Installation Techniques Research Articles

Case analysis of integral installation technique for offshore wind turbines

Case analysis of integral installation technique for offshore wind turbines

Current Status and Future Trends in Installation, Operation and Maintenance of Offshore Floating Wind Turbines

The installation and operation phases are critical stages in the lifecycle of offshore wind turbines, with costs associated with the installation and maintenance of floating wind turbines accounting for approximately 50% of the total investment. This paper presents the latest advancements in the technologies for the installation and maintenance of floating wind turbines. First, it discusses the installation techniques and relevant research related to the foundations and components of floating wind turbines. Next, it explores various operational strategies for offshore wind turbines and studies on major component replacements. The interrelationship of research in the installation and maintenance fields for floating wind turbines is examined. Furthermore, this paper investigates various tools and equipment used for the installation and maintenance of offshore wind turbines. It also addresses the relevant regulations and standards governing offshore operations for floating wind turbines. Finally, this paper provides a forward-looking perspective on the installation and maintenance of floating wind turbines.

Numerical analysis of soil reinforced by sand columns using different installation methods

This study involves a finite element numerical simulation of laboratory tests conducted on small-scale models. The tests involved the installation of columns using different techniques: without soil displacement and without column compaction (WR-NC), and without soil displacement but with column compaction (WR-WC). The reinforced soil masses were then subjected to a uniform 150 kPa load. A comparison between the numerical and experimental results showed excellent agreement, validating the simulation. Following this validation, a parametric analysis was carried out to examine the effects of the various parameters on the behavior of the reinforced soil masses. In the first method, three different column diameters were analyzed, focusing on the effects of diameter (area replacement ratio), column length, and geogrid containment benefits. In the second method, three levels of compaction pressure were applied during the column installation. The study evaluated the impact of column installation techniques on the behavior of the reinforced masses. The findings indicate that settlement reduction is proportional to the increase in area replacement ratio and column length. Additionally, confining the columns with geogrid was shown to be effective in further reducing settlements. The results also revealed that increasing compaction stress leads to greater radial expansion of the columns, which densifies and stiffens the surrounding soil, thereby reducing settlement. Overall, the study concludes that column installation techniques significantly influence the behavior of reinforced soil masses.

Bridging the gap: A comparative analysis of indoor and outdoor performance for photovoltaic-thermal-thermoelectric hybrid systems

This research evaluates the performance of a hybrid thermal-thermoelectric photovoltaic air collector system (PV/T-TE) through experimental investigations. By integrating photovoltaic (PV) panels with thermoelectric (TE) modules, the system aims to enhance efficiency and energy output by converting waste heat into additional electricity. The study examines the impact of radiation intensity, ranging from 455.65 to 795.18 W/m2, on the system's performance, utilizing output temperature (To) and plate temperature (Tp) as key metrics. Managing waste heat in PV technology remains a challenge, impacting efficiency. Traditional PV/T systems generate both electricity and thermal energy but suffer efficiency losses due to inadequate heat management. Integrating TE modules into PV/T systems offers a promising solution, but optimal configurations and performance impacts under varying conditions are underexplored. Limited research focuses on PV/T-TE hybrid systems, with most studies addressing PV-TE systems. The objectives of this research are to experimentally assess the impact of integrating TE modules on the thermal and electrical efficiency of PV/T systems under varying radiation intensities and air mass flow rates. The methodology involves setting up a PV/T-TE hybrid system, conducting experiments under controlled conditions, and analyzing key performance metrics. The study explores optimal TE module configurations and installation techniques to maximize heat transfer and electricity generation. Comparative analysis with conventional PV/T systems establishes the superiority of the hybrid system. Findings indicate significant benefits from incorporating TE modules, enhancing energy output and efficiency by maintaining optimal PV panel temperatures.

Installation and Construction Techniques for Elevated Corridors in High-Rise Buildings

Installation and Construction Techniques for Elevated Corridors in High-Rise Buildings

Environmental Sustainability of Pile Construction Activities in Nigeria; Strategies and Best Practices

: Pile construction activities is a multifaceted activity among the construction activities that are performed by heavy machines, materials and energy sources generating environmental impacts associated with pilling activities such as carbon emissions, noise, heavy vibration, soil instability and groundwater pollution. Sustainable piling construction guarantees that the whole piling process meets environmental sustainability and ultimately human health and wellbeing. Data were gathered through a questionnaire survey administered to construction professionals including engineers, project managers, surveyors, and builders. Out of the 50 questionnaires distributed, 41 responses were analyzed. The study employed the Relative Importance Index (RII) to rank the effectiveness of various strategies in mitigating environmental impacts. The findings underscore the critical role of introducing low-emission machinery and optimizing operational hours in reducing carbon emissions. Noise management was most effectively achieved through alternative pile installation methods combined with regular equipment maintenance. Maintaining adequate setbacks from structures and employing controlled installation techniques were identified as essential strategies to mitigate vibration. Addressing soil instability was found to rely heavily on thorough site investigations and the implementation of effective ground stabilization techniques and preventing groundwater pollution requires the proper use of drilling fluids and diligent site management. These findings contributed to the development of environmentally sustainable practices in pile construction, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive strategies to mitigate the adverse environmental impacts of such activities in Nigeria.

ASSESSMENT OF EYE DROP INSTALLATION TECHNIQUE AMONG PATIENTS ATTENDING OUTPATIENT CLINIC AT PT. JLNGMC, CHAMBA

Objective: A good eye drops installation technique and its knowledge is vital for curing eye ailments and preventing eye from harmful effects of over-dose and under-dose of drugs. The current study assessed the eye drop installation technique and corrected it by imparting them education regarding the same. Methods: A total of 120 patients were enrolled in the cross-sectional study using consecutive sampling technique till the sample size was achieved in a tertiary care hospital. The participants were observed by the trained observers for their steps of technique for installing eye drops and the errors were noted which were corrected by the observers and followed up till 3 visits to observe a change in the steps of technique. Results: The mean age of study participants was 41.44±15.4 y. Majority of them were in the age group 18-30 y (35%), females (55.8%), and belonging to upper middle socio-economic status (31.7%). Majority of study participants had 6/6 VA in right eye (65%) and left eye (61.7%). “Drop land on first attempt” and “direct bottle towards eyes” showed maximum improvement of 45.8% each followed by “tilt head while putting” showed 45 % improvement between 1st visit and 3rd visit. “Trouble putting drops” showed least improvement by 20% between 1st and 3rd visit. All the favorable ophthalmic practices showed a statically significant (<0.05) increase in their proportion in each visit. Conclusion: A high prevalence of errors while installing eye drops among participants were observed which were improved by educating them about right steps, as observe in follow up visits.

Sensor platform for periodic integrity inspection of subsea structures with a permanently installed measuring system

Offshore structures are inspected with high costs and risks. In order to reduce both, the Fraunhofer IKTS has developed a sensor platform for automated periodic inspection by underwater vehicles like Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV) or Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV). The monitoring tasks are numerous. Temperature or pressure measurements are widely needed to ensure safe operation. Welded seams are a critical element of offshore infrastructure. If they fail due to high wave loads, extraordinary ice collision or due to fatigue behaviour, the entire structure becomes critical regarding the stability and safety. The Fraunhofer IKTS developed a technique for the permanent installation on subsea structures in order to enable a periodic inspection. The communication and energy supply are realized wireless by WiFi and inductive energy supply. The sensors used differ from application to application. For the welded seam inspection, shear wave laminable transducers ensure a flat design to prevent damage due to current or waves. Shear waves give a relative independency from fouling to make the interpretation of the data more comprehensive. The device has been tested in maritime environment for 2,5 years to ensure reliability. Furthermore, a modular setup with integrated transducers into the circuit board provide market relevant potential low prices on the long term. The connection unit has been designed in a way that also small ROV/AUV can operate the light-weight unit to ensure a broad applicability by almost any vehicle on the market.

Effect of electromagnetic force installation method on critically reinforced interference sizes and fatigue behavior of CFRP bolted joints

AbstractThe electromagnetic force dynamic installation (DI) method of interference fit fasteners has significant advantages in improving the quality of the assembly interface of composite structure. This study aims to investigate how improving assembly interface quality may help in achieving high‐precision interference‐fit joints in composites. Single‐lap joint specimens were prepared using electromagnetic installation technique, the fatigue life and failure behaviors of the joints under different bolt‐hole clearances were measured and analyzed experimentally. In addition, a three‐dimensional finite element model was developed to predict the radial pre‐compression stresses around the hole and the progressive failure behavior of various typical damage modes in carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer induced by the interference. The results show that the critical interference range for the DI‐composite bolted structure is 1.0%–1.2%. The fatigue life of the best interference (1.0%) and the worst interference (0%, neat fit) have a difference of 36 times in amplitude. The residual stress with uniform distribution and high amplitude reduces the stress concentration of the hole wall and improves the failure evolution of the loaded hole. The contribution of this study provides vital guidance for improving the fatigue performance of CFRP bolted structures using a novel DI method.Highlights I = 1.0% is the critical damage‐enhancing interference size for dynamically installation interference fit bolts with electromagnetic forces. The residual stress amplitude introduced by the interference does not increase uniformly as the interference size increases. Excessive interference significantly reduces the uniformity and magnitude of residual stresses. Under subsequent cyclic loading, the fifth layer near the inlet and outlet of the extruded lower laminate appears to be the critical ply of extrusion deformation, and severe damage is concentrated in the critical ply of deformation. The decrease of stress amplitude and the variation of mean stress are the mechanisms of fatigue life enhancement in interference fit joints under external cyclic loading.

Design of Automatic Lighting Installation Props Using Photocell and Motion Sensors

This teaching aid design approach is based on compiling learning materials that are fully necessary to achieve the desired understanding and skills. In the lighting installation subject, vocational electrical power installation techniques at SMK Negeri 2 Sinabang, there needs to be more demonstration media, which causes problems for students who find it very difficult to understand lighting installations and put them together. With this teaching aid medium, it is hoped that it can help students' understanding of installing lighting installations and improve student learning outcomes so that learning objectives are achieved. This teaching aid is designed to be a learning medium as a teacher's aids in teaching material on automatic lighting installations using photocell sensors and motion sensors in electrical power installation subjects. To determine the suitability of the props, a research instrument was made in the form of a media validation sheet, material validation, and questionnaire validation. The learning outcomes of students are known by providing several pre-test and post-test questions so that they can be used as a reference for how successful or appropriate the teaching aids are to be applied to students and lighting installation subjects. Based on the percentage results obtained from media expert validation, namely 89%, and material expert validation, namely 100% from the validator assessment, learning outcomes through the pre-test were 28% and the post-test 83%. The results obtained were based on validation showed "Very Feasible."

Enhancement of cantilevered RC beams exhibiting inadequate lap spliced reinforcement using sustainable reinforced ECC layers

Designguidelines require an adequate overlap length for reinforcing bars, especially in extended spans of elements constructed from Reinforced Concrete (RC). Insufficient overlap can have adverse effects on key characteristics like bending strength and deformability of RC beams. The potential danger of failure in such elements is a significant concern as is considered a potential threat, and this study addresses it through experimental identification and numerical analysis to be mitigated carefully in this study to enhance the safety and sustainability of buildings to mitigate the risk of failure. The current investigation is centered on investigating the structural behavior of cantilevered RC beams exhibiting inadequate overlap between reinforcing bars in the hogging moment region. These beams have been strengthened through the application of ferrocement layers of Engineered Cementitious Composite (ECC). The experimental study consisted of eleven beams, which were categorized into four groups and subjected to bending loads until they reached failure. The research assessed various factors, such as the casting method (whether cast-in-situ or precast), the installation technique (involving the use of epoxy, or epoxy with anchors), and the length of the ECC layer. This layer was configured to have a length of 30Ø, 40Ø, and 50Ø, with Ø representing the diameter of the reinforcing bars along the zone subjected to hogging moments. According to findings, strengthening of specimens exhibiting insufficient steel overlap through an ferrocement ECC layer exhibited an improved overall structural behavior compared to the defective control beam. The most significant enhancement in both failure mode and load-deflection behavior was observed in beams strengthened through the incorporation of a cast-in-situ ECC layer with anchor bolts. Additionally, augmenting the strengthening length not only increased the initial stiffness of the reinforced beams but also enhanced their energy absorption capacity. Furthermore, the study involved the construction of a numerical simulation employing the Finite Element Method (FEM) simulating the observed behavior in experimentally tested beams. The model's precision was validated through a comparison of its results with the experimental data, revealing a satisfactory level of accuracy.

Pemeriksaan Kesehatan dan Sosialisasi Penggunaan Kinesiotaping

The main aim of this activity is to increase public awareness regarding the importance of health and introduce kinesiotaping as an alternative therapy method to treat various musculoskeletal problems. Health checks include checking blood pressure, blood sugar levels, cholesterol, as well as general health consultations, giving the public the opportunity to get medical advice directly from health workers. In addition, socialization of the use of kinesiotaping is carried out through demonstrations of installation techniques and practical applications to reduce muscle pain and improve joint function. The results of the activity showed a positive response from the public who felt more aware of the importance of maintaining health and understanding the benefits of kinesiotaping. This activity also succeeded in strengthening relations between the university and the local community, with the hope of continuing to improve health education in the future.

Pelatihan Merencanakan Dan Memasang Panel Surya Di Rumah Hunian

The community engagement conducted by the lecturers of the Electrical Engineering undergraduate program at the Faculty of Engineering, Syiah Kuala University, aims to enhance the income of young individuals in Kopelma Darussalam, Banda Aceh. Recognizing the need for employment opportunities among youths from lower to middle-income backgrounds, this initiative focuses on providing hands-on skills through training in planning and installing solar panels in residential homes. Consequently, young individuals can become skilled workers in solar panel installation, creating job opportunities, and improving their economic well-being. This training aims to address the increasing demand for renewable energy solutions and the growing interest in solar power adoption among homeowners. Participants will learn about the principles of solar energy, site assessment, system design, installation techniques, and safety procedures. After completing the training, participants are expected to be able to design and install solar panel systems, thereby contributing to the promotion of sustainable energy practices and reducing carbon footprint in residential communities.

Optimization of the installation techniques of distributed optic fiber sensors and measurement accuracy analysis for asphalt pavement based on finite element methods

The accurate measurement strain is critical to evaluating the structural integrity of asphalt pavements. The measurement strain error is caused by the encapsulation and installation of distributed optical fiber sensor (DOFS) for pavement monitoring. This study introduces an innovative approach to correct installation error. Firstly, a DOFS is embedded into asphalt pavement to simulate the mechanical response caused by traffic load. The optimal installation technology for each asphalt layer is proposed. In addition, the strain correction formula considering the pavement temperature is proposed for different asphalt layer. A rutting test is used to evaluate monitoring performance. Finally, a test road was built. A continuous temporal and spatial distribution strain of DOFS caused by traffic load is obtained. The results indicate that the average error rate of strain testing effectively decreases for each asphalt layer. In summary, this paper contributes to obtaining more accurate measurement strain of DOFS in pavement monitoring.

Modelling and simulation of fuel tank with increased capacity and improving its location for better stability of three wheeled vehicle

In the automotive industry, the fuel tank is an essential component of the vehicle. It is; designed as an integral part of the fuel system to transport the fuel and deliver it to the engine via the fuel filter and fuel pump. In Ethiopia, it is observed that due to the smaller fuel tank of three-wheeled vehicles, more frequent visits to fuel stations result in a lot of time being wasted waiting in long queues at fuel stations. In addition, the current location of the fuel tank causes some stability problems. Subsequently, the method, location, installation techniques and stability analysis of the three-wheeled vehicle are carried out. This study includes a new design of fuel tanks for three-wheeled vehicles in which the capacity is doubled and the rollover stability; of the vehicle is maintained. The SOLIDWORKS software and the CFD software ANSYS FLUENT for the sloshing analysis were used for the modeling of this work. The CFD results of the comparative sloshing analysis of partially filled (50% level) fuel tanks with and without baffles are performed; and conclusions are drawn. It is concluded that a baffle plate for the fuel tank offers the greatest advantage in reducing the effects of sloshing. The newly developed part is mounted on the underside of the passenger seat. A bottom-mounted fuel tank optimizes the vehicle's center of gravity, as the height of the vehicle's center of gravity is lowered by 30 mm. This increases the rollover safety of the vehicle. According to the analysis, the mileage of the filled existing and new tanks is 136 km and 272 km respectively. To refuel once, the driver waits an average of 5 h and works about two days for the existing tank and four days for the new tank.

Installation Technique and Numerical Simulation of Stress on High-Pile Footings During the Translation of Offshore Booster Stations

The foundation of the offshore substation mainly adopts the structure of a conductor support frame, and the installation of the upper blocks of the offshore substation mainly employs a lifting vessel for hoisting. The “Zhegen Sha 300 MW Offshore Wind Power Project” adopts a high-pile cap foundation for the offshore substation, making use of a translational installation method for the upper blocks. The innovative foundation design and installation scheme together form the basis of this project, which is explored in detail in this paper. Numerical simulations examining the bearing performance of the high-pile cap foundation during the translational process of the upper blocks are also performed, allowing finer insights into the design and construction of offshore wind power projects.

Development of schematic representations for globe removal and formation of the supporting-motor stump for use in ophthalmological and radiological practice

BACKGROUND: Today, the issue of globe endoprosthetics is an extremely important problem due to several reasons: the presence of various methods for globe removal, the variety of implants and surgical installation techniques, non-standard cavities before prosthetics, the lack of a unified algorithm for examining the patients at the pre- and postoperative stages, as well as difficulties in the rehabilitation of patients with anophthalmos and high aesthetics requirements.
 AIM: Development of schematic images of performing various surgical techniques for globe removal and forming a supporting-motor stump for a cosmetic prosthesis.
 MATERIALS AND METHODS: During 2020–2023, in different institutions, 43 patients (100%) were examined for globe endoprosthetics, from 18 to 65 years old, 23 men, 20 women. The authors analyzed CT data obtained at the radiological department No. 2 of Sechenov University and at the 1586 Military Clinical Hospital of the Russian Ministry of Defense.
 RESULTS: All patients (n = 43; 100%) underwent a globe removal in various modifications depending on the initial condition, in 39 cases (78%) — reconstructive surgery for the endoprosthesis installation in order to form a volumetric supporting-motor stump, and further external cosmetic prosthetics. In 10 patients (22%), the endoprosthesis was installed after enucleation of the globe, in 33 (78%) — after evisceration in various modifications.
 CONCLUSIONS: This paper presents schematic images of various techniques for surgical globe removal, formation of a supporting-motor stump, types of endoprostheses, the options of external cosmetic prosthetics and the presence of complications, as well as a CT protocol for the description of obtained images.

Distributed Optical Fiber-Based Monitoring of Smart Passive Anchors for Soil Stabilization

Geotechnical structures, such as piles and anchors, play a critical role in providing stability and support in a wide range of civil engineering applications. Ensuring the integrity and safety of these structures and reliably understanding their structural behavior are of paramount importance. This paper explores the application of distributed fiber optic sensors (DFOS) as a cutting-edge technology for monitoring the performance and health of passive composite anchors for soil stabilization. These anchors comprise a conventional carbon steel self-drilling bar with one or more embedded harmonic steel tendons, cemented within the central cavity of the bar. The system is finalized by an external plate for securing the bar and a protective cover for safeguarding the tendon head. Within this context, DFOS technology offers a non-invasive and cost-effective solution for real-time monitoring of various parameters, such as strain and temperature, along the entire length of the fiber optic cable. This technology enables continuous, high-resolution monitoring data collection, providing a comprehensive understanding of the long-term behavior of this specific geotechnical structure. The capability of DFOS to provide spatially distributed information facilitates the detection of localized stress concentrations and deformation patterns. The paper covers some practical considerations, such as installation techniques, data analysis and preliminary results on recently case study. The limitations and challenges associated with DFOS technology in geotechnical applications will be also discussed, including the need for specialized expertise in interpreting the data, the potential for signal attenuation in long cables and the particular care that these sensors require during cable installation and management.

Designing a Distributed Sensing Network for Structural Health Monitoring of Concrete Tunnels: A Case Study

Structural health monitoring is essential for the lifecycle maintenance of tunnel infrastructure. Distributed fiber‐optic sensor (DFOS) technology, which is capable of distributed strain measurement and long‐range sensing, is an ideal nondestructive testing (NDT) approach for monitoring linear infrastructures. This research aims to develop a distributed sensing network utilizing DFOS for structural integrity assessment of concrete immersed tunnels. The primary innovations of this study lie in the development of a general flowchart for establishing a sensing network and obtaining reliable field data, as well as its subsequent validation through a detailed case study. Concentrated joint deformations in typical immersed tunnels, detectable by the DFOS, are key indicators of structural integrity. This study addresses crucial elements of field monitoring system design, including the selection of appropriate optical fibers or cables and the determination of vital interrogator system parameters. It also covers sensor parameter determination, installation techniques, field data collection, and postanalysis. Furthermore, this research is exemplified by a case study that illustrates the successful implementation of a distributed sensing network in an operational immersed tunnel, and monitoring data reveals cyclic structural deformations under impacts of daily tide and seasonal temperature variations. The data obtained from this network play a significant role in subsequent condition assessments of tunnel structures. The research findings contribute to the assessment of large‐scale infrastructure health conditions through the application of DFOS monitoring.

Diagnostics of Post-Tensioned Bridge Girders Using Distributed Fiber Optic Sensors

In contemporary bridge construction, post-tensioned concrete technology stands as one of the prevailing methods. Over the past several decades, it has been extensively employed in constructing medium-span bridges worldwide. As time has elapsed, many of these structures now demand diagnostic assessments due to deteriorating technical conditions. A promising approach for diagnosing such bridges involves utilizing distributed fiber optic sensing (DFOS) technology. DFOS enables continuous measurements to be acquired along the entire structural length, which is particularly crucial for these bridge types. Its advantages have already been demonstrated in civil engineering applications, notably in contexts related to concrete structures. The paper presents research conducted on post-tensioned beams with curvilinear multiwire prestressing strands. Optical sensors were installed before and after concreting the beams. The main aims were to measure strains, crack widths and beams’ displacements. It also compared results from DFOS-based sensors embedded in concrete during execution (for new structures) to sensors in pre-made near-surface grooves (for existing structures) and to detect defects within one beam using sensors inside the cable duct, analyzing strain data. DFOS measurements were compared with conventional spot techniques, achieving very good compliance. This investigation establishes that a well-structured DFOS-based system, encompassing suitable measurement methodologies, optical sensor configurations, installation techniques, and post-processing algorithms, emerges as a relevant tool for the comprehensive diagnostics of post-tensioned concrete bridges, both the new and existing ones.