Remote Rotary Wellhead Connection with Motorized Nut Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remotely actuated wellhead connection systems are complex, expensive, and pose safety risks due to manual handling of heavy pressure control equipment, necessitating a safer and more efficient connection method.
Innovation Solution
A remote actuated rotary wellhead connection system comprising a flange assembly, crossover, and nut assembly actuator, allowing for remote threading and unthreading without manual intervention, using a nut assembly that is slidably and rotatably mounted on the crossover, facilitated by a hydraulic or electric motor actuator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual connection methods are used, then the connection process is simple and direct, but safety risks increase due to personnel exposure to heavy equipment and moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated rotary actuation system. A motor-driven rotary actuator automatically threads the nut assembly onto the wellhead, eliminating the need for manual handling of heavy pressure control equipment while reducing system complexity through standardized components and simplified geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a nut assembly as an intermediary component that mediates between the pressure control equipment and the wellhead. This nut assembly with simplified geometry serves as a safe interface that can be remotely actuated, protecting personnel from direct exposure to heavy equipment while maintaining secure connections
2Reliability
If existing remotely actuated systems are used, then safety is improved through remote operation, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase due to intricate mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the need for complex mechanical cams, collets, and clamps from existing remotely actuated systems. By using a simplified nut assembly that threads directly onto the wellhead, the design removes unnecessary intermediate components while maintaining remote actuation capability through a motor-driven rotary mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The nut assembly serves multiple functions: it provides the connection interface, enables remote actuation, and ensures secure attachment to the wellhead. This multi-functional component replaces multiple specialized parts (cams, collets, clamps) with a single universal element that simplifies both manufacturing and operation
3Extent of automation
If complex remotely actuated systems are used, then automated operation is achieved, but manufacturing cost and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs standardized, off-the-shelf components such as motor-driven rotary actuators and conventional nut assemblies that can be manufactured using standard machining processes. These components are designed for ease of manufacture and replacement, reducing both initial manufacturing costs and long-term maintenance expenses compared to custom-engineered complex mechanical systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the connection components to simplified forms. The nut assembly uses standard thread geometries and conventional shapes that are easier to manufacture than intricate cam profiles or collet designs, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining full remote actuation capability
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
Enables safe and efficient connection of pressure control equipment to wellheads, reducing the risk of injury and operational costs by eliminating the need for manual handling and complex machinery.
Implementation Method 1
The nut assembly is threadably secured to the flange assembly
Implementation Method 2
nut assembly actuator to actuate the nut assembly between a threaded, connected state and an unthreaded, disconnected state
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect there is provided a remote actuated rotary wellhead connection system for connecting pressure control equipment to a wellhead. The system comprises a flange assembly connectable to the wellhead, a crossover, a nut assembly to threadably secure the crossover to the flange assembly, and a nut assembly actuator to actuate the nut assembly between a threaded, connected state and an unthreaded, disconnected state. The crossover is connectable to the pressure control equipment, and the nut assembly actuator is remotely actuatable.