Subsea Pipe Connection Using Inverted Translational Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting underwater flow-line pipes and risers on the sea bed are challenging due to high risks of impact between the connector and anchoring support elements, especially when dealing with dense arrays of pipes.
Innovation Solution
A method where the connection end piece of the flow-line pipe is driven translationally towards a fixed connector on the riser, reducing the impact risk by reversing the traditional connection approach and using a flexible downstream end and anchoring support with guide members and hydraulic cylinders to manage gravity and positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the connector is driven translationally toward the connection end piece while controlling vertical movement of the riser, then the connection can be made, but the risks of impact between the connector and anchoring support elements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of driving the connector upward toward the connection end piece, the invention inverts the approach by driving the connection end piece downward toward the connector. This reversal eliminates the need to control vertical riser movement during connection and prevents impact with anchoring support elements, as the connection end piece moves in the same direction as gravity rather than against it.
2Reliability
If the riser and flow-line pipe are preconnected and transported to the installation site, then the connection is secured, but the assembly becomes awkward to maneuver and may snag on existing pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the connection process into two independent phases: first, transporting the riser and flow-line pipe separately to the installation site; second, making the connection in situ by driving the connection end piece toward the connector. This segmentation eliminates maneuvering difficulties while ensuring connection stability.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the connection end piece is driven toward the connector, then the impact risk is reduced, but additional positioning and guidance mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces guide members as intermediary elements that facilitate the downward movement of the connection end piece toward the connector. These guide members provide lateral guidance and alignment while allowing vertical movement, reducing impact risk without requiring complex active positioning 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
Enables safer and more efficient connection of underwater pipes in dense environments with reduced risk of damage, allowing for easier handling and alignment of pipes in complex offshore hydrocarbon transportation systems.
Implementation Method 1
the loadings due to gravity which are exerted on the connection end piece needs to be overcome
Implementation Method 2
using a flexible downstream end and anchoring support with guide members and hydraulic cylinders to manage gravity and positioning
Data Source
AI summary
A facility and a method for connecting a bottom submarine pipe (14) and a riser submarine pipe. The riser submarine pipe has an upstream end (62) with a fitting (66) on the end thereof, while the bottom submarine pipe (14) has a downstream end (46) provided with a connecting end piece (50). The method includes the following steps: a) an anchoring support (38) is supplied; b) the upstream end (62) and the downstream end (46) are held, while the fitting (66) extends facing the connecting end piece (50); and c) the fitting (66) and the connecting end piece (50) are brought towards each other for connection. The fitting (66) of the upstream end (62) is held still in relation to the anchoring support (38), and the connecting end piece (50) is moved towards the fitting (66).