Subsea Well Intervention Disconnect Detection Using Monitor Tether
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subsea drilling and intervention systems lack efficient mechanisms to detect and respond to disconnections between subsea equipment and wells, potentially leading to environmental damage and equipment damage.
Innovation Solution
A disconnection system featuring a first and second coupling portion with a monitor tether and control system to detect changes in current, using switches and sensors to interrupt fluid flow upon disconnection, and a control system to actuate valves for safety module intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a disconnect system is implemented to protect the environment and equipment, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional monitoring and control components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical monitoring systems with an electrical current-based detection system. The monitor tether uses electrical current flow to detect disconnection status, eliminating the need for complex mechanical sensors and actuators while maintaining safety functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The disconnect system is designed to automatically detect disconnections and trigger shutdown procedures without requiring external intervention. The monitor tether continuously monitors electrical current, and upon detecting disconnection, the control system automatically actuates valves to close flow paths, making the system self-regulating and reducing operational complexity.
2Speed
If real-time detection and automatic shutdown systems are integrated, then response speed is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional sensors and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces slow mechanical detection methods with electrical current monitoring through the monitor tether. Electrical signal transmission provides immediate detection of disconnection events, enabling rapid response without the delay associated with mechanical sensors and moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitor tether provides continuous feedback on the connection status by monitoring electrical current flow. This real-time feedback enables the control system to immediately detect disconnections and trigger automatic shutdown procedures, achieving rapid response through continuous monitoring and immediate action.
3Measurement precision
If multiple coupling portions and monitoring components are added to detect disconnection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses electrical current monitoring through the monitor tether to detect disconnection status. This electrical measurement method provides high precision detection with a single monitoring point, eliminating the need for multiple mechanical sensors and complex measurement systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitor tether serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the disconnect system, transmits control signals, and simultaneously monitors connection status through electrical current measurement. This multi-functionality achieves precise detection without adding separate dedicated monitoring 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
Ensures rapid and automatic shutdown of fluid flow upon disconnection, protecting the environment and equipment by integrating a monitor tether and control system for real-time detection and response.
Implementation Method 1
a monitor tether configured to transmit an electrical current while the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are connected to one another
Implementation Method 2
The control system is operable to detect a change in current in the monitor tether indicative of disconnection between the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion
Data Source
AI summary
An intervention system is provided for a subsea well operation. The intervention system includes a first coupling portion, a second coupling portion releasably coupled to the first coupling portion, a monitor tether coupled to one of the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion, and a control system. The first coupling portion and the second coupling portion provide fluid communication while the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are connected to one another. The monitor tether transmits an electrical current while the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are connected to one another. The control system is operable to detect a change in current in the monitor tether indicative of disconnection between the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion, and, in response to detecting a change in current in the monitor tether indicative of disconnection, interrupt fluid flow relative to the subsea well.