Drilling Riser Inspection Using 2D Line Scanner
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for inspecting the interior surfaces of drilling risers in hydrocarbon extraction systems are time-consuming and costly, requiring disassembly, transportation, and reassembly, which disrupts offshore drilling operations.
Innovation Solution
A non-destructive inspection system using a scanning device with 2D line scanners and a rotary encoder, deployed within the drilling riser, generates 3D image data of the interior surfaces, allowing for structural integrity analysis without disassembly, using a controller to acquire and process data from the scanning device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional inspection methods are used (disassembly, transportation, reassembly), then structural integrity can be analyzed, but the process is time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical disassembly and physical transportation with optical scanning technology. A 2D line scanner projects laser lines onto the pipe interior surface and captures images, which are then processed into 3D models for structural integrity analysis, eliminating the need for physical manipulation of the pipe
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital 3D copy of the pipe's interior surface through laser scanning and image processing. This virtual model allows for complete structural integrity analysis without physically moving or disassembling the actual pipe, saving time while maintaining measurement precision
2Measurement precision
If traditional inspection methods are used (disassembly, transportation, reassembly), then structural integrity can be analyzed, but operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive mechanical operations (disassembly, transportation, reassembly) with a stationary optical scanning system. The 2D line scanner and image processing equipment remain in place, capturing data without requiring costly logistical operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital 3D copy of the pipe interior, allowing multiple analyses to be performed on the virtual model without incurring additional physical handling costs. This digital replication eliminates repeated transportation and reassembly expenses
3Measurement precision
If traditional inspection methods are used, then structural integrity can be analyzed, but drilling operations are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces disruptive mechanical inspection processes with a non-intrusive optical scanning system that can operate while the pipe remains in place and drilling continues, maintaining productivity without sacrificing inspection quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables preliminary visual inspection through the 2D line scanner before any potential issues require pipe removal. The system can detect surface defects early, allowing for planned maintenance during scheduled停机 periods rather than unexpected disruptions
4Productivity
If 2D line scanning is used to generate 3D image data, then inspection efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a 2D line scanner, which is a versatile device that can inspect various pipe diameters and configurations. The same basic scanning mechanism serves multiple inspection purposes, reducing the need for specialized equipment for each pipe type
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms complex 3D surface information into 2D line scanner images, which are then processed computationally into 3D models. This approach uses a relatively simple scanning device combined with software processing to achieve comprehensive inspection capabilities
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
Enables efficient and cost-effective inspection of drilling riser interior surfaces, reducing downtime and operational costs by allowing for real-time monitoring of corrosion, welding degradation, and connector loosening without the need for disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
a scanning device including at least one two-dimensional (2D) line scanner
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a vessel floating on a body of water. The system also includes at least one conduit extending from the vessel to below the body of water. The system also includes a scanning device disposed within the at least one conduit. The scanning device includes at least one two-dimensional (2D) line scanner and a rotary encoder coupled to the at least one 2D line scanner. The scanning device is configured to generate three-dimensional (3D) image data of a surface of the at least one conduit or at least one component disposed within the at least one conduit.