Radial Lock Segment Connector for Low-Height Annular Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for drilling and production systems face challenges in efficiently coupling annular members, particularly in offshore systems, where they often require complex mechanisms and may not provide a reduced height along the axial axis, complicating operations and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A connector system with a drive mechanism, such as a hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric drive system, that rotates a plate to move lock segments radially between locked and unlocked configurations, facilitating efficient coupling of annular members while maintaining a reduced axial height, and can be adapted for both offshore and onshore applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing connectors use complex mechanisms to couple annular members, then coupling reliability is improved, but device complexity increases and axial height is not reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a body portion, multiple movable lock segments, and a drive system. Each lock segment operates independently to engage with the annular member, allowing the complex coupling function to be distributed across simpler, modular components rather than requiring a single complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock segments are designed to move between extended and retracted positions dynamically. The drive system actuates these segments to transition between locked and unlocked states, replacing static complex mechanisms with dynamic, controllable elements that achieve reliable coupling through motion rather than fixed structural complexity.
2Strength
If existing connectors prioritize coupling strength, then connection reliability is improved, but axial height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock segments engage with the annular member primarily in the radial direction by extending outward to contact the outer surface. This radial engagement provides strong mechanical coupling without requiring increased axial height, as the locking force is generated perpendicular to the axial axis rather than through axial compression.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock segments are positioned within the body portion of the connector and can extend outward to engage the annular member. When retracted, they nest within the body, maintaining a compact axial profile. This nested configuration allows strong radial locking while preserving minimal axial height.
3Device complexity
If existing connectors use simplified mechanisms, then device complexity is reduced, but coupling efficiency and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The manual or complex mechanical actuation mechanisms are replaced with a drive system that can be hydraulically, pneumatically, or electrically actuated. This substitution simplifies the overall mechanism by using standardized drive components while significantly improving coupling efficiency through powered, rapid actuation of the lock segments compared to manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock segments are designed to automatically engage and lock onto the annular member when actuated by the drive system. The segments self-position and self-lock through their mechanical design, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures or manual adjustment, thereby improving coupling efficiency while maintaining relatively simple mechanics.
4Ease of operation
If existing connectors are designed for manual operation, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity and automation capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with a universal drive interface that can accommodate multiple actuation methods (hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric). This multi-functionality allows the same basic mechanism to be operated manually if needed while also supporting automated, high-speed operation through powered actuation, thereby improving productivity without sacrificing operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive system enables dynamic actuation of the lock segments at controlled speeds. Whether operated manually or through powered actuation, the system can adjust the rate of engagement, allowing ease of manual operation when required while achieving high productivity through rapid powered actuation during automated operations.
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
The connector system enables efficient and secure coupling of annular members, reducing operational complexity and allowing for automated or manual operation, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of drilling and production systems by providing a compact and adaptable solution.
Implementation Method 1
A connector system with a drive mechanism, such as a hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric drive system
Implementation Method 2
A connector system with a drive mechanism, such as a hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric drive system
Data Source
AI summary
A connector is configured to couple a first annular member to a second annular member. The connector includes a rotatable plate and multiple lock segments. The connector further includes a coupling assembly that is configured to couple the rotatable plate to the multiple lock segments, such that rotation of the rotatable plate in a circumferential direction drives the plurality of lock segments along a radial axis to adjust the connector between an unlocked configuration and a locked configuration.