A subsea pipeline emergency unblocking system capable of rapid sealable butt joint

Abstract

The application relates to an underwater pipeline emergency unblocking system capable of rapid sealing butt joint, and belongs to the field of marine engineering equipment, comprising a cylinder, a quick joint, a power driving module and a drilling and liquid spraying module, wherein the quick joint is used for butt joint of an upper umbilical cable and a lower umbilical cable, and the two are connected into a long umbilical cable; the power driving module is used for pushing the drilling and liquid spraying module to a blockage point in the underwater pipeline; and the drilling and liquid spraying module is used for unblocking operation on the blockage point. The underwater pipeline emergency unblocking system has the advantages of automatic operation, drilling, monitoring, medicine injection and the like, is quick in unblocking, low in energy consumption and the like, and is especially suitable for pipeline unblocking scenes where a deep water underwater pipeline inhibitor is difficult to reach the blockage point.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of marine engineering equipment technology, specifically relating to an emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines that can be quickly sealed and connected. Background Technology

[0002] During operation, wax in subsea pipelines transporting oil and gas resources precipitates and adheres to the pipe walls as the pipeline temperature decreases, forming a deposit layer. This wax deposition can cause pipeline blockage, increasing production safety risks and resulting in significant economic losses. Common pipeline dewaxing methods include mechanical methods, heating methods, and chemical methods. Mechanical methods use a cleaning ball to scrape off the wax deposits from the pipe wall and push them out of the pipeline. However, this method is prone to causing excessive wax buildup and blockage in pipelines with large wax deposits, and it is difficult to remove hardened, aged wax deposits. Heating methods use hot oil to melt the wax deposits on the pipe wall and remove them from the pipeline. However, this method is energy-intensive, and due to heat dissipation from the pipeline to the surrounding environment, it is difficult to effectively remove wax deposits far from the inlet. Chemical methods achieve dewaxing by altering the physical properties of the wax, making it dissolve and disperse in the oil. However, this method requires developing different chemicals for different oil types, resulting in poor chemical versatility, high costs, and the chemicals need to be immersed in the deposit layer for a long time to be effective.

[0003] For deep-sea subsea pipelines, light hydrocarbons and water in the production fluid can form hydrates under high pressure and low temperature conditions. The formation and accumulation of hydrates can also clog pipelines, increasing safety risks and economic losses. Common methods for removing hydrates from pipelines include depressurization, heating, and inhibitor injection. Depressurization reduces the pipeline pressure below the hydrate equilibrium pressure, causing the hydrates to decompose and clear the blockage. However, controlling the depressurization rate requires experienced operators to avoid rapid depressurization that could cause hydrate blockages to impact the pipeline. Depressurization also results in time-consuming and uneconomical production shutdowns. Heating raises the pipeline temperature above the hydrate equilibrium temperature, causing the hydrates to decompose and clear the blockage. However, this method is energy-intensive, and uneven heating can lead to localized pressure buildup, increasing pipeline safety risks. Inhibitor injection alters the hydrate equilibrium state by injecting inhibitors (such as methanol or ethylene glycol), allowing the hydrates to decompose and clear the blockage within a safe zone. This is currently the most commonly used method in production.

[0004] In summary, the commonly used method for unblocking subsea pipelines between wellheads and platforms is chemical injection. However, due to the undulating nature of the subsea pipeline, the chemical agents have difficulty reaching the blockage point by gravity flow. Existing methods for clearing pipeline blockages suffer from high energy consumption, long processing times, and low safety. There is a lack of a device and method that can quickly connect and operate while maintaining a sealed subsea connection for unblocking. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the aforementioned problems, the purpose of this invention is to provide an emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines that can be quickly and sealingly connected. This system aims to solve the current problem of lacking a device and method for unblocking subsea pipelines between wellheads and platforms that can achieve rapid connection and operation while maintaining a sealed state on the seabed.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention discloses a quick connector for connecting to a pipe to be connected, wherein the pipe to be connected has a pre-set connector, the connector communicates with the pipe to be connected, and the connector has a connector groove.

[0008] The quick connector includes a snap-fit ​​part and a plug-in part.

[0009] An upper umbilical cable is inserted inside the locking part, and the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable extends out of the locking part;

[0010] The insertion part is provided with a lower umbilical cable hole, and a lower umbilical cable is fixed in the lower umbilical cable hole. The insertion part is temporarily bound to the inner wall of the pipe to be connected to the connector to be connected.

[0011] When the quick connector is connected to the pipe to be connected, the snap-fit ​​part snaps into the connector groove on the connector to be connected. At the same time, the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable extends into the connection between the connector to be connected and the pipe to be connected, and is inserted downward into the lower umbilical cable hole of the plug part, and is connected with the top end of the lower umbilical cable to form a long umbilical cable.

[0012] During the process of inserting the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable downward into the lower umbilical cable hole of the connector, the connector is subjected to the downward pressure of the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable, gradually freeing itself from the temporary restraint, and finally the connector detaches from the inner wall of the pipe to be connected.

[0013] Preferably, the connector to be connected first protrudes outward from the outside of the pipe to be connected, and then a flange is formed from the outer edge of the protrusion to the periphery. The connector groove is formed on the flange, and the inner edge of the connector groove is set as a slope. The bottom of the snap-fit ​​part is provided with at least two wedge blocks, and each wedge block is equipped with a first spring.

[0014] The inner edge of the joint groove has an upward-facing inclined surface, and the outer end of the wedge block has an inclined surface with the inclined surface facing downwards.

[0015] When the quick connector is connected to the pipe to be connected, the inclined surface of the wedge-shaped block of the snap-fit ​​part slides from the inclined surface of the inner edge of the connector groove until the wedge-shaped block of the snap-fit ​​part completes snap-fit ​​in the connector groove.

[0016] Preferably, a sealing ring is provided on the contact surface between the bottom of the snap-fit ​​portion and the connector groove.

[0017] Preferably, the top of the snap-fit ​​part is connected to a waterproof sleeve, and the upper umbilical cable passes through the waterproof sleeve.

[0018] Preferably, a connector bolt is provided at the top of the snap-fit ​​portion, and the top end of the connector bolt protrudes outward to form a flange baffle.

[0019] The top surface of the snap-fit ​​part is provided with a plurality of top pins, and the outer edge of the flange baffle is provided with a plurality of top pin holes respectively;

[0020] A pressure plate is provided at the bottom of the inner part of the waterproof sleeve. A sealing gasket is provided at the connection between the pressure plate and the flange baffle. The sealing gasket is in a compressed state and presses the upper umbilical cable to prevent seawater from flowing into the waterproof sleeve.

[0021] As the inclined surface of the wedge-shaped block of the snap-fit ​​portion slides from the inclined surface of the inner edge of the connector groove, the top pin extends into the top pin hole corresponding to the flange baffle, supporting the pressure plate. At the same time, the sealing gasket, which is in a compressed state, expands, thereby releasing the seal between the upper umbilical cable and the sealing gasket.

[0022] Preferably, a second spring is provided in the gap between the flange baffle and the pressure plate, away from the sealing gasket.

[0023] Preferably, the insertion part is temporarily secured to the inner wall of the pipe to be connected, which is connected to the connector, by a torsion spring and a buckle.

[0024] One end of the torsion spring is fixed to the inner wall of the pipe to be connected, and the other end is equipped with a buckle. The two sides of the plug part are respectively provided with locking holes, and the buckle is hung on the corresponding locking holes, thereby temporarily binding the plug part to the inner wall of the pipe to be connected, which is connected to the connector to be connected.

[0025] Preferably, a plurality of locking beads are evenly arranged circumferentially on the wall of the lower umbilical cable hole of the plug part.

[0026] Preferably, a plurality of sliding beads are evenly arranged circumferentially on the outer wall of the insertion part.

[0027] Secondly, this invention also discloses a rapid-sealing and docking emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines, used on subsea manifolds. The subsea manifold is connected to a wellhead and platform via subsea pipelines, and the subsea manifold is equipped with an underwater ball-launching point interface. This subsea pipeline emergency unblocking system includes a cylindrical body.

[0028] The cylinder serves as the pipe to be connected, with one end being an open end for docking with the underwater launching point device of the underwater manifold; the other end is a closed end, and the aforementioned quick connector is provided on the cylinder wall near the closed end. The snap-fit ​​part of the quick connector is connected to the work vessel on the sea surface through a watertight sleeve.

[0029] The cylinder is equipped with a power drive module and a drilling fluid injection module in sequence from the closed end to the open end. The lower umbilical cable of the quick connector's plug-in part passes through the power drive module and the drilling fluid injection module in sequence from back to front. The power drive module and the drilling fluid injection module are connected together to form a blockage removal mechanism.

[0030] The power drive module is used to push the drilling fluid injection module to the blockage point inside the subsea pipeline.

[0031] The drilling fluid injection module includes a drill bit for unblocking blockages.

[0032] Preferably, the underwater manifold further includes a wellhead interface and a platform interface, wherein the wellhead interface is connected to the wellhead via a subsea pipeline, and the platform interface is connected to the platform via a subsea pipeline.

[0033] A first switching valve is installed on the pipeline between the platform interface and the wellhead interface, and a second switching valve is installed on the pipeline between the platform interface and the underwater ball-launching device interface. By controlling the first switching valve and the second switching valve, the connection between the wellhead interface and the platform interface and the connection between the underwater ball-launching device interface and the platform interface can be switched.

[0034] Preferably, the power drive module includes a first connecting block, two drive motors, and four first connecting rods.

[0035] Two drive motors are respectively located at the upper and lower positions behind the first connecting block, and four primary connecting rods are respectively located at the front and sides of the first connecting block. Specifically, a primary connecting rod is hinged at the upper and lower front of the first connecting block, and a primary connecting rod is hinged at the left and right sides of the first connecting block.

[0036] Each drive motor output shaft and the bottom end of each first connecting rod are respectively equipped with a roller. The six rollers are symmetrically distributed along the longitudinal center line of the cylinder, and each roller of the first connecting rod abuts against the inner wall of the cylinder.

[0037] Preferably, a third spring is provided at the junction of the drive motor housing and the first connecting rod with the first connecting block, and the third spring presses the roller against the inner wall of the cylinder by pre-tensioning.

[0038] Preferably, the inner diameter of the cylinder is equal to the inner diameter of the subsea pipeline that is connected to the platform through the underwater manifold.

[0039] Preferably, the lower umbilical cable is wrapped with an injection pipe, the drilling fluid injection module includes a nozzle, and the nozzle is located above the drill bit. The injection pipe is connected to the nozzle of the drilling fluid injection module.

[0040] Furthermore, the unblocking mechanism also includes a monitoring and drainage module, and the power drive module, the monitoring and drainage module, and the drilling and spraying module are arranged sequentially inside the cylinder from the closed end to the open end;

[0041] The monitoring and drainage module includes a second connecting block, a temporary liquid storage tank is provided in the second connecting block, the temporary liquid storage tank is equipped with a liquid suction pump, the temporary liquid storage tank is equipped with a liquid suction pipe, and the liquid inlet of the liquid suction pipe faces the lower part of the inner wall of the cylinder or the subsea pipeline.

[0042] The lower umbilical cable also contains a return fluid pipe, which is connected to the temporary storage tank of the monitoring and drainage module.

[0043] Preferably, the power drive module, the monitoring and drainage module, and the drilling and jetting module are each equipped with a main connecting rod. The power drive module and the monitoring and drainage module, as well as the monitoring and drainage module and the drilling and jetting module, are hinged together by the main connecting rod, connecting the power drive module, the monitoring and drainage module, and the drilling and jetting module in series to form the unblocking mechanism. The lower umbilical cable of the quick connector's insertion part passes through the power drive module, the monitoring and drainage module, and the drilling and jetting module sequentially from back to front.

[0044] Furthermore, the monitoring and drainage module also includes six secondary connecting rods, which are respectively hinged to the second connecting block. Specifically, one secondary connecting rod is hinged to the upper and lower front of the second connecting block, one secondary connecting rod is hinged to the upper and lower rear of the second connecting block, and one secondary connecting rod is hinged to the left and right sides of the second connecting block. Each secondary connecting rod has a roller at its bottom end. The rollers of the six secondary connecting rods are symmetrically distributed along the longitudinal centerline of the cylinder, and each roller of the secondary connecting rod abuts against the inner wall of the cylinder. A third spring is provided at the junction of the secondary connecting rod and the second connecting block. The third spring presses the roller against the inner wall of the cylinder by pre-tensioning.

[0045] Furthermore, the monitoring drainage module also includes a camera, which is equipped with a light. The camera and the light are integrated and disposed above the second connecting block, and the camera and the light face the front of the second connecting block.

[0046] Furthermore, the drilling fluid injection module also includes a third connecting block and six third connecting rods. The six third connecting rods are respectively hinged to the third connecting block. Specifically, a third connecting rod is hinged to the upper and lower front of the third connecting block, a third connecting rod is hinged to the upper and lower rear of the third connecting block, and a third connecting rod is hinged to the left and right sides of the third connecting block.

[0047] Each of the third connecting rods is equipped with a roller at its bottom end. The rollers of the six third connecting rods are symmetrically distributed along the longitudinal center line of the cylinder, and each roller of the third connecting rod abuts against the inner wall of the cylinder.

[0048] A third spring is provided at the junction of the third connecting rod and the third connecting block. The third spring presses the roller against the inner wall of the cylinder by pre-tensioning.

[0049] Preferably, the third connecting block is provided with a deblocking agent chamber containing deblocking agent, and the injection pipe of the lower umbilical cable is connected to the deblocking agent chamber of the drilling fluid injection module.

[0050] Preferably, the drilling fluid injection module further includes an automatic drilling fluid injection mechanism, which includes the drill bit, the drilling motor, the drill rod, a touch switch, a power supply, a jet pump, and the nozzle.

[0051] The drill rod is provided with a limit ring, the drill rod passes through the third connecting block, and the limit ring of the drill rod abuts against the inner side of the third connecting block, and the front end of the drill rod extends out of the third connecting block;

[0052] The drill bit is fixed to the front end of the drill rod and is located directly in front of the third connecting block. A fourth spring is clamped between the drill bit and the outer wall of the third connecting block.

[0053] The touch switch is located near the tail end of the drill rod;

[0054] The nozzle is positioned directly above the drill bit with its nozzle tilted upwards. The injection pump is located inside the unblocking agent chamber and is connected to the nozzle via a pipeline.

[0055] The output shaft of the drilling motor is equipped with a driving gear, and the drill rod is equipped with a driven gear, the driving gear meshing with the driven gear;

[0056] The power supply, the drilling motor, the touch switch, and the jet pump are connected in series via wires to form a closed loop.

[0057] Preferably, the drill bit has a flow guide groove.

[0058] Preferably, the power drive module is equipped with a first controller, which is connected to the two drive motors via wires.

[0059] The monitoring and drainage module is equipped with a second controller, which is connected to the suction pump, camera, and lighting lamp via wires.

[0060] The drilling fluid injection module is equipped with a third controller, which is wiredly connected to the drilling motor, the injection pump, the power supply and the touch switch.

[0061] The lower umbilical cable also contains a signal cable, and the first controller, the second controller, and the third controller are respectively connected to the signal cable inside the lower umbilical cable.

[0062] Thirdly, the present invention also discloses an emergency unblocking method for subsea pipelines, employing the aforementioned emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines, comprising the following steps:

[0063] Connection with underwater manifold: In the event of blockage in the subsea pipeline, the open end of the subsea pipeline emergency unblocking system cylinder is connected to the interface of the underwater manifold launching point device via a quick flange.

[0064] Docking of the upper and lower umbilical cables: The opening of the waterproof sleeve on the workboat on the sea surface is connected to the snap-fit ​​part of the quick connector. The workboat lowers the waterproof sleeve, and the snap-fit ​​part of the quick connector approaches the closed end of the cylinder wall until the snap-fit ​​part is snapped into the connector groove on the connector of the pipe to be connected. At the same time, the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable extends into the connection between the connector and the pipe to be connected, and is inserted downward into the lower umbilical cable hole of the plug part, and is connected to the top end of the lower umbilical cable, so that the upper umbilical cable on the workboat and the lower umbilical cable of the power drive module are connected into a long umbilical cable.

[0065] During the process of inserting the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable downward into the lower umbilical cable hole of the insertion part, the insertion part is subjected to the downward pressure of the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable, gradually gets rid of the restraint of the torsion spring, and finally the insertion part separates from the inner wall of the pipe to be connected, so that the long umbilical cable can move forward freely.

[0066] The unblocking mechanism operates to the blockage point of the subsea pipeline: the two drive motors of the power drive module start simultaneously, pushing the monitoring and drainage module and the drilling and spraying module to run inside the cylinder and the subsea pipeline until the drill bit of the drilling and spraying module touches the blockage point inside the subsea pipeline.

[0067] Drilling and spraying operations are performed on the blockage point: The drilling and spraying module drills and sprays liquid on the blockage point in the subsea pipeline. At the same time, the camera of the monitoring and drainage module monitors the unblocking status of the blockage point in front, and the suction pump of the monitoring and drainage module is started. The suction pipe absorbs the waste liquid formed during the unblocking process until the monitoring and drainage module detects that the blockage point has been completely cleared.

[0068] The unblocking mechanism returns to the cylinder: The two drive motors of the power drive module start in opposite directions at the same time, pulling the monitoring and drainage module and the drilling and spraying module to run in opposite directions inside the cylinder and the subsea pipeline until they return to the cylinder.

[0069] The process of drilling and spraying fluid to the blockage point after the drill bit of the drilling and spraying module touches the blockage point includes the following steps:

[0070] When the drill bit encounters a blockage, the blockage prevents the drill bit from continuing to advance, while the third connecting block, due to inertia, continues to move forward. This creates relative displacement between the two, causing the touch switch to contact the end of the drill rod. Simultaneously, the third connecting block compresses the fourth spring, and the touch switch changes from an open state to a closed state. The closed circuit supplying power to the drilling motor and the jet pump is closed, and the drilling motor and jet pump start simultaneously. On one hand, the drilling motor drives the drill bit through the drill rod, initiating drilling operations; on the other hand, the jet pump draws the unblocking agent from the tank into the nozzle, which then sprays the agent forward.

[0071] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows:

[0072] (i) This invention provides a quick connector. During the docking process with the pipe to be connected, the snap-fit ​​part snaps into the connector groove on the connector to be connected. At the same time, the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable extends into the connection between the connector to be connected and the pipe to be connected, and inserts downward into the lower umbilical cable hole of the plug part, docking with the top end of the lower umbilical cable to form a long umbilical cable. Moreover, after the quick connector is docked with the pipe to be connected, the sealing performance is good, which is particularly suitable for the quick docking of pipes with high sealing requirements in the seabed.

[0073] (II) This invention provides an emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines, comprising a cylindrical body, one end of which is an open end for docking with an underwater ball-launching device interface of an underwater manifold; the other end of which is a closed end, and a watertight sleeve is connected to the cylinder wall near the closed end via a quick connector. Inside the cylinder, from the closed end to the open end, a power drive module, a monitoring and drainage module, and a drilling and spraying module are sequentially arranged. The power drive module provides power for the unblocking mechanism to operate within the cylinder and the subsea pipeline, actively moving to the blockage point; the drilling and spraying module performs drilling and spraying operations on the blockage point within the subsea pipeline to mechanically remove the blockage; and the monitoring and drainage module monitors the unblocking status of the blockage point ahead and absorbs the waste liquid sprayed out during the unblocking process.

[0074] (III) This invention provides an emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines, which also includes an automatic drilling and spraying mechanism. The touch switch is initially in an open state. When the drill bit encounters a blockage, it blocks the drill bit from continuing to advance, while the third connecting block continues to advance due to inertia. The two are relatively displaced, and the touch switch comes into contact with the tail end of the drill rod. At the same time, the third connecting block compresses the fourth spring, and the touch switch changes from an open state to a closed state. The closed circuit for power supply to the drilling motor and the jet pump is closed, and the drilling motor and the jet pump start simultaneously. On the one hand, the drilling motor drives the drill bit through the drill rod to start the drilling operation; on the other hand, the jet pump draws the agent in the unblocking agent tank into the nozzle, and the nozzle sprays the agent forward to start the spraying operation.

[0075] (iv) This invention provides an emergency unblocking method for subsea pipelines, including: docking with an underwater manifold; docking the upper and lower umbilical cables, allowing the agent to flow from the ground to the blockage point; the unblocking mechanism operating to the blockage point of the subsea pipeline to accurately locate and transport the agent to the blockage point; drilling and spraying operations at the blockage point until the blockage point is completely cleared; and the unblocking mechanism returning to the cylinder. The emergency unblocking method for subsea pipelines provided by this invention integrates multiple functions such as automatic operation, drilling operations, agent injection, and spraying operations, and has the advantages of rapid unblocking and low energy consumption. It is especially suitable for pipeline unblocking scenarios where it is difficult for inhibitors to reach the blockage point in deep-sea subsea pipelines. Attached Figure Description

[0076] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the quick connector provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention before it is connected to the pipe to be connected;

[0077] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure after the quick connector provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention is connected to the pipe to be connected;

[0078] Figure 3 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0079] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the power drive module provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0080] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the cross-section of the lower umbilical cable provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0081] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the monitoring and drainage module provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0082] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the drilling fluid injection module provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0083] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the automatic drilling and spraying mechanism provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0084] Figure 9 The circuit diagram is shown for the automatic drilling fluid spraying mechanism provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 10 This is an application scenario diagram of the emergency unblocking system for submarine pipelines provided in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0086] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 100 - pipe to be connected, 101 - connector to be connected, 102 - connector groove;

[0087] 1-Quick connector, 11-Snap-fit ​​part, 111-Wedge block, 112-First spring, 113-Sealing ring, 114-Connector bolt, 115-Flange baffle, 116-Top pin, 117-Pressure plate, 118-Sealing gasket, 119-Second spring; 12-Plug-in part, 121-Torsion spring, 122-Snap-fit, 123-Positioning ball, 124-Sliding ball;

[0088] 21-Upper umbilical cable, 22-Lower umbilical cable, 23-Main connecting rod, 201-Injection pipe, 202-Return pipe, 203-Signal cable, 204-Power supply cable;

[0089] 3-Waterproof sleeve;

[0090] 4-Underwater manifold, 40-Underwater ball-launching point device interface, 41-First switching valve, 42-Second switching valve;

[0091] 50 - cylinder body, 500 - quick flange;

[0092] 6-Power drive module, 60-First connecting block, 61-Drive motor, 62-First connecting rod, 63-Roller, 64-Third spring;

[0093] 7-Monitoring drainage module, 70-Second connecting block, 700-Suction tube, 71-Second connecting rod;

[0094] 8-Drilling fluid injection module, 80-Third connecting block, 81-Third connecting rod;

[0095] 90-Drill bit, 91-Drilling motor, 911-Drive gear, 92-Drill rod, 920-Limit ring, 921-Fourth spring, 922-Driven gear; 93-Touch switch, 94-Power supply, 95-Jet pump, 96-Nozzle. Detailed Implementation

[0096] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the invention can be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to enable a more thorough understanding of the invention and to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0097] To address the current lack of a rapid and safe method for unblocking subsea pipelines between wellheads and platforms, this invention firstly designs a quick-connect coupling, particularly suitable for rapid connection of pipelines with high sealing requirements in subsea environments. Secondly, this invention discloses an emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines. A power drive module transports the unblocking mechanism to the blockage point; a drilling and spraying module performs drilling and spraying operations on the blockage point within the subsea pipeline to mechanically remove it; and a monitoring and drainage module monitors the unblocking status of the blockage point ahead and absorbs the waste fluid sprayed during the unblocking process. Furthermore, this invention discloses an automatic drilling and spraying mechanism that can automatically identify the blockage point and automatically drill and spray fluid to clear it. Finally, the unblocking mechanism involved in the unblocking process can return to the casing, preventing it from being left inside the subsea pipeline.

[0098] Example 1: A quick connector

[0099] Embodiment 1 of the present invention provides a quick connector for connecting to a pipe 100 to be connected. The structure is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0100] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The outer wall of the pipe to be connected 100 is pre-set with a connector 101, which communicates with the pipe to be connected 100, and the connector 101 is provided with a connector groove 102. As a specific embodiment, the pipe to be connected 100 can be a cylinder 50.

[0101] The quick connector 1 is divided into two parts: a snap-fit ​​part 11 and a plug-in part 12.

[0102] The upper umbilical cable 21 is inserted inside the snap-fit ​​part 11, and the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable 21 extends out of the snap-fit ​​part 11;

[0103] The insertion part 12 is provided with a lower umbilical cable hole, and a lower umbilical cable 22 is fixed in the lower umbilical cable hole. The insertion part 12 is temporarily set on the inner wall of the pipe to be connected 100, which is connected to the connector to be connected 101, by a torsion spring 121.

[0104] When the quick connector is connected to the pipe to be connected 100, the snap-fit ​​part 11 snaps into the connector groove 102 on the connector to be connected 101. At the same time, the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable 21 extends into the connection between the connector to be connected 101 and the pipe to be connected 100, and inserts downward into the lower umbilical cable hole of the plug part 12, and connects with the top end of the lower umbilical cable 22 to form a long umbilical cable.

[0105] During the process of inserting the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable 21 downward into the lower umbilical cable hole of the insertion part 12, the insertion part 12 is subjected to the downward pressure of the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable 21, gradually gets rid of the restraint of the torsion spring 121, and finally the insertion part 12 separates from the inner wall of the pipe to be connected 100.

[0106] Specifically, the snap-fit ​​part 11 is provided with an upper umbilical cable hole. After the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable 21 extends out of the snap-fit ​​part 11, the upper umbilical cable 21 passes through the upper umbilical cable hole.

[0107] Specifically, the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable 21 serves as the male connector, and the lower umbilical cable hole of the insertion part 12 serves as the female connector. When the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable 21 is inserted into the lower umbilical cable hole of the insertion part 12, the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable 21 is connected to the top end of the lower umbilical cable 22.

[0108] To facilitate the insertion of the upper umbilical cable 21 into the lower umbilical cable hole of the insertion part 12 and to aid in positioning, a number of locking beads 123 are evenly arranged circumferentially on the wall of the lower umbilical cable hole of the insertion part 12. When the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable 21 is inserted into the lower umbilical cable hole of the insertion part 12, the locking beads 123 increase the connection and fixation between the two.

[0109] The insertion part 12, which is detached from the inner wall of the pipe to be connected 100, can prevent the lower umbilical cable 22 from re-entering the pipe to be connected 100.

[0110] As a specific embodiment for engaging the snap-fit ​​part 11 with the connector groove 102, the connector 101 to be connected first protrudes outward from the outside of the pipe 100 to be connected, and then a flange is formed from the outer edge of the protrusion to the periphery, and the connector groove 102 is formed on the flange, with the inner edge of the connector groove 102 being set as a slope.

[0111] The bottom of the snap-fit ​​part 11 is provided with at least two wedge blocks 111, and each wedge block 111 is provided with a first spring 112;

[0112] The inner edge of the joint groove 102 has an upward inclined surface, and the outer end of the wedge block 111 is set with an inclined surface and the inclined surface of the wedge block 111 has a downward inclined surface.

[0113] When the quick connector is connected to the pipe 100 to be connected, the inclined surface of the wedge block 111 of the snap-fit ​​part 11 slides from the inclined surface of the inner edge of the connector groove 102 until the wedge block 111 of the snap-fit ​​part 11 completes snap-fit ​​in the connector groove 102.

[0114] To ensure the sealing of the snap-fit ​​part 11 after it is snapped into the connector groove 102, a sealing ring 113 is provided on the contact surface between the bottom of the snap-fit ​​part 11 and the connector groove 102.

[0115] To adapt to the application environment of marine engineering, the top of the snap-fit ​​part 11 is connected to a waterproof sleeve 3, and the upper umbilical cable 21 is inserted inside the waterproof sleeve 3.

[0116] As a specific method for connecting the waterproof sleeve 3 and the snap-fit ​​part 11, a connector bolt 114 is provided at the top of the snap-fit ​​part 11, the top end of the connector bolt 114 protrudes outward to form a flange baffle 115, a plurality of top pins 116 are provided on the top surface of the snap-fit ​​part 11, and a plurality of top pin holes are correspondingly provided on the outer edge of the flange baffle 115; a pressure plate 117 is provided at the bottom inside the waterproof sleeve 3, and a sealing gasket 118 is provided at the connection between the pressure plate 117 and the flange baffle 115. The sealing gasket 118 is in a compressed state and presses against the upper umbilical cable 21 to prevent seawater from flowing into the waterproof sleeve 3. As the inclined surface of the wedge block 111 of the snap-fit ​​part 11 slides from the inclined surface of the inner edge of the connector groove 102, the top pin 116 extends into the top pin hole corresponding to the flange baffle 115, supporting the pressure plate 117. At the same time, the sealing gasket 118, which is in a compressed state, extends, and the state in which the sealing gasket 118 presses against the upper umbilical cable 21 is released.

[0117] In order to press the sealing gasket 118 and keep it pressing the upper umbilical cable 21, a second spring 119 is provided in the gap between the flange baffle 115 and the pressure plate 117 and away from the sealing gasket 118, that is, the pressure plate 117 pre-tightens and compresses the sealing gasket 118 through the second spring 119.

[0118] As a specific embodiment for connecting the plug part 12 to the connector 101 to be connected, one end of the torsion spring 121 of the plug part 12 is fixed to the inner wall of the pipe 100 to be connected, and the other end is provided with a buckle 122. The plug part 12 has eyelets on both sides, and the buckle 122 is hung on the corresponding eyelets. Thus, the plug part 12 is temporarily set on the inner wall of the pipe 100 to be connected and connected to the connector 101 through the torsion spring 121.

[0119] Furthermore, a plurality of sliding beads 124 are evenly arranged circumferentially on the outer wall of the insertion part 12.

[0120] Example 2: An emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines

[0121] Embodiment 2 of the present invention provides an emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines. The system is used on a subsea manifold 4, which is connected to a wellhead and a platform via subsea pipelines. The subsea manifold 4 is equipped with an underwater launching point device interface 40, which is a pipe with one open end. The closed end is connected to the subsea manifold 4, and the open end has a flange for connecting to external pipelines. The structure is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0122] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 10 The emergency unblocking system for the subsea pipeline includes a cylindrical body 50. One end of the cylindrical body 50 is an open end, which is used to connect with the underwater launching point device interface 40 of the underwater manifold 4. The other end of the cylindrical body 50 is a closed end. The cylindrical body 50 is used as the pipeline 100 to be connected. A quick connector 1 of embodiment 1 is set on the cylindrical wall of the cylindrical body 50 near the closed end. The snap-fit ​​part 11 of the quick connector 1 is connected to the work vessel on the sea surface through the waterproof sleeve 3.

[0123] The cylinder 50 is provided with a power drive module 6 and a drilling fluid injection module 8 in sequence from the closed end to the open end. The lower umbilical cable 22 of the plug part 12 of the quick connector 1 passes through the power drive module 6 and the drilling fluid injection module 8 in sequence from back to front. The power drive module 6 and the drilling fluid injection module 8 are connected together to form a blockage removal mechanism.

[0124] The power drive module 6 is equipped with a motor, which can provide power for the drilling and spraying module 8 to run in the cylinder 50 and the subsea pipeline. The power drive module 6 is used to push the drilling and spraying module 8 to the blockage point in the subsea pipeline.

[0125] The drilling fluid injection module 8 includes a drilling motor 91, which is equipped with a drill bit 90 for unblocking the blockage point.

[0126] Specifically, the outer edge of the open end of the cylinder 50 protrudes outward to form a flange, and a flange hole is provided on the flange. The open end of the cylinder 50 is connected to the underwater ball-launching point device interface 40 of the underwater manifold 4 through a quick flange 500.

[0127] Specifically, the underwater manifold 4 includes a wellhead interface, a platform interface, and an underwater ball-launching device interface 40. The wellhead interface is connected to the wellhead via a subsea pipeline, and the platform interface is connected to the platform via a subsea pipeline.

[0128] A first switching valve 41 is installed on the pipeline between the platform interface and the wellhead interface, and a second switching valve 42 is installed on the pipeline between the platform interface and the underwater ball-launching device interface 40. By controlling the first switching valve and the second switching valve 42, the connection between the wellhead interface and the platform interface, and the connection between the underwater ball-launching device interface 40 and the platform interface can be switched.

[0129] refer to Figure 4 The power drive module 6 includes a first connecting block 60, two drive motors 61, four first connecting rods 62, and a first controller.

[0130] Two drive motors 61 are respectively located at the upper and lower positions behind the first connecting block 60, and four primary connecting rods 62 are respectively located at the front and sides of the first connecting block 60. Specifically, a primary connecting rod 62 is hinged to the upper and lower front of the first connecting block 60, and a primary connecting rod 62 is hinged to the left and right sides of the first connecting block 60.

[0131] Each drive motor 61 output shaft and each first connecting rod 62 bottom end are respectively provided with a roller 63, the six rollers 63 are symmetrically distributed along the longitudinal center line of the cylinder 50, and each roller 63 of the first connecting rod 62 abuts against the inner wall of the cylinder 50.

[0132] In order to press the roller 63 against the inner wall of the cylinder 50, a third spring 64 is provided at the junction of the housing of the drive motor 61 and the first connecting rod 62 with the first connecting block 60, and the third spring 64 presses the roller 63 against the inner wall of the cylinder 50 by pre-tensioning.

[0133] To ensure that the roller 63 can press against the inner wall of the subsea pipeline after the unblocking mechanism moves from inside the cylinder 50 into the subsea pipeline, the inner diameter of the cylinder 50, the inner diameter of the underwater manifold 4, and the inner diameter of the subsea pipeline that connects to the platform through the underwater manifold 4 are equal.

[0134] refer to Figure 5 Both the upper umbilical cable 21 and the lower umbilical cable 22 contain an injection tube 201, a return tube 202, a signal cable 203, and a power supply cable 204.

[0135] The drilling fluid injection module 8 includes a nozzle 96, which is located above the drill bit 90. The injection pipe 201 is connected to the nozzle 96 of the drilling fluid injection module 8. The injection pipe 201 is used to deliver chemicals from the workboat to the drilling fluid injection module 8 of the unblocking mechanism for the injection of chemicals by the nozzle 96.

[0136] In order to absorb the waste liquid sprayed out during the unblocking process, the unblocking mechanism also includes a monitoring and drainage module 7. The power drive module 6, the monitoring and drainage module 7 and the drilling and spraying module 8 are arranged sequentially inside the cylinder 50 from the closed end to the open end.

[0137] refer to Figure 6 The monitoring and drainage module 7 includes a second connecting block 70, a temporary liquid storage tank is provided in the second connecting block 70, the temporary liquid storage tank is equipped with a liquid suction pump, and the temporary liquid storage tank is equipped with a liquid suction pipe 700. The liquid inlet of the liquid suction pipe 700 faces the lower part of the inner wall of the cylinder 50 or the subsea pipeline.

[0138] To recover the waste liquid within the monitoring and drainage module 7, a return pipe 202 is also encased within the lower umbilical cable 22. The return pipe 202 is connected to the temporary storage tank of the monitoring and drainage module 7. The return pipe 202 is used to recover the waste liquid from the temporary storage tank of the monitoring and drainage module 7 back to the workboat.

[0139] As a specific implementation of the arrangement of the power drive module 6, the monitoring and drainage module 7, and the drilling and spraying module 8 from the closed end to the open end of the cylinder 50 inside the cylinder 50, the power drive module 6, the monitoring and drainage module 7, and the drilling and spraying module 8 are each equipped with a main connecting rod 23. The power drive module 6 and the monitoring and drainage module 7, and the monitoring and drainage module 7 and the drilling and spraying module 8 are hinged together by the main connecting rod 23, and the power drive module 6, the monitoring and drainage module 7, and the drilling and spraying module 8 are connected in series to form the unblocking mechanism.

[0140] Continue to refer to Figure 3Specifically, the power drive module 6 is provided with a main connecting rod 23 at its right end, the monitoring and drainage module 7 is provided with main connecting rods 23 at its left and right ends respectively, and the drilling and spraying module 8 is provided with a main connecting rod 23 at its left end. The main connecting rod 23 at the right end of the power drive module 6 is hinged to the main connecting rod 23 at the left end of the monitoring and drainage module 7, and the main connecting rods 23 at both ends of the right end of the monitoring and drainage module 7 are hinged to the main connecting rod 23 at the left end of the drilling and spraying module 8. Thus, the power drive module 6, the monitoring and drainage module 7, and the drilling and spraying module 8 are connected in series to form the unblocking mechanism.

[0141] The lower umbilical cable 22 of the plug-in portion 12 of the quick connector 1 passes through the power drive module 6, the monitoring and drainage module 7 and the drilling and spraying module 8 from back to front, and the injection pipe 201 is connected to the nozzle 96 of the drilling and spraying module 8; the return pipe 202 is connected to the temporary storage tank of the monitoring and drainage module 7.

[0142] To enable the monitoring and drainage module 7 to operate within the cylinder 50 and the subsea pipeline under the drive of the power drive module 6, refer to... Figure 6 The monitoring and drainage module 7 further includes six secondary connecting rods 71, which are respectively hinged to the second connecting block 70. Specifically, a secondary connecting rod 71 is hinged to the upper and lower front of the second connecting block 70, a secondary connecting rod 71 is hinged to the upper and lower rear of the second connecting block 70, and a secondary connecting rod 71 is hinged to the left and right sides of the second connecting block 70.

[0143] Each of the second connecting rods 71 ​​is provided with a roller 63 at its bottom end. The rollers 63 of the six second connecting rods 71 ​​are symmetrically distributed along the longitudinal center line of the cylinder 50, and each roller 63 of the second connecting rod 71 abuts against the inner wall of the cylinder 50.

[0144] A third spring 64 is provided at the junction of the second connecting rod 71 and the second connecting block 70. The third spring 64 presses the roller 63 against the inner wall of the cylinder 50 by pre-tensioning.

[0145] To monitor the clearing status of congestion points ahead during operation, continue to refer to... Figure 6 The monitoring and drainage module 7 also includes a camera 72, which is equipped with a light. The camera 72 and the light are integrated and disposed above the second connecting block 70, and the camera 72 and the light face the front of the second connecting block 70.

[0146] Similarly, in order to enable the drilling fluid injection module 8 to be driven by the power drive module 6 and operated within the cylinder 50 and the subsea pipeline, refer to... Figure 7 The drilling fluid injection module 8 also includes a third connecting block 80 and six third connecting rods 81.

[0147] Six third connecting rods 81 are respectively hinged to the third connecting block 80. Specifically, a third connecting rod 81 is hinged to the upper and lower front of the third connecting block 80, a third connecting rod 81 is hinged to the upper and lower rear of the third connecting block 80, and a third connecting rod 81 is hinged to the left and right sides of the third connecting block 80.

[0148] Each of the third connecting rods 81 is provided with a roller 63 at its bottom end. The rollers 63 of the six third connecting rods 81 are symmetrically distributed along the longitudinal center line of the cylinder 50, and each roller 63 of the third connecting rod 81 abuts against the inner wall of the cylinder 50.

[0149] A third spring 64 is provided at the junction of the third connecting rod 81 and the third connecting block 80. The third spring 64 presses the roller 63 against the inner wall of the cylinder 50 by pre-tensioning.

[0150] In order to dissolve the blockage, as a preferred embodiment for drilling and spraying fluid at the blockage point by the drilling fluid injection module 8, the third connecting block 80 is provided with a deblocking agent chamber containing a deblocking agent, and the injection pipe 201 of the lower umbilical cable 22 is connected to the deblocking agent chamber of the drilling fluid injection module 8.

[0151] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The drilling fluid injection module 8 further includes an automatic drilling fluid injection mechanism, which includes the drill bit 90, the drilling motor 91, the drill rod 92, the touch switch 93, the power supply 94, the jet pump 95, and the nozzle 96.

[0152] The drill rod 92 is provided with a limiting ring 920. The drill rod 92 passes through the third connecting block 80, and the limiting ring 920 of the drill rod 92 abuts against the inner side of the third connecting block 80. The front end of the drill rod 92 extends out of the third connecting block 80.

[0153] The drill bit 90 is fixed to the front end of the drill rod 92, and the drill bit 90 is located directly in front of the third connecting block 80. A fourth spring 921 is sandwiched between the drill bit 90 and the outer wall of the third connecting block 80.

[0154] The touch switch 93 is located near the tail end of the drill rod 92;

[0155] The nozzle 96 is positioned directly above the drill bit 90 and the nozzle of the nozzle 96 is tilted upwards. The jet pump 95 is located inside the unblocking agent chamber and is connected to the nozzle 96 via a pipeline.

[0156] The output shaft of the drilling motor 91 is provided with a drive gear 911, and the drill rod 92 is provided with a driven gear 922. The drive gear 911 meshes with the driven gear 922.

[0157] The power supply 94, the drilling motor 91, the touch switch 93, and the jet pump 95 are connected in series with each other by wires to form a closed loop.

[0158] The initial state of the touch switch 93 is off. When the drill bit 90 encounters a blockage, it stops the drill bit 90 from continuing to advance, while the third connecting block 80 continues to advance due to inertia. This creates relative displacement between the two, causing the touch switch 93 to collide with the tail end of the drill rod 92. Simultaneously, the third connecting block 80 compresses the fourth spring 921. Figure 8 As shown, the touch switch 93 changes from an open state to a closed state, and the closed circuit of the power supply 94 supplying power to the drilling motor 91 and the jet pump 95 is closed, as follows. Figure 9 As shown, the drilling motor 91 and the jet pump 95 start simultaneously. On one hand, the drilling motor 91 drives the drill bit 90 through the drill rod 92 to start the drilling operation; on the other hand, the jet pump 95 draws the agent in the unblocking agent chamber into the nozzle 96, and the nozzle 96 sprays the agent forward to start the liquid spraying operation.

[0159] Preferably, the drill bit 90 has a flow guide groove.

[0160] The power drive module 6 is used to provide power for the unblocking mechanism to run inside the cylinder 50 and the subsea pipeline, and to actively run to the blockage point;

[0161] The drilling and spraying module 8 is used to drill and spray fluid to remove blockages in the subsea pipeline and to mechanically remove the blockages.

[0162] The monitoring and drainage module 7 is used to monitor the unblocking status of the blockage point ahead and to recover the waste liquid generated during the unblocking process.

[0163] To transmit information about the operation of the unblocking mechanism within the cylinder 50 and the subsea pipeline to the work vessel, the power drive module 6 is equipped with a first controller, which is wired to two drive motors 61 respectively; the monitoring and drainage module 7 is equipped with a second controller, which is wired to the suction pump, camera 72, and lighting; the drilling and spraying module 8 is equipped with a third controller, which is wired to the drilling motor 91, the jet pump 95, the power supply 94, and the touch switch 93; the first controller, the second controller, and the third controller are each connected to the signal cable 203 within the lower umbilical cable 22.

[0164] To ensure power supply to the electrical equipment of the unblocking mechanism, the power-consuming devices in the power drive module 6, the monitoring and drainage module 7, and the drilling and spraying module 8 are respectively connected to the power supply cable 204 in the lower umbilical cable 22.

[0165] Example 3: An emergency unblocking method for subsea pipelines

[0166] Embodiment 3 of the present invention provides an emergency unblocking method for subsea pipelines, employing the emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines provided in Embodiment 2. In this method, a work vessel on the sea surface pre-deploys the emergency unblocking system to the vicinity of the underwater launching point device interface 40 of the underwater manifold 4. (Refer to...) Figure 10 The method includes the following steps:

[0167] Docking with underwater manifold: In the event of a blockage in the subsea pipeline, the underwater robot will dock the open end of the cylinder 50 of the emergency unblocking system for the subsea pipeline with the interface 40 of the underwater launching point device of the underwater manifold 4 via the quick flange 500.

[0168] Docking of the upper and lower umbilical cables: The opening of the waterproof sleeve 3 on the workboat on the sea surface is connected to the snap-fit ​​part 11 of the quick connector 1. The workboat lowers the waterproof sleeve 3, using the cylinder 50 as the pipe to be connected 100. The snap-fit ​​part 11 of the quick connector 1 is brought close to the cylinder wall of the closed end of the cylinder 50 until the snap-fit ​​part 11 is snapped into the connector groove 102 on the connector 101 of the pipe to be connected 100. At the same time, the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable 21 extends into the connection between the connector 101 and the pipe to be connected 100, and is inserted downward into the lower umbilical cable hole of the insertion part 12, and docks with the top end of the lower umbilical cable 22, so that the upper umbilical cable 21 on the workboat and the lower umbilical cable 22 of the power drive module 6 are connected into a long umbilical cable.

[0169] During the process of inserting the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable 21 downward into the lower umbilical cable hole of the insertion part 12, the insertion part 12 is subjected to the downward pressure of the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable 21, gradually getting rid of the restraint of the torsion spring 121, and finally the insertion part 12 disengages from the inner wall of the pipe to be connected 100, so that the long umbilical cable can move forward freely.

[0170] The unblocking mechanism runs to the blockage point of the subsea pipeline: the two drive motors 61 of the power drive module 6 start simultaneously, pushing the monitoring and drainage module 7 and the drilling and spraying module 8 to run in the cylinder 50 and the subsea pipeline until the drill bit 90 of the drilling and spraying module 8 touches the blockage point in the subsea pipeline.

[0171] Drilling and spraying operation on the blockage point: Drilling and spraying module 8 drills and sprays liquid on the blockage point in the subsea pipeline. At the same time, the camera 72 of the monitoring and drainage module 7 monitors the unblocking status of the blockage point in front and the suction pump of the monitoring and drainage module 7 is started. The suction pipe 700 collects the waste liquid sprayed during the unblocking process until the monitoring and drainage module 7 monitors that the blockage point has been completely cleared.

[0172] The unblocking mechanism returns to the cylinder: The two drive motors 61 of the power drive module 6 start in opposite directions at the same time, pulling the monitoring and drainage module 7 and the drilling and spraying module 8 to run in opposite directions in the cylinder 50 and the subsea pipeline until they return to the cylinder 50.

[0173] The initial state of the touch switch 93 is the off state. After the drill bit 90 of the drilling and spraying module 8 contacts a blockage point inside the subsea pipeline, the process of initiating drilling and spraying operations at the blockage point includes the following steps:

[0174] When the drill bit 90 encounters a blockage, the blockage prevents the drill bit 90 from continuing to advance, while the third connecting block 80 continues to advance due to inertia. This creates relative displacement between the two, causing the touch switch 93 to collide with the tail end of the drill rod 92. Simultaneously, the third connecting block 80 compresses the fourth spring 921, and the touch switch 93 changes from an open state to a closed state. The closed circuit of the power supply 94 supplying power to the drilling motor 91 and the jet pump 95 is closed, and the drilling motor 91 and the jet pump 95 start simultaneously. On one hand, the drilling motor 91 drives the drill bit 90 through the drill rod 92, initiating drilling operations; on the other hand, the jet pump 95 draws the unblocking agent from the unblocking agent chamber into the nozzle 96, which then sprays the agent forward, initiating the liquid spraying operation.

[0175] Specifically, an underwater robot (ROV) connects the open end of the cylinder 50 of the subsea pipeline emergency unblocking system to the underwater ball-launching point device interface 40 of the underwater manifold 4 via a quick flange 500.

[0176] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A rapid-sealing and docking emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines, used on a subsea manifold (4), wherein the subsea manifold (4) is docked with a wellhead and a platform respectively via subsea pipelines, and the subsea manifold (4) is equipped with an underwater ball-launching point device interface (40), characterized in that, Includes a cylindrical body (50) and a quick connector (1); One end of the cylinder (50) is an open end, which is used to connect with the underwater ball-launching device interface (40) of the underwater manifold (4); the other end of the cylinder (50) is a closed end, and the quick connector (1) is set on the cylinder wall of the cylinder (50) near the closed end. The quick connector (1) includes a snap-fit ​​part (11) and a plug-in part (12). An upper umbilical cable (21) is inserted inside the snap-fit ​​part (11). The snap-fit ​​part (11) of the quick connector (1) is connected to the work vessel on the sea surface through a water-proof sleeve (3). A lower umbilical cable (22) is installed inside the plug-in part (12). The cylinder (50) is provided with a power drive module (6) and a drilling fluid injection module (8) in sequence from the closed end to the open end. The lower umbilical cable (22) of the plug part (12) of the quick connector (1) passes through the power drive module (6) and the drilling fluid injection module (8) in sequence from back to front. The power drive module (6) and the drilling fluid injection module (8) are connected together to form a blockage removal mechanism. The quick connector (1) is used to connect the upper umbilical cable (21) and the lower umbilical cable (22). The power drive module (6) is used to push the drilling fluid injection module (8) to the blockage point inside the subsea pipeline; The drilling fluid injection module (8) includes a drill bit (90) for unblocking blockage points.

2. The emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines according to claim 1, characterized in that, The underwater manifold (4) also includes a wellhead interface and a platform interface. The wellhead interface is connected to the wellhead via a subsea pipeline, and the platform interface is connected to the platform via a subsea pipeline. A first switching valve (41) is provided on the pipeline between the platform interface and the wellhead interface, and a second switching valve (42) is provided on the pipeline between the platform interface and the underwater ball-launching device interface (40). By controlling the first switching valve (41) and the second switching valve (42), the connection between the wellhead interface and the platform interface and the connection between the underwater ball-launching device interface (40) and the platform interface can be switched.

3. The emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cylinder (50) is provided with a connector (101) to be connected, and the connector (101) to be connected is provided with a connector groove (102). The insertion part (12) is temporarily bound to the inner wall of the cylinder (50) in advance; When the quick connector (1) is connected to the cylinder (50), the snap-fit ​​part (11) snaps into the connector groove (102) on the cylinder (50). At the same time, the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable (21) extends into the connection between the connector to be connected and the cylinder (50), and inserts downward into the lower umbilical cable hole of the plug part (12), connecting with the top end of the lower umbilical cable (22) to form a long umbilical cable. During the process of inserting the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable (21) downward into the lower umbilical cable hole of the plug part (12), the plug part (12) is subjected to the downward pressure of the bottom end of the upper umbilical cable (21), gradually gets rid of the temporary restraint, and finally the plug part (12) separates from the inner wall of the pipe to be connected (100).

4. The emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines according to claim 3, characterized in that, The connector to be connected (101) first protrudes outward from the outside of the pipe to be connected (100), and then a flange is formed from the outer edge of the protrusion to the periphery. The connector groove (102) is formed on the flange, and the inner edge of the connector groove (102) is set as a slope. The bottom of the snap-fit ​​part (11) is provided with at least two wedge blocks (111), and each wedge block (111) is provided with a first spring (112). The inner edge of the joint groove (102) is inclined upwards, and the outer end of the wedge block (111) is set as an inclined surface and the inclined surface of the wedge block (111) is inclined downwards. When the quick connector is connected to the pipe to be connected (100), the inclined surface of the wedge block (111) of the snap-fit ​​part (11) slides from the inclined surface of the inner edge of the connector groove (102) until the wedge block (111) of the snap-fit ​​part (11) completes the snap-fit ​​in the connector groove (102). The top of the snap-fit ​​part (11) is connected to a water-proof sleeve (3), and the upper umbilical cable (21) is inserted inside the water-proof sleeve (3).

5. The emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines according to claim 4, characterized in that, The top of the snap-fit ​​part (11) is provided with a connector bolt (114), and the top of the connector bolt (114) protrudes outward to form a flange baffle (115). The top surface of the snap-fit ​​part (11) is provided with a plurality of top pins (116), and the outer edge of the flange baffle (115) is provided with a plurality of top pin holes. The bottom of the waterproof sleeve (3) is provided with a pressure plate (117), and a sealing gasket (118) is provided at the connection between the pressure plate (117) and the flange baffle (115). The sealing gasket (118) is in a compressed state and presses the upper umbilical cable (21) to prevent seawater from flowing into the waterproof sleeve (3). As the inclined surface of the wedge block (111) of the snap-fit ​​part (11) slides from the inclined surface of the inner edge of the connector groove (102), the top pin (116) extends into the corresponding top pin hole of the flange baffle (115), supporting the pressure plate (117), and at the same time the sealing gasket (118) in the compressed state expands, realizing the unsealing between the upper umbilical cable (21) and the sealing gasket (118); A second spring (119) is provided in the gap between the flange baffle (115) and the pressure plate (117) and away from the sealing gasket (118).

6. The emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines according to claim 5, characterized in that, The insertion part (12) is temporarily secured to the inner wall of the pipe (100) connected to the connector (101) by a torsion spring (121) and a buckle (122). One end of the torsion spring (121) is fixed to the inner wall of the pipe to be connected (100), and the other end is equipped with a buckle (122). The two sides of the plug part (12) are respectively provided with eyelets, and the buckle (122) is hung on the corresponding eyelets, thereby realizing that the plug part (12) is temporarily bound to the inner wall of the pipe to be connected (100) which is connected to the connector (101).

7. The emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power drive module (6) includes a first connecting block (60), two drive motors (61), and four first connecting rods (62). Two drive motors (61) are respectively located at the upper and lower positions behind the first connecting block (60), and four first connecting rods (62) are respectively located in front of and on both sides of the first connecting block (60). Among them, a first connecting rod (62) is hinged to the upper and lower front of the first connecting block (60), and a first connecting rod (62) is hinged to the left and right sides of the first connecting block (60). Each of the drive motors (61) has an output shaft and each of the first connecting rods (62) has a roller (63) at its bottom end. The six rollers (63) are symmetrically distributed along the longitudinal centerline of the cylinder (50). A third spring (64) is provided at the junction of the housing of the drive motor (61) and the first connecting rod (62) with the first connecting block (60), and the third spring (64) presses the roller (63) against the inner wall of the cylinder (50) by pre-tightening.

8. The emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lower umbilical cable (22) contains an injection pipe (201), the drilling injection module (8) includes a nozzle (96), and the nozzle (96) is located above the drill bit (90). The injection pipe (201) is connected to the nozzle (96) of the drilling injection module (8).

9. The emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines according to claim 8, characterized in that, The unblocking mechanism also includes a monitoring and drainage module (7). The power drive module (6), the monitoring and drainage module (7), and the drilling and spraying module (8) are arranged sequentially inside the cylinder (50) from the closed end to the open end. The monitoring and drainage module (7) includes a second connecting block (70), a temporary liquid storage tank is provided in the second connecting block (70), the temporary liquid storage tank is equipped with a liquid suction pump, the temporary liquid storage tank is equipped with a liquid suction pipe (700), and the liquid inlet of the liquid suction pipe (700) faces the lower part of the inner wall of the cylinder (50) or the submarine pipeline. The lower umbilical cable (22) also contains a return pipe (202), which is connected to the temporary storage tank of the monitoring and drainage module (7). The monitoring and drainage module (7) also includes a camera (72). The camera (72) is equipped with a light, and the camera (72) and the light are integrated and disposed above the second connecting block (70), with the camera and the light facing the front of the second connecting block (70).

10. The emergency unblocking system for subsea pipelines according to claim 8, characterized in that, The drilling fluid injection module (8) also includes a third connecting block (80) and six third connecting rods (81). Six third connecting rods (81) are respectively hinged to the third connecting block (80). Specifically, a third connecting rod (81) is hinged to the upper and lower front of the third connecting block (80), a third connecting rod (81) is hinged to the upper and lower rear of the third connecting block (80), and a third connecting rod (81) is hinged to the left and right sides of the third connecting block (80). Each of the third connecting rods (81) is provided with a roller (63) at its bottom end, and the rollers (63) of the six third connecting rods (81) are symmetrically distributed along the longitudinal center line of the cylinder (50); A third spring (64) is provided at the junction of the third connecting rod (81) and the third connecting block (80). The third spring (64) presses the roller (63) against the inner wall of the cylinder (50) by pre-tightening. The third connecting block (80) is provided with a deblocking agent chamber, which is provided with deblocking agent. The injection pipe (201) of the lower umbilical cable (22) is connected to the deblocking agent chamber of the drilling injection module (8). The drilling fluid injection module (8) also includes an automatic drilling fluid injection mechanism, which includes the drill bit (90), drilling motor (91), drill rod (92), touch switch (93), power supply (94), jet pump (95) and nozzle (96). A limiting ring (920) is provided on the drill rod (92). The drill rod (92) passes through the third connecting block (80), and the limiting ring (920) of the drill rod (92) abuts against the inner side of the third connecting block (80). The front end of the drill rod (92) extends out of the third connecting block (80). The drill bit (90) is fixed to the front end of the drill rod (92), and the drill bit (90) is located directly in front of the third connecting block (80). A fourth spring (921) is sandwiched between the drill bit (90) and the outer wall of the third connecting block (80). The touch switch (93) is located near the tail end of the drill rod (92); The nozzle (96) is positioned directly above the drill bit (90) and the nozzle of the nozzle (96) is tilted upwards. The jet pump (95) is located inside the unblocking agent chamber and is connected to the nozzle (96) via a pipeline. The output shaft of the drilling motor (91) is provided with a drive gear (911), and the drill rod (92) is provided with a driven gear (922). The drive gear (911) meshes with the driven gear (922). The power supply (94), the drilling motor (91), the touch switch (93), and the jet pump (95) are connected in series to form a closed loop by wires.

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