Wellsite Cable Support Assembly with Segmented Ball-and-Socket Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable support systems for wellsite operations lack efficient and flexible solutions to protect cables from excessive bending and damage, particularly in offshore environments where cables are exposed to dynamic movements and harsh conditions.
Innovation Solution
A cable support assembly comprising interlockingly connected ball and socket type cable segments with offset portions and an alignment device, allowing for simultaneous or sequential opening and closing to securely encase cables, providing flexibility and quick assembly/disassembly, and featuring a lock mechanism for secure connection to wellsite components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional cable support systems are used, then cables are protected from bending, but the systems are complex and difficult to install/remove
Solution Approach 1:
The cable support system is divided into multiple individual supports, each comprising a body with a cable receiving chamber and a cover. Each support can function independently to protect cables, eliminating the need for complex continuous protection structures. The segmentation allows for simpler individual components that are easier to manufacture and install while maintaining overall cable protection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover of each cable support is configured to be movable between a closed position (enclosing the cable) and an open position (allowing cable access). This dynamic design enables quick installation and removal of cables without requiring complex disassembly procedures, directly addressing the ease of operation requirement while maintaining cable protection when closed.
2Reliability
If traditional cable support systems are used, then cables are supported, but installation and removal time is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The cable supports are pre-configured with receiving chambers and movable covers designed for quick cable insertion. The aligner features pre-positioned guide structures that automatically align multiple supports during installation, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual alignment procedures. This preliminary design of the support structure enables rapid deployment while ensuring stable cable support.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple cable supports are connected together using an aligner that combines several support units into a coordinated assembly. The aligner integrates guide features and connection mechanisms that allow simultaneous positioning of multiple supports, reducing the total installation time compared to installing each support individually while maintaining the stability and protection provided by each support unit.
3Reliability
If cable supports are designed for secure connection, then connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The aligner incorporates self-aligning features with guide structures that automatically position cable supports correctly during assembly. The interlocking mechanisms are designed to self-engage when components are brought together, eliminating the need for complex adjustment procedures or additional fastening operations. This self-service design achieves reliable connections while keeping the overall device complexity low.
Solution Approach 2:
The aligner acts as an intermediary component that facilitates connection between multiple cable supports. It provides a standardized interface with guide features that mediate the alignment and connection process, ensuring reliable assembly without requiring complex direct coupling mechanisms between individual supports. The aligner absorbs the complexity of coordination while maintaining simple individual support designs.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
A cable support, cable support assembly, and method of supporting a cable is disclosed. The cable support includes a body having a base portion and a ball portion with a cable channel to receive a cable therethrough. The body includes a plurality of axial segments movable between an open position to access the cable channel and a closed position to enclose the cable in the channel. The base portion has a cavity to receive the ball portion of another cable support whereby the cable is flexibly supported.