Swivel Pressure Control Device with Latch Lock for Well Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressure control devices face challenges in convenient and quick installation due to fixed rotational orientations, which can lead to difficulties in aligning outlets with well equipment, and lack of efficient mechanisms for securing annular seals and components.
Innovation Solution
The pressure control device incorporates a swivel mechanism with a lock device and a latch system, allowing for relative rotation between the body and inlet, and securement of annular seals, enabling easy alignment and secure attachment to well equipment while preventing unwanted rotation and longitudinal displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed rotational orientation is used in pressure control devices, then the structure is simpler, but alignment with well equipment becomes difficult and installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by introducing a swivel mechanism that allows the outlet to rotate relative to the inlet, transforming the fixed rotational orientation into a dynamic, adjustable configuration. This enables alignment with well equipment in different orientations while maintaining structural integrity through the swivel joint design
2Adaptability or versatility
If a swivel mechanism is added to allow rotation, then alignment flexibility improves, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the pressure control device into separate rotatable components (inlet, outlet, swivel mechanism) that can be manufactured independently and then assembled. This modular approach maintains adaptability while simplifying the manufacturing process for each individual component
3Reliability
If annular seal securement mechanisms are added, then reliability of seal attachment improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle through the latch mechanism that automatically engages and secures the annular seal in place. The latch system provides self-securing functionality without requiring additional complex fastening mechanisms, thereby improving reliability while minimizing added complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure control device can include an outlet, an inlet secured to well equipment, and a swivel mechanism that permits relative rotation between the outlet and the inlet in an unlocked configuration and prevents relative rotation between the outlet and the inlet in a locked configuration. A lock device of the swivel mechanism can include circumferentially distributed teeth, and an engagement member that engages at least one of the teeth in the locked configuration. A method of operating a pressure control device can include securing an inlet of the pressure control device to well equipment, rotating an outlet of the pressure control device about a longitudinal axis of the inlet, locking a swivel mechanism of the pressure control device, thereby preventing rotation of the outlet relative to the inlet, and sealing off an annulus surrounding a tubular string extending through the inlet.