Offshore Vessel Hoisting System for Continuous Tubular Tripping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current offshore vessel tripping operations for subsea wellbore drilling are inefficient and time-consuming, causing damage to tubulars strings and wellbores due to repeated starting and stopping, and result in subterranean shocks.
Innovation Solution
An offshore vessel equipped with a second hoisting device that allows independent movement of the working deck during tripping, enabling continuous operation by suspending and disengaging tubulars from the traveling block and working deck, and a system for enhanced hoisting capacity distribution, reducing the power and size requirements of the first hoisting device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional tripping operations are performed by repeatedly pulling out and stopping the tubulars string, then tubulars can be removed and replaced, but the process becomes time-consuming and causes damage to the tubulars string and wellbore
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous tripping operations by maintaining constant movement of the tubulars string through the wellbore. The working deck and traveling block move continuously without stopping, eliminating the repeated starting and stopping of traditional methods. This continuous motion prevents damage to the tubulars string and wellbore while significantly reducing tripping time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the hoisting function into two independent systems: a first hoisting device for the traveling block and a second hoisting device for the working deck. This segmentation allows each component to move independently and continuously, enabling the tubulars string to be tripped without interruption while maintaining control over different sections of the system.
2Ease of operation
If the tubulars string is repeatedly started and stopped during tripping, then tubulars can be handled, but subterranean shocks occur with adverse effects
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous motion of the tubulars string through the wellbore by coordinating the first and second hoisting devices. The working deck and traveling block move continuously without stopping, eliminating the repeated acceleration and deceleration that cause subterranean shocks. Tubulars handling is achieved through independent movement of the working deck relative to the traveling block, not through stopping the string.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic control where the working deck can move independently relative to the traveling block. This dynamic adjustment allows tubulars to be attached or detached during continuous motion, eliminating the need to stop the tubulars string and preventing harmful shocks to the wellbore.
3Device complexity
If a single hoisting device is used for both traveling block and working deck, then the system is simpler, but the device must be oversized to handle maximum loads
Solution Approach 1:
The hoisting system is segmented into two independent devices: the first hoisting device dedicated to the traveling block and the second hoisting device dedicated to the working deck. Each device is sized appropriately for its specific load, eliminating the need for one oversized device. This segmentation reduces overall system power requirements while maintaining full hoisting capacity when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The two hoisting devices can work independently or in combination. When maximum hoisting capacity is required, both devices operate together to lift the traveling block. For working deck operations, only the second device is needed. This multi-functional arrangement optimizes power usage for different operational scenarios.
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 enables continuous tripping operations, reducing the time and stress on tubulars strings and wellbores, improving efficiency and minimizing damage, while allowing for faster and more efficient handling of tubulars strings during drilling and intervention activities.
Implementation Method 1
a first hoisting device which comprises a first hoisting winch and a first hoisting cable connected to the first hoisting winch. The first hoisting device is adapted to raise and lower the tubulars string in the firing line
Implementation Method 2
a second hoisting device that comprises a second hoisting winch and a second hoisting cable. The second hoisting device further comprises a connector that is selectively connectable to one of the working deck and the traveling block
Implementation Method 3
a crownblock, a traveling block suspended from the crownblock by the first hoisting cable
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an offshore vessel for performing offshore subsea wellbore related activities, for example for drilling a subsea wellbore. The offshore vessel comprises a drilling tower. The invention further relates to a method for drilling a subsea wellbore wherein use is made of an offshore vessel according to the invention and to a method for tripping a tubulars string. The offshore vessel is provided with a hoisting system which has a first configuration, wherein a hoisting cable is connected to a working deck and a second configuration wherein said hoisting cable is connected to a traveling block. The system allows for efficient tripping in and tripping out.