Riser Coupling System with RFID Orientation and Automated Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of connecting riser sections in offshore well drilling or production is labor-intensive, risky for operators due to repetitive motion and heavy components, leading to potential injuries and human errors.
Innovation Solution
A riser coupling system utilizing a spider assembly with RFID-based orientation and a connector actuation tool for automated alignment and locking of riser sections, reducing operator involvement and enhancing safety through automated alignment and locking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automated alignment and locking mechanisms are implemented, then operator safety and efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The riser coupling system is divided into distinct functional modules: a spider assembly with multiple dog assemblies for engagement, a separate connector actuation tool for locking, and an RFID-based orientation system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, improving overall system reliability while making the complex system more manageable and maintainable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an RFID tag and reader system as an intermediary to facilitate automatic orientation and alignment of riser sections. This intermediary technology enables precise positioning without direct operator intervention, significantly improving safety while the modular nature of the intermediary system helps manage complexity.
2Device complexity
If manual riser section connecting process is used, then device complexity is reduced, but operator injury risk and fatigue increase
Solution Approach 1:
The riser coupling system is designed to perform its own alignment and locking operations automatically. The dog assemblies self-engauge with the riser sections, the actuation tool automatically locks the connector, and the RFID system autonomously determines orientation. This self-service capability eliminates the need for operators to manually handle heavy components, thereby reducing injury risk while the automated processes manage the complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated mechanisms. Instead of operators manually aligning and locking riser sections, the system uses RFID-based orientation, automated dog assembly engagement, and hydraulic/electric actuation tools. This substitution of manual mechanical work with automated systems reduces operator exposure to harmful factors while the technological substitution manages system complexity.
3Productivity
If automated alignment and locking mechanisms are implemented, then connection speed and efficiency are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is manufactured as separate modular components (spider assembly, connector actuation tool, RFID tags) that can be independently manufactured and tested. This segmentation simplifies the manufacturing process for each component while enabling rapid assembly during field operations, thus improving connection speed without excessively complicating manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The spider assembly and connector actuation tool are designed as universal devices that can handle multiple riser section connections. The dog assemblies can engage with different riser configurations, and the actuation tool can lock various connector types. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized tools, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining high connection speed and productivity.
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 system minimizes operator risk and fatigue by automating the riser section connection process, increasing efficiency and reducing the need for heavy components, thus enhancing safety and speed while maintaining precise alignment and locking.
Implementation Method 1
A radio frequency identification (RFID) reader may be disposed on a spider assembly and configured to sense an orientation of the riser joint connector
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for riser monitoring are disclosed. A riser monitoring system includes a riser assembly having a plurality of riser components, wherein the riser assembly includes an internal bore running through the plurality of riser components. An external sensor is disposed on an outer surface of the riser assembly, an internal sensor is disposed along the internal bore of the riser assembly, or both. A communication system is coupled to the external sensor, internal sensor, or both to communicate signals from the external and/or internal sensors to an operator monitoring system.