Modular Marine Riser Control for Umbilical-Free Well Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current well completion operations require the use of a significant length of umbilical, which is costly and time-consuming, and pose challenges with space restrictions, environmental issues, and increased rig interfaces, while existing systems are not adaptable to different marine rising systems and require hands-on handling.
Innovation Solution
A modular system comprising a first and second module, connected via an electric cable, that supplies power and communication without the need for an umbilical, allowing remote operation of well equipment through a marine riser, utilizing batteries, pumps, motors, and control units to provide hydraulic power and control signals directly to the well equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an umbilical is used to operate well equipment remotely, then power and control can be provided to the equipment, but the cost and installation time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the umbilical from the system by providing all necessary power and control functions through the marine riser itself. The riser is equipped with power supply capability and communication systems that directly serve the well equipment, removing the need for separate umbilical lines for power and control transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The marine riser is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides structural support, transmits hydrocarbons, and now also provides power supply and communication capabilities. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated umbilical lines, as the riser itself serves as the universal interface for all operational needs.
2Reliability
If a significant length of umbilical is used, then remote operation is enabled, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The umbilical is completely removed from the system. Instead of using long umbilical lines extending from the surface, the patent integrates power supply and communication functions directly into the marine riser structure, eliminating the need for extensive umbilical deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the power supply function and communication function into the existing marine riser structure. Rather than having separate umbilical lines for these functions, the riser itself is equipped with integrated power transmission and communication capabilities, reducing the total quantity of auxiliary components needed.
3Reliability
If an umbilical is used for well equipment operation, then power and control are provided, but space restrictions and environmental issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The umbilical, which causes space occupation and potential environmental harm, is extracted and removed from the system. The patent achieves power and control transmission through the marine riser's integrated systems, eliminating the need for separate umbilical lines that occupy space and pose environmental risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the marine riser, which is already a necessary component occupying space, into a multi-functional system that provides power and control. By utilizing the existing riser structure for multiple purposes, the need for additional space-occupying components like umbilicals is eliminated, turning a potential harm into a benefit.
4Reliability
If an umbilical system is used, then well equipment can be operated, but the system is not adaptable to different marine rising systems
Solution Approach 1:
The marine riser is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different well equipment and operate with various marine rising systems. By integrating power supply and communication functions into the riser itself rather than relying on proprietary umbilical systems, the patent achieves compatibility and adaptability across different operational contexts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a modular approach where the power supply and communication functions are integrated into the marine riser as distinct, interchangeable modules. This segmentation allows the system to be adapted to different marine rising systems by configuring appropriate modules, enhancing versatility while maintaining reliable operation.
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 reduces costs and time by eliminating the need for umbilical, minimizes handling risks, reduces rig interfaces, and increases the weather window for operations, while being adaptable to various marine systems.
Implementation Method 1
The first module (100) comprises a communication module (110), batteries (120), and a control module (130)
Implementation Method 2
The second module (200) comprises a plurality of reservoirs (210) for fluid, one or more pumps (290)... one or more tools of the well equipment can be operated by hydraulic pressurised fluid
Implementation Method 3
The second module (200) comprises... a plurality of motors (240)... The control unit (260) controls the plurality of motors (240)... each valve (250) being configured for controlling functions of the well equipment
Data Source
AI summary
A system and a method for remote operation of a well equipment through a marine riser comprising a first module and a second module connectable to a landing string in the marine riser. The first module includes a communication module, batteries, and a control module; the second module includes a plurality of reservoirs for fluid, one or more pumps, a plurality of motors, a plurality of valves, and a control unit. The control module controls the one or more pumps, and the control unit controls the plurality of motors and the plurality of valves. The first module supplying electric power from the batteries of the first module to the one or more pumps and the plurality of motors of the second module, and the first module supplying communication data from the control module of the first module to the control unit of the second module.