Subsea Tubular Alignment Device Using Orientation Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for aligning a tree relative to a tubing hanger in subsea wellhead systems are either expensive and require heavy drilling vessels, or they involve complex hydraulic pin systems that require detailed planning and can be prone to errors, especially in older rigs.
Innovation Solution
The development of an alignment apparatus that includes an alignment sub and a corresponding alignment member, featuring orientation profiles and keys that allow for self-alignment of subsea tubular members, enabling proper orientation and communication between a first subsea tubular member and a second subsea tubular member without the need for expensive tubing spools or complex hydraulic pin systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a tubing spool assembly is used to align the tree relative to the tubing hanger, then the alignment precision is improved, but the cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment device is divided into separate functional components: an alignment sub with external orientation profiles and a corresponding alignment member with internal profiles. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system compared to a monolithic tubing spool assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment sub and alignment member can be used with various tubing hanger and tree configurations through standardized connection interfaces. The orientation profiles provide universal alignment capability across different wellhead systems, eliminating the need for specialized tubing spools for each application.
2Manufacturing precision
If a tubing spool assembly is used to align the tree relative to the tubing hanger, then the alignment precision is improved, but the weight increases making installation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the alignment function into separate alignment sub and alignment member components, the weight is distributed and reduced compared to a single heavy tubing spool. Each component can be sized appropriately for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment device uses simpler, lighter materials and construction methods compared to the expensive, heavy tubing spool assembly. The design prioritizes functionality over durability, allowing for cost-effective replacement if needed.
3Manufacturing precision
If a hydraulic pin system is used to align the tree relative to the tubing hanger, then the alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity and planning requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex hydraulic actuation system is removed entirely from the alignment mechanism. Instead, pure mechanical orientation profiles and keys provide the alignment function, eliminating hydraulics, sensors, and control systems while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment device uses self-aligning mechanical features where the orientation profiles and keys automatically guide the tree to the correct position relative to the tubing hanger during installation, without requiring external hydraulic actuation or complex control systems.
4Manufacturing precision
If a hydraulic pin system is used to align the tree relative to the tubing hanger, then the alignment precision is improved, but the time required for installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The self-aligning mechanical features allow the tree to automatically orient itself to the correct position during lowering, eliminating the time-consuming hydraulic actuation and monitoring processes required by conventional systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The simplified mechanical alignment mechanism allows for rapid installation by skipping the lengthy planning, surveying, and hydraulic setup phases required by conventional systems. The orientation profiles provide immediate visual and mechanical guidance during installation.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for coupling subsea tubular members together are provided. An apparatus may be used to properly orient and/or provide communication between a first subsea tubular member that is being landed on a second subsea tubular member. An apparatus for coupling subsea tubular members may include an alignment sub and a corresponding alignment member. The alignment sub includes: a generally cylindrical body having one or more fluid, electric, or fiber optic lines extending therethrough, one or more couplings coupled to at least one end of the alignment sub, and an orientation profile disposed on a surface of the alignment sub. The alignment member has a profile designed to interface with the orientation profile of the alignment sub. One of the alignment sub and the alignment member remains stationary while the other rotates relative to the stationary structure.