Aker Solutions has filed a patent for a method of monitoring the condition of a connection between two bodies using a connector. The connector includes a sensor assembly that measures the degree of movement of the bodies. The method involves installing the connector and bodies in a use position and using the sensor output and a numerical model to determine the force on the bodies or the condition of the connector. The numerical model is based on test forces applied to a test element or a test connector with the same configuration. GlobalData’s report on Aker Solutions gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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Method of monitoring condition of a connector between two bodies
A recently filed patent (Publication Number: US20230243253A1) describes a method and system for monitoring the condition of a connection between two bodies using a connector. The connector includes a sensor assembly that provides an output representing the degree of movement of the connected bodies.
The method involves installing the connector and the two bodies in a use position where they are joined by the connector. The output from the sensor assembly, along with a numerical model, is then used to determine the force on one or both of the bodies or the condition of the connector. The numerical model includes a record of test forces applied to a test element or a test connector with the same configuration as the connector.
If the force exceeds a predetermined threshold level, a warning is issued. The output of the sensor assembly can represent the strain of the connector body or the displacement of one of the bodies relative to the connector. Over time, forces determined from readings at different times are used to obtain an indication of the cumulative force on the connector, and a warning is issued when the cumulative force exceeds a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold level can vary depending on the cumulative force.
The sensor assembly can include a strain gauge or a displacement sensor to measure linear or angular displacement. In the case where the bodies are fluid flow bodies, the connector and bodies enclose a continuous flow passage. Seals are used to prevent fluid leakage, and a pressure sensor can measure the fluid pressure in the seal cavity.
The patent also describes a system that includes two bodies, a connector with a sensor assembly, a data storage apparatus, and a processor. The processor uses the output signals from the sensor assembly and the numerical model to determine the force on the bodies or the condition of the connector. The processor can compare the output signals with the numerical model to determine the load on the bodies and can compare the output signals at different times to obtain a data set representing the loading over time. The processor can be located topside or subsea and can transmit warning signals if the loading reaches a threshold level.
Overall, this patent presents a method and system for monitoring the condition of a connection between bodies using a connector with a sensor assembly, providing valuable insights into the force and condition of the connected bodies.
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