Automated BOP Valve Alignment via Solenoid Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual and time-consuming process of aligning valves in blowout preventer (BOP) assemblies during pressure testing is inefficient and poses safety risks, as it relies on human diligence without visual confirmation of proper alignment, necessitating a fully automated system for valve alignment and operation.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses remotely actuatable valves, either hydraulically or electrically operated via solenoids, to automatically align and test BOP assembly valves under a single remote or local control panel, integrating with an automated drilling control system for seamless operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual valve alignment is used during BOP pressure testing, then the system can be operated with simple equipment, but the process is time-consuming and lacks visual confirmation of proper alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical valve alignment with an automated control system that uses solenoid valves and programmable logic controllers to automatically align BOP assembly valves during pressure testing, eliminating the need for manual operation and visual confirmation
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service automation where the control system automatically manages valve alignment sequences without requiring continuous human intervention or verification, allowing the testing process to proceed autonomously according to pre-programmed test plans
2Device complexity
If manual valve alignment is used during BOP pressure testing, then equipment complexity is low, but safety risks increase due to reliance on human diligence without visual confirmation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical valve alignment with an automated control system that uses solenoid valves and programmable logic controllers to automatically align BOP assembly valves during pressure testing, eliminating the need for manual operation and visual confirmation
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the automated control system monitors and confirms valve positions through sensor feedback, ensuring proper alignment is achieved and maintained throughout the pressure testing process, thereby enhancing reliability
3Productivity
If multiple sealing and shearing devices are automated, then operation speed and accuracy improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control of multiple sealing and shearing devices into a single integrated automated control system that manages all BOP assembly components through one unified interface, coordinating their operation to improve productivity while managing complexity through consolidation
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed with multi-functionality to handle various BOP assembly operations including valve alignment, pressure testing, and operation of multiple sealing and shearing devices through a single programmable system, reducing overall system complexity
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
This automation significantly enhances safety and reduces costs by streamlining the pressure testing process, ensuring continuity and accuracy in valve alignment and operation, reducing the time required for testing and improving overall operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A blowout preventer typically includes a number of safety devices for preventing high pressure within a formation from creating a blowout situation. Also a plurality of control valves to direct the flow of pressurized drilling fluid in a safe and controlled manner are associated with the BOP.
Implementation Method 2
The BOP assembly typically consists of multiple sealing and shearing devices that are hydraulically actuated to provide various means of sealing around the drill string or shearing it off entirely
Implementation Method 3
A system that uses remotely actuatable valves, either hydraulically or electrically operated via solenoids, to automatically align and test BOP assembly valves
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for testing a blowout preventer which includes a plurality of safety devices and an assembly of fluid control valves that are remotely actuatable to an open and closed position for controlling flow of drilling fluids into a well includes a hydraulic power unit control station for remotely and selectively actuating one or more safety devices and fluid control valves to a test orientation. A hydrostatic test system supplies fluid under first and second test pressure and documents any pressure loss due to fluid leaks within a closed system.