Subsea Signal Path Segmentation for Independent Disengagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subsea wellhead systems require significant effort and assistance from ROVs or cranes to disconnect signal path connections between adjacent devices, as these connections are typically made and broken concurrently with the devices themselves, limiting independent disengagement and increasing operational complexity.
Innovation Solution
A method for engaging and disengaging signal pathway components between subsea devices without requiring physical separation, using mechanisms like slider-crank assemblies to align and connect devices first, then connect the signal pathways, allowing for independent management of signal pathways across engaged devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If signal path connections are made concurrently with subsea wellhead devices, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into two independent parts: the subsea wellhead devices themselves and the signal path connections. The signal path connections are made as separate components that can be engaged independently after the devices are positioned, rather than being integrated into the device coupling process. This allows the devices to be connected first for structural stability, then the signal paths to be connected separately for communication, reducing operational complexity while maintaining connection reliability.
2Reliability
If signal path connections are made concurrently with device coupling, then connection integrity is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The signal path connections are extracted from the device coupling process and made as independent, separable components. This extraction allows the signal path connections to be disengaged independently from the subsea wellhead devices themselves. The signal path connectors are designed as separate elements that can be disconnected without requiring separation of the main devices, significantly improving ease of operation and maintenance while preserving connection integrity through dedicated connection mechanisms.
3Reliability
If physical separation is required to disconnect signal paths, then connection reliability is maintained, but productivity and operational efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
An intermediary mechanism is introduced between the subsea wellhead devices to enable independent signal path disconnection. This intermediary consists of separable signal path connectors that are coupled to the devices but can be disconnected independently. The intermediary allows the signal paths to be reconfigured, disconnected for maintenance, or replaced without requiring physical separation of the main devices, thus maintaining signal path reliability while dramatically improving operational efficiency and productivity.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A communication link between a first subsea device and a second subsea device includes a first component positioned upon a distal end of the first subsea device and a second component positioned upon a proximal end of the second subsea device, wherein one of the first and second components comprises an engaged position and a disengaged position, and wherein the one of the first and second components is configured to be displaced from the disengaged position to the engaged position after the first and second subsea devices are engaged.