Sliding Spool Connector for Faster Oilfield Manifold Servicing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and time-consuming process of removing or adding equipment in oilfield manifold systems due to rigid spacer spools that cannot be easily removed, requiring disassembly of a significant portion of the manifold system, leading to potential damage and leaks.
Innovation Solution
A slidable spool system with adjustable nuts and internally guided parts allows for independent assembly and disassembly without interfering with associated components, using seals and bearings to manage friction and wear, and incorporating hydraulic actuation for ease of movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid spacer spools are used to connect components in manifold systems, then structural stability and flow direction are maintained, but the complexity and time required for removing or adding equipment increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid spacer spool is divided into multiple segments or sections that can be independently separated. This allows the spool to be disassembled into smaller parts for easier removal and installation, reducing the complexity and time required for equipment maintenance while maintaining structural integrity during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spool design incorporates dynamic elements such as movable sections or adjustable components that allow for easier assembly and disassembly. This enables the spool to transition from a static rigid structure to a more flexible configuration during maintenance operations, reducing the complexity of removing or adding equipment.
2Reliability
If rigid spacer spools are used to maintain structural stability, then component positioning is secured, but the time required for servicing components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spool is segmented into removable sections that can be quickly detached to access underlying components. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to service components without removing the entire spool assembly, significantly reducing servicing time while maintaining secure component positioning during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spool design includes pre-configured access points, quick-release mechanisms, or pre-positioned separation planes that enable rapid disassembly for servicing. These preliminary design features reduce the time required for maintenance operations while ensuring proper component positioning during operation.
3Ease of operation
If traditional manifold systems are disassembled for component servicing, then access to internal components is achieved, but the risk of damage and leaks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold system is designed with segmented spools that can be removed or opened without disassembling the entire manifold. This targeted access approach minimizes the number of connection points that need to be broken, reducing the risk of damage and leaks while providing adequate access to internal components for servicing.
Solution Approach 2:
The spool sections are designed to be extracted or removed from the manifold system as complete units rather than requiring disassembly of multiple connections. This extraction approach limits exposure of internal components to potential damage during servicing while maintaining ease of access to the components that need maintenance.
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
Enables error-free and time-efficient assembly and disassembly of manifold components, reducing the risk of damage and leaks while minimizing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
using seals and bearings to manage friction and wear
Implementation Method 2
using seals and bearings to manage friction and wear
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment includes a spool that may expand and contract to ease removal and addition of components to an oilfield manifold.