BOP Ram Actuator Wedge Locking for Faster Service Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

The laborious and time-consuming process of disengaging and reassembling bolted bonnets on BOP ram doors contributes to operational inefficiencies during service operations, necessitating a more efficient and rapid connection method for ram-actuators to BOP ram bodies.

Innovation Solution

A boltless attachment system using locking recesses and protruding connection elements with grooves and locking wedges, facilitated by actuation, allows for quick connection and disconnection of ram-actuators to BOP ram bodies, with integrated lubrication channels for easy wedge removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional bolted connections are used to secure ram doors to BOP bodies, then structural strength and reliability are ensured, but the time required for disassembly and assembly increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidservice time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is segmented into modular components: locking recesses in the BOP body, protruding connection elements on the ram actuator, and removable locking wedges. This segmentation allows the connection to be quickly assembled and disassembled by simply engaging and disengaging the wedge elements, eliminating the time-consuming process of bolting and unbolting while maintaining structural integrity through the interlocking geometry of the segmented components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking recesses and protruding connection elements are pre-configured with complementary grooves and shapes that automatically align when the ram actuator is positioned against the BOP body. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for manual alignment and fastening operations, allowing the connection to be established rapidly by simply inserting the locking wedges into the pre-formed openings.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Strength

If multiple large bolts are used to secure ram doors, then connection strength is sufficient, but the complexity of disassembly and reassembly operations increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidease of disassembly

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The complex multi-bolt connection system is extracted and replaced with a simplified locking wedge mechanism. Instead of requiring multiple large bolts to be manually tightened and loosened, the invention extracts the essential function of securing the connection and achieves it through simple wedge insertion and removal, dramatically improving ease of operation while maintaining adequate connection strength through the wedge's mechanical locking action.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using bolts that require threading and tightening operations, the invention inverts the approach by using locking wedges that rely on simple insertion and friction-based locking. The connection strength is achieved not through threaded engagement but through the wedge geometry and frictional forces, making the operation much simpler and faster while still providing sufficient structural strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Reliability

If bolted bonnets are used for ram door attachment, then secure connection is achieved, but operational efficiency during service operations decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection securityVSAvoidoperational efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system transitions from a static bolted configuration to a dynamic locking wedge system that can be rapidly engaged and disengaged. The locking wedges can be quickly inserted to secure the connection during operation and just as quickly removed during service, enabling the BOP system to dynamically adapt between operational and maintenance states without the productivity loss associated with traditional bolted connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 rapid and secure attachment and detachment of ram-actuators, reducing operational downtime and enhancing efficiency in well-operations by eliminating the need for traditional bolted connections.

Implementation Method 1

locking wedges... when the protruding connection elements are in engagement with the locking recesses

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

locking recesses comprise first grooves; the protruding connecting elements each comprise second grooves... form pairs... form an opening for an insertion of one of the locking wedges

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical interlocking: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS12486731B2Device for connection or release of bop ram actuator

Publication Date: 2025.12.02 ELECTRICAL SUBSEA & DRILLING

AI summary

An apparatus for connecting a ram-actuator to a BOP ram body. The apparatus includes a BOP ram body end portion with locking recesses, a ram-actuator end portion with protruding connection elements which are arranged to fit into the locking recesses, and locking wedges. The locking recesses have first grooves. The protruding connecting elements each have second grooves. The first groves and the second grooves form pairs. Each pair is arranged to form an opening for an insertion of one of the locking wedges when the protruding connection elements are in engagement with the locking recesses in the BOP ram body.