BOP Bonnet Handling Rail System for Safe Lateral Transport
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blowout preventer (BOP) bonnets are heavy and difficult to handle safely for maintenance or servicing, posing risks to workers and equipment due to their weight and external frames that complicate removal.
Innovation Solution
A bonnet handling apparatus featuring a rail system with a carriage and ratchet sleeve mechanism that allows for lateral movement and hydraulic actuation, enabling the safe transport and lifting of bonnets using an overhead crane, supported by adjustable legs and lift cylinders for precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If bonnets are removed for servicing, then maintenance can be performed, but the heavy weight creates safety risks to workers and potential damage to equipment
Solution Approach 1:
A saddle assembly is introduced as an intermediary device between the bonnet and the handling system. The saddle cradles the bonnet and distributes its weight, serving as a mediator that enables safe handling and transport of the heavy bonnet during removal and servicing operations
Solution Approach 2:
The handling system is divided into separate functional components: a saddle assembly for supporting the bonnet, a carriage for moving the saddle, and a rail system for guiding the carriage. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to solve the overall handling problem
2Ease of operation
If traditional handling methods are used, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but safe and controlled movement of heavy bonnets cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic components including a movable carriage that travels along rails, extendable actuators that adjust positions, and a ratchet mechanism that provides controlled movement. These dynamic elements enable safe and controlled bonnet transport while adapting to different operational requirements
Solution Approach 2:
Hydraulic actuators are used to power the carriage movement along the rails and to adjust the position of handling components. The hydraulic system provides controlled, powerful actuation necessary for moving heavy bonnets safely while maintaining system complexity at an acceptable level
3Object-affected harmful factors
If bonnets are handled directly without support apparatus, then device complexity is minimized, but worker safety and bonnet protection are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The saddle assembly is designed to cradle and support the bonnet before any movement or lifting occurs. This preliminary support structure protects the bonnet from damage during the entire handling process, distributing loads and preventing direct contact between the bonnet and potential damage sources
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates the safe and efficient removal and servicing of BOP bonnets by distributing their weight and allowing controlled lateral movement, reducing the risk of injury and damage while simplifying the removal process.
Implementation Method 1
actuators (e.g., hydraulic cylinders) extend and retract to transport a saddle assembly
Implementation Method 2
ratchet sleeve mechanism that allows for lateral movement
Data Source
AI summary
A blow out preventer bonnet removal method is provided for removing a bonnet from the body of a blow out preventer. The method includes attaching a rail system to the body that extends laterally away from the body. A carriage apparatus is mounted on the rail system. A saddle is connected to the bonnet. The bonnet is then detached from the body. The bonnet is then moved on the rail system from a first position next to the body to a second position spaced away from the body. The carriage apparatus transports the bonnet upon the rail system when moving from the first to the second position.