Dynamic Positioning Gas Lift System for Subsea Fluid Lifting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid transportation systems face challenges in efficiently lifting low-pressure, high-density or viscous fluids, particularly in situations where direct electrical power is limited or not available, and where the pressure at the source is insufficient to transport fluids to their destination, especially in offshore and subsea applications.
Innovation Solution
A fluid lifting system utilizing an educing artifact with a sealing mechanism and optional check valve, connected to a dynamic positioning mechanism via a string, which uses a motive fluid to reduce the density of a static fluid, thereby reducing backpressure and facilitating movement, without requiring direct electrical power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a static fluid lifting system is used, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot adapt to changing fluid levels or pressure requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic positioning of the educing artifact along the fluid container using a string-based mechanism. The artifact can be moved to different locations and depths within the container, allowing the system to adapt to varying fluid levels and pressure conditions. This transforms a static system into a dynamic one where the lifting point can be repositioned as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The educing artifact is designed with multiple functions: it can lift fluids at different positions, work with various fluid types (low-pressure, high-density, viscous), and operate in different container configurations. The artifact serves as both a mixing device and a lifting mechanism, reducing the need for separate specialized components.
2Use of energy by moving object
If direct electrical power is used for fluid lifting, then the lifting power is sufficient, but the system cannot operate in locations without electrical infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the fluid's own properties (pressure, density differences) to drive the lifting process. The educing artifact utilizes the natural energy available in the fluid system without requiring external electrical power. The motive fluid provides the energy needed for lifting through the educing effect, making the system self-sufficient.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs fluid dynamics principles where a motive fluid (gas or liquid) is used to create the educing effect that lifts the drawn fluid. This hydraulic/pneumatic approach replaces electrical motors and pumps, enabling operation in locations without electrical infrastructure while maintaining sufficient lifting power for low-pressure, high-density fluids.
3Productivity
If the artifact position is fixed, then the installation is simple, but the system cannot optimize lifting efficiency for varying process conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The artifact is connected to a string that allows it to be positioned dynamically within the fluid container. This enables optimization of the lifting position based on process conditions such as fluid level, pressure requirements, and flow rate needs, thereby improving lifting efficiency without requiring complex reinstallation procedures.
4Reliability
If a sealing mechanism is added to the artifact, then fluid containment is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a sealing ring made of flexible material that can deform to conform to the container walls or interface surfaces. This flexible sealing approach provides reliable fluid containment while adding minimal structural complexity compared to rigid sealing mechanisms. The sealing ring can accommodate slight misalignments and surface irregularities.
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
The system effectively lifts and transports low-pressure, high-density fluids by transforming potential energy into kinetic energy, reducing backpressure and enabling flexible positioning, suitable for various fluid containers and locations, including offshore and subsea environments.
Implementation Method 1
uses a motive fluid to reduce the density of a static fluid, thereby reducing backpressure and facilitating movement
Implementation Method 2
The system effectively lifts and transports low-pressure, high-density fluids by transforming potential energy into kinetic energy
Data Source
AI summary
The object of the present invention is to create the elements and parts necessary to supply lifting energy to a motionless fluid in a fluid container, together with the capability to change the level or position where the motive fluid can be injected. It is done with a string and an artifact that utilizes the educing principle to draws forth a motionless fluid and induce its movement using another fluid (motive fluid) as a medium. The main part of the invention is this educing artifact that can be fabricated in one body without moving parts, but it also can be fabricated adding optional features such as an outer ring used as sealing mechanism around the artifact that seals the communication between the lower and the upper sides of the fluid container. The artifact operates with a fluid fed by a pumping or compression system.