Riser Hanging Tool With Damping for Precise Wellhead Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for hanging risers on wellheads require multiple operators, are hazardous, and lack precision, with operators exposed to unpredictable machinery and high error risks due to the need for manual adjustments and complex coordination.
Innovation Solution
A riser hanging tool with a damping system and mechanical couplers that allows a single operator to control the angle and position of the riser using a hoist, eliminating the need for manual tag lines and reducing operator exposure by enabling precise and safe placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple operators use manual tag lines and angle finders to hang risers, then coordination and control are possible, but operator exposure to hazardous environments increases and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A remotely operated riser hanging tool serves as an intermediary device between the operator and the riser placement process. The tool includes a riser holding member, positioning member, and damping system that can be controlled remotely via hoist, eliminating the need for operators to physically handle tag lines and angle finders in hazardous environments while maintaining precise control over riser placement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations (operators physically manipulating tag lines and angle finders) with a remotely controlled mechanical system. The riser hanging tool uses a hoist-controlled positioning member and damping system to automatically manage riser angle and placement, substituting direct human mechanical interaction with automated remote control
2Manufacturing precision
If operators manually adjust riser angle using tag lines, then coordination is achieved, but time consumption increases and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The riser hanging tool is pre-configured with a positioning member and damping system that can be remotely activated. The positioning member can be advanced or retracted to pre-establish the correct riser angle, and the damping system is pre-positioned to automatically control oscillations, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual adjustments during the hanging operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a damping system with adjustable damping characteristics that can be remotely controlled. This dynamic system automatically adapts to the riser's movement and oscillations during placement, providing real-time angle control without requiring manual intervention or time-consuming adjustments, thus achieving precise alignment more quickly
3Force
If heavy machinery and complex equipment are used for riser installation, then lifting capability is sufficient, but equipment complexity increases and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential functions needed for precise riser placement (holding, positioning, and damping) from complex heavy machinery systems. The riser hanging tool accomplishes these functions using a simplified mechanism consisting of a riser holding member, a positioning member that can be advanced or retracted, and a damping system, eliminating the need for multiple operators, tag lines, and angle finders
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 tool enhances safety and accuracy by allowing a single operator to manage riser placement from a secure location, reducing the risk of premature union failures and improving operational efficiency by enabling quick and accurate alignment within OEM-specified angles.
Implementation Method 1
a damping system, the third member includes a fourth member that can move through at least a second portion of a length of the second elongated member
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and associated method is disclosed for a riser hanging system. The apparatus includes a first elongated member with a provision for a first external mechanical coupling at a distal location on the first elongated member. A second elongated member is mechanically coupled to the first elongated member at proximal locations on the first elongated member and the second elongated member. A third member is mechanically coupled to a first portion of the first elongated member. The third member includes a fourth member to move through at least a second portion of a length of the second elongated member. Mechanical couplers associated with the second elongated member are provided for a second external mechanical coupling of the riser to the apparatus. The riser may be hoisted using the apparatus for better control during coupling to the wellhead.