Riser Slip Joint Packer Activation Control via Electronic Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current packer management systems in subsea drilling operations are prone to delays and failures due to mechanical switches and contamination, leading to inadequate containment of drilling fluids and contaminated mud, which can result in environmental leaks and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A system with electronically actuated valves and a control unit that allows independent activation of primary and secondary packers based on pressure sensor inputs, enabling real-time adjustment and maintenance of seal integrity regardless of packer status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a differential pressure valve is used to detect packer failure, then automatic switching between packers is enabled, but the mechanical switch responds slowly and may become blocked by contaminants
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical differential pressure valve with an electronic pressure sensor and electronic control system. The pressure sensor electronically detects pressure changes in the packer activation line, and the control unit processes this information to trigger packer switching, eliminating mechanical moving parts that slow response and can become blocked by contaminants.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electronic control unit as an intermediary between the pressure sensor and the packer activation system. This control unit receives electronic signals from the pressure sensor, processes the failure detection logic, and electronically actuates the secondary packer, providing a faster and more reliable switching mechanism than direct mechanical action.
2Reliability
If high inflating pressure is applied to the sealing packer to ensure complete containment, then sealing effectiveness is improved, but premature wear and packer failure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic pressure control where the packer inflation pressure is adjusted based on real-time monitoring conditions and operational requirements. The system can apply higher pressures when needed for complete containment while reducing pressures during normal operation to minimize wear, extending packer service life while maintaining seal integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the pressure parameter dynamically rather than maintaining constant high pressure. The system monitors pressure conditions and adjusts the inflating pressure to the minimum necessary level for effective sealing, reducing unnecessary stress on the packer material and minimizing premature wear and failure.
3Reliability
If electronically actuated valves with independent control are used for each packer, then real-time adjustment and reliable containment are achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the packer control system into independent electronically actuated valves for each packer, with separate pressure sensors and control pathways. This segmentation allows independent monitoring and actuation of each packer, improving reliability by isolating failures to individual components rather than affecting the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal control unit that manages multiple packers through standardized electronic interfaces. The control unit can monitor and actuate any packer in the system using the same electronic control logic, reducing overall system complexity despite the increased number of components by providing a centralized, multi-functional control architecture.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The invention provides a system and method for controlling packer activation in a riser slip joint. The system comprises a first electronically actuated valve disposed between a first packer and a fluid pressure source for the actuation of the first packer. A second electronically actuated valve is disposed between a second packer and a fluid pressure source for the actuation of the second packer. A control unit is operable to actuate the first and/or second electronically actuated valve in response to at least one input signal to control the activation of the first and second packers, and is configured to control the actuation of the first and second electronically actuated valves independently.