Integrated Jacking and Rotary System for Subsea Tubular Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional jacking systems face challenges in accurately exerting tension and rotation on tubulars in subsea or surface operations, especially when used without a rig, platform, or vessel, due to exposure to rough seas and the need for external rotating tools, which can be impractical and unsafe.
Innovation Solution
A jacking system with extendable and retractable pistons, a bottom and top slip bowl assembly, and a rotary assembly integrated into the system, allowing direct coupling to the wellhead for precise tension and rotation of tubulars without external rotating tools, enabling subsea or surface operations with or without a rig.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional jacking systems are used without a rig, platform, or vessel, then portability and ease of deployment are improved, but safety and operational stability deteriorate due to exposure to rough seas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the rotating tool function directly into the jack assembly, merging previously separate functions (jacking and rotating) into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for external rotating tools and rig infrastructure, allowing the system to be deployed independently while maintaining operational stability through self-contained design
Solution Approach 2:
The jack assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides both the jacking force for tensioning tubulars and the rotation capability for unscrewing or making up connections. This multi-functional design eliminates dependency on external equipment while maintaining reliability in rough sea conditions
2Adaptability or versatility
If external rotating tools are used with conventional jacking systems, then rotation capability is improved, but device complexity and operational safety deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating tool is integrated directly into the jack assembly, combining two previously separate functions (jacking and rotating) into one unified device. This reduces system complexity by eliminating external rotating tools and their associated mounting hardware while maintaining full rotation capability for tubular operations
Solution Approach 2:
The jack assembly becomes a multi-functional device that simultaneously provides axial jacking force and rotational capability. This universal design allows the same assembly to perform both tensioning and rotating operations, eliminating the need for separate external tools and reducing overall system complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If external rotating tools are required, then rotation function is improved, but ease of operation and safety in rough seas deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the rotating tool directly into the jack assembly, the system eliminates the need for complex external rotating tool setups. This self-contained design improves operational safety in rough seas by reducing the number of components that need to be mounted and secured to external structures, while maintaining full rotation function
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 enables accurate and safe exertion of tension and rotation on tubulars, reducing the need for external rotating tools and allowing operations in challenging environments, such as rough seas, while providing versatility for various tubular handling tasks.
Implementation Method 1
at least two pistons disposed between the base and top plate. The pistons are extendable to increase a separation distance between the base and top plate, and said pistons are retractable to decrease the separation distance between the base and top plate
Implementation Method 2
A jack may provide slip bowl assemblies that allow the jack to grip a tubular, and the jack may impart axial force on tubulars to run or retrieve from the well
Data Source
AI summary
A jack system may provide subsea or surface operation. The jack system includes a top plate and a base plate with at least two pistons disposed between the base and top plate. The pistons are extendable to increase a separation distance between the base and top plate, and said pistons are retractable to decrease the separation distance between the base and top plate. The jack system also includes a bottom slip bowl assembly, a top slip bowl assembly, and rotary assembly. The top slip bowl and rotary assembly are rotatably coupled to the top plate wherein the rotary assembly and the top slip bowl assembly rotate relative to the top plate.