Towable Subsea Lattice Frame with Integrated Fluid Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Subsea oil and gas structures are bulky and heavy due to the need for large structural elements to support processing equipment, which complicates transportation and installation, and increases the risk of structural collapse under hydrostatic pressure and sea dynamics.
Innovation Solution
A towable subsea structure featuring a lattice frame made of polymer or composite materials with integrated fluid-processing devices, where structural members serve as piping and heating elements, reducing the need for separate pipework and large tanks, and providing buoyancy during towing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If large structural elements are used to support processing equipment, then structural strength and stability are improved, but weight, size, and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the structural support function with the fluid processing function by integrating processing equipment directly into the lattice frame structure. The frame members serve dual purposes as both load-bearing structural elements and as piping conduits for fluid flow, eliminating the need for separate support structures and reducing overall weight and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lattice frame structure is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: providing structural support, serving as piping for fluid transport, and supporting processing equipment. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing weight while maintaining structural strength.
2Productivity
If more processing equipment is added to the subsea structure, then fluid processing capability is improved, but structure size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
Processing equipment is integrated directly into the lattice frame structure rather than being mounted as separate external components. The frame members themselves serve as piping conduits, and equipment is positioned within the lattice structure, reducing the overall volume required for the same processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where processing equipment is positioned within the lattice frame structure. The frame provides both structural support and fluid conduits, with equipment nested within the three-dimensional lattice, maximizing space utilization and reducing overall structure volume.
3Reliability
If conventional piping and support structures are used, then fluid communication and structural support are ensured, but device complexity and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lattice frame members serve dual functions as both structural support elements and fluid piping conduits. This integration eliminates the need for separate support structures and reduces the number of connections and joints required, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining reliable fluid communication and structural support.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure is designed as a universal system that simultaneously provides mechanical support, fluid transport pathways, and equipment mounting structures. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and interfaces, simplifying the overall system while ensuring reliable performance of all functions.
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
The solution simplifies the structure, reduces weight and complexity, and maintains fluid temperature management, enabling more compact and efficient subsea processing units that can withstand transportation and installation challenges while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
providing buoyancy during towing
Implementation Method 2
heating elements, where structural members serve as piping and heating elements
Data Source
AI summary
A subsea processing system has a lattice frame made up of structural members and at least one fluid-processing device. At least one of the structural members effects fluid communication to or from the or each fluid-processing device.