Remote Conduit Decoupling Link for Spill-Free Subsea Disconnection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for supporting submerged structures, such as off-shore wind turbines, face challenges in efficiently and environmentally friendly disconnecting fluid conduits from fluid jacks, particularly when submerged, as manual disconnection or cutting of lines can lead to fluid spillage and pollution.
Innovation Solution
A de-coupling device comprising a valve housing with a movable link that secures and disconnects from a fluid jack, allowing for remote disconnection of fluid conduits by switching between engaged and disengaged positions, utilizing separate supply lines for pressurized fluid to actuate the link and facilitate disconnection without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual disconnection or cutting of lines is used to disconnect fluid conduits from fluid jacks, then the disconnection can be achieved, but fluid spillage and pollution occur
Solution Approach 1:
A de-coupling device is introduced as an intermediary component between the fluid conduit and the fluid jack. This device includes a valve housing with a movable link that can be positioned to either connect or disconnect the fluid conduit from the jack. The intermediary device controls the disconnection process, preventing direct manual cutting or opening that would cause fluid spillage, thereby eliminating pollution while maintaining operational ease.
2Reliability
If remote de-coupling device is implemented, then pollution risk is reduced and reusability is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The de-coupling function is extracted as a separate, removable valve housing component that can be detached from the fluid jack. The movable link mechanism is contained within this extractable valve housing, which can be removed and reused for subsequent operations. This extraction approach enables pollution prevention through controlled disconnection while managing device complexity by making the complex portion removable and reusable rather than permanently integrated.
3Extent of automation
If de-coupling device with movable link is used, then disconnection can be achieved without manual intervention, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The movable link within the valve housing is actuated using pneumatic or hydraulic pressure applied through a pressurized gas or fluid supply. This allows remote operation of the de-coupling device without direct manual intervention. The pressure-driven actuation mechanism, while adding some structural complexity, enables automated remote control which is essential for safe operation in hazardous or hard-to-reach environments, outweighing the added mechanical complexity.
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 remote, environmentally sustainable disconnection of fluid conduits from submerged fluid jacks, simplifying installation, reducing pollution risk, and allowing for reusability, thus improving operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
The piston is movable between a first position and a second position in response to pressurized fluid
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A conduit de-coupling device includes a supply port, a coupler for selectively engaging a connected device, a link positioned adjacent the coupler, and a disconnect port. The link is moveable between a first position in which the coupler is secured in engagement with the connected device, and a second position in which the coupler is permitted to disengage the connected device. The link is biased toward the first position. The disconnect port is in fluid communication with a fluid source to receive pressurized fluid to move the link from the first position to the second position.