Subsea Adapter Unit for Wireless Auxiliary Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subsea systems face challenges in conveniently and cost-effectively adding new electronic auxiliary devices, such as sensors or controllers, to subsea locations without requiring the recovery of the Subsea Control Module (SCM) and reconfiguration of electrical connections, especially when space is limited or devices are located far from the SCM.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof and pressure-resistant adapter unit with wet mate receptacle and plug connectors is interposed between existing wet mating connectors, allowing for the secure placement and electrical connection of electronic auxiliary devices, including wireless transceivers, to existing data buses and power supplies, enabling wireless communication with remote sensors without needing to recover the SCM.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional methods are used to add electronic auxiliary devices at subsea locations, then the devices can be installed, but the process requires recovery of the Subsea Control Module and reconfiguration of electrical connections, which is complicated and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adapter unit as an intermediary device that connects between the SCM and the electronic auxiliary device. This adapter unit contains wet mate connectors that interface with both the SCM and the auxiliary device, eliminating the need to recover the SCM for installation. The adapter acts as a mediator that simplifies the installation process while maintaining electrical and data connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into separate functional modules: the existing SCM, the new electronic auxiliary device, and the adapter unit. This segmentation allows the adapter and auxiliary device to be installed independently without affecting the SCM, enabling easier installation and maintenance while preserving the original system's integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the Subsea Control Module is recovered to add new devices, then connections can be reconfigured, but this results in loss of time and increased costs
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter unit is designed with pre-configured wet mate connectors that are ready for connection before deployment. The electrical connections and data bus interfaces are prepared in advance within the adapter, allowing for quick plug-and-play installation without requiring time-consuming recovery operations or reconfiguration of the SCM.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter unit serves as a pre-prepared intermediary that provides ready-made connection interfaces. By having the adapter unit prepared with all necessary connection elements before installation, the system avoids time loss associated with on-site recovery and reconfiguration operations.
3Ease of operation
If electronic devices are placed far from the SCM, then remote sensing is enabled, but electrical connection and power supply become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional wired electrical connections with wireless communication technology. The electronic auxiliary device incorporates a wireless transceiver that communicates with the SCM or adapter unit via wireless signals, eliminating the need for physical electrical connections and power cables over long distances. This substitution enables remote sensing while simplifying the connection infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter unit is designed with multi-functionality, providing both wireless communication capabilities and electrical connection interfaces. This universal design allows the same adapter to support both wirelessly connected remote devices and traditionally connected devices, accommodating various installation scenarios without increasing overall system complexity.
4Reliability
If wet mate connectors are used for connection, then electrical and data connections are established, but the housing must be securely positioned between connectors
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter unit merges the housing structure with the wet mate connector assemblies. The connectors are integrated directly into the housing, eliminating the need for separate positioning and mounting operations. This integration ensures that when the connectors engage with mating interfaces, the housing is automatically and securely positioned, maintaining connection reliability while simplifying the installation operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and apparatus are disclosed for providing auxiliary equipment at a subsea location. The apparatus includes a housing including at least one wet mate receptacle connector and at least one wet mate plug connector spaced apart from the receptacle connector, at least one electronic auxiliary device in the housing, at least one connector member extending through a portion of the housing connecting at least one connection element of the wet receptacle connector to a respective at least one connection element of the wet plug connector; wherein the auxiliary device is connected to the connector member in the housing to thereby connect the auxiliary device to the connector member.