Self-adjusting reel assembly apparatus, system and method

Abstract

The present invention is a computer controlled reel apparatus, system and method of using same that may generally maintain constant tension on a reel umbilical.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A reel assembly for an offshore umbilical comprising:
 a frame having an axle;   a spool having flanges and a drum wherein said spool is mounted on said axle and adapted to hold said offshore umbilical;   a motor in communication with said spool and adapted to rotate said spool;   a tensioning device adapted to automatically maintain a relatively constant tension and a relatively constant slippage load on said umbilical when deployed from said spool; and   a processing computer in communication with said tensioning device and said motor wherein said processing computer is adapted to compute said relative constant tension and said relative constant slippage and control said motor.   
     
     
         2 . The reel assembly of  claim 1  wherein said tensioning device includes at least one slip clutch attached to said frame, adapted to engage said spool, and in communication with said processing computer. 
     
     
         3 . The reel assembly of  claim 1  wherein said tensioning device includes at least two proximity sensors attached to said spool, adapted to detect rotational direction of said spool, and in communication with said processing computer. 
     
     
         4 . The reel assembly of  claim 1  wherein said tensioning device includes at least two accelerometers attached to said spool, adapted to detect rotational direction of said spool; and in communication with said processing computer. 
     
     
         5 . The reel assembly of  claim 1  further including a computer module in wireless communication with said processing computer.