Subsea Hydraulic Connector With Simplified Parallel Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic connectors for subsea oil extraction, particularly those with parallel locking systems, require numerous components for pressure adjustment, leading to high manufacturing and assembly costs, while self-locking friction connectors are sensitive to manufacturing tolerances and prone to accidental unlocking, especially under vibration.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic connector of the 'Titus' type with reduced components, featuring parallel locking and a simplified pressure adjustment system, eliminating springs and pins, and incorporating a secondary hydraulic unlocking mechanism for enhanced safety and reduced stress levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If parallel locking system with mounting adjustment system is used, then connector preload can be properly defined, but the number of components increases leading to higher manufacturing and assembly costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the mounting adjustment system from the connector design, extracting only the essential parallel locking components. This simplification maintains the ability to define connector preload while eliminating unnecessary parts that increased complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the locking mechanism parameters by using a simplified cam ring design with optimized cam profiles. This allows the connector to achieve proper preload definition through geometric parameters rather than through complex adjustment systems with multiple components.
2Device complexity
If self-locking friction system is used, then fewer components are required, but the connector becomes sensitive to manufacturing tolerances and prone to accidental unlocking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the locking function into two independent systems: a parallel locking mechanism for primary connection and a friction locking mechanism for secondary stabilization. This segmentation allows each system to perform its specific function optimally without the weaknesses of relying solely on one system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a safety system that acts as a cushion against accidental unlocking. The friction locking system is designed to engage before full locking occurs, providing a cushion of security that prevents accidental disengagement due to vibrations or manufacturing tolerances.
3Reliability
If safety system is added to prevent accidental unlocking, then reliability improves, but manufacturing and assembly costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the safety system with the primary locking mechanism by integrating the friction locking components into the existing parallel locking structure. The cam ring and jaws serve dual functions: primary parallel locking and secondary friction locking, eliminating the need for separate safety system components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the cam ring and jaws to perform multiple functions: they provide parallel locking through cam action, maintain friction locking through surface contact, and prevent accidental unlocking through their geometric design. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated safety components.
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 solution significantly reduces manufacturing and assembly costs while providing reliable and vibration-resistant connections with lower stress levels, enhancing the operational efficiency and safety of subsea equipment connections.
Implementation Method 1
jaws (3) located and preloaded by a actuator hydraulic piston (4) through pressurization chamber (5)
Implementation Method 2
The locking of the connector is accomplished by driving a hydraulic piston which, through a force transmission mechanism, generates a connector design preload
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The present invention is related to hydraulic connector type "Titus", applicable in oil production and extraction operations in the seabed, characterized to be able to provide connection between cylindrical bodies (1) and (2) (WCT and a wellhead, for example). The locking system has hydraulic circuit (13) and the unlocking system has hydraulic circuit (16). However, the pre-load adjustment system is performed through adjustment ring (12). The connector contains a set of jaws (3), one actuator hydraulic piston (4), pressurization chambers (5) and (6), sealing elements (7), (8) and (9), external jacket (10), bottom cap (11), adjustment ring (12) and hydraulic fluid lines (13) and (16).