Autonomous Riser Support Securing via Sliding Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing riser connectors in petroleum production units are complex, require precise adjustments, and often necessitate the use of divers or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), leading to delays due to weather conditions and high operational costs.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous system and method for securing riser supports using a sliding securing device actuated by an actuator, which engages with the connector after it passes through a through-hole on a supporting ledge, preventing reverse passage and allowing for automatic installation and disconnection without manual intervention or ROV assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual securing methods with divers are used, then the connector can be secured, but the operation is delayed by weather conditions and requires complex support systems
Solution Approach 1:
The securing device is designed to automatically engage with the connector through a self-securing mechanism. The device moves along the connector and locks into position without requiring manual intervention, allowing the system to secure itself autonomously and eliminating dependency on weather conditions for diver operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical securing process performed by divers with an automated mechanical system. The securing device uses mechanical components such as engagement surfaces, locking mechanisms, and actuated movement to automatically secure the connector, eliminating the need for human divers and support ships
2Ease of operation
If ROV assistance is used for securing, then manual intervention is reduced, but the system remains complex and requires precise adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The securing device autonomously performs the securing operation by moving along the connector and engaging automatically. The system includes self-aligning features and automatic locking mechanisms that eliminate the need for ROV manipulation and precise manual adjustments, simplifying the overall system while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The securing device is divided into functional segments including a moving component that travels along the connector, an engagement component that locks into position, and an actuation component. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining operational simplicity
3Reliability
If complex securing systems are used, then the connector can be secured, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The securing device is pre-positioned on the supporting ledge before the connector arrives. As the connector passes through the ledge, the securing device is already in place to immediately engage and lock, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustments and speeding up the installation process while maintaining reliable securing
Solution Approach 2:
The securing device incorporates dynamic movement along the connector, transitioning from an unlocked position to a locked position automatically. This dynamic mechanism allows the device to adapt to the connector's position and engage seamlessly, reducing installation time while ensuring reliable securing without complex static adjustment mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to systems for securing connectors of risers in petroleum production units. In this scenario, the present invention provides an autonomous system for securing a riser support, said system comprising (i) a riser support (32) connected at its bottom end to a submerged riser (34) and at its upper end to a tensioning element (30), (ii) a supporting ledge (20) comprising a through-hole (22) through which the tensioning element (30) and at least part of the riser support (32) pass, (iii) a securing device (40) located on the supporting ledge (20), said securing device (40) sliding relative to the supporting ledge (20) and driven by an actuator (48), wherein the securing device (40) slides between an unlocked position and a locked position on the through-hole (22), wherein, in the locked position, the securing device (40) can engage with locking in a connector (38) of the riser support (32) after the connector (38) has passed through the through-hole (22) of the supporting ledge (20). The present invention further provides an autonomous method for securing a riser support associated with the system described above.