Single Bore High Flow Junction Plate Anti-Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current subsea junction plates have complex and costly flow paths due to multiple small-bore hydraulic couplers, and lack flexible seal engagement mechanisms, making them inefficient for gas injection into oil flow lines.
Innovation Solution
A single-bore high-flow junction plate design with a simple latching mechanism using J-slots and a lead screw system that allows for sequential seal installation and engagement, preventing rotation under pressure, and featuring a ratchet pawl for accurate rotation counting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple small-bore hydraulic couplers are used to create a sufficiently large flow path, then the flow path can be formed, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple flow paths into a single large-bore flow path through a unified junction plate design. Instead of using multiple separate hydraulic couplers connected in series, the invention integrates multiple inlet ports and outlet ports into a single plate structure with internal flow channels, reducing the number of components while maintaining or improving flow capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The junction plate serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides flow distribution, creates sealing surfaces for multiple seals, and acts as a structural connection piece. The single plate design replaces multiple specialized components, making the system more versatile and reducing overall complexity.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple small-bore hydraulic couplers are used, then flow path can be created, but the cost of junction plates increases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple flow paths into a single integrated plate structure, the invention reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled. This consolidation directly reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining the required flow capacity through optimized internal channel design.
3Ease of operation
If the flow path makes turns through perimeter port holes, then connection is achieved, but the flow path becomes complex and less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional perimeter port connections to three-dimensional internal flow channels. The flow paths are routed through the thickness and internal structure of the junction plate, allowing for more direct and efficient flow paths while maintaining the same connection interface on the external surfaces.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple seals are to be engaged on an as-needed basis, then flexibility is needed, but the stabs cannot be equipped with multiple seals in current designs
Solution Approach 1:
The junction plate is pre-configured with multiple seal mounting positions and retention features during manufacturing. The seals are positioned and secured in advance, allowing for quick engagement and disengagement during operation without requiring complex assembly procedures or tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing system is divided into independent seal units, each with its own mounting and retention mechanism. This segmentation allows individual seals to be engaged or disengaged independently, providing flexibility in seal management while keeping each seal's mounting mechanism simple.
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 design provides a large unobstructed flow path with cost-effective seal management, enabling efficient gas injection into oil flow lines without disconnection, and ensures reliable fluid pressure sealing and anti-rotation stability.
Implementation Method 1
A linearly stationary rotating nut is mounted in the longitudinal channel. The nut has a proximal portion adapted to be snugly coupled to a torque tool, and a cylindrical distal portion rotatably mounted in the longitudinal channel. The distal portion comprises a female threaded inner diameter. A lead screw comprises a male threaded outer diameter rotatably engaging the female threaded inner diameter such that when the rotating nut is rotated in a first direction, it causes longitudinal movement of the lead screw toward the proximal end region
Implementation Method 2
A ratchet pawl is mounted in the outer housing to engage the lead screw to prevent reverse rotation of the lead screw
Implementation Method 3
When the lead screw is advanced away from the proximal end region, the first and second sealing surfaces come into contact with each other to form a pressure seal between the inner stationary flow path and the distal section of the slideable flow path to impede leakage of any pressurized fluid
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein a single bore, high flow junction plate and flow line assembly adapted for use subsea. This junction plate may be adapted for use with a torque tool manipulated by a remotely operated vehicle (“ROV”).