Subsea Bore Connector Alignment Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in subsea oilfields is ensuring proper alignment and secure engagement of small bore connectors with receptacles on equipment, which is complicated by increased depths and complexities, leading to potential seal failures and environmental hazards due to misalignment, resulting in costly delays and equipment damage.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a verifiable alignment bore connector system that includes aligning and verifying the connector with the receptacle using a preliminary lock and then engaging it with the receptacle, ensuring proper anchoring and sealing, even in conditions with significant load and angular misalignment, utilizing a torque tool and circumferential mechanisms for reliable engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a diver is used for hands on installation, then proper alignment and engagement can be achieved, but the hazards and complexity increase with depth
Solution Approach 1:
An ROV (remote operated vehicle) is introduced as an intermediary tool to perform the connector engagement operation. The ROV can be remotely guided to position and engage the connector with the receptacle, eliminating the need for divers to work at depth while maintaining operational capability. This resolves the contradiction by replacing the diver with a remotely operated system that can operate safely at greater depths.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If an ROV is utilized to engage the connector, then diver hazards are eliminated, but alignment and engagement become more difficult due to drag and torque from the hydraulic line
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary alignment actions before final engagement. The ROV positions and orients the connector in advance, allowing for verification of alignment with the receptacle before the actual engagement occurs. This preliminary positioning step addresses the alignment difficulties caused by hydraulic line drag and torque by establishing proper orientation before the engagement force is applied.
3Productivity
If a stabbing technique is used to mate connectors, then engagement is quick, but alignment verification is not performed increasing seal failure risk
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates alignment verification as a feedback step before final engagement. The ROV positions the connector and verifies alignment with the receptacle, providing visual or sensor-based confirmation that proper orientation has been achieved. This feedback mechanism ensures that the subsequent engagement will result in proper seal contact, eliminating the guesswork inherent in stabbing techniques while maintaining operational efficiency.
4Reliability
If alignment verification is performed before engagement, then seal failure risk is reduced, but operation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex manual alignment procedures with automated or remotely operated positioning mechanisms. The ROV uses its propulsion and manipulation capabilities to automatically position and orient the connector, reducing the time and skill required for alignment verification. This mechanical substitution allows for thorough alignment checks without proportionally increasing operation time, as the automated system performs tasks more efficiently than manual methods.
Data Source
AI summary
A technique for engaging a bore connector with a receptacle on subsea equipment. The technique may include providing an operator with a visual indication of acceptable alignment between the connector and the receptacle in advance of attaining engagement. In this way, a proper and reliably sealed engagement may be achieved. Further, the bore connector and techniques for use thereof include added indication of completed sealed engagement sufficient for testing and/or operational use of the connector in supporting a fluid application directed at the equipment through the receptacle.