Retrievable Hub Interface for Subsea Processing Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current subsea Christmas tree designs lack the ability to efficiently support and couple reconfigurable processing modules for fluid processing and injection operations, limiting the flexibility and effectiveness of subsea fluid management systems.
Innovation Solution
A wellhead tree hub and interface system that allows for the attachment and retrieval of a reconfigurable base module, which can be coupled with other modules, providing a dedicated space and fluid conduit for fluid processing and injection operations, enabling flexible configuration and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional Christmas tree designs are used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the ability to support reconfigurable processing modules is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The Christmas tree system is segmented into a fixed tree body and detachable processing modules. The modules can be independently attached or detached from the tree body, allowing the system to adapt to different processing needs while keeping the base structure simple. This segmentation enables versatility without permanently increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The Christmas tree body is designed with universal coupling interfaces that can accommodate multiple types of processing modules. A single tree structure can support various modules for different functions (separation, pumping, injection, etc.), making the system multi-functional without requiring separate dedicated structures for each function.
2Productivity
If processing modules are added to the Christmas tree, then fluid processing capability is improved, but the ease of operation and maintenance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Processing modules are designed as extractable, self-contained units that can be removed from the Christmas tree body without affecting the tree structure. This extraction capability allows modules to be easily replaced for maintenance or upgrades, improving ease of operation while maintaining enhanced fluid processing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows individual processing modules to be discarded (removed) from the system when they need maintenance, replacement, or upgrading, while the rest of the Christmas tree system remains intact and operational. This enables selective maintenance of only the necessary components, improving overall ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed Christmas tree structures are used, then manufacturing is simple, but reconfiguration for different operations is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Coupling interfaces and mounting structures are pre-designed and pre-fabricated into the Christmas tree body during manufacturing. These preliminary structural features enable easy attachment and detachment of various processing modules later, providing reconfiguration capability without complicating the initial manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static, fixed structure to a dynamic, reconfigurable system through detachable module interfaces. The tree body maintains its simple manufactured structure, while the ability to dynamically attach and detach modules provides adaptability for different operations without requiring complex manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to providing a hub coupled into a production tree, manifold, or other equipment, and a base module that is attachable to and retrievable from the hub. The base module may be reconfigurable. The base module may be configured to receive other modules that are reconfigurable, wherein the other modules are retrievable from the base module. The hub provides a dedicated space or support at or near the production tree or equipment for using the base module. An interface is provided between the base module and the production tree. A fluid conduit provides a fluid path across or through the interface. The hub may be part of the interface such that the module can fluidly couple to the fluid conduit and the production tree across the interface via the hub.