Retrievable Flow Module Unit for Subsea Tree Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional subsea resource extraction systems face challenges in maintaining and replacing flow control and monitoring components due to their distributed nature, making retrieval for repair or replacement costly and complex, especially in harsh offshore environments.
Innovation Solution
A retrievable flow module (RFM) unit is introduced, which is a standalone assembly with a horizontal deployment configuration that aligns and mates hydraulically with subsea devices, collocating flow control and monitoring elements, including sensors and chemical injection devices, facilitating easier retrieval and maintenance by consolidating these components into a single, compact unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If flow control and monitoring components are distributed at different locations on the subsea tree, then system functionality is achieved, but retrieval complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple flow control components (chokes, valves) and monitoring elements (sensors, flow meters) that were previously distributed at different locations on the subsea tree into a single integrated flow module unit. This consolidation allows all components to be retrieved together in one operation, significantly reducing retrieval complexity and cost while maintaining full system functionality.
2Ease of repair
If flow control and monitoring elements are distributed across the subsea tree, then system functionality is maintained, but maintenance and repair become more costly and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates flow control elements (chokes, valves) and monitoring elements (sensors, flow meters) into a single modular unit that can be easily retrieved, maintained, and replaced as one assembly. This merging of previously distributed components simplifies maintenance operations and reduces repair costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a distinct, self-contained flow module unit that is separable from the main subsea tree structure. This segmentation allows the flow module to be independently retrieved and maintained without affecting other tree components, significantly easing repair operations.
3Productivity
If multiple flow control and monitoring components are installed on the subsea tree, then comprehensive flow management is achieved, but the number of retrieval operations and associated costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple flow control and monitoring components into a single integrated flow module unit, enabling all components to be retrieved simultaneously in one operation. This eliminates the need for multiple separate retrieval operations, significantly improving retrieval efficiency and reducing time loss.
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 RFM unit simplifies the retrieval and maintenance of subsea components, reducing costs and complexity by allowing for single-operation deployment and retrieval, enhancing the durability and operational life of subsea equipment through reduced erosion-prone areas and improved accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
an alignment system that is hydraulically actuated, either by on-board hydraulics or by way of a hydraulic tool that is removably installed during the mating process
Data Source
AI summary
A retrievable flow module (RFM) apparatus is provided. In one embodiment, the RFM apparatus is a standalone assembly configured to mate with a subsea device, such as a production tree. The RFM apparatus may include a frame within which various flow control and monitoring elements are disposed. The frame may have an alignment system that enables the RFM apparatus to horizontally mate with the tree. Because the RFM apparatus provides for the collocation of flow control and monitoring elements within a standalone assembly, deployment or retrieval of the flow control and monitoring elements may be accomplished in single operation. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed.