Modular Suction Anchor Connection Points

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing subsea assemblies with suction anchors lack standardization and modularity, making it difficult to efficiently mount and attach standard components across varying seabed geologies and operational phases.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of standardized connection points on subsea foundations, such as suction anchors, allows for the modularization and standardization of subsea assemblies. These connection points enable the secure attachment of various components, load transfer, and flexibility in component configuration based on operational needs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If standard components are mounted on subsea foundations with varying geologies, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to lack of standardization

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidcomplexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The foundation is designed with multiple connection points that can accommodate different component types (wellheads, pump stations, separators, etc.) and different attachment methods (direct attachment, load relief devices, tension legs). This universal interface allows the same foundation to serve multiple functions across different operational phases and geological conditions, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The foundation is segmented into distinct functional elements: the foundation body, multiple connection points, and optional load relief devices. This segmentation allows independent selection and configuration of components based on specific operational needs, enabling adaptability without requiring complete redesign of the entire system, thus managing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If foundations are customized for different seabed geologies, then reliability is improved, but loss of time increases due to lack of modularity

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovereliabilityVSAvoidtime

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The foundation system is designed to be dynamically configurable through the selection and placement of connection points and load relief devices based on specific geological conditions and operational requirements. This dynamic adaptability allows a standardized foundation design to achieve site-specific reliability without requiring complete customization, reducing deployment time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The foundation is pre-configured with multiple potential connection points during manufacturing, allowing for later selection and activation of specific connection points based on actual deployment conditions. This preliminary preparation enables rapid adaptation to different geologies without requiring post-deployment modifications, saving time while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If modular components are used across different operational phases, then productivity is improved, but ease of manufacture decreases due to standardization requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveproductivityVSAvoidease of manufacture

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The connection points are designed as universal interfaces that can accommodate various component types and attachment methods. This universality enables the same foundation to support different equipment (wellheads, pump stations, separators) across different operational phases (exploration, production, enhancement), improving productivity through component reuse while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If connection points are added to foundations, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidcomplexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Connection points are strategically positioned at specific locations on the foundation where they are most effective for load transfer and component attachment. Rather than uniformly distributing complexity, the connection points are placed to optimize local functionality for specific operational needs, improving adaptability while minimizing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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

This solution enhances the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of subsea assemblies by enabling the reuse of foundations across different operational phases, such as exploration and production, while ensuring reliable load transfer and component attachment.

Implementation Method 1

pressure inside the suction anchor may be reduced so as to suck it into the seabed

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPressure differential: Pressure Gradient

Implementation Method 2

due to the weight of the suction anchor forcing the bottom of the skirt and (if present) the central pipe into the seabed

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravitational force: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS12338595B2Foundation modularization

Publication Date: 2025.06.24 EQUINOR ENERGY AS

AI summary

A foundation includes connection points. The connection points are configured to permit components to be connected to the foundation and permit loads to transfer from the components into the foundation. The foundation may be a suction anchor.