconique 40 est montée sur la branche centrale d'une structure en forme d'étrier 42 décrite plus en détails ci-après. Un treuil 43, sur lequel est enroulé un câble de tirage destiné à permettre d'étendre le double pantographe 16 pour l'amener en position de raccordement avec le moyen de couplage 17, est également monté sur la branche centrale de cette structure 42. L'extrémité libre de ce câble de tirage est pourvu d'une pièce cylindrique 44 (voir figure 4), destiné à être accroché à un organe d'accrochage automatique 45, tel qu'une pince, logé à l'intérieur de la pièce tronconique 39 du moyen de couplage 17. Pour l'amener dans cette position d'accrochage, le câble de tirage est prolongé par un filin 46 destiné à être introduit dans un guide 47 du côté du moyen de couplage 17 afin de pouvoir amener, par la suite, le câble de tirage en prise avec l'organe d'accrochage 45.39 adapted to receive a complementary frustoconical centering piece 40 mounted on the connection head 23. Quick coupling members 41 are also provided for locking these two frustoconical pieces 39, 40 one on the other. The frustoconical part 40 is mounted on the central branch of a stirrup-shaped structure 42 described in more detail below. A winch 43, on which is wound a pulling cable intended to allow the double pantograph 16 to be extended to bring it into the connection position with the coupling means 17, is also mounted on the central branch of this structure 42. L the free end of this pulling cable is provided with a cylindrical piece 44 (see FIG. 4), intended to be hooked to an automatic hooking member 45, such as a clamp, housed inside the frustoconical piece 39 of the coupling means 17. To bring it into this hooking position, the pulling cable is extended by a rope 46 intended to be introduced into a guide 47 on the side of the coupling means 17 so as to be able to bring, by the next, the pulling cable in engagement with the hooking member 45.
La structure 42 porte les tronçons de conduite 24a, 24b, par l'intermédiaire d'une fixation (de façon amovible) d'une partie rectiligne de ceux- ci à des bras 48 de fixation latérale solidaires de la structure 42. Afin d'assurer une reprise du poids du double pantographe 16 au moment de la connexion au moyen de couplage 17, les branches latérales 49 de la structure 42 sont montées mobiles en rotation au moyen de roulements 50 sur un caisson d'articulation à la Cardan 51 des extrémités des demi- branches inférieures 20a, 20b et des tronçons de conduite 24a, 24b.The structure 42 carries the pipe sections 24a, 24b, by means of a fixing (in a removable manner) of a rectilinear part thereof to arms 48 for lateral fixing integral with the structure 42. In order to ensure a recovery of the weight of the double pantograph 16 at the time of connection to the coupling means 17, the lateral branches 49 of the structure 42 are rotatably mounted by means of bearings 50 on a gimbal joint box 51 of the ends of the lower half-branches 20a, 20b and of the pipe sections 24a, 24b.
La structure de ce caisson 51 inférieur de support et les moyens de raccordement des tronçons de conduite à celui-ci sont similaires à celle et ceux d'un caisson 52 qui sera décrit plus en détails infra, en référence à la figure 4.The structure of this lower support box 51 and the means for connecting the pipe sections to it are similar to that of a box 52 which will be described in more detail below, with reference to FIG. 4.
On notera cependant que les tronçons de conduite 24a, 24b présentent chacun une partie coudée à 90° à une extrémité, qui est raccordée, au moyen d'un joint tournant cryogénique 53a, 53b, à l'extrémité d'un coude raccordé, par son autre extrémité, à l'une des extrémités des demi-branches inférieures 20a, 20b d'une façon similaire à la connexion des extrémités des demi-branches supérieures 18a, 18b au caisson supérieur 52 et aux coudes correspondants. On notera également que les roulements 50 sont disposés concentriquement aux joints tournants 53a, 53b, avec un espace annulaire libre entre les deux. Les branches latérales 49 entourent, elles aussi, les tronçons de conduite 24a, 24b avec une séparation par un espace annulaire libre.Note, however, that the pipe sections 24a, 24b each have a 90 ° bent portion at one end, which is connected, by means of a cryogenic rotary joint 53a, 53b, to the end of a connected elbow, by its other end, at one of the ends of the lower half-branches 20a, 20b in a similar manner to the connection of the ends of the upper half-branches 18a, 18b to the upper box 52 and to the corresponding elbows. It will also be noted that the bearings 50 are arranged concentrically with the rotary joints 53a, 53b, with a free annular space between the two. The lateral branches 49 also surround the pipe sections 24a, 24b with a separation by a free annular space.
Les demi-branches supérieures 18a, 18b sont également articulés à la Cardan au moyen du caisson de support supérieur 52 sur les tronçons de conduite 54a, 54b fixés à la flèche 12.The upper half-branches 18a, 18b are also articulated to the gimbal by means of the upper support box 52 on the pipe sections 54a, 54b fixed to the arrow 12.
Le caisson 52 est lui aussi fixé à la flèche 12, à l'aide de deux jambes 56 suspendues au moyen d'oreilles 57 à deux poutres parallèles 55, dont une seule est visible sur la figure 2. Les extrémités des jambes 56 opposées aux oreilles 57 sont reliées l'une à l'autre au moyen d'une poutre transversale 58. Comme on le voit mieux sur la figure 3, ces jambes 56 sont également montées mobile en rotation sur deux parois opposées 59, 60 du caisson de support 52.The box 52 is also fixed to the arrow 12, using two legs 56 suspended by means of ears 57 with two parallel beams 55, only one of which is visible in FIG. 2. The ends of the legs 56 opposite the ears 57 are connected to each other by means of a transverse beam 58. As can best be seen in FIG. 3, these legs 56 are also mounted so as to be able to rotate on two opposite walls 59, 60 of the support box 52.
Plus précisément, ces jambes 56 sont pourvues d'un flasque 61a, 61b monté mobile en rotation sur la paroi 59 ou 60 au moyen d'un roulement 62a, 62b. Ce roulement 62a, 62b comporte un élément annulaire externeMore precisely, these legs 56 are provided with a flange 61a, 61b mounted movably in rotation on the wall 59 or 60 by means of a bearing 62a, 62b. This bearing 62a, 62b has an external annular element
63a, 63b fixé à chacune des parois 59 et 60 et un élément annulaire interne63a, 63b fixed to each of the walls 59 and 60 and an internal annular element
64a, 64b fixé à chacun des flasques 61a, 61b. Des billes 65a, 65b sont insérées entre les éléments annulaires externes et internes de chacun des roulement 62a, 62b.64a, 64b fixed to each of the flanges 61a, 61b. Balls 65a, 65b are inserted between the external and internal annular elements of each of the bearings 62a, 62b.
Chacun des tronçons 54a, 54b comporte une partie d'extrémité coudée reliée à une extrémité d'un coude 66a, 66b, au moyen d'un joint tournant cryogénique 67a, 67b.Each of the sections 54a, 54b has a bent end portion connected to one end of an elbow 66a, 66b, by means of a cryogenic rotary joint 67a, 67b.
Les flasques 61a, 61b, le roulement 62a, 62b et les parois 59, 60 sont séparés des joints tournants 67a, 67b et des tronçons de conduite 54a, 54b par un espace annulaire libre 68a, 68b.The flanges 61a, 61b, the bearing 62a, 62b and the walls 59, 60 are separated from the rotary joints 67a, 67b and the pipe sections 54a, 54b by a free annular space 68a, 68b.
Les coudes 66a, 66b sont fixés au moyen de brides 69a, 69b à une plaque de base 70 solidaire des parois latérales du caisson 52 et perpendiculaire à celles-ci. Chacune des autres extrémités des coudes 66a, 66b est reliée à une extrémité d'une des demi-branches supérieures 18a, 18b du double pantographe 16, par l'intermédiaire d'un coude à 90° 71a, 71b amovible.The elbows 66a, 66b are fixed by means of flanges 69a, 69b to a base plate 70 integral with the side walls of the box 52 and perpendicular thereto. Each of the other ends of the elbows 66a, 66b is connected to one end of one of the upper half-branches 18a, 18b of the double pantograph 16, by means of a removable 90 ° elbow 71a, 71b.
L'une des extrémités des coudes 71a, 71b est reliée à l'extrémité des coudes 66a, 66b au moyen d'un joint tournant cryogénique 72a, 72b, tandis que l'autre extrémité est fixée à une extrémité de demi-branche supérieure 18a, 18b.One end of the elbows 71a, 71b is connected to the end of the elbows 66a, 66b by means of a cryogenic rotary joint 72a, 72b, while the other end is fixed to an end of upper half-branch 18a , 18b.
Pour ce faire, cette extrémité de demi-branche 18a, 18b est pourvue d'une bride 73a, 73b boulonnée sur une branche d'une pièce en forme d'équerre 74a, 74b, avec interposition d'une garniture d'isolation 75a, 75b. Chacune de ces branches 76a, 76b présente la forme d'une plaque pourvue d'une ouverture centrale de passage du coude 71a, 71b.To do this, this half-branch end 18a, 18b is provided with a flange 73a, 73b bolted to a branch of a square-shaped piece 74a, 74b, with the interposition of an insulation lining 75a, 75b. Each of these branches 76a, 76b has the form of a plate provided with a central opening for passage of the elbow 71a, 71b.
L'autre branche 77a, 77b des pièces en forme d'équerre 74a, 74b présente également la forme d'une plaque entourant un joint tournant correspondant 72a, 72b avec un espace annulaire libre entre les deux. Ces branches 77a, 77b sont, par ailleurs, montées mobiles en rotation au moyen d'un roulement à billes 78a, 78b sur des parois parallèles 79, 80 du caisson 52, perpendiculaires aux parois 59 et 60.The other branch 77a, 77b of the square-shaped parts 74a, 74b also has the form of a plate surrounding a corresponding rotary joint 72a, 72b with a free annular space between the two. These branches 77a, 77b are, moreover, mounted mobile in rotation by means a ball bearing 78a, 78b on parallel walls 79, 80 of the box 52, perpendicular to the walls 59 and 60.
Le montage au moyen des roulements 78a, 78b des branches 77a, 77b sur les parois 79, 80 étant similaire au montage des flasques 61a, 61b sur les parois 59, 60, il ne sera pas décrit plus en détails ici.The mounting by means of the bearings 78a, 78b of the branches 77a, 77b on the walls 79, 80 being similar to the mounting of the flanges 61a, 61b on the walls 59, 60, it will not be described in more detail here.
On notera cependant que les roulements 78a, 78b sont disposés concentriquement aux joints tournants cryogéniques 72a, 72b correspondants. Par ailleurs les branches en forme de plaques 77a, 77b sont pourvues d'une ouverture centrale formant avec le roulement 78a, 78b un espace libre annulaire 81a, 81b entre les joints tournants 72a, 72b et les moyens de montage en rotation des branches 77a, 77b sur les parois 79, 80.However, it will be noted that the bearings 78a, 78b are arranged concentrically with the corresponding cryogenic rotary joints 72a, 72b. Furthermore, the plate-shaped branches 77a, 77b are provided with a central opening forming, with the bearing 78a, 78b, an annular free space 81a, 81b between the rotary joints 72a, 72b and the means for rotationally mounting the branches 77a, 77b on the walls 79, 80.
En outre, les branches respectives des pièces en forme d'équerre 74a, 74b sont renforcées par des goussets 82a, 82b.In addition, the respective branches of the square-shaped parts 74a, 74b are reinforced by gussets 82a, 82b.
Les pièces en forme d'équerre 74a, 74b présentent ainsi une forme de chaise de reprise de forces.The square-shaped parts 74a, 74b thus have the form of a force recovery chair.
On appréciera que les joints tournants des articulations à la Cardan aux extrémités supérieures et inférieures du double pantographe 16 ne sont ainsi plus soumises aux charges ou contraintes mécaniques (poids du pantographe, accélérations, ...). Par ailleurs, ce concept permet également la reprise des forces d'équilibrage directement sur les structures de support du double pantographe 16, comme on le verra ci-après.It will be appreciated that the rotary joints of the Cardan joints at the upper and lower ends of the double pantograph 16 are thus no longer subject to mechanical loads or constraints (weight of the pantograph, accelerations, etc.). Furthermore, this concept also allows the recovery of balancing forces directly on the support structures of the double pantograph 16, as will be seen below.
On notera également que ce dispositif de transfert de fluide 16 est déformable dans son plan principal pour déplacer en hauteur ses segments articulés de conduite.It will also be noted that this fluid transfer device 16 is deformable in its main plane to move its articulated pipe segments in height.
L'articulation des demi-branches et branches entières entre elles par l'intermédiaire des joints tournants est, quant à elle, classique et peut par exemple être effectuée de la façon décrite dans le document FR-2 469 367 précité. En outre, ce dispositif 16 peut pivoter dans son plan principal autour des axes d'articulation des joints 72a, 72b et roulements 78a, 78b. Enfin le dispositif de transfert de fluide 16 peut également pivoter perpendiculairement à son plan principal autour des axes d'articulation des joints 67a, 67b et des roulements 62a, 62b.The articulation of the half-branches and whole branches between them by means of the revolving joints is, for its part, conventional and can for example be carried out as described in the document FR-2 469 367 cited above. In addition, this device 16 can pivot in its main plane around the articulation axes of the seals 72a, 72b and bearings 78a, 78b. Finally the fluid transfer device 16 can also pivot perpendicular to its main plane around the articulation axes of the seals 67a, 67b and the bearings 62a, 62b.
On reconnaît sur les figures 5 et 6 deux systèmes d'équilibrage de ce dispositif de transfert 16 à double pantographe, l'un relié au point central (articulation 22) de ce double pantographe et l'autre relié au point bas (caisson 51) de ce même double pantographe 16.We recognize in FIGS. 5 and 6 two balancing systems of this transfer device 16 with double pantograph, one connected to the central point (articulation 22) of this double pantograph and the other connected to the low point (box 51) of this same double pantograph 16.
Le premier système d'équilibrage comprend un premier câble 85 qui part de l'articulation 22 et passe sur une première poulie de renvoi 86 d'un porte-poulies monté mobile en pivotement sur la poutre 58, puis sur une seconde poulie de renvoi 87 fixée à la flèche 12, une troisième poulie de renvoi à 180° 88 ainsi qu'une quatrième poulie de renvoi fixée à l'avant de la flèche 12, pour revenir sur une poulie de renvoi 90 d'un second porte-poulies monté mobile en pivotement sur la poutre 58 et aboutir finalement à nouveau à l'articulation 22.The first balancing system comprises a first cable 85 which starts from the articulation 22 and passes over a first deflection pulley 86 of a pulley holder pivotally mounted on the beam 58, then over a second deflection pulley 87 fixed to the arrow 12, a third 180 ° deflection pulley 88 as well as a fourth deflection pulley attached to the front of the arrow 12, to return to a deflection pulley 90 of a second pulley holder mounted movable in pivoting on the beam 58 and finally lead again to the joint 22.
Un câble de connexion 91 est relié par l'une de ses extrémités au porte-poulies de la poulie de renvoi 88 et par son autre extrémité à un jeu de contrepoids 92 d'équilibrage, en passant sur une poulie 93 de renvoi à 90° fixée à la flèche 12. Ce jeu de contrepoids 92 se déplace librement à l'intérieur d'une structure de guidage 94 du support de flèche 13 tournant autour de l'embase fixe 95 (voir figure 1).A connection cable 91 is connected by one of its ends to the pulley holder of the deflection pulley 88 and by its other end to a set of balancing counterweights 92, passing over a pulley 93 of deflection at 90 ° fixed to the arrow 12. This set of counterweights 92 moves freely inside a guide structure 94 of the arrow support 13 rotating around the fixed base 95 (see FIG. 1).
Le second système d'équilibrage comprend un câble 96 passant sur une seconde poulie 97 de renvoi du premier porte-poulies, sur une seconde poulie de renvoi 98 fixée à l'avant de la flèche 12, sensiblement au même emplacement que la poulie de renvoi 89. Ensuite, le câble passe sur une autre poulie 99 de renvoi à 180°, située entre les deux extrémités longitudinales de la flèche 12, sensiblement au même emplacement que la poulie 88.The second balancing system comprises a cable 96 passing over a second pulley 97 for deflecting the first pulley holder, over a second deflection pulley 98 fixed to the front of the arrow 12, substantially in the same location as the deflection pulley 89. Then, the cable passes over another pulley 99 of 180 ° return, located between the two longitudinal ends of the arrow 12, substantially at the same location as the pulley 88.
Le câble 96 revient ensuite par une poulie supplémentaire de renvoi 100 fixée à la flèche 12 entre les poulies de renvoi 98 et 99 et sensiblement au même emplacement que la poulie 87, et par une seconde poulie 101 du second porte-poulies, au caisson 51.The cable 96 then returns by an additional return pulley 100 fixed to the arrow 12 between the return pulleys 98 and 99 and substantially at the same location as the pulley 87, and by a second pulley 101 of the second pulley holder, to the box 51.
Il est à noter, à cet égard, que les deux extrémités du câble 96 sont fixées au caisson 51 avec possibilité de débattement angulaire dans le plan principal du double pantographe 16, par exemple au moyen d'une articulation à fourchette 102.It should be noted, in this regard, that the two ends of the cable 96 are fixed to the box 51 with the possibility of angular movement in the main plane of the double pantograph 16, for example by means of a fork joint 102.
Comme on peut encore le voir sur la figure 2, les axes de pivotement des articulations à fourchette 102 s'étendent ainsi perpendiculairement au plan principal du double losange 16, tout comme les axes de pivotement des premiers et seconds supports de poulies.As can still be seen in FIG. 2, the pivot axes of the fork joints 102 thus extend perpendicular to the main plane of the double diamond 16, just like the pivot axes of the first and second pulley supports.
Un autre câble de connexion 103 est relié par l'une des ses extrémités au porte-poulies de la poulie 99 puis passe sur une poulie de renvoi à 90° 104 fixée à la flèche 12 avant d'arriver à une poulie de renvoi à 180° 105 fixée à un second jeu de contrepoids d'équilibrage 106. Enfin, le câble 103 monte vers la flèche 12 où il est fixé à la structure de support 13 de la flèche 12.Another connection cable 103 is connected by one of its ends to the pulley carrier of the pulley 99 then passes over a 90 ° deflection pulley 104 fixed to the arrow 12 before arriving at a 180 deflection pulley ° 105 fixed to a second set of balancing counterweights 106. Finally, the cable 103 rises to the arrow 12 where it is fixed to the support structure 13 of the arrow 12.
Ce second jeu de contrepoids 106 coulisse également à l'intérieur de la structure de guidage 94, mais est commandé en translation par un système d'actionnement 107 comprenant un treuil hydraulique 108. On peut également voir sur les figures 2, 5 et 6 que les câbles 85 et 96 s'étendent, en dessous des premiers et seconds portes-poulies, dans le plan principal du double losange 16 et au-dessus de ces porte-poulies, dans des plans perpendiculaires à ce plan principal, en sorte de ne pas gêner les manoeuvres d'extension et de rétraction du dispositif de transfert de fluide 16. Sur la figure 2 on peut encore voir que le dispositif de transfert de fluide 16 est pourvu d'un dispositif de verrouillage en position rétractée du double losange 16. Ce dispositif comporte un élément mâle 109 fixé à la poutre 58 et un élément femelle 110 fixé sur le haut de l'articulation 22. Cet élément femelle 110 présente une forme complémentaire d'un évidement prévu sur l'élément mâle 109 et pénètre dans celui-ci en position rétractée pour verrouiller le double losange 16 en position rétractée. On appréciera également que les contrepoids d'équilibrage 92 et 106 sont facilement accessibles et raccordés par des câbles et poulies toujours alignés avec la structure de la grue 11.This second set of counterweights 106 also slides inside the guide structure 94, but is controlled in translation by an actuating system 107 comprising a hydraulic winch 108. It can also be seen in FIGS. 2, 5 and 6 that the cables 85 and 96 extend, below the first and second pulley carriers, in the main plane of the double diamond 16 and above these pulley carriers, in planes perpendicular to this main plane, so as not to not interfere with the extension and retraction maneuvers of the fluid transfer device 16. In FIG. 2 it can still be seen that the fluid transfer device 16 is provided with a locking device in the retracted position of the double diamond 16. This device comprises a male element 109 fixed to the beam 58 and a female element 110 fixed on the top of the articulation 22. This female element 110 has a shape complementary to a recess provided on the male element 109 and enters it in the retracted position to lock the double diamond 16 in the retracted position. It will also be appreciated that the balancing counterweights 92 and 106 are easily accessible and connected by cables and pulleys always aligned with the structure of the crane 11.
On appréciera aussi que le système à contrepoids 92 permet d'assurer un équilibrage constant du centre du double pantographe 16, tandis que le système à contrepoids 106 permet, quant à lui, d'appliquer une tension variable. Ainsi, lors de la mise en fonctionnement du dispositif de transfert de fluide 16, il est possible de compenser tous les mouvements relatifs entre le navire-citerne 14 et la plate-forme 10. Par ailleurs, la vitesse de déplacement du double pantographe 16 peut être contrôlée avec précision tant au cours d'une déconnexion normale lors de laquelle les segments articulés sont vides que pendant une déconnexion d'urgence lors de laquelle les segments articulés sont pleins de produits et recouverts de glace. Plus généralement, ces deux systèmes permettent de minimiser les contraintes sur les joints tournants intermédiaires du double pantographe 16 et de réduire les charges appliquées au moyen de couplage 17 lors de la connexion du double pantographe 16 à celui-ci, mais aussi d'effectuer une connexion sans choc. La tête de raccordement 23 et le moyen de couplage 17, de par leurs structures, contribuent bien sûr également à cette connexion sans heurt et à une compensation des mouvements relatifs entre le navire-citerne 14 et la plate-forme 10.It will also be appreciated that the counterweight system 92 ensures constant balancing of the center of the double pantograph 16, while the counterweight system 106 allows, for its part, to apply a variable tension. Thus, when the fluid transfer device 16 is put into operation, it is possible to compensate for all the relative movements between the tanker 14 and the platform 10. Furthermore, the speed of movement of the double pantograph 16 can be checked with precision both during a normal disconnection during which the articulated segments are empty and during an emergency disconnection during which the articulated segments are full of products and covered with ice. More generally, these two systems make it possible to minimize the stresses on the intermediate rotary joints of the double pantograph 16 and to reduce the loads applied to the coupling means 17 when connecting the double pantograph 16 to it, but also to perform a connection without shock. The connection head 23 and the coupling means 17, by their structures, of course also contribute to this smooth connection and to compensation for the relative movements between the tanker 14 and the platform 10.
A cet égard, il est à noter que les treuils 43 et 108 sont adaptés à être commandés en vitesse contante ou en tension constante de manière à pouvoir compenser ces mouvements relatifs entre le navire-citerne 14 et la plate-forme 10.In this regard, it should be noted that the winches 43 and 108 are adapted to be controlled at constant speed or at constant tension so as to be able to compensate for these relative movements between the tanker 14 and the platform 10.
Ainsi, au début de l'extension du double pantographe 16 après accrochage du câble de tirage sur le moyen de couplage 17, ce câble est tiré à une vitesse constante par rapport à la flèche 12 et à une tension constante par rapport au moyen de couplage 17, en actionnant le treuil 108 en vitesse constante et le treuil 43 en force constante. Cela permet d'éviter tout risque de collision entre le double pantographe 16 et la flèche 12.Thus, at the start of the extension of the double pantograph 16 after hooking the pulling cable to the coupling means 17, this cable is pulled at a constant speed relative to the arrow 12 and at a constant tension with respect to the coupling means 17, by operating the winch 108 in speed constant and the winch 43 in constant force. This avoids any risk of collision between the double pantograph 16 and the arrow 12.
Puis, dans une phase intermédiaire, les deux treuils sont actionnés en force constante. Ensuite, lorsque le double pantographe 16 arrive au voisinage du point mécanique de connexion au moyen de couplage 17, la vitesse constante du câble est alors définie comme une vitesse constante par rapport au moyen de couplage 17, tandis qu'il est tiré en tension constante par rapport à la flècheThen, in an intermediate phase, the two winches are operated with constant force. Then, when the double pantograph 16 arrives in the vicinity of the mechanical point of connection to the coupling means 17, the constant speed of the cable is then defined as a constant speed with respect to the coupling means 17, while it is pulled in constant tension relative to the arrow
12 en direction opposée. En d'autres termes, le treuil 43 est actionné en vitesse constante, tandis que le treuil 108 est actionné en force constante. Il est ainsi possible de limiter le risque de collision entre la tête de raccordement 23 et la pièce tronconique 39 du moyen de couplage 17.12 in the opposite direction. In other words, the winch 43 is operated at constant speed, while the winch 108 is operated at constant force. It is thus possible to limit the risk of collision between the connection head 23 and the frustoconical part 39 of the coupling means 17.
En sens inverse (déconnexion) le treuil 43 est d'abord actionné en vitesse constante et le treuil 108 en force constante. Puis, lors d'une étape intermédiaire les deux treuils sont actionnés en force constante et, enfin, au voisinage de la position rétractée près de la flèche 12, le treuil 43 est actionné en force constante, tandis que le treuil 108 est actionné en vitesse constante.In the opposite direction (disconnection) the winch 43 is first actuated at constant speed and the winch 108 at constant force. Then, during an intermediate step, the two winches are actuated in constant force and, finally, in the vicinity of the retracted position near the arrow 12, the winch 43 is actuated in constant force, while the winch 108 is actuated in speed. constant.
Grâce à ces dispositions, le double pantographe 16 peut être amené en position de raccordement avec le moyen de couplage 17 et déconnecté de celui-ci de façon optimale.Thanks to these provisions, the double pantograph 16 can be brought into the connection position with the coupling means 17 and disconnected from it optimally.
Il est à noter, à cet égard, que des détecteurs de position et des jauges de contrainte sont reliés à un système de commande des treuils 43 etIt should be noted, in this regard, that position detectors and strain gauges are connected to a control system of the winches 43 and
108.108.
Du côté de la plate-forme 10, la flèche 12 est montée pivotante en inclinaison sur le support de flèche 13, d'environ 10° par rapport à sa position horizontale. Le support de flèche 13 est, quant à lui, susceptible d'effectuer une rotation de 250° autour de l'embase 95.On the side of the platform 10, the boom 12 is pivotally mounted in inclination on the boom support 13, by about 10 ° relative to its horizontal position. The boom support 13 is, in turn, capable of rotating 250 ° around the base 95.
Afin que soit possible le mouvement d'inclinaison, deux jeux 111 de segments multiples de conduite articulés entre eux au moyen de joints tournants relient les tronçons de conduite 54a et 54b raccordés au double pantographe 16 et longeant la flèche 12 à des tronçons de conduite 112a, 112b portés par la structure de support 13 de la flèche 12 et longeant l'extérieur de l'embase 95.In order to allow the tilting movement to be possible, two sets 111 of multiple pipe segments hinged together by means of rotary joints connect the pipe sections 54a and 54b connected to the double pantograph 16 and along the arrow 12 to pipe sections 112a , 112b carried by the support structure 13 of the arrow 12 and along the outside of the base 95.
De manière similaire, deux jeux 113 d'autres segments de conduite articulés entre eux au moyen de joints tournants relient ces tronçons de conduite 112a et 112b à des tubulures 114a et 114b fixées à la plate-formeSimilarly, two sets 113 of other pipe segments hinged together by means of rotary joints connect these pipe sections 112a and 112b to pipes 114a and 114b fixed to the platform
10 et servant, respectivement, à l'alimentation en gaz naturel liquéfié et à la récupération des gaz vaporisés.10 and used, respectively, for supplying liquefied natural gas and for recovering vaporized gases.
Ces jeux de segments de conduite 111 v et 113 sont bien sûr articulés entre eux aux moyens de joints tournants de telle sorte à permettre le mouvement d'inclinaison de la flèche 12 sur son support 13 et la rotation de ce support 13 autour de l'embase 95.These sets of pipe segments 111 v and 113 are of course articulated with one another by means of rotating joints so as to allow the tilting movement of the arrow 12 on its support 13 and the rotation of this support 13 around the base 95.
On appréciera que ces segments de conduite 111 et 113, ainsi que les tronçons de conduite 112a et 112b sont tous extérieurs à une quelconque structure fermée, de la grue 11 , telle que l'embase 95. Cela présente les avantages mentionnés supra. En outre, les jeux de segments articulés 111 et 113 permettent également l'expansion et la rétraction des tubulures.It will be appreciated that these pipe segments 111 and 113, as well as the pipe sections 112a and 112b are all external to any closed structure, of the crane 11, such as the base 95. This has the advantages mentioned above. In addition, the sets of articulated segments 111 and 113 also allow the expansion and retraction of the pipes.
Il va de soi que la description qui précède n'a été proposée qu'à titre d'exemple et qu'on pourra apporter des équivalences dans ses éléments constitutifs, sans, pour autant, sortir du cadre de l'invention. It goes without saying that the above description has been offered by way of example only and that it is possible to provide equivalences in its constituent elements, without, however, departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Dispositif de transfert de fluide entre une flèche (12) de chargement comportant au moins un tronçon de conduite (54a, 54b) fixé à la flèche (12) et un moyen de couplage (17), comprenant un réseau (16) de segments multiples articulés de conduite de fluide du type accordéon ou à losange(s) déformable(s) et actionnés par câble, au moins un tronçon de conduite (24a, 24b) destiné à être raccordé au moyen de couplage (17), chaque tronçon de conduite fixé à la flèche (12) ou destiné à être raccordé au moyen de couplage (17) étant raccordé à une extrémité du réseau (16) de segments articulés par l'intermédiaire d'un coude (66a, 66b) et de joints tournants (53a, 53b, 67a, 67b, 72a, 72b), le coude (66a 66b) étant fixé à un support (51 , 52) suspendu à la flèche (12), lequel dispositif est caractérisé en ce que chaque extrémité du réseau (16) de segments articulés est fixée à un support (74a, 74b) monté mobile en rotation au moyen d'un roulement (78a, 78b) sur le support du coude (66a, 66b) auquel l'extrémité est raccordée, concentriquement au joint tournant (72a, 72b) raccordant l'extrémité au coude (66a, 66b) .1. Fluid transfer device between a loading boom (12) comprising at least one pipe section (54a, 54b) fixed to the boom (12) and a coupling means (17), comprising a network (16) of articulated multiple segments of accordion type fluid or deformable diamond (s) and actuated by cable, at least one pipe section (24a, 24b) intended to be connected to the coupling means (17), each section pipe fixed to the arrow (12) or intended to be connected by means of coupling (17) being connected to one end of the network (16) of articulated segments by means of an elbow (66a, 66b) and joints rotating (53a, 53b, 67a, 67b, 72a, 72b), the elbow (66a 66b) being fixed to a support (51, 52) suspended from the arrow (12), which device is characterized in that each end of the network (16) of articulated segments is fixed to a support (74a, 74b) mounted movable in rotation by means of a bearing (78a, 78b) on the elbow support (66a, 66b) to which the end is connected, concentrically with the rotary joint (72a, 72b) connecting the end to the elbow (66a, 66b).
2. Dispositif selon la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte une structure (42) de reprise du poids du réseau de segments multiples articulés, portant chaque tronçon de conduite (24a, 24b) destiné à être raccordé au moyen de couplage (17) et montée mobile en rotation au moyen d'au moins un roulement (50) sur le support (51) portant chaque coude raccordé à un tronçon de conduite destiné à être raccordé au moyen de couplage, chaque roulement étant disposé concentriquement au joint tournant raccordant un tronçon de conduite destiné à être raccordé au moyen de couplage à un coude, laquelle structure de reprise de poids comporte une pièce tronconique (40) de centrage adaptée à coopérer avec une pièce complémentaire (39) du moyen de couplage. 2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a structure (42) for taking up the weight of the network of multiple articulated segments, carrying each pipe section (24a, 24b) intended to be connected to the coupling means ( 17) and mounted movable in rotation by means of at least one bearing (50) on the support (51) carrying each elbow connected to a section of pipe intended to be connected to the coupling means, each bearing being arranged concentrically with the rotary joint connecting a pipe section intended to be connected by coupling means to an elbow, which weight recovery structure comprises a frustoconical centering piece (40) adapted to cooperate with a complementary piece (39) of the coupling means.
3. Dispositif selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que le support (52) portant le ou les coudes de raccordement au(x) tronçon(s) de conduite (54a, 54b) fixé(s) à la flèche (12) de fluide est suspendu à la flèche (12) au moyen de jambes (56) dont chacune est montée mobile en rotation, au moyen d'un roulement (62a, 62b), sur ce support, concentriquement au(x) joint(s) tournant(s) (67a, 67b) de raccordement du (des) coude(s) au(x) tronçon(s) de conduite fixé(s) à la flèche (12).3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the support (52) carrying the elbow (s) for connection to the (x) section (s) of line (54a, 54b) fixed (s) to the arrow (12) of fluid is suspended from the arrow (12) by means of legs (56) each of which is mounted movable in rotation, by means of a bearing (62a, 62b), on this support, concentrically with the rotary joint (s) (67a, 67b) connecting the elbow (s) to the pipe section (s) fixed to the arrow (12).
4. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce qu'un espace annulaire libre (81a, 81b) sépare chaque joint tournant du roulement concentrique à celui-ci.4. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a free annular space (81a, 81b) separates each rotary joint of the bearing concentric therewith.
5. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisé en ce que le support d'extrémité du réseau est équipé d'une pièce en forme d'équerre (74a, 74b) , chaque extrémité du réseau de segments articulés de conduite étant fixée à l'une des branches (76a, 76b) d'une pièce en forme d'équerre correspondante et raccordée au coude porté par le support de coude(s) au moyen d'un coude supplémentaire (71a, 71b) fixé de manière amovible à cette extrémité du réseau de segments articulés et raccordé au coude du support de coude(s) par un joint tournant (72a, 72b) concentrique à un roulement (78a, 78b) raccordant l'autre branche (77a, 77b) de la pièce en forme d'équerre au support de coude(s).5. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the network end support is equipped with a square-shaped piece (74a, 74b), each end of the network of articulated segments of pipe being fixed to one of the branches (76a, 76b) of a corresponding square-shaped piece and connected to the elbow carried by the elbow support (s) by means of an additional elbow (71a, 71b) fixed removably at this end of the network of articulated segments and connected to the elbow of the elbow support (s) by a rotary joint (72a, 72b) concentric with a bearing (78a, 78b) connecting the other branch (77a, 77b) from the square-shaped part to the elbow support (s).
6. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de transfert de fluide (16) est suspendu à une flèche (12) montée pivotante en inclinaison sur un support de flèche (13) qui est monté pivotant en azimut sur une embase fixe (95)montée sur une plateforme (10), un premier jeu (111) de segments multiples de conduite relie une partie de conduite portée par la flèche a une partie de conduite (112a, 112b) fixée au support de flèche et s'étendant jusqu'au bas de l'embase et un second jeu (113) de segments multiples de conduite prolonge par le bas la partie de conduite (112a, 112b) longeant le support de la flèche jusqu'à la plate-forme, les premier et second jeux (111 , 113) de segments étant configurés et articulés entre eux au moyen de joints tournants de telle sorte à permettre le mouvement d'inclinaison de la flèche sur le support de flèche et la rotation du support de flèche sur son embase, la partie de conduite longeant le support de flèche ainsi que les premier et second jeux de segments étant extérieurs à toute partie sensiblement close de l'embase ou du support de flèche.6. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the fluid transfer device (16) is suspended from a boom (12) pivotally mounted in inclination on a boom support (13) which is mounted pivoting in azimuth on a fixed base (95) mounted on a platform (10), a first set (111) of multiple pipe segments connects a pipe part carried by the arrow to a pipe part (112a, 112b) fixed to the boom support and extending to the bottom of the base and a second set (113) of multiple pipe segments extends from below the pipe part (112a, 112b) along the boom support to the platform, the first and second sets (111, 113) of segments being configured and articulated together by means of rotary joints so as to allow the tilting movement of the boom on the boom support and the rotation of the support arrow on its base, the long pipe part being the boom support as well that the first and second sets of segments being external to any substantially closed part of the base or of the boom support.
7. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 6, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de transfert de fluide est suspendu à une flèche (12) est montée pivotante en inclinaison sur un support de flèche (13) qui est monté pivotant en azimut sur une embase fixe, le réseau de segments multiples articulés de conduite forme une suite de deux losanges articulés dont deux angles respectifs sont opposés par le sommet, les* segments de conduite intermédiaires formant ces deux angles étant solidarisés à leur intersection par une articulation (22) reliée par un premier jeu de câbles et de poulies à un premier jeu (92) de contrepoids d'équilibrage libre, monté mobile longitudinalement le long du support de flèche (13), tandis que le support (51) de raccordement des extrémités des segments inférieurs (20a, 20b) des losanges déformables aux tronçons de conduite (24a, 24b) destinés à être raccordés au moyen de couplage, est relié, par un second jeu de câbles et de poulies, à un second jeu (106) de contrepoids d'équilibrage commandé hydrauliquement et monté mobile longitudinalement sur le support de flèche (13).7. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the fluid transfer device is suspended from a boom (12) is pivotally mounted in inclination on a boom support (13) which is pivotally mounted in azimuth on a fixed base, the network of multiple articulated pipe segments forms a series of two articulated diamonds, two respective angles of which are opposed by the apex, the * intermediate pipe segments forming these two angles being joined at their intersection by a joint ( 22) connected by a first set of cables and pulleys to a first set (92) of free balancing counterweight, mounted longitudinally movable along the boom support (13), while the support (51) for connecting the ends lower segments (20a, 20b) of deformable diamonds to the pipe sections (24a, 24b) intended to be connected by means of coupling, is connected, by a second set of cables and the pulleys, to a second set (106) of counterbalancing balancing hydraulically controlled and movably mounted longitudinally on the boom support (13).
8. Dispositif selon les revendications 3 et 7, caractérisé en ce que chaque jeu de câbles passe sur des poulies (86, 97, 90, 101) de renvoi montées mobiles en pivotement à une poutre (58) transversale fixée aux jambes (56).8. Device according to claims 3 and 7, characterized in that each set of cables passes over pulleys (86, 97, 90, 101) of deflection mounted movably in pivoting to a beam (58) transverse fixed to the legs (56) .
9. Dispositif selon la revendication 2 et l'une des revendications 7 et 8, caractérisé en ce qu'un treuil (43), sur lequel est enroulé un câble de tirage destiné à permettre d'étendre le dispositif de transfert de fluide (16) pour l'amener en position de raccordement avec le moyen de couplage (17), est monté sur la structure de reprise de poids (42).9. Device according to claim 2 and one of claims 7 and 8, characterized in that a winch (43), on which is wound a pulling cable intended to allow to extend the fluid transfer device (16 ) to bring it into the connection position with the coupling means (17), is mounted on the weight recovery structure (42).
10. Dispositif selon la revendication 9, caractérisé en ce que le second jeu de contrepoids d'équilibrage est commandé hydrauliquement à l'aide d'un autre treuil (108), les deux treuils étant adaptés à être commandés en vitesse constante et en tension constante lors de l'extension et de la rétraction du dispositif de transfert de fluide (16). 10. Device according to claim 9, characterized in that the second set of balancing counterweights is controlled hydraulically using another winch (108), the two winches being adapted to be controlled at constant speed and constant voltage during extension and retraction of the fluid transfer device (16).
EP00922772A 1999-05-03 2000-04-27 Articulated fluid transmission device and loading crane comprising said device Expired - Lifetime EP1181238B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9905607 1999-05-03
FR9905607A FR2793235B1 (en) 1999-05-03 1999-05-03 ARTICULATED DEVICE FOR TRANSFERRING FLUID AND LOADING CRANE COMPRISING SUCH A DEVICE
PCT/FR2000/001126 WO2000066484A1 (en) 1999-05-03 2000-04-27 Articulated fluid transmission device and loading crane comprising said device

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1181238A1 true EP1181238A1 (en) 2002-02-27
EP1181238B1 EP1181238B1 (en) 2003-08-20

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EP00922772A Expired - Lifetime EP1181238B1 (en) 1999-05-03 2000-04-27 Articulated fluid transmission device and loading crane comprising said device

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US (1) US6343620B1 (en)
EP (1) EP1181238B1 (en)
JP (1) JP4197848B2 (en)
KR (1) KR100628671B1 (en)
CN (1) CN1131169C (en)
AT (1) ATE247598T1 (en)
AU (1) AU759005B2 (en)
BR (1) BR0011222B1 (en)
CA (1) CA2371529C (en)
DE (1) DE60004661T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2206226T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2793235B1 (en)
MX (1) MXPA01011040A (en)
NO (1) NO322315B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2000066484A1 (en)
YU (1) YU78401A (en)
ZA (1) ZA200108817B (en)

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JP2002543011A (en) 2002-12-17
US6343620B1 (en) 2002-02-05
YU78401A (en) 2003-02-28
EP1181238B1 (en) 2003-08-20
CN1131169C (en) 2003-12-17
BR0011222A (en) 2002-03-19
FR2793235A1 (en) 2000-11-10
NO20015370D0 (en) 2001-11-02
JP4197848B2 (en) 2008-12-17
WO2000066484A1 (en) 2000-11-09
FR2793235B1 (en) 2001-08-10
BR0011222B1 (en) 2010-07-13
ATE247598T1 (en) 2003-09-15
MXPA01011040A (en) 2002-07-22
DE60004661T2 (en) 2004-06-17
NO322315B1 (en) 2006-09-11
CA2371529A1 (en) 2000-11-09
AU4305900A (en) 2000-11-17
ES2206226T3 (en) 2004-05-16
CA2371529C (en) 2009-07-14
NO20015370L (en) 2001-01-02
AU759005B2 (en) 2003-04-03
CN1349476A (en) 2002-05-15
ZA200108817B (en) 2003-02-20
DE60004661D1 (en) 2003-09-25
KR100628671B1 (en) 2006-09-27
KR20020014792A (en) 2002-02-25

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