Threaded Ram Blowout Preventer Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional blowout preventers (BOPs) face challenges in efficiently adjusting between open and closed positions, leading to high power consumption and operational complexity, especially during drilling and pressure control operations.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a compact BOP with two rams that move linearly between open and closed positions through threaded shafts driven by motors, featuring a pressure-balanced mechanism to reduce power consumption and simplify operation, allowing for precise adjustment using electric or hydraulic motors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional BOP mechanisms are used to adjust between open and closed positions, then the BOP can perform pressure control functions, but the power consumption is high and the operation is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mechanical parameter of the ram by incorporating threaded openings instead of conventional smooth-bore designs. This allows the ram to engage with threaded shafts, converting rotational motor movement into linear ram movement through thread engagement. This parameter change enables more efficient power transmission and reduces the complexity of the actuation mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional hydraulic or complex mechanical actuation systems with a simpler threaded shaft mechanism driven by motors. The threaded shafts engage with threaded openings in the rams, providing a direct mechanical conversion from rotational to linear motion. This substitution reduces power consumption and simplifies the operational complexity of the BOP system.
2Measurement precision
If threaded shafts with threaded openings are used to move rams linearly, then the BOP achieves precise adjustment and reduced power consumption, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the threaded shaft and ram assembly. The threaded shaft simultaneously provides structural support, acts as a screw mechanism for linear motion conversion, and serves as a positioning element. The threaded opening in the ram combines sealing surface, engagement surface, and motion constraint functions. This merging reduces the need for separate components, achieving precise adjustment without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded shaft and threaded opening design provides multi-functionality: the threaded shaft serves as both a drive mechanism and a structural element, while the threaded opening in the ram provides both motion engagement and sealing functions. This multi-functionality allows precise adjustment capability while minimizing the number of separate components needed in the system.
3Productivity
If the BOP uses a compact design with threaded shafts and motors, then operational efficiency improves and energy consumption reduces, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the BOP actuation system into modular components: individual threaded shafts, rams with threaded openings, and separate motor units. Each component can be manufactured and tested independently, then assembled into the complete system. This segmentation allows for specialized manufacturing processes for each component while maintaining overall operational efficiency and reducing energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded shaft and ram assembly provides dynamic adjustment capability, allowing the BOP to move between open and closed positions with precise control. The threaded mechanism enables variable speed and position control, improving operational efficiency. The modular dynamic components can be manufactured using standard machining processes, balancing manufacturing complexity with operational benefits.
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
This configuration enables efficient power management, precise operation, and adaptability in various mineral extraction and pressure control scenarios, enhancing the BOP's performance and reducing energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
The BOP may include a first ram and a second ram that move toward and away from one another to adjust the BOP between an open position and a closed position. The first ram may include a first threaded opening to receive a first threaded shaft, and the second ram may include a second threaded opening to receive a second threaded shaft.
Data Source
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AI summary
An assembly for a blowout preventer includes a ram having a threaded opening. The assembly also includes a threaded shaft to engage the threaded opening and a motor to drive rotation of the threaded shaft. Rotation of the threaded shaft causes the ram to move axially along the threaded shaft.