Rotatable Subsea Pipeline Connection for Flexible Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current subsea horizontal connection systems (HCS) lack flexibility in allowing movement between pipeline ends, making the connection process cumbersome due to specific positioning requirements and limited angle deviations.
Innovation Solution
A connection device with a first pipeline end and a second connection element, where the first connection element is rotatably connected to the second connection element, enabling angular adjustment and reducing bending moments, thus facilitating easier alignment and connection between subsea pipelines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid horizontal connection system is used, then connection strength and leak-proof reliability are improved, but flexibility in pipeline positioning and angle deviation are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device incorporates a rotational joint that enables dynamic adjustment of the connection angle between pipelines. This rotational mechanism allows the system to adapt to various positioning scenarios while maintaining connection integrity, resolving the contradiction between rigid connection reliability and positioning flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fixed angular parameter of traditional rigid connections to a variable parameter through the rotational joint. This allows the connection angle to be adjusted within a specific range, enabling the system to accommodate different pipeline orientations while maintaining reliable sealing and connection strength.
2Manufacturing precision
If strict positioning requirements are imposed, then connection precision and sealing reliability are improved, but operation complexity and installation time are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational joint transforms the static positioning requirement into a dynamic adjustment capability. Operators can adjust the connection angle in real-time during installation, reducing the need for precise pre-positioning and simplifying the overall installation process while maintaining connection precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational joint mechanism enables self-alignment and self-adjustment during the connection process. The device automatically accommodates angular deviations through its rotational capability, reducing the need for complex external positioning equipment and procedures.
3Reliability
If small angle deviations are allowed, then connection reliability is maintained, but productivity and installation speed are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational joint provides dynamic angle adjustment capability that allows for larger angular deviations during installation without compromising connection reliability. This eliminates the need for time-consuming realignment operations, thereby increasing installation speed and productivity while maintaining reliable connections.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection device for mating and making up a subsea connection. The connection device includes a first pipeline end which is fixable to an end of a subsea pipeline, a first connection element which is connected to the first pipeline end, and a second connection element which is connected to the first connection element. The first connection element is rotatably connected to the second connection element.