Modular Subsea Distribution Assembly for Lighter Vessel Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing Subsea Distribution Equipment (SDA) is large, heavy, and complex, making manufacturing, transportation, and installation challenging due to its numerous parts and specific hydraulic and electrical schemes, which increase manufacturing time, weight, and installation costs.
Innovation Solution
The modularization of SDA components into blocks with modular hydraulic and electrical instrumentation, including a metallic structure for panel installation, pipe mats with connectors, and QUADS with electrical connections, allowing for customizable configurations and reduced weight and size, facilitating assembly, installation, and recovery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional SDA design with integrated structure is used, then functional completeness is achieved, but weight and size increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The SDA is divided into multiple independent modules (control module, distribution module, monitoring module) that can be selectively assembled. Each module contains specific functional components, allowing the system to achieve required functionality while minimizing weight by including only necessary modules for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design enables universal applicability where the same base modules can serve multiple functions across different subsea applications. Standardized interfaces and common structural elements allow modules to be reused in various configurations, reducing overall system weight compared to dedicated single-function designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional SDA design with numerous components is used, then functional requirements are met, but manufacturing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the SDA into pre-fabricated modules with standardized interfaces, manufacturing can proceed in parallel for different modules rather than sequential assembly of numerous individual components. This significantly reduces total manufacturing time while maintaining functional completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
Modules are pre-assembled and pre-tested in controlled manufacturing environments before final system integration. This preliminary preparation of sub-assemblies with standardized interfaces accelerates the final assembly process and reduces on-site manufacturing complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional large-sized SDA is used, then all connections and components are included, but transportation and installation become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The SDA system is segmented into compact modules that can be transported using standard logistics equipment and installed in a systematic sequence. This modular approach allows transportation through narrower passages and simplifies handling compared to a single large integrated structure, while maintaining all necessary connection points through standardized interfaces.
4Stability of the object's composition
If traditional SDA with fixed configuration is used, then design stability is maintained, but adaptability to different projects decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses standardized modular components with stable, well-defined interfaces that ensure design consistency. At the same time, the modular architecture allows selective assembly of different module combinations to meet specific project requirements, achieving both design stability and project-specific adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
Universal standardized modules serve as a stable foundation while allowing flexible configuration for different applications. The same core modules can be adapted to various projects through different assembly arrangements and optional add-on components, maintaining design stability while enabling customization.
Data Source
AI summary
A subsea distribution equipment assembly includes a modular structure with a block having a metallic structure and panels that allow the configuration for several pieces of equipment, in such a way that both the hydraulic instrumentation and the electrical instrumentation are also modularized. A method of assembly a subsea distribution equipment assembly includes transporting a first block and a second block using a crane of a vessel, aligning and connecting eye joints installed on each of the first and second blocks, connecting a foundation to the first and second blocks using the crane and a trolley, and installing an umbilical termination assembly jumper between the first and second blocks.