RCID

Rock Trencher

Problem

The RCID was approached to provide design capacity for a large project by a leading subsea engineering company who specialise in the design and manufacture of remotely operated vehicle systems. The project entailed the design and development of a rock trenching machine.

Design

Throughout the project the RCID worked closely with the client’s design team, providing feedback and suggestions, while at the same time, utilising the client’s expertise in this field.

The basic concept for the machine was novel, applying existing technology in a new way.  The concept however, was also relatively untested, so it was decided that a 40% scale prototype would be produced and tested.  The prototype was sized to accommodate commercial trenching units.   The RCID designed a framework onto which three units could be mounted and tested, replicating the concept for the full scale trenching machine.  Client testing of the prototype provided significant insights into how the final machine would operate.

After the prototype was completed the RCID carried out the design of the full scale chain cutters.  This design was based on existing, smaller scale cutters and the increase in size introduced various challenges.  The RCID used 3D modelling and advanced analysis techniques to optimise the design of the key components of the chain cutters.  Our analysis significantly improved the understanding of the design, and through this, allowed us to optimise the design and improve the fatigue life of the main drive components.

Outcome

The prototype machine was built and tested successfully. The full scale trenching machine is currently undergoing testing before it is commissioned.