Subsea Flange Alignment Device with Conical Body
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current subsea pipeline interconnection tools lack a device capable of remotely correcting radial and longitudinal misalignments between flange holes using a uniquely structured elongated metallic body with a gradual diameter reduction, a fixed nut, and a movable nut, which is essential for precise alignment by an ROV, replacing diver functions.
Innovation Solution
A device with an elongated metallic body featuring a larger diameter and a smaller diameter section with a gradual conical reduction, equipped with a fixed nut on the larger diameter end and a movable nut on the smaller diameter end, allowing precise alignment and correction of misalignments between flange holes using a manipulator for ROV operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional flange alignment tools are used in subsea environments, then alignment capability is provided, but the tools require diver intervention and lack remote operability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) that applies mechanical force through a conical body to realign flange holes. The ROV's manipulator inserts and actuates the device, eliminating the need for diver intervention while maintaining effective mechanical alignment capability through the conical body's force application mechanism.
2Measurement precision
If flange misalignment correction is performed manually by divers, then alignment precision is achieved, but operational safety and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an ROV as an intermediary between the operator and the subsea environment. The ROV manipulator acts as the intermediary that physically inserts and actuates the alignment device, allowing precise alignment operations to be performed remotely. This eliminates direct human exposure to subsea hazards while maintaining alignment precision through controlled mechanical action.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple alignment tool is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but the ability to correct both radial and longitudinal misalignments is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a conical body with a gradually varying cross-sectional area that transitions from a smaller initial area to a larger final area. This curved geometric progression allows the single device to accommodate and correct both radial and longitudinal misalignments by progressively engaging with flange holes at different positions, providing versatile correction capability without complex multi-component construction.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for removing misalignments between flanges of pipeline ends. More specifically, a device that, operated by an ROV, allows flange holes at the ends of subsea pipelines to be aligned so that interconnection operations between said pipelines can be embodied. To this end, the device described herein comprises an elongated metallic body having at least two diameters and presenting a gradual reduction between the component diameters. Additionally, a fixed nut is mounted on the larger diameter side of the elongated body, followed by a manipulator for administration by the ROV. On the other hand, a movable nut is mounted on the smaller diameter side of the elongated body, and the tightening movement made by the ROV on this movable nut causes the device to pass through the holes to be aligned, precisely, in the direction of the larger diameter of the device of the invention.