Subsea Connector Latching Fingers Dual-Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subsea connectors are limited in their ability to enter hubs at large deflection angles and apply sufficient pre-tension, and the collet fingers are prone to excessive wear due to the manner of pre-tensioning.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a plurality of latching fingers around a cylindrical body with a dual-action mechanism, where the latching fingers are pivotally supported and can be moved between non-latching and latching positions using an actuating member, allowing for independent operation of the second end region to press against the body, enabling a two-step locking sequence and high pre-load capability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the connector uses a single camming surface mechanism for both positioning and clamping, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to enter hubs at large deflection angles and apply sufficient pre-tension is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector mechanism is segmented into two distinct functional sets: a first set of camming surfaces for positioning and alignment, and a second set of camming surfaces for clamping and pre-tensioning. This segmentation allows each set to be optimized for its specific function, enabling large deflection angle entry while maintaining sufficient pre-tension capability without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The first set of camming surfaces performs preliminary positioning and alignment actions before the second set engages for final clamping. This preliminary action sequence allows the connector to accommodate large deflection angles during positioning, then applies sufficient pre-tension in a subsequent stage without requiring both functions to occur simultaneously in a single complex mechanism
2Reliability
If the collet fingers are pre-tensioned in a single-stage mechanism, then the device complexity is reduced, but the fingers are prone to excessive wear and tear
Solution Approach 1:
The pre-tensioning function is segmented from the positioning function, with the second set of camming surfaces dedicated solely to applying pre-tension to the collet fingers after they are properly positioned. This separation reduces wear on the fingers during the positioning phase, as the aggressive pre-tensioning action is applied separately when alignment is already established
Solution Approach 2:
Positioning and alignment are performed as preliminary actions by the first set of camming surfaces before the second set applies pre-tensioning force to the fingers. This preliminary positioning reduces relative motion and misalignment during the pre-tensioning phase, thereby reducing wear and tear on the finger surfaces
3Force
If the connector uses a two-step locking sequence with independent actuation, then the pre-tension force is increased, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The single actuating mechanism is designed with multi-functionality to perform both positioning and pre-tensioning functions through its two sets of camming surfaces. This universal design allows the same actuator to sequentially execute both functions, increasing pre-tension force while avoiding the complexity of multiple independent actuators and their associated control systems
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
The design allows for a larger misalignment angle during connection, reduces wear on the latching fingers, and achieves a high pre-tension force, enhancing the connector's ability to securely engage with subsea equipment while maintaining alignment control.
Implementation Method 1
each finger being pivotally supported at an intermediate region by a portion of the body and being movable between a non-latching position and a latching position
Implementation Method 2
an actuating means operable to force a second end region of each finger towards the body
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a cylindrical body and a plurality of longitudinal latching fingers arranged around the body. Each finger has a first end region which includes a first latching structure, a second end region and an intermediate region. Each finger is pivotally supported at the intermediate region and is movable between a non-latching position and a latching position. An actuating device is operable to force the second end region of each finger towards the body by exerting a force on at least a portion of the second end region. The actuating device includes a force-imparting member which cooperates with a force-receiving region located on the second end region. The force-receiving region includes a first outer surface portion which is curved radially outwardly to define an apex and a trough, the latter being located between the apex and the intermediate region and configured to accommodate the force-imparting member.