Stabbing Manifold Alignment for Remote MPD Line Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) systems, the manual connection of control lines and hoses is time-consuming and risky, requiring skilled personnel to access drilling vessels, and existing connection devices are not adequately complex for managing multiple control lines and fluid channels.
Innovation Solution
A stabbing manifold with a first alignment means for rough alignment and a second alignment means for precise alignment, along with a rigid holding mechanism allowing limited movement, facilitates the connection of control lines and fluid channels, enabling remote and efficient operation, and a flow manifold with a removable fluid channel receptacle block for maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual connection of control lines and hoses is performed by skilled personnel using rope access techniques, then connection reliability is improved, but time consumption increases significantly (up to 48 hours) and personnel safety risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical connection operations with an automated robotic system. A robot equipped with manipulators performs the connection of control lines and hoses automatically, eliminating the need for skilled personnel to perform dangerous rope access work. The system uses automated alignment mechanisms and connection devices to achieve reliable connections without human intervention, thus reducing connection time from up to 48 hours to a much shorter duration while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system incorporates self-alignment features where the robotic manipulator and connection devices are equipped with alignment means that automatically guide the connection process. The system can detect and correct positional deviations automatically, reducing the need for manual adjustment and intervention. This self-service capability enables the robotic system to perform complex connection tasks autonomously, significantly reducing both time and personnel risk.
2Device complexity
If existing connection devices are used for MPD systems, then device simplicity is maintained, but they are inadequate for managing multiple control lines and fluid channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connection system into modular segments, with each manipulator equipped with specialized connection devices for specific types of connections (control lines, hoses, electrical connections). The robotic system itself is segmented into multiple independent manipulators that can operate simultaneously on different connection tasks. This segmentation allows the system to handle multiple control lines and fluid channels efficiently while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized modular components.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic manipulator system is designed with universal capabilities to handle multiple types of connections. The manipulators can grip and position various components (hoses, control lines, electrical connectors) using the same basic mechanical interface. The connection devices are designed with universal alignment and positioning features that work across different connection types. This multi-functionality allows a single robotic system to manage all connection tasks in the MPD system without requiring separate specialized equipment for each connection type.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment of multiple connectors is achieved, then connection accuracy is improved, but alignment time and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates preliminary alignment features in the design of connection devices and manipulators. Alignment means are built into the connection devices before the actual connection operation, allowing rough alignment to be achieved through the mechanical design itself. The manipulators are equipped with positioning features that pre-establish correct orientation and location. This preliminary action reduces the complexity of active alignment systems during operation, as the bulk of alignment is achieved through pre-designed mechanical features rather than complex real-time adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary alignment elements such as alignment pins, guide sleeves, or positioning fixtures that facilitate precise connector alignment. These intermediary components act as mediators between the manipulator and the actual connectors, providing a simplified interface for achieving accurate alignment. The alignment intermediaries absorb much of the alignment complexity, allowing the main manipulator system to focus on gross positioning while the intermediaries handle fine alignment, thus reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection device has a first connection body and a second connection body movable with respect to the first connection body. The connection device is configured for connecting a plurality of control lines terminating in connectors forming part of the first connection body, to corresponding control lines terminating in connectors forming part of the second connection body. The connection device is provided with a first alignment means for rough alignment of the connection bodies. The connection device further has a second alignment means for aligning the rigid holding means of one of the bodies with respect to the connectors of the other one of the bodies, at least one of the rigid holding means movable in a plane perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the first alignment means.