Multiple Offset Slim Connector for Wellhead Conductor

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mineral extraction systems face space and cost challenges due to the need for multiple wellhead assemblies, which can be mitigated by connecting multiple wellheads within a single conductor to share redundant components and reduce spatial requirements.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a multiple offset slim connector system that allows for the efficient spatial configuration of multiple wellheads within a single conductor, utilizing a CSW adapter system with a common body lock ring, multiple offset slim connector, hold down ring, and union ring to minimize space usage and share components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate wellhead assemblies are used, then each wellhead can be independently operated and maintained, but the spatial requirements and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIndependent operation capabilityVSAvoidSpatial requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple wellhead assemblies into a single integrated wellhead structure with multiple independent boreholes, allowing multiple wells to be accessed through one shared wellhead assembly rather than requiring separate assemblies for each well

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The wellhead assembly is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple wells simultaneously, featuring multiple independent boreholes and associated components that can be independently operated while sharing common structural elements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple separate wellhead assemblies are used, then each well can have dedicated components, but the overall system cost increases due to redundancy

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveDedicated component availabilityVSAvoidSystem cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple wellhead assemblies into one integrated structure where common components such as the main body, flanges, and support structures are shared across multiple boreholes, reducing the total number of redundant components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The wellhead assembly incorporates universal components that serve multiple functions across different boreholes, allowing a single component to support multiple wells while maintaining the ability to independently control and maintain each well

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of manufacture

If multiple separate wellhead assemblies are used, then installation is straightforward, but the spatial footprint and material usage increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveInstallation simplicityVSAvoidMaterial usage
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple wellhead assemblies into a single integrated structure that uses shared materials and components, significantly reducing the total quantity of steel, concrete, and other materials required compared to installing separate wellhead assemblies for each well

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8851163B2Multiple offset slim connector
Publication Date: 2014.10.07 CAMERSON INT CORP
  • US8851163B2 patent drawing
  • US8851163B2 patent drawing
  • US8851163B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system, in certain embodiments, includes a wellhead connector configured to connect with multiple wellheads within a single wellhead conductor. The system may also include a hold down ring configured to be positioned radially around the wellhead connector and to lock the wellhead connector in position axially on top of the multiple wellheads by applying an axially downward force onto the wellhead connector. In addition, the system may include a body lock ring configured to be positioned radially around the multiple wellheads. The system may also include a union ring configured to be positioned radially around both the hold down ring and the body lock ring and to lock the hold down ring and the body lock ring in position adjacent each other axially.