SBIR/STTR Award attributes
Problem Statement: Floating wind has a large potential, with 26GW expected to be deployed worldwide in the next 6-8 years. Unlike fixed offshore wind platforms, floating wind platforms can be disconnected from their mooring and cabling systems and be towed back into port for maintenance and other upgrades. Challenges remain, however, to quickly connect and disconnect mooring lines to the floating wind platform. Ideally, no personnel or temporary equipment should be required to be on the platform during this hook-up process to minimize time offshore, safety risks and costs. Unique Solution: Otherlab has designed a ROV-operated quick-connect mooring connector, which can be placed in line with synthetic rope, wire rope or heavy-duty chain. The connector can be designed to have the same minimum breaking load as 150mm+ (6”) chain. Used in tandem with a commercially-available mooring adjuster, the mooring system can be hooked up without the use of large winches nor personnel onboard the platform. Phase I Activities: In Phase I, Otherlab seeks to design and fabricate a scaled version of the quick connect device. The device will be designed with an ROV-operated hydraulic system in order to achieve the locking strength required. In the laboratory, the hydraulic system will be placed on a dry bench, while the mooring connector can be tested in a submerged environment in realistic conditions. After testing, Otherlab will begin preparations for certification of the device in Phase II. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: If carried to Phase II or Phase III, this mooring connector has the potential to have a large penetration of the mooring component market, up to 30%. Floating offshore wind developers are seeking solutions to expedite the platform hook-up and disconnect process, whilst reducing risk to offshore personnel. This technology is also well-suited to other marine energy devices, such as wave and tidal devices, which also need to be towed to port for costly maintenance activities. Summary for Members of Congress: Floating wind turbines have a large potential to create manufacturing, operating and maintenance jobs at ports around the country. Currently, the operation to connect and disconnect floating wind turbines to their mooring system is costly, lengthy and cumbersome, requiring machinery and personnel to be transferred to the platform. Otherlab’s solution can reduce installation costs by and hook-up time by up to 50%.
