Umbilical Bend-Testing Apparatus with Three-Level Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing the bending fatigue endurance of umbilicals, crucial for oil and gas underwater field developments, lack comprehensive and precise apparatus and methods to assess the superiorities and defects of umbilical samples effectively.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus and methods involve a three-level support structure, end-thrust and transverse-tension bending devices, compression testing devices, and a stress-strain collecting system, enabling precise testing of umbilical samples through various bending modes, including four-point bending, to evaluate fatigue endurance properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If comprehensive bending fatigue testing is implemented, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The testing apparatus is divided into three independent support levels (first support level with end-thrust bending device, second support level with transverse-tension bending device, third support level with compression testing device). Each level performs a specific bending fatigue test, allowing comprehensive evaluation while maintaining modular simplicity in the overall system structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces multi-dimensional testing by implementing end-thrust bending, transverse-tension bending, and compression testing from different spatial dimensions and loading directions. This comprehensive multi-mode testing approach evaluates umbilical fatigue endurance from multiple angles without requiring a single overly complex apparatus.
2Reliability
If multiple bending modes are tested, then reliability of umbilical evaluation is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The testing procedure is segmented into distinct phases: end-thrust bending test, transverse-tension bending test, and compression test. Each phase uses a dedicated device at a specific support level, making the complex multi-mode testing sequence more manageable and easier to operate systematically.
Solution Approach 2:
The three-level support structure serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for different bending devices, enables various bending modes (end-thrust, transverse-tension, compression), and facilitates comprehensive fatigue evaluation. This multi-functional design simplifies operation by consolidating multiple testing capabilities in one integrated system.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods related to umbilical bend-testing are described. For example, some embodiments may contain a three-level support structure, umbilical terminal locker, bending machine, compression testing device, and stress-strain collection system, and may be used for the bending fatigue endurance test for umbilical samples.