Self-Supported Heave Compensator for Offshore Drilling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing offshore drilling systems face challenges in maintaining continuous heave compensation for wave-induced distance variations between a floating rig and a seabed-fixed installation, with risks of equipment failure, complex installation processes, and exposure of fluid communication pipes to external elements.
Innovation Solution
A compact, self-supported heave compensating device with extendable cylinders, accumulators, and a control valve system that operates independently without external energy sources, reducing the need for pipes and cables, and providing a secondary compensation mechanism activated in case of primary failure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydraulic cylinder units with fluid communication pipes are used for heave compensation, then the compensation function is achieved, but the risk of safety failure increases due to exposed pipes being vulnerable to deformation and tearing
Solution Approach 1:
The invention integrates the accumulator unit directly onto the heave-compensated drilling unit, merging the hydraulic power source with the compensation mechanism. This eliminates external fluid communication pipes that are vulnerable to damage, as the accumulator is now positioned on the same platform and connected through protected internal pathways within the compensation system.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary structure - the integrated accumulator unit mounted on the heave-compensated platform - that mediates between the hydraulic system and the environment. This intermediary protects the fluid communication pathway by keeping it within the protected boundaries of the compensation system rather than exposed to external elements.
2Reliability
If complex systems with multiple components are used for heave compensation, then the compensation function is achieved, but the installation time increases and the risk of erroneous installation rises
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines multiple components - the accumulator unit, hydraulic connections, and control systems - into an integrated assembly that is mounted as a single unit on the heave-compensated platform. This reduces the number of separate installation steps and minimizes the risk of erroneous connections, while significantly reducing installation time compared to systems requiring separate mounting of each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The accumulator unit and its connections are pre-assembled and pre-configured on the heave-compensated platform before deployment. This preliminary preparation ensures correct installation geometry and connection integrity, eliminating the need for complex field assembly and reducing the risk of installation errors.
3Reliability
If external energy supply and control mechanisms are used, then the device can be activated, but the need for pipes and cables increases the risk of system failure
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes the heave-compensated drilling unit self-sufficient by mounting the accumulator unit directly on the platform. The system serves itself with its own hydraulic power source, eliminating the need for external energy supply lines, fluid pipes, and control cables. This self-contained configuration dramatically reduces system failure risks associated with external connections.
4Productivity
If simple and compact devices are used for heave compensation, then installation is quicker and maintenance is reduced, but the reliability and compensation effectiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention achieves a compact configuration by merging the accumulator unit with the heave-compensation mechanism on the same platform. This integrated design reduces the overall system footprint and simplifies installation while maintaining full compensation functionality and reliability, as the essential components are co-located and internally connected.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated accumulator unit serves multiple functions - providing hydraulic power, absorbing shock loads, and enabling heave compensation - all within a single compact system. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, speeding up installation while maintaining comprehensive compensation capability and system reliability.
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 device ensures reliable and quick installation, enhanced safety, reduced risk of system failure, and environmental contamination, while maintaining operational readiness and simplicity in maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
a trigger module for attachment to a tubing string in a heave-compensated, load-bearing unit
Implementation Method 2
The hydraulic cylinder unit must have fluid communication with an accumulator unit
Data Source
AI summary
Device (11) for compensation of wave induced distance variations to a drill string between a floating drill rig and a seabed-fixed installation, comprising an extendable cylinder/piston unit (12) which is arranged to be able to compensate when the load exceeds a pre-determined threshold value. The cylinder (13) of the cylinder/piston unit (12) comprises a non-compressible liquid at both sides of a piston (14) positioned substantially in the middle of the cylinder (13) and is prevented from fluid communication with the surroundings. A control valve (19) is arranged to activate the device (11) by opening for fluid communication between the cylinder (13) and a gas containing accumulator (17) when the load exceeds a predetermined threshold value. The device is characterized by being a complete, self-supported unit comprising cylinder (13), piston (14) on a piston rod (15), accumulator (17), control valve (19) and drainage tank (20).