Modular FPSO Assembly with Connectors and Locking Pins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional FPSO vessels are often idle due to their fixed configurations, making them unsuitable for various offshore hydrocarbon production and processing sites, and modifications are costly, time-consuming, or impractical, limiting their reusability and adaptability.
Innovation Solution
A modular design for FPSO vessels, featuring a cargo module section between a forward and rear module, secured by connectors and locking pins, allowing for easy reconfiguration and expansion by adding or removing cargo modules, and installing topside modules for hydrocarbon processing and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional FPSO vessel is designed for a particular job with a set configuration, then it can meet the specified production worksite requirements, but it becomes idle or requires costly reconstruction when the worksite changes
Solution Approach 1:
The FPSO vessel is divided into multiple modular sections (hull module, storage module, processing module, etc.) that can be independently assembled and configured. This segmentation allows the vessel to be quickly reconfigured for different worksites without requiring complete reconstruction, thereby reducing idle time between jobs.
Solution Approach 2:
The vessel employs a dynamic modular configuration system where modules can be added, removed, or repositioned based on the specific worksite requirements. This dynamic adaptability enables the FPSO to transition between different operational configurations efficiently, eliminating the need for lengthy reconstruction periods.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional FPSO vessel is reconstructed to suit future worksites, then it can adapt to new requirements, but the modification process is cost prohibitive and time restrictive
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the vessel into standardized modular sections with universal connection interfaces, the design enables easy assembly and disassembly of modules. This eliminates the need for expensive and time-consuming reconstruction work, as modules can be simply connected or disconnected based on new worksite requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular modules are designed with universal connection systems and standardized interfaces that allow the same module to serve multiple functions and be used across different vessel configurations. This universality eliminates the need for custom-built modifications, significantly reducing both cost and time for adapting to future worksites.
3Device complexity
If a conventional FPSO vessel uses a fixed configuration, then the structure is simple and straightforward, but it cannot be reused due to damage or unsuitability for different worksites
Solution Approach 1:
The vessel structure is segmented into multiple independent modules that can be individually inspected, repaired, or replaced. This segmentation maintains overall structural simplicity while enabling flexible reconfiguration and reuse, as damaged or unsuitable modules can be independently addressed without affecting the entire vessel structure.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments described generally relate to methods for assembling a modular floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel. A cargo module section, a forward module, and a rear module can be positioned and aligned with each other such that the cargo module section can be disposed between the forward module and the rear module. A plurality of connectors can be coupled together to secure the forward module and the cargo module section together and another plurality of connectors can be coupled together to secure the rear module and the cargo module section together. A first topside module can be installed onto or over an upper surface of the forward module and can include a flare tower, a turret, hydrocarbon production equipment, or any combination thereof.