Marine Structure Anchoring Systems and Methods

This inventive concept leverages the core technology of luminal structure anchoring devices to create novel anchoring systems and methods for marine structures, such as wind turbines, underwater pipelines, offshore oil rigs, and marine renewable energy devices, enabling secure and efficient anchoring to the seafloor.

The original patent disclosed devices and methods for anchoring luminal structures in the body, primarily for medical applications. However, the anchoring technology has limitations in terms of scalability and adaptability to different environments. The new inventive concept addresses the problem of anchoring large marine structures to the seafloor, which is critical for the stability and efficiency of these structures.

The new inventive concept utilizes expandable hollow stents with retention members to anchor marine structures to the seafloor. The stents are designed to receive a penetrating member of a delivery catheter for deployment and can be adapted to various marine environments. The retention members radially expand to engage the seafloor, providing a secure anchor point. The stents can be configured to accommodate different types of marine structures, including wind turbines, underwater pipelines, offshore oil rigs, and marine renewable energy devices.

The new inventive concept is novel and non-obvious compared to the original patent because it applies the core anchoring technology to an entirely different industry (marine structures) and environment (seafloor), requiring significant adaptations to the stent design, material selection, and deployment methods.

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different stent materials, varying retention member designs, and adjustable stent lengths to accommodate different marine structures and seafloor conditions. Additionally, the inventive concept could be adapted for use in other underwater applications, such as anchoring sensors or monitoring equipment.

The marine structure anchoring systems and methods have significant commercial potential in the marine renewable energy, offshore oil and gas, and underwater infrastructure industries. The market for these applications is substantial, with growing demand for secure and efficient anchoring solutions that can withstand harsh marine environments.