Retractable Wellhead Feedthrough Connector for Cable Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wellhead valve systems face challenges in safely shut-in high-pressure oil and gas wells without modifying the Christmas tree components, as conduits or cables need to be permanently placed while maintaining safety and avoiding costly re-certification processes.
Innovation Solution
A wellhead valve assembly feedthrough system with a lower connector within the wellhead and a moveable upper connector, actuated by a linear actuator, allows for selective connection and disconnection of cables or conduits, ensuring the master valve can close during emergencies without altering the Xmas tree components, using a sealed exit arrangement and retractable design to facilitate safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conduits or cables are permanently placed through the Christmas tree, then cable passage functionality is achieved, but the master valve cannot close properly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the upper connector moveable rather than fixed. The upper connector can be retracted to allow master valve closure and extended to establish cable connection, transforming a static obstruction into a dynamic component that adapts its position based on operational requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional components are assembled to provide cable passage, then cable functionality is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the moveable upper connector to serve multiple functions: it acts as a sealing element when retracted, a connection interface when extended, and a flow restriction that can be positioned to allow valve operation. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If Xmas tree components are modified to accommodate cables, then cable passage is enabled, but re-certification costs and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by introducing a separate, modular upper connector assembly that can be added to the existing Christmas tree without modifying the certified components. The moveable upper connector is a distinct module that interfaces with the lower connector, allowing cable passage functionality to be achieved through addition rather than modification of certified parts.
4Reliability
If the upper connector is made moveable and retractable, then master valve closure is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing a sealed passage that the moveable upper connector travels through. This sealed passage acts as a mediator that guides the connector's movement, maintains sealing during retraction and extension, and protects the internal components while enabling the master valve to close around the connector.
Data Source
AI summary
A wellhead valve assembly feedthrough for a cable or conduit comprises a lower connector disposed within the wellhead valve assembly and being coupled to an upper end of a cable or conduit disposed in a wellbore, and a moveable upper connector disposed above the lower connector, the upper connector extensible to connect to the lower connector and retractable to disconnect from the lower connector. The wellhead valve assembly feedthrough further includes a sealed exit arrangement having a segment of conduit or cable passing therethrough to outside the wellhead valve assembly, wherein one end of the segment of conduit of cable is connected to the upper connector.