Subsea Fiberoptic Logging Probe for Real-Time Well Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subsea tree injection modules do not accommodate the deployment of fiberoptic logging tools, limiting the ability to monitor well parameters in real-time and requiring complex, costly systems for data communication and control.
Innovation Solution
A system and process for subsea fiberoptic logging that includes a subsea structure with a central bore, upper and lower valves, and a releasable subsea probe with a fiberoptic line, allowing deployment and operation without recovering the subsea structure to the surface, and enabling real-time data logging and sensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing subsea tree injection modules are used, then the subsea structure remains simple and cost-effective, but the ability to deploy fiberoptic logging tools is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The subsea probe adapter enables the subsea tree injection module to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a chemical injection point and a deployment mechanism for fiberoptic logging tools. The adapter's central bore and release mechanism allow the injection module to accommodate temporary logging equipment without requiring separate deployment infrastructure, thus achieving multi-functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The subsea probe adapter acts as an intermediary component between the existing subsea tree injection module and the fiberoptic logging tools. It provides the mechanical interface and release mechanism that bridges the gap between the simple injection module design and the requirements of tool deployment, enabling compatibility without major structural changes.
2Loss of information
If complex systems are used for data communication and control, then real-time monitoring capability is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex electrical communication systems with fiberoptic technology. The fiberoptic line transmits data and control signals through optical fibers, substituting traditional electrical wiring and communication equipment. This reduces the complexity of the communication system while maintaining real-time monitoring capabilities, as the fiberoptic line can be deployed through the existing injection module infrastructure.
3Ease of repair
If the subsea structure is recovered to the surface for probe changes, then probe replacement is thorough, but productivity and time efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The subsea probe adapter enables the subsea structure to service itself by providing a release mechanism that allows probes to be deployed and retrieved from the seabed without surface intervention. The release mechanism can be actuated remotely or automatically, allowing the system to perform probe changes independently, thus maintaining ease of repair while dramatically improving productivity by eliminating the need for surface recovery operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe adapter incorporates a dynamic release mechanism that transitions the probe from a secured state to a deployed state without requiring physical access to the subsea structure. This dynamic system allows for rapid probe changes by simply actuating the release mechanism, enabling quick deployment and retrieval operations that maintain thorough probe replacement capability while significantly reducing the time required compared to surface recovery methods.
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
Facilitates real-time subsea fiberoptic logging, enabling distributed pressure, temperature, and acoustic sensing, and allows for quick and easy probe changes, adapting to subsea tree injection modules, and providing a rich well profile without surface recovery.
Implementation Method 1
The subsea probe has a fiberoptic line connected to it. The fiberoptic line is adapted to extend through a portion of the central bore and into the well so as to sense parameters within the well.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and process for subsea fiberoptic logging of a well has a subsea structure having a central bore, an upper valve positioned in the central bore, a lower valve positioned on the central bore below the upper valve, and a subsea probe releasably connected to an upper connector of the subsea structure. The subsea structure has at least one channel adapted to connect to a downline. The upper valve is movable between an open position and a closed position. The lower valve is movable between an open position at a lower position. The channel opens to the central bore in an area between the upper valve and a lower valve. The subsea probe has a fiberoptic line connected thereto. The fiberoptic line is adapted to extend to a portion of the central bore of the subsea structure and into the well so as to sense parameters within the well.