Dual Cylinder Riser Stabilizer for Motion Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for stabilizing oilfield risers and conduits against motion, such as wave and current forces, are limited in their ability to compensate for significant movements, often requiring multiple heave compensators and restricting operations to rigs, which are costly and pose safety risks.
Innovation Solution
The use of dual cylinder apparatus engaged with the riser, working in tandem and connected by fluid pathways, to provide enhanced stability and motion compensation, with features like central channels for conduit accommodation and nitrogen gas for efficient pressure application, allowing for greater movement compensation and reduced environmental impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional heave compensators are used to stabilize risers, then motion compensation is provided, but the system requires multiple compensators and restricts operations to rigs, increasing cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple heave compensator functions into a single integrated system. The dual cylinder apparatus with fluid pathways merges the functionality of multiple separate compensators, allowing one system to provide the motion compensation that previously required multiple devices. This reduces overall system complexity while maintaining reliable motion compensation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cylinder apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides heave compensation, accommodates conduits through central channels, and can operate from vessels rather than requiring rig-based operations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate compensators and reduces operational restrictions, allowing the same device to handle various tasks that previously required specialized equipment.
2Reliability
If multiple heave compensators are deployed to compensate for significant movements, then motion compensation is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple heave compensators into a single dual cylinder apparatus. The first and second cylinders work in tandem with fluid pathways connecting them, creating one integrated system that provides the combined motion compensation capability of multiple separate compensators, thereby reducing the total number of devices required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the compensation function into two cylindrical units that can operate independently or in coordination. Each cylinder can handle specific portions of the motion compensation task, allowing the system to achieve the capabilities of multiple compensators while using fewer individual components.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rig-based operations are used for stable riser operations, then operational stability is achieved, but cost and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cylinder apparatus provides self-contained motion compensation capability that allows vessels to perform stable operations independently without requiring rig-based infrastructure. The system compensates for its own motion and stabilizes the riser through its dual cylinder mechanism, eliminating the need for external rig support and reducing both cost and safety risks associated with rig operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical rig-based stabilization system with a hydraulic/pneumatic dual cylinder apparatus. This substitution allows the system to achieve operational stability through fluid-pressure-controlled cylinder movement rather than through rigid mechanical structures, thereby reducing cost and safety risks while maintaining stability.
4Reliability
If conventional systems are used for motion compensation, then basic stabilization is provided, but the ability to withstand significant movements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The dual cylinder apparatus merges the force-generating capacity of two cylinders working in tandem, allowing the system to withstand and compensate for significant movements that exceed the capability of single conventional compensators. The fluid pathways enable coordinated operation of both cylinders to generate combined force for large-scale motion compensation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes pneumatic or hydraulic fluid pressure within the cylinders to generate the forces needed for motion compensation. The fluid-filled pathways allow for efficient force transmission and storage, enabling the cylinders to withstand and compensate for significant movements through controlled pressure changes rather than relying solely on mechanical spring or weight systems.
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 the riser to withstand movements exceeding conventional systems, facilitating stable operations from vessels at a fraction of the cost and improved safety, with the ability to perform rigless operations and accommodate various sea conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The movable members can slide within the outer walls along guide surfaces
Implementation Method 2
nitrogen gas for efficient pressure application
Implementation Method 3
nitrogen gas for efficient pressure application
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for stabilizing a conduit, such as a riser, against motion. The apparatus comprises an outer wall portion, an inner tubular member having a longitudinal channel extending therethrough, a first tubular member at least partially located between the outer wall portion and the inner tubular member, and a second tubular member at least partially located between the outer wall portion and the inner tubular member. The outer wall portion at least partially surrounds the inner tubular member and the first and second tubular members are movable about the inner tubular member and are movable relative to each other. The first and second tubular members are adapted for securing to the conduit, such as a riser.