U.S. patent application number 16/518508 was filed with the patent office on 2019-11-14 for drilling vessel.
This patent application is currently assigned to ITREC B.V.. The applicant listed for this patent is ITREC B.V.. Invention is credited to Joop ROODENBURG, Pieter Dirk Melis VAN DUIVENDIJK, Diederick Bernardus WIJNING.
Application Number | 20190345781 16/518508 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50977028 |
Filed Date | 2019-11-14 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190345781 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
ROODENBURG; Joop ; et
al. |
November 14, 2019 |
DRILLING VESSEL
Abstract
A drilling vessel includes a drilling tower and a tubular string
support structure for supporting a tubular string in the firing
line of the drilling tower. The tubular string support structure
has two parallel rails and two carts supported by those rails. Both
carts have a hanger body with a central passage for supporting a
tubular, and each cart can be moved between a central support
position for supporting a tubular in the firing line, and a
secondary position adjacent the central support position. When both
carts are located in their secondary position, the carts are
located on opposite sides of the firing line, such that between the
carts there is a passage for passing through large objects along
the firing line.
Inventors: |
ROODENBURG; Joop; (Delft,
NL) ; WIJNING; Diederick Bernardus; (Schiedam,
NL) ; VAN DUIVENDIJK; Pieter Dirk Melis; (Missouri
City, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ITREC B.V. |
Schiedam |
|
NL |
|
|
Assignee: |
ITREC B.V.
Schiedam
NL
|
Family ID: |
50977028 |
Appl. No.: |
16/518508 |
Filed: |
July 22, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15429324 |
Feb 10, 2017 |
10385631 |
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16518508 |
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14894255 |
Nov 25, 2015 |
9587447 |
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PCT/NL2014/050337 |
May 27, 2014 |
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15429324 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E21B 19/10 20130101;
E21B 19/002 20130101; E21B 15/02 20130101; E21B 19/16 20130101;
B63B 35/4413 20130101; E21B 19/06 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E21B 19/06 20060101
E21B019/06; E21B 19/16 20060101 E21B019/16; E21B 19/00 20060101
E21B019/00; E21B 19/10 20060101 E21B019/10; B63B 35/44 20060101
B63B035/44; E21B 15/02 20060101 E21B015/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 27, 2013 |
NL |
2010865 |
Claims
1. A drilling vessel comprising: a drilling tower having a firing
line, along which a tubular string is passed into the sea during
drilling activities, the firing line extending in a vertical
direction; and a tubular string support structure, the support
structure comprising: a cart, the cart having a hanger body that
defines a vertical passage adapted to receive a tubular string
supported in the firing line, and which hanger body defines a
lateral passage, in communication with said vertical passage,
allowing to place the tubular string in and remove the tubular
string from said vertical passage; a bearing support, the bearing
support defining an opening concentric with the firing line; and
two parallel rails, which rails are provided to support the cart
such that it can be moved between a central support position, on
the bearing support with the firing line passing through the
vertical passage, and a secondary position on the two parallel
rails with the firing line passing outside the vertical passage,
wherein the bearing support enables rotating the cart when in the
central support position about a vertical axis of the vertical
passage of the cart.
2. The drilling vessel according to claim 1, wherein the cart is
adapted for supporting tools as well as tubulars, and the cart thus
provides a movable platform for bringing tools into and out of the
firing line, and positioning these tools relative to the firing
line by rotating them about the firing line, and provides a
removable support for tubulars located in the firing line, which in
combination with the bearing support enables rotating a tubular or
tubular string in the firing line.
3. The drilling vessel according to claim 1, wherein the cart is
provided in a recess in a deck, which recess forms an elongated
opening in the deck, and wherein the cart is supported in the
recess in the deck and a top side of the cart is flush with a top
surface of the deck.
4. The drilling vessel according to claim 1, wherein the cart is
provided in a recess in a deck, which recess forms an elongated
opening in the deck, and wherein the cart is supported in the
recess in the deck and a top side of the cart is located below a
top surface of the deck.
5. The drilling vessel according to claim 3, wherein the cart is
provided with a deck surface, level with the deck surface of the
deck in which the elongated opening is provided, such that the cart
forms a slideable deck section.
6. The drilling vessel according to claim 1, wherein the drilling
vessel comprises a drilling deck, which drilling deck has a
drilling deck top surface, and wherein the tubular string support
structure is recessed in the drilling deck such that it supports
the cart within the drilling deck, below the drilling deck top
surface, and the cart is supported by the rails such that a top
side of the cart is located below the top surface of the deck in
which the elongate opening is provided.
7. The drilling vessel according to claim 1, wherein the bearing
support and the cart are provided with couple devices for coupling
the cart, when located in the central support position, with the
bearing support, and wherein the bearing support is provided with
one or more drives for rotating the bearing support and a cart that
is coupled therewith.
8. The drilling vessel according to claim 1, wherein the vessel
further comprises a cart transport system, configured for moving
the at least one cart along the two parallel rails between the
support position and the secondary position.
9. The drilling vessel according to claim 8, wherein the cart
transport system comprises one or more transport devices for moving
the cart between the secondary position and the central support
position.
10. The drilling vessel according to claim 8, wherein the transport
devices comprise hydraulic cylinders.
11. The drilling vessel according to claim 8, wherein the transport
devices comprise a looped chain or wire.
12. The drilling vessel according to claim 1, wherein the hanger
body further defines a lateral passage, in communication with said
vertical passage, allowing to place the tubular string in and
remove the tubular string from said vertical passage.
13. The drilling vessel according to claim 12, wherein the cart is
provided with a closing device configured for closing the lateral
passage, which closing device is a door that can block the lateral
passage and is designed to provide the hanger body with a ring
shaped vertical passage when the lateral passage is closed.
14. The drilling vessel according to claim 1, wherein the hanger
body of the cart, is provided with multiple actuable support
devices, which support devices can be moved between an active
extended position, in which they extend in the vertical passage of
the hanger body for supporting a tubular, and a retracted passive
position, in which they allow for passing a tubular through the
vertical passage of the hanger body in a vertical direction.
15. The drilling vessel according to claim 14, wherein the support
devices can be extended into a range of active positions, such that
the active position of the support devices can be adapted to fit
the diameter of a tubular in the vertical passage, and the hanger
body can thus be used with a range of tubulars.
16. The drilling vessel according to claim 1, wherein the tubular
string support structure further comprises a frame, the frame
connecting at least the two parallel rails such that the tubular
string support can be provided as a module for retrofitting in
existing drilling vessels to provide a drilling vessel according to
the invention.
17. The drilling vessel according to claim 1, wherein the cart is a
first cart, and wherein a second cart is provided, such that there
are two carts, each cart having a hanger body, wherein each hanger
body defines a vertical passage adapted to receive a tubular string
supported in the firing line, wherein the carts are each supported
by the parallel rails such that each cart can be moved between a
central support position, above an elongated opening with the
firing line passing through the vertical passage, and a secondary
position above an elongated opening with the firing line passing
outside the vertical passage, and wherein, when both carts are
located in their secondary position, the carts are located on
opposite sides of the firing line, such that between the carts
there is a passage for passing through objects along the firing
line.
18. The drilling vessel according to claim 17, wherein each hanger
body defines a lateral passage, in communication with said vertical
passage, allowing to place the tubular string in and remove the
tubular string from said vertical passage.
19. A method for assembling and lowering a tubular string
comprising tubulars, using a drilling vessel according to claim 1,
the method comprising: supporting a tubular in the firing line
using a hoist system of the drilling tower; moving the cart into
the central support position, thus moving the tubular string,
supported by the hoist system of the drilling tower, through a
lateral passage of the hanger body of the cart; clamping the
tubular in the firing line using the clamping device of the cart,
and supporting that tubular in the firing line; uncoupling the
tubular string from the hoist system of the drilling tower;
attaching a tubular to the tubular supported by the cart to form a
tubular string; coupling the tubular string to the hoist system of
the drilling tower; releasing the tubular string with the clamping
device of the cart; lowering the tubular string using the hoist
system of the drilling tower; engaging the upper end of the tubular
string with the clamping device of the cart and supporting the
tubular string in the firing line; and uncoupling the tubular
string form the hoist system of the drilling tower.
20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising providing
a cart having a clamping device for engaging the tubulars.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Divisional of copending application
Ser. No. 15/429,324, filed on Feb. 10, 2017, which is a Divisional
of application Ser. No. 14/894,255, filed on Nov. 25, 2015 (now
U.S. Pat. No. 9,587,447, issued on Mar. 7, 2017), which was filed
as PCT International Application No. PCT/NL2014/050337 on May 27,
2014, which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 119(a) to
Patent Application No. 2010865, filed in The Netherlands on May 27,
2013, all of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference
into the present application.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a drilling vessel, e.g. for
oil and gas exploration, well servicing, etc., the drilling vessel
comprising a drilling tower having a firing line, along which a
tubular string is passed into the sea during drilling activities,
the firing line extending in a substantially vertical
direction.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] In general drilling vessels are provided with tools and hang
of clamps, such as riser spiders and slips, for working on,
assembling, disassembling and supporting tubular strings in the
firing line of the drilling tower. The tools and hang of clamps are
typically designed to work with a tubulars having a specific
diameter. When tubulars of a different diameter are to be handled,
the tools and of clamps are often replaced with tools and clamps
that fit the diameter of the other tubulars. Changing of clamps and
tools in the firing line costs time.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention aims to propose solutions to make
optimum use of the firing line on a drilling vessel.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] According to a first aspect, the invention provides a
drilling vessel.
[0006] The drilling vessel is provided with two carts on opposite
sides of the firing line. While one cart can is located a the
central support position for supporting tools and/or a tubular or
tubular string located in the firing line, the other cart is
located in its secondary position outside the firing line. Thus,
work in the firing line can progress using the first cart, while
the second cart is adapted to perform subsequent activities on the
tubular string located in the firing line. The drilling vessel
according to the first aspect of the invention thus allows to make
optimum use of the firing line on a drilling vessel.
[0007] A drilling vessel according to the first aspect of the
invention comprises a drilling tower having a firing line and a
tubular string support structure. Along the firing line of the
drilling tower, a tubular string is passed into the sea during
drilling activities. The firing line extends in a substantially
vertical direction and passes through an elongated opening. The
tubular string can be a drilling string, i.e. a string of drilling
tubulars, a casing string, i.e. a string of casing tubulars,
etc.
[0008] In an embodiment, the elongated opening is provided in a
deck, preferably a drilling deck. In a further embodiment the deck
in which said elongated opening is provided is the deck that also
supports the riser tensioners. In an embodiment, the drilling tower
is supported by a part of the hull of the drilling vessel that also
supports the deck in which the elongated opening is provided. For
example, in an embodiment the drilling tower is supported by cross
beams that also support at least a part of the deck in which the
elongate opening is provided, such that the bottom end of the tower
is located at substantially the same height of the deck in which
the elongate opening is provided. Thus, when seen in cross section,
the drilling tower does not extend below the deck both the deck and
the drilling tower are supported by the same hull construction
[0009] The tubular string support structure comprises two parallel
rails and two carts. The two parallel rails are provided on
opposite sides of the elongated opening, such that the firing line
of the drilling tower passes through the elongated opening and
between the rails.
[0010] It is noted that the rails can be provided in the form of
beams that are part of the construction of the hull, or can be
provided in the form of skid beams or actual rails supported by the
hull of the vessel. In an embodiment, the support rails are
provided below a top surface of the deck, preferably the drilling
deck, in which the elongated opening is provided, such that the
carts are at least partially recessed in the deck.
[0011] The two carts of the tubular string support structure each
have a hanger body, which hanger body defines a vertical passage
adapted to receive a tubular string supported in the firing line,
for example by a hoisting device provide on the drilling tower for
lifting and lowering tubulars.
[0012] The hanger body defines a lateral passage, in communication
with said vertical passage, allowing to place the tubular string in
and remove the tubular string from said vertical passage.
[0013] The carts are each supported by the parallel rails such that
each cart can be moved between a central support position, above
the elongated opening with the firing line passing through the
vertical passage, and a secondary position above the elongated
opening with the firing line passing outside the vertical passage.
Furthermore, when both carts are located in their secondary
position, the carts are located on opposite sides of the firing
line, such that between the carts there is a passage for passing
through large objects along the firing line.
[0014] In an embodiment, the carts are provided in a recess in a
deck, which recess also forms the elongated opening in a deck,
preferably such that the carts are supported such that the top side
of the carts is substantially flush with the top surface of the
deck or such that the top side of the carts is located below the
top surface of the deck in which the elongate opening is provided.
In such an embodiment the elongated opening essentially forms a
recess or groove in the deck structure, in which recess or groove
the carts are located. In a further embodiment, the carts are
provided in a recess in a deck that is located above the elongated
opening, and which is preferably dimensioned substantially similar
to the elongated opening. In an alternative embodiment, the carts
are provided in a recess in the deck that overlaps with the
elongated opening. For example, the elongated opening overlaps with
the central support position, while the carts in their secondary
positions are located adjacent the elongated opening, when seen in
top view.
[0015] In a further embodiment, the tubular string support
structure is provided in a deck section which is pivotable or
slideable into and out of a position above a moonpool or similar.
For example, by providing the tubular support structure in a
pivotable deck section, the tubular support structure can be
removed be pivoting the deck section, for example into a vertical,
upright position, to lift or lower products along the firing line
which products are to large to be passed between the two parallel
rails and/or the carts located in their secondary positions.
[0016] Due to the c-shape of the hanger bodies, i.e. the hanger
bodies defining a vertical passage combined with a lateral passage,
the carts can be moved into and out of the central support position
while a tubular is supported in the firing line. Thus, a tubular
can be supported by a tubular string support structure mounted on
the tower, for example a winch or a trolley, which tubular string
support structure is configured for lowering, lifting and supports
one or a string of tubulars in the firing line.
[0017] In an embodiment, the firing line is provided on the outside
of the tower. It is noted that a drilling tower with one or more
firing lines provided outside the structure of the tower is often
referred to as a mast type tower. When the firing line is provided
outside the tower, the elongate opening in which the two carts are
provided is also located outside the confines of the tower. In a
preferred embodiment, the drilling tower is a mast type tower with
the firing line located outside the mast, and the secondary
position of one of the carts is located between the central support
position and the mast.
[0018] Preferably, the elongated opening, in which the two carts
are provided, has a longitudinal axis that extends in a direction
away from the drilling tower. In such an embodiment, the one cart
has a secondary position between the central support position and
the drilling tower. The secondary position of the other cart is
located on the opposite side of the central support position such
that that cart moves away from the tower.
[0019] Furthermore, when the vessel is provided with a moonpool,
the elongated opening, in which the two carts are provided,
preferably has a longitudinal axis that extends in a direction
parallel to a longitudinal axis of that moonpool.
[0020] It is noted that with some drilling vessels, the drilling
tower comprises two firing lines, provided on opposite sides of the
tower. With such a vessel, the tubular string support structure
according to the invention can be provided at one or at both sides
of the drilling tower. In the latter case, each firing line is
provided with two carts according for the invention to allow for a
quick change of clamps and/or tools. Thus, the drilling vessel
according to the invention comprises a mast type drilling tower
with the firing lines located outside the mast and on opposite
sides of the mast. Thus, the present invention also provides an
improved multiple firing line drilling vessel. Preferably, with
both firing lines, the secondary position of one of the carts is
located between the central support position and the mast.
[0021] With a drilling vessel according to the first aspect of the
invention, one cart can be located in the central support position
for supporting tools and/or a tubular or tubular string located in
the firing line, while the other cart is located in its secondary
position outside the firing line. Tools can be mounted on the
second cart and/or the second cart can be adapted for supporting a
specific kind of tubular while that cart is positioned in its
secondary position. Thus, work in the firing line can progress
using the first cart, while the second cart is adapted to perform
subsequent activities on the tubular string located in the firing
line. Furthermore, the new tools can be positioned in the firing
line by simply moving the first cart out of the central support
position and into its secondary position, and moving the second
cart into the central support position.
[0022] In another embodiment according to the invention, both carts
comprise the same type of tool, but each tool is dedicated to a
specific type or range of tubulars. For example, both carts are
provided with a tubular support device, for example both carts are
provided with a tubular clamping device, one of which is dedicated
for use with a first type or range of tubulars, for example
tubulars having a first diameter, and the other of which is
dedicated for use with a second type or range of tubulars, for
example tubulars having a second diameter.
[0023] The drilling vessel according to the first aspect of the
invention thus allows making optimum use of the firing line on a
drilling vessel.
[0024] In an embodiment the carts are both provided with a deck
surface, preferably substantially level with the deck surface of
the deck in which the elongated opening is provided, such that the
carts each form a slideable deck section, the deck sections
preferably having dimensions of at least 2 by 2 meter, for example
2.5 by 2, 5 meter, more preferably of at least 3 by 3 meter, for
example 4 by 4 meter. Preferably, the carts thus each form a
slideable deck section, which deck sections are part of the
drilling deck of the drilling vessel. Thus, with a tubular string
support according to the invention not only the clamping device for
supporting the tubular in the firing line is being removed when a
cart is moved from the central support position to the secondary
position, but also the drilling deck used by personnel when the
cart is in the central support position.
[0025] In such an embodiment, not only the hanger body, i.e. the
tool for manipulating tubulars or the body supporting tools for
manipulating tubulars is replaced, but also the working deck
located around the firing line.
[0026] In an embodiment the tubular support structure comprises a
deck structure and a hanger body provided in that deck body,
alternatively, the hanger body can itself form the deck surface or
be provided with a deck surface mounted thereon.
[0027] In an embodiment, the deck surface of the carts forms the
top surface thereof, and the vertical passage and preferably any
actuable support devices of the cart are provided below the deck
surface of the cart.
[0028] Replacing a part of the deck or drill floor instead of only
the tools or devices mounted on the deck or drill floor or in an
opening provided in the deck or drill floor, allows for a quick
change of tools and devices that can interact with a tubular
located in the firing line. It furthermore allows for integrating
the tools and/or devices, such as clamping devices to be integrated
in the deck part, i.e. provided below the deck surface of the cart,
and thus allow for a free deck surface provides workers with
freedom to operate.
[0029] By providing the two carts with secondary positions on
opposite sides of the firing line, adjacent the central support
position, the carts can directly be moved into and out of the
central support position, which allows for a quick change of the
carts, and thus of the deck parts provided on the carts.
[0030] In an embodiment, both carts are provided with couple
devices for coupling the carts to each other such that the lateral
passages of both carts are positioned opposite each other and an
object that exits the lateral passage of one hanger body enters the
lateral passage of the other hanger body. Thus, moving one cart
from the central support portion into its secondary support
position automatically moves the other cart from its secondary
position into the support position, and a tubular supported in the
firing line, for example by a hoisting device of the drilling
tower, is moved from the central passage of one cart almost
directly into the central passage of the other cart. This allows
for a quick replacement of the carts located in the central support
position by the cart located in its secondary position.
[0031] In an embodiment, the elongated opening and the two carts
are dimensioned such that, when one of the carts is located in the
central support position and the other cart is located in its
secondary position, both carts are located adjacent each other,
preferably contact each other, preferably contact each other such
that a deck surface provide on the one cart forms an un interrupted
deck surface with the deck surface provided on the other cart.
[0032] Furthermore, by coupling these carts when replacing the cart
located in the central support position with the cart located in
its secondary position, the deck of the first cart is directly
replaced with the deck of the second cart during the transition. No
openings, which might cause risk situations for personal, are thus
created between the two decks during the transition.
[0033] In an embodiment both carts are configured for performing
the same function, e.g. supporting a flange of a tubular or
clamping the circumference of a tubular, but differ in the diameter
of the tubular they can handle, for example differ in the diameter
of the vertical passage, such that one cart can be used with
tubulars having a first diameter and not with tubulars having a
second diameter, and the other cart can be used with tubulars
having the second diameter and not with tubulars having the first
diameter. Such an embodiment can for example be used when switching
from building a casing string to building a drilling string, which
drilling string is with its lower end attached to the upper end of
the casing string, for lowering the casing string into the drilling
hole, which kind of drilling string is also referred to as a
landing string. Alternatively, the first cart is configured for
handling a first range of tubulars, e.g. tubulars having a diameter
within a first range, and the second cart is configured for
handling a second range of tubulars, e.g. tubulars having a
diameter within a second range, which second range does not, or
only partially overlaps with the first range. Such can for example
be beneficial when building a tapering drilling string, i.e. a
drilling string composed of the tubulars with reducing diameter
when seen from top to tip.
[0034] Thus, both carts are dedicated to a specific function, for
example are both provided with extendable slips for engaging and
clamping a tubular body in the firing line to support it, but are
each tuned to work with tubular bodies of a specific diameter.
Thus, more dedicated tools can be used, while the drawback of time
consuming replacing, remounting, and tuning of those tools
preventing work being done in the firing line each time for example
the diameter of the tubulars to be handled changes, can be
avoided.
[0035] In an embodiment according to the invention the carts are
each supported by the parallel rails such that when they are
located in their secondary position, their lateral passages are
directed towards the firing line. Thus, the carts are optimally
positioned for quickly replacing each other.
[0036] In a further embodiment, the carts, when located in their
secondary position, are positioned directly adjacent the cart in
the central support position, such that an overall compact
configuration is achieved in combination with an optimal positioned
for quickly replacing one cart located in the central support
position with the other cart. In a further embodiment, the carts
are coupled, such that when one cart is moved out of the central
support position, the other cart is pulled into the central support
position.
[0037] In an embodiment, the carts are configured such that they
can be lifted from the supporting rails, preferably when located in
their secondary position, to enable the cart to be replaced with
another cart, for example to be replaced with a cart configured for
supporting tubulars having different dimensions.
[0038] In a further embodiment, both carts are at opposite sides of
the lateral passage provided with support sections at their
topside, and both carts can be positioned partially in or adjacent
to the central support position at the same time, such that the
carts can together support an object, e.g. spider gimbal, located
in the firing line.
[0039] For example, both carts can be moved from their secondary
position towards the firing line, such that the distance between
the two carts is reduced and both carts are partially located in
the central support position at the same time, while the firing
line passes between both carts. Subsequently, an object such as a
riser spider is placed in the firing line such that it's opposite
ends are located on the carts positioned on opposite sides of the
firing line. Thus, the carts together support the riser spider in
the firing line.
[0040] In an embodiment, both carts are at opposite sides of the
lateral passage provided with couple devices for cooperating with
couple devices of an object located in the firing line, e.g. a
spider gimbal provided with such couple devices, and wherein both
carts can be positioned partially in or adjacent to the central
support position at the same time, such that the carts can together
engage such an object to support it in the firing line.
[0041] In such an embodiment, the side of a cart that faces the
other cart is provided with these coupling means, and the coupling
means of the respective carts can be moved towards each other by
moving the carts towards the firing line. Thus, an object such as
an intermediate provided between two tubulars of a tubular spring
can be engaged, on opposite sides, by the coupling means of the
respective carts. For example, the carts can be provided with pins
that extend from the cart towards the other cart, and an object
located in the firing line can be provided with recesses for
receiving those pins, such that the carts can be coupled with the
object by moving the carts towards the object and thus inserting
the pins provided on the carts in the openings proceed in the sides
of the object.
[0042] In an embodiment, the hanger body of at least one cart is
configured with the vertical passage having a diameter wider than
the lateral passage, such that, when seen in top view, the combined
vertical passage and lateral passage form a key hole shaped
opening. Such a cart is preferably furthermore provided with grips
that can be inserted into the central opening to engage a tubular
extending through said opening. For example, the cart can be
provided with recess shaped for receiving and supporting gripping
blocks, which can be placed into said openings to reduce the
diameter of the central opening and engage tubular extending
through the vertical passage or for supporting the flange of a
tubular extending through the central passage. In addition, or as
an alternative, the cart can be provided with retractable jaws or
dogs that can be inserted into the vertical passage to support a
flange of a tubular of a riser string. In an embodiment, at least
one cart is configured for receiving slips such that the vertical
passage can be adapted to the particular cross section of a tubular
string.
[0043] In an embodiment, at least one cart is provided with three
or more clamping blocks, which clamping blocks are provided along
the circumference of the vertical passage at even intervals such
that they can engage a tubular string passing through said vertical
passage, and which clamping blocks can be moved in a radial
direction with respect to a central axis of the vertical passage,
such that tubular strings of different diameter can be engaged with
said clamping blocks.
[0044] In a further embodiment, the cart is provided with a
vertical guide for each clamping block, such that the clamping
blocks are moveably supported in the central passage for movement
in a diagonal direction, i.e. upward in combination with radially
outward and downwards in combination with a radially inward. Thus,
the clamping blocks can be used as slips for supporting, and
clampingly engaging, a tubular located in the vertical passage of
the cart.
[0045] In a further embodiment, the clamping blocks are provided
with pads for engaging the tubular string. Thus the pads can be
replaced when worn out, or to fit a particular circumferential
shape or dimension of a tubular supported in the vertical passage
of the cart.
[0046] In an embodiment, at least one cart is provided with a
closing device configured for closing the lateral passage, for
example is provided with a door that can block the lateral passage,
which closing device preferably is designed to provide the hanger
body with a ring shaped vertical passage when the lateral passage
is closed. In such an embodiment, the closing device can be used
for converting the c-shaped clamp into a ring shaped support, which
in turn allows for an even distribution of the weight load of the
riser string supported by the cart in the central passage
thereof.
[0047] In an embodiment, the hanger body of at least one cart is
provided with a frusto-conical shape, to facilitate interaction
with standard slips.
[0048] In an alternative embodiment, the hanger body of each cart
comprises a frame composed out of multiple frame sections, which
frame sections preferably are hingeable connected, and wherein one
or more frame sections of the frame can be pivoted between an open
position, in which the frame sections form a C-shaped hanger body,
and a closing position, in which the pivotable frame sections close
the opening of the C-shaped hanger body.
[0049] In an embodiment, the hanger body is provided with multiple
actuable, preferably hydraulically actuable, support devices, for
example movable clamps or movable slips, which support devices can
be moved into and out of the vertical passage for engaging a
tubular in said vertical passage.
[0050] Preferably, the support devices, more in particular the
parts for engaging a tubular, can be moved between an active
extended position in which they extend in the vertical passage for
supporting a tubular, and a retracted passive position, in which
they allow for passing a tubular through the vertical passage in a
vertical direction and/or into and out of the vertical passage via
the lateral passage. In the latter, the parts for engaging the
tubular are located adjacent or in the hanger body, or the frame
that forms the hanger body.
[0051] Composing the frame out of multiple frame sections allows
for a modular build, which is especially beneficial when the frame
sections each frame section comprises an actuator device, for
example for engaging a tubular located in the vertical passage.
Thus identical frame sections, preferably combined with identical
actuators, can be combined into a hanger body.
[0052] In a further embodiment, the support devices are configured
such that they can be extended in a range of active positions, such
that the active position of the support devices can be adapted to
fit the diameter of a tubular in the vertical passage, and the
hanger body can thus be used with a range of tubulars, more in
particular with tubulars having a first diameter.
[0053] In an embodiment, the tubular string support structure
further comprises a bearing support, the bearing support defining
an opening concentric with the firing line, and which bearing
support enables rotating a cart when located in the central support
position about a vertical axis of the vertical passage of that
cart. Thus, a tubular, or tubular string supported by that cart can
be rotated while being supported in the firing line. The bearing
can be a roller type bearing or any other type of bearing suitable
for supporting large loads.
[0054] In a further embodiment, the bearing support intersects the
two parallel rails, such that the two parallel rails are split into
a first and a second set of parallel rails, each for moving one of
the two carts between their secondary position and the central
support position, in which central support position the carts are
located on the bearing support with the firing line passing through
the vertical passage. Thus, the part of the cart which contacts the
rails is moved onto the bearing support when the cart is moved into
the central support position.
[0055] In an embodiment, the carts are skid carts and the rails are
provided with skid surfaces. In such an embodiment, the cart is
provided with a skid surface, or multiple skid surfaces, with which
the cart contacts the rails. The skid surface can also be
configured as a C-shaped skid surface which C-shape matches the
ring shape of the baring support, such that the skid surface of the
cart, when located on the ring support is fully supported by the
ring support.
[0056] In a further embodiment, the rails are wide body rails, or
even contact each other such that they form a single skid surface.
Such an embodiment provides a larges support surface area for a
cart located in its secondary position or being moved between its
secondary position and the central support position. A single wide
support surface is especially beneficial when the cart is provided
with a C-shaped skid surface.
[0057] In an alternative embodiment, the carts are rail carts, and
are provided with wheels. In such an embodiment, the rails are
configured for providing a support surface for rolling wheels.
[0058] In an embodiment, the bearing support can be removed from
the tubular string support, and the tubular string support
furthermore comprises two rail sections that can replace the
bearing support when the latter has been removed, bridge the
opening between the two sets of parallel rails. Thus, the bearings
support can be removed when not needed and be replaced with rail
sections to provide the rails with a continuous support surface.
This embodiment is especially beneficial when the bearing support
intersects the support rails.
[0059] It is observed that the ring shaped bearing support defines
the maximum dimension of an object to be passed along the firing
line through the elongated opening. Furthermore, the ring shaped
support prevents a cart form being moved from the central support
position into its secondary position, or vice versa, while
supporting a tubular. Thus, providing a bearing support that can
temporarily be removed allows for passing a larger variety of
objects along the firing line, and for suing a cart for supporting
a tubular outside the firing line.
[0060] In a further embodiment, the bearing support and the carts
are provided with couple devices for coupling the carts, when
located in the central support position, with the bearing support,
and wherein the bearing support is provided with one or more drives
for rotating the bearing support and a cart that is coupled
therewith. Thus, an optimal rotational support is provided for the
cart and, furthermore, the bearing support is used actively turning
the cart about a vertical axis.
[0061] Since the bearing is located below the cart, the drive for
rotating the bearing can also be provided below the cart, such that
no deck space directly above or adjacent the cart has to be used
for mounting a drive to rotate the cart and the bearing.
[0062] In a further embodiment, the tubular string support further
comprises a diverter, located concentric with the firing line. In
an embodiment, beams that form the rails for supporting the cart,
or that support those rails, are also sued for supporting the
diverter. Thus, the diverter can be supported directly below the
cart supported by the beams, which allows for a compact
configuration of the tubular string support with diverter.
[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the a bearing support is provided
on top of the diverter, for enabling rotating a cart when located
in the central support position about a vertical axis of the
vertical passage of that cart. Thus, the carts can be rotatably
supported directly above the diverter, which allows for a compact
configuration of the tubular string support with diverter.
[0064] In an embodiment, the tubular string support further
comprises a cart transport system, which cart transport system
comprises one or more transport devices, such as a hydraulic
cylinder or a looped chain or wire, for moving the carts between
their secondary position and the support position. Thus, there is
no need for additional, for example deck mounted transporter
devices for moving the carts. Preferably, the transport system is
provided below the deck surface of the deck in which the elongate
opening is provided, and below the top surface of the carts, which
carts in a further embodiment are provided with a deck surface that
is substantially flush with the deck surface of the deck in which
the elongated opening is provided.
[0065] In a preferred embodiment, the cart transport system is
provided with a transport device on opposite sides of the elongated
opening, such that a cart is moved by at least two transport
devices when being transported between the central support position
and its secondary position. Thus, the transport devices can be
provided alongside the track, which allows for a compact
configuration. Furthermore, by engaging both sides of the cart with
transport devices, uncontrolled pivoting of the cart about a
vertical axis during transport can be avoided, which reduces the
need for lateral support of the carts and thus further contribute
to a compact configuration of the overall tubular string
support.
[0066] In an embodiment, the transport system further comprises a
yoke for each cart, the yoke is provided with coupling means for
being coupled to the one or more transport devices. The yoke thus
forms an interface between the transport devices and the cart, and
is for example used for coupling the transport devices with the
cart, but can also be sued as a guiding device, for example by
skidding along the walls of a sloth shaped recess in which the
carts are provided, during transport between the secondary position
and the centrals support position.
[0067] Preferably at least the hanger body of the cart is rotatably
supported in the yoke such that at least the hanger body of the
cart can be rotated, relative to the yoke, about a vertical axis of
the vertical passage of that hanger body.
[0068] In an embodiment, the transport devices each comprise a
chain or wire, the chains or wires extending on opposite sides of
the elongated opening and substantially parallel to the rails of
the tubular string support system, and at least one drive for
pulling the chains or wires along the rails, and wherein each yoke
and/or each cart is provided with a couple device for coupling the
yoke and/or the cart with the chains or wires of the transport
devices of the transport system.
[0069] Thus, the transport devices can be used for transporting
both carts. The cart to be transported is coupled with the
transport devices, for example the yoke of the carts can be
provided with hooking device for coupling the yokes with a chain of
the transport device, the chain extending along the support rails.
When the yoke is coupled on opposite sides to the chains of the
transport devices, the chains can be pulled along the rails to move
the yoke and thus the cart. When a cart is thus moved into its
secondary position, the yoke can be uncoupled from the transport
devices, and the yoke of the other cart can be coupled with the
transport devices to enable the other cart to be moved into the
central support position.
[0070] In a preferred embodiment, the wires or chains are looped
around driven sprockets, wheels, winches, or similar located at the
ends of the rails. In such a configuration, actuating the sprocket,
wheel or winch causes a section of the chain to move along the rail
in a first direction, and a section of the chain to move along the
rail in the opposite direction. Thus, there is no need for
adjusting the direction of rotation of the driven sprocket, wheel
or winch depending on the intended direction of travel of the
cart.
[0071] In an alternative embodiment, the transport system comprises
transport devices on opposite sides of the firing line, and the
transport devices each comprise a cylinder. The cylinders extend on
opposite sides of the elongated opening and substantially parallel
to the rails of the tubular string support system. In a further
embodiment, each cylinder is coupled with one end to the yoke of
one of the two carts and with an opposite end to the yoke of the
other of the two carts. Each yoke and/or each cart is furthermore
provided with a couple device for coupling the yoke and/or the cart
to a frame of the transport system to secure the cart in the
secondary position. Since the cylinders are connected with one end
to the yoke of one cart and with their opposite end to the yoke of
the other cart, the carts can be moved relative to other using the
cylinders. Thus, when a first cart is secured in its secondary
position, the second cart can be moved relative to the first cart
between the central support position and its secondary position.
Thus, this embodiment allows for efficient use of cylinders for
moving both carts.
[0072] In an alternative embodiment, the transport devices each
comprise two cylinders, one for each cart, the pairs of cylinders
extending on opposite sides of the elongated opening and
substantially parallel to the rails of the tubular string support
system, and wherein each cylinder is coupled with one end to a
frame of the transport system and with an opposite end to a yoke.
Thus each cart is provided with a dedicated pair of cylinders,
which allows for moving both carts independent of each other and at
the same time.
[0073] Depending on the transport devices used, the coupling
between yoke and the transport devices can be semi permanent. For
example, when the same transport devices are used for moving the
first cart and the second cart, the couple devices can be coupled
with the transport devices only while the cart is being transported
moved or the can be uncoupled when the other cart is moved.
[0074] In an embodiment, at least one cart is configured for
supporting tools for working on a tubular string supported in the
firing line, and can move these tools into and out of a working
position by moving between the central support position and the
secondary position.
[0075] In an embodiment, the drilling vessel comprises a drilling
deck, which drilling deck has a drilling deck top surface, and the
tubular string support structure is recessed in the drilling deck
such that it supports the two carts within the drilling deck, just
below the drilling deck top surface. In such an embodiment, the
carts are supported by the rails such that the top side of the
carts is located below the top surface of the deck in which the
elongate opening is provided. In a further embodiment, the drilling
deck covers the carts when in their secondary position. For
example, the drilling deck may comprise a removable deck section,
which covers the carts when in their secondary position, and which
temporarily be removed to provide access to one or both the cart
when in their secondary position.
[0076] In an embodiment, the longitudinal opening in which the
carts of the tubular string support structure are provided, is
provided in a drilling deck. In a further embodiment, a drilling
vessel according to the invention furthermore comprises a moonpool
with a moonpool deck, and the drilling deck is located above said
moonpool deck. In a further embodiment, the moonpool has an
elongated shape and the carts, when moved between their secondary
position and the central support position, are moved in a direction
parallel to a longitudinal axis of the moonpool.
[0077] In an embodiment, the longitudinal opening in which the
carts of the tubular string support structure are provided, is
provided in a drilling deck, and the drilling vessel is provided
with tensioners for supporting a tubular casing string, which
tensioners are supported by the drilling deck. In a further
embodiment, according to the invention, the tubular string support
structure further comprises a diverter, which diverter is supported
in the firing line, such that a cart located in the firing line is
positioned above the diverter.
[0078] The invention furthermore provides a method that relates to
assembling and lowering a tubular string comprising tubulars with
different cross sections, for example lowering a string of casing
tubulars into a drilling hole in the sea bottom using a string of
drilling tubulars, drilling tubulars typically having a smaller
diameter than casing tubulars. The method comprising the steps of:
[0079] Providing a first cart having a clamping device for engaging
the tubulars with the wide cross section. Thus, tubulars with a
wide cross section can be supported in the vertical passage of the
hanger body of the first cart, and thus in the firing line when the
cart is positioned in the central support position. [0080]
Providing a second cart having a clamping device for engaging the
tubulars with the narrow cross section. Thus, tubulars with a
narrow cross section can be supported in the vertical passage of
the hanger body of the second cart, and thus in the firing line
when the cart is positioned in the central support position. [0081]
Supporting a wide cross section tubular in the firing line using a
hoist system of the drilling tower. [0082] Moving the firs cart
into the central support position and clamping a wide cross section
tubular in the firing line using the clamping device of the first
cart, thus moving the tubular string, supported by the hoist system
of the drilling tower, through the lateral passage of the hanger
body of the first cart. [0083] Clamping the wide cross section
tubular in the firing line using the clamping device of the first
cart, and supporting that tubular in the firing line. [0084]
Uncoupling the tubular string form the hoist system of the drilling
tower. [0085] Attaching another wide cross section tubular to the
wide cross section tubular to form a tubular string. Thus, by
subsequently combining tubulars, or sub sets of two or three
already connected tubulars, to each other a tubular string is
assembled. [0086] Releasing the tubular string with the clamping
device of the first cart. [0087] Lowering the tubular string using
a hoist system of the drilling tower. [0088] Engaging the top end
of the tubular string with the clamping device of the first cart
and supporting the tubular in the firing line. [0089] Uncoupling
the tubular string form the hoist system of the drilling tower
[0090] Attaching a narrow cross section tubular to the wide cross
section tubular of the tubular string supported in the firing line.
[0091] Coupling the tubular string to the hoist system of the
drilling tower. [0092] Releasing the tubular string with the
clamping device of the first cart. [0093] Lowering the tubular
string using the hoist system of the drilling tower, and supporting
the tubular string in the firing line using the hoist system of the
drilling tower. [0094] Moving the first cart out of the central
support position and into its secondary position, thus moving the
tubular string, supported by the hoist system of the drilling
tower, through the lateral passage of the hanger body of the first
cart. [0095] Moving the second cart from its secondary position
into the central support position, thus moving the tubular string,
supported by the hoist system of the drilling tower, through the
lateral passage of the hanger body of the second cart. [0096]
Engaging the upper end of the tubular string with the clamping
device of the second cart and supporting the tubular string in the
firing line. [0097] Uncoupling the tubular string form the hoist
system of the drilling tower. [0098] Attaching another narrow cross
section tubular to the tubular string. [0099] Coupling the tubular
string to the hoist system of the drilling tower. [0100] Releasing
the tubular string with the clamping device of the second cart.
[0101] Lowering the tubular string using the hoist system of the
drilling tower, and supporting the tubular string in the firing
line using the hoist system of the drilling tower. [0102] Engaging
the upper end of the tubular string with the clamping device of the
second cart.
[0103] With a method according to the invention, two carts are
provided. One is used for supporting a section of a tubular string
with a wide diameter and the other is used for supporting sections
of that tubular string having a narrow diameter. Thus, when there
is a change in diameter of the tubulars used for composing the
tubular string, the cart in the central support position is simply
replaced by the other cart. The time need for providing the
dedicated tubular support device is reduced and there is no need
for extensive adaptation and or replacement of tools in the firing
line. Thus the work in the firing line is not, or only for a
reduced amount of time, interrupted.
[0104] According to the invention a similar method can be used for
assembling or disassembling a string of tubulars comprising
tubulars having a first diameter and tubulars having a second
diameter, wherein the tubulars having the first diameter alternate
with tubulars having the second diameter. Other configurations of
tubular strings comprising tubulars with different diameter can
also be efficiently assembled or disassembled using a drilling
vessel according to the invention.
[0105] In a further embodiment according to the invention, instead
of a clamping device a supporting device can be used for supporting
a tubular by its flange. Typically, such supporting devices are
also configured to fit the diameter of the tubular to be
supported.
[0106] In a further method according to the invention, one cart is
provided with a clamping device for engaging the circumferential
surface of a tubular body, and the other cart is provided with a
supporting device for supporting a tubulars by there flange. For
example tubulars for composing a riser string are typically
provided with bouncy means on there circumferential surface, and
are therefore preferably supported by their flanges.
[0107] In an embodiment, the tubular string support structure is
furthermore configured for supporting at least one auxiliary
device, for example a diverter and/or a bearing support, at the
central support position, such that the auxiliary device is
supported below a cart located in the central support position, and
which at least one auxiliary device preferably can be lowered into
said position and can be lifted out of said position when the carts
are both in their secondary position.
[0108] In a preferred embodiment, the tubular string support
comprises a frame, the frame connecting, and in use supporting, at
least the two parallel rails such that the tubular string support.
In a further embodiment, the frame may also connect, and in use
support, a bearing support and/or a cart transport system. Thus, by
providing a frame that connects several components of the tubular
strong support and in use supports those components and the carts,
the invention provides a module for retrofitting in existing
drilling vessels to provide a drilling vessel according to the
invention. The modular configuration facilitates installing, and
may be fitted such that it can later be easily removed for example
for maintenance.
[0109] According to a second aspect the invention furthermore
provides a drilling vessel having a firing line, along which a
tubular string is passed into the sea during drilling activities,
the firing line extending in a substantially vertical direction,
and a tubular string support structure. According to the second
aspect of the invention, the tubular string support structure
comprises a cart that can be moved into and out of a position in
the firing line, and a support bearing for supporting the cart in
its position in the firing line and enabling rotation of the cart
about a vertical axis of its vertical passage, the vertical axis
coinciding with the firing line.
[0110] The drilling vessel according to the second aspect of the
invention comprises: [0111] A drilling tower having a firing line,
along which a tubular string is passed into the sea during drilling
activities, the firing line extending in a substantially vertical
direction, and; [0112] A tubular string support structure, the
support structure comprising: [0113] a bearing support, the bearing
support defining an opening concentric with the firing line. [0114]
at least one cart, the cart having a hanger body that defines a
vertical passage adapted to receive a tubular string supported in
the firing line, and which hanger body defines a lateral passage,
in communication with said vertical passage, allowing to place the
tubular string in and remove the tubular string from said vertical
passage; [0115] two parallel rails, which rails are provided to
support the cart such that it can be moved between a central
support position, on the bearing with the firing line passing
through the vertical passage, and a secondary position on the rails
with the firing line passing outside the vertical passage, and
wherein the bearing support enables rotating said cart when in the
central support position about a vertical axis of the vertical
passage of said cart.
[0116] With a drilling vessel according to a second aspect of the
invention, a cart is provided which can be moved in a central
support position for supporting tools and/or a tubular or tubular
string located in the firing line. The tubular string support
structure is provided with a bearing support, the bearing support
defining an opening concentric with the firing line. The bearing
support enables rotating said cart when in the central support
position about a vertical axis of the vertical passage of said
cart. Thus, tools mounted on the cart and/or a tubular supported by
the cart can be rotated about the central axis of the firing line,
and thus be positioned relative to for example another tubular or
other tools already located in the firing line.
[0117] In an embodiment, the cart thus provides a movable platform
for bringing tools into and out of the firing line, and positioning
these tools relative to the firing line by rotating them about the
firing line. In another embodiment, the cart provides a removable
support for tubulars located in the firing line, which in
combination with the bearing support enables rotating a tubular or
tubular string in the firing line. In a third embodiment, the cart
is adapted for supporting tools as well as tubulars. In a further
embodiment, the cart also forms a deck section.
[0118] The drilling vessel according to the second aspect of the
invention thus differs form a drilling vessel according to the
first aspect of the invention in that the tubular string support
structure may comprise a single cart instead of two carts located
in opposite sides of the firing line. However, all features, and
related benefits, described with respect to a tubular string
support structure according to the first and/or third aspect of the
invention, can be combined with the tubular string support
according to the second aspect of the invention.
[0119] According to a third aspect, the invention furthermore
provides a drilling vessel having a firing line, along which a
tubular string is passed into the sea during drilling activities,
the firing line extending in a substantially vertical direction,
and a tubular string support structure. According to the third
aspect of the invention, the tubular string support structure
comprises a cart transport system configured for moving the at
least one cart between its support position in the firing line, and
its secondary position outside the firing line.
[0120] A drilling vessel according to the second aspect of the
invention comprises: [0121] a drilling tower having a firing line,
along which a tubular string is passed into the sea during drilling
activities, the firing line extending in a substantially vertical
direction, and; [0122] a tubular string support structure, the
support structure comprising: [0123] Two parallel rails, which
rails are provided on opposite sides of an elongated opening,
wherein the firing line passes through said elongated opening
between the rails; and [0124] at least one cart, the cart having a
hanger body that defines a vertical passage adapted to receive a
tubular string supported in the firing line, and which cart is
supported by the parallel rails such that the cart can be moved
between a support position, above the elongated opening with the
firing line passing through the vertical passage, and a secondary
position with the firing line passing outside the vertical passage,
and [0125] a cart transport system, configured for moving the at
least one cart along the two parallel rails between the support
position and the secondary position.
[0126] The drilling vessel according to the third aspect of the
invention thus differs form a drilling vessel according to the
first aspect of the invention in that the tubular string support
structure may comprise a single cart instead of two carts located
in opposite sides of the firing line. However, all features, and
related benefits, described with respect to a tubular string
support structure according to the first and/or second aspect of
the invention, can be combined with the tubular string support
according to the third aspect of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0127] In the drawings
[0128] FIG. 1 shows a drilling vessel according to the invention in
perspective view;
[0129] FIG. 2 shows the drilling vessel of FIG. 1 in partial cross
section;
[0130] FIG. 3 shows in perspective view from above a section of the
drilling vessel of FIG. 1 provided with a tubular support structure
according to the invention;
[0131] FIG. 4 shows the section of FIG. 3 in perspective view from
below;
[0132] FIG. 5A shows in top view an embodiment of a cart according
to the invention, the cart being provided with three clamping
blocks;
[0133] FIG. 5B shows part of the cart of FIG. 5a in cross section,
with the clamping block shown in its top as well as in its bottom
clamping position;
[0134] FIG. 6A shows in top view alternative embodiment of a cart
according to the invention, the cart being provided with three
clamping blocks;
[0135] FIG. 6B shows part of the cart of FIG. 6a in cross section,
with the clamping block shown in its top as well as in its bottom
clamping position;
[0136] FIG. 7 shows in perspective view from above a section of a
drilling vessel of FIG. 1 provided with a tubular support structure
according to the invention, the tubular support section comprising
two carts which are both depicted in their secondary position;
[0137] FIG. 8 shows the section of the drilling vessel of FIG. 7,
with one cart moved from its secondary position into a central
support position;
[0138] FIG. 9 shows the section of the drilling vessel of FIG. 8,
with the cart in the central support position rotated about the
firing line;
[0139] FIG. 10 shows the section of the drilling vessel FIG. 7 with
the other cart located in the central support position and rotated
about the firing line;
[0140] FIG. 11 shows the section of the drilling vessel of FIG. 7
in perspective view from below, showing a support bearing and both
carts in their secondary position;
[0141] FIG. 12 shows the section of the drilling vessel of FIG. 7
in perspective view from below, showing a support bearing, one cart
in its central support position and one cart in is secondary
position;
[0142] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of an alternative tubular
support structure comprising a cart transport system according to
the invention, the tubular support structure being provided in a
modular design to be fit in a vessel similar to the tubular support
structure shown in FIG. 7-12;
[0143] FIG. 14 shows part of the tubular support structure of FIG.
13;
[0144] FIG. 15a-f shows the tubular support structure of the FIG.
13 in different working positions;
[0145] FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of the tubular support
structure of FIG. 13 with an alternative cart transport system;
and
[0146] FIG. 17 shows a side view of the tubular support structure
of FIG. 16.
[0147] Further objects, embodiments and elaborations of the
apparatus and the method according to the invention will be
apparent from the following description, in which the invention is
further illustrated and elucidated on the basis of a number of
exemplary embodiments, with reference to the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0148] FIG. 1 shows a drilling vessel 1 according to the invention
in perspective view. The drilling vessel shown comprises a drilling
drilling tower 2. The drilling tower is of the mast type and
comprises two firing lines 4, both on the outside of the mast. One
of the firing lines 4a is located on the side of the mast type
drilling tower that faces the front of the drilling vessel, and one
of the firing lines 4b is provided on the side of the mast type
drilling tower that faces the rear of the drilling vessel. At both
sides, the mast type drilling tower is provided with a hoisting
device 7, comprising a trolley that can be moved downward and
upward along tracks mounted on the outside of the mast, to support,
lower and lift tubulars in the firing line. These types of hoisting
devices are generally known and therefore not discussed in detail
herein.
[0149] The drilling vessel 1 is provided with a tubular support
structure 3 according to the invention, which tubular support
structure is located a deck level and in on the front side of the
mast type drilling vessel. FIG. 2 shows the drilling vessel of FIG.
1 in partial cross section.
[0150] It is observed that the FIGS. 1 and 2 are schematic
representations of a vessel according the invention and only serve
to depict the location of a tubular support structure 3 on the
vessel 1. The tubular support structure 3 itself is shown in FIGS.
3 and 4.
[0151] FIG. 3 shows in perspective view from above a section of the
drilling vessel 1 of FIG. 1 provided with the tubular support
structure 3 according to the invention. FIG. 4 shows the same
section of FIG. 3 but now in perspective view from below.
[0152] The section shown comprises the base 8 of the mast like
drilling tower 2, and a section of a drilling deck 29 in which the
tubular support structure 3 is provided. In the embodiment shown,
the drilling deck 29 is located in front of the mast like drilling
tower, and extends alongside the drilling tower to the back of the
drilling tower.
[0153] The tubular support structure 3 is provided in front of the
tower and above a moonpool in the hull of the drilling vessel. The
firing line 4a of the drilling tower 2 extends in a substantially
vertical direction and passes via the tubular support structure 3
into the moonpool of the drilling vessel 1. Thus, using the
hoisting device 7 of the drilling tower, a tubular string can be
passed along the firing line 4a into the sea during drilling
activities, and, using the tubular support string structure 3 a
tubular or tubular string can be supported in the firing line
4a.
[0154] The tubular string support structure comprises two carts
13,14, each comprising a hanger body 14,15. Both carts are
supported on a set of parallel rails 11 extending on opposite sides
of an elongated opening 12. In FIGS. 3 and 4 the carts are each
located in a secondary position, or parking position, on opposite
sides of a central support position 18. The firing line 4a passes
through the central support position and elongated opening 12
between the rails 11.
[0155] When both carts are positioned in their secondary position,
between the carts there is provided a passage for passing through
large objects along the firing line.
[0156] The hanger bodies of the two carts 13,14 each define a
vertical passage 16 adapted to receive a tubular string supported
in the firing line 4a, and each define a lateral passage 17, in
communication with said vertical passage, allowing to place the
tubular string in and remove the tubular string from said vertical
passage.
[0157] According to the invention, the carts 13,14 of the tubular
support structure 3 are configured for supporting a tubular in the
firing line 4a. When the carts 13,14 are positioned in the central
support position 18, their vertical passages 16 are aligned with
the firing line 4a, such that a tubular supported in the firing
line is located in the vertical passage 16 of the hanger body, and
can be engaged by the hanger body, for example by way of clamps
that engage the tubular in a radial direction and/or by providing a
support surface adjacent the tubular to support a flange of the
tubular.
[0158] The carts 13,14 are each supported by the parallel rails 11
such that each cart can be moved between the central support
position 18, in which a cart is positioned above the elongated
opening with the firing line passing through its vertical passage,
and the secondary position 19, in which a cart is located above the
elongated opening with the firing line passing outside the vertical
passage. The lateral passage 17 of the hanger body allows for the
carts to be moved into and out of the central support position
while a tubular, or tubular string, is supported in the firing
line. In such a case, the tubular enters the vertical passage of
the hanger body via the lateral passage.
[0159] The drilling vessel shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 the tubular
string support structure 3 is recessed in the drilling deck 29,
such that it supports the two carts 13,14 in the drilling deck 29,
substantially below the top surface of the drilling deck. The carts
13,14 are supported by the rails 11 such that the top side of the
carts is located substantially level with the top surface of the
deck in which the elongate opening is provided.
[0160] In an alternative embodiment, the carts are supported by the
rails such that the top side of the carts is located below the top
surface of the deck in which the elongate opening is provided. In a
further embodiment, the drilling deck covers the carts when in
their secondary position. For example, the drilling deck may
comprise a removable deck section, which covers the carts when in
their secondary position, and which temporarily be removed to
provide access to one or both the cart when in their secondary
position.
[0161] In the embodiment shown the carts 13,14 each are provided
with a substantially flat top surface that functions as a deck. The
carts thus each form a slideable deck section, which deck sections
are part of the drilling deck of the drilling vessel.
[0162] The moonpool of the drilling vessel 1, not shown in the
figures, extends in a longitudinal direction of the vessel. The
drilling deck, in which the tubular support section has been
provided, is located above the moonpool, and the carts, when moved
between their secondary position and the central support position,
are moved in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the
moonpool.
[0163] Furthermore, in the embodiment shown, the drilling vessel 1
is provided with tensioners 28 for supporting a tubular casing
string, which tensioners are supported by the drilling deck 29.
Thus a casing string can be built in the firing line, using the
tubular support structure 3 according to the invention, and
subsequently be lowered into a support ring of the riser tensioner
device, for example to support a casing string that is connected to
a well head in de sea floor.
[0164] FIGS. 5 and 6 schematically show, in top view and in a
sectional cross section, a cart, similar to the one shown in FIGS.
3 and 4, in more detail. The carts shown each comprise a hanger
body 15 provided with multiple actuable, preferably hydraulically
actuable, support devices. In the embodiment shown, the support
devices are provided in the form of moveable clamping blocks 22,23,
which can be moved into and out of the vertical passage for
engaging and releasing respectively a tubular in said vertical
passage. In the embodiment shown, the clamping blocks 22,23 are
provided with pads 26, 27, shown in FIGS. 5a and 6a, for contacting
a tubular to be engaged in the vertical passage of the hanger body.
The actuators for moving the blocks are not shown in the
figures.
[0165] In the particular embodiments shown, the clamping blocks
22,23 are supported in a vertical guide 24,25. More in particular,
the clamping blocks 22,23 are, with a slanted contact surface,
supported on a slanted contact surface of the vertical guides such
that, by moving the clamping blocks along the slanted guide
surface, the substantially vertical contact surface of the clamping
blocks, in the embodiment shown provided with the pads 26,27, is
moved vertically as well as in the radial direction towards or away
from the firing line. Thus, when the clamping blocks engage a
tubular in the vertical passage, the weight of the tubular pulls
the clamping blocs in a downward direction, which, due to the
slanted surfaces of clamping blocks and guide, forces the clamping
blocks inward and thus enhance the grip of the clamping blocks on
the tubular. It is observed that the use of slanted surfaces to
enhance the grip is typically used with slips and similar gripping
devices.
[0166] FIGS. 5a and 6a show the clamping blocks 22,23 in an extend
position, engaging a tubular 9,10 located in the firing line 4.
FIGS. 5b and 6b depict the carts in cross section, with the
clamping blocks 22',23' depicted in a lifted passive position and
with the clamping blocks 22,23 in a lowered and active position. In
the lowered active position, the clamping blocks extend in the
vertical passage of the hanger body for engaging and supporting a
tubular. In their retracted passive position the clamping blocks
are moved in the radially outward direction, which allows for
passing a tubular through the vertical passage of the hanger body
in a vertical direction and/or into and out of the vertical passage
via the lateral passage.
[0167] The wedge shape of the clamping blocks and the slanted
interface surfaces of the hanger body and the clamping blocks,
provide support devices that can be extended into a range of active
positions, such that the active position of the support devices can
be adapted to fit the diameter of a tubular in the vertical
passage, and the hanger body can thus be used with a range of
tubulars.
[0168] The clamping blocks 22 of the cart shown in FIG. 5a are
dimensioned for engaging a tubular 9 with a first diameter, and the
clamping blocks 23 of the cart shown in FIG. 6a are configured for
engaging tubulars 10 with a second diameter, the second diameter
being wider than the first diameter. In an embodiment a tubular
support structure according to the invention comprises a first cart
similar to the one shown in FIG. 5 and a second cart similar to the
one shown in FIG. 6. Thus the tubular support structure is
configured for supporting tubulars having a first diameter and for
supporting tubulars having a second diameter.
[0169] Furthermore, the clamping blocks 22 of the cart shown in
FIG. 5a are configured for handling a first range of tubulars, in
the embodiment shown are dimensioned for handling tubulars having a
diameter within a first range. The clamping blocks 23 of the cart
shown in FIG. 6a are configured for handling a second range of
tubulars, in the embodiment shown are dimensioned for handling
tubulars having a diameter with in second range. In the embodiment
shown, the second range partially overlaps with the first
range.
[0170] The carts of a tubular support structure shown are thus
configured for engaging different types of tubulars, in the
embodiment shown tubulars that differ in diameter. Thus, when the
type of tubular to be supported in the firing line changes, for
example when in the firing line a tubular string is built of
tubulars having a different diameter, the cart in the central
support position can be replaced with the other cart to thus adapt
the tubular support structure to a change in the type of tubular to
be supported.
[0171] FIGS. 7-12 show a section of a drilling vessel 1 similar to
the one shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, provided with an alternative
tubular support structure 50 according to the invention. FIG. 7-10
shows a perspective view from above of the section of a drilling
vessel and the tubular support structure 50 according to the
invention, and FIGS. 11 and 12, show a perspective view from below
of the section of a drilling vessel and the tubular support
structure 50.
[0172] According to the invention the tubular string support
structure comprises a first cart 53 and a second cart 54, which are
supported on parallel rails 51 above an opening 52 in the deck.
Similar to the tubular support structure shown FIGS. 4 and 5 the
carts are supported in a recess in the deck. The two carts 53,54
are supported by the rails 51 such that the top side of the carts
is located below the top surface of the deck in which the elongate
opening is provided. The deck 29 comprises deck sections provided
on opposite sides of the central support position 58, which deck
sections cover the carts when in their secondary position, and
which can temporarily be removed to provide access to one or both
the cart when in their secondary position 59. In the figures these
deck sections have not been depicted to show the carts in their
secondary positions.
[0173] Similar to the carts shown in the preceding figures, both
carts 53,54 comprise a hanger body 55 provided with a vertical
passage 56 and a lateral passage 57. The hanger bodies are provided
with clamping bodies 60, similar to the one shown in FIGS. 5 and 6,
which are provided in a vertical guide 61.
[0174] The tubular support structure 50 shown in FIGS. 7-12 differs
from the tubular support structure shown in the preceding figures
in that it is provided with support bearing 63 for supporting the
hanger bodies 55 in the central position, which support bearing is
provided concentric with the firing line. In the embodiment shown,
the support surface of the support bearing 63 overlaps with the
rails, thus effectively dividing the parallel rails 51 in two
subset of rails, one set for supporting the first cart and another
set for supporting the other cart. Furthermore, in the embedment
shown, the support bearing 63 is provided with rails sections,
which support the cart when located in the central support
position. In an alternative embodiment, the support bearing is
provided with a ring shaped support surface.
[0175] Similar to the carts of the tubular support structure shown
in the FIGS. 3-6, the vertical passage of the carts 53,54 has a
central vertical axis that coincides with the firing line when the
cart is located in the central support position. In addition, the
carts 53,54 of the tubular support structure shown in FIGS. 7-12
can be rotated about that central vertical axis when the carts are
located in the central support position. Thus, a tubular or tubular
string supported by the cart can be rotated about its longitudinal
axis.
[0176] FIG. 8 shows the tubular support structure 50 with the first
cart 53 moved from its secondary position into the central support
position on top of the bearing support, such that a tubular
supported by the cart can be rotated about its longitudinal axis.
It is observed that in the figures the tubulars are not
depicted.
[0177] The hanger bodies 55 differ from the ones shown in the
preceding figures in that they are provided with rounded sides. The
hanger bodies are provided with semi-circular sides to enable
rotating the hanger bodies while being located in a recess in the
deck. Furthermore, the hanger bodies are provided with straight
sides, such that when in they are positioned in their secondary
position with their lateral opening facing the firing line, they
provide an extra wide opening between the carts.
[0178] FIG. 9 the tubular support structure with the first cart
rotated about a vertical axis central to its vertical passage and
coinciding with the firing line. FIG. 10 shows the tubular support
structure 50 with the first cart in its secondary position and the
second cart 54 located in the central support position and rotated
about the firing line.
[0179] FIG. 11 shows the tubular support structure 50 of FIG. 7 in
perspective view from below, with both carts in their secondary
position, similar to the situation in FIG. 7. FIG. 12 shows the
tubular support structure 50 of FIG. 7 in perspective view from
below, with both carts 53,54 in their secondary position, similar
to the situation in FIG. 7.
[0180] FIG. 12 shows the section of the drilling vessel of FIG. 7
in perspective view from below, with the first cart 53 located on
the support bearing 63 and the second cart 54 located in its
secondary position, similar to the situation shown in FIG. 9.
[0181] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7-12, the elongated opening
is provided in a drilling deck 64 which drilling deck also supports
the riser tensioners 62. In the embodiment shown, the riser
tensioner system comprises multiple cylinders and guide wheels,
which are all supported by the drilling deck.
[0182] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of an alternative tubular
support structure 103 comprising a cart transport system 131
according to the invention. The tubular support structure 103 is
depicted without the vessel. In practice it will be mounted in a
drilling vessel adjacent the drilling tower, preferably a mast type
drilling tower, such that the firing line of the drilling tower
passes through the tubular support system as has been discussed
with respect to the other embodiments disclosed herein.
[0183] The tubular string support structure 103 is configured
similar to the ones disclosed in FIGS. 7-12. The tubular support
structure comprises two parallel rails 111, which rails are
provided on opposite sides of an opening 112 through which, when
the tubular string support structure is mounted in a vessel, the
firing line passes. The tubular support structure further comprises
two carts 113,114. Each cart has a hanger body 115. The hanger
bodies 115 each define a vertical passage 116 adapted to receive a
tubular string supported in the firing line, and which hanger body
defines a lateral passage 117, in communication with said vertical
passage, allowing to place the tubular string in and remove the
tubular string from said vertical passage.
[0184] The carts 113,114 are each supported by the parallel rails
111 such that each cart can be moved between a central support
position 118 with the firing line passing through the vertical
passage, and a secondary position on opposite sides and adjacent to
the central support position with the firing line passing outside
the vertical passage.
[0185] In the embodiment shown, the tubular string support 103 is
further provided with bearing support 163 according to the
invention, the bearing support defining an opening concentric with
the firing line, for rotatable supporting a cart located in the
central support position.
[0186] Furthermore, the tubular string support 103 comprises a
diverter 130, located such that it is concentric with the bearing
support 103 and, when the tubular support structure is mounted in a
drilling vessel, concentric with the firing line. The bearing
support 103 is provided on top of the diverter 130, to enable
rotating a cart located in the central support position, the cart
for example supporting a drill string, about a vertical axis of the
vertical passage of the hanger body of that cart.
[0187] The bearing support 103 and the carts 113,114 are provided
with couple devices, in the embodiment shown openings for receiving
bolts, to couple the carts, when located in the central support
position, with the bearing support. Thus, the bearing support
enables rotating the cart, and also secures the cart in the central
support position while it is being rotated. It is observed that
other connecting devices, such as hydraulically actuated clamps or
pins, can also be sued for coupling a cart with a bearing support
according to the invention.
[0188] In the embodiment shown, the bearing support 103 is
furthermore provided with drives for rotating the bearing support
and a cart that is coupled therewith. In the embodiment shown, the
bearing is provided with a circumferential contact surface for
engagement with an electric drive. In alternative embodiments,
other types of drives can be used for rotating the bearing and the
cart provided thereupon.
[0189] The tubular support structure 103 further comprises a frame
of which two frame elements 162 extend on opposite sides of the
tubular support structure. The frame connects the different
components of the tubular support structure 103, in the embodiment
shown, the rails 111 and transport system 131. The frame
furthermore provides a seat for the diverter and the bearing
support, such that these can be mounted to the frame and secured
relative to the rails and transport system of the tubular support
system. In the embodiment shown, the bearing support and the
diverter can be removed from the tubular string support and
replaced with rail sections, to enable use of the tubular support
structure without the bearing support and the diverter.
[0190] By providing a frame that connects the main components of
the tubular support structure, the tubular support structure is
configured as a unit or module, that can be mounted in a drilling
vessel, for example as shown in FIG. 7-12. Providing the tubular
support structure with such a frame and thus a modular design,
facilitates installing, and optionally removing, the tubular
support structure in and from a drilling vessel.
[0191] FIG. 14 shows part the tubular support structure 103 of FIG.
13 without the two frame elements 16 2 provided on opposite sides
of the tubular support structure. Thus, in FIG. 14 part of the cart
transport system 131 according to the invention is visible.
[0192] According to the invention, the cart transport system
comprises one or more transport devices for moving the carts
between their secondary position and the central support position.
In the particular embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the cart transport
system 131 comprises a looped chain 132 on each side of the track
formed by the support rails 111. A tubular string support system
with an alternative car transport system, deploying hydraulic
cylinders for displacing the carts, is shown in FIGS. 16 and 17,
and will be discussed in more detail later on.
[0193] In the embodiments shown, the cart transport systems are
provided with a transport device on opposite sides of the opening,
such that a cart is moved by at least two transport devices when
being transported between the central support position and its
secondary position. The transport devices each comprise a chain
132, extending on opposite sides of the elongated opening and
substantially parallel to the rails of the tubular string support
system. In the embodiment shown, the chains are looped over
sprocket wheels on opposite ends of the tubular support system, at
the ends of the track comprising the parallel rails for supporting
the carts.
[0194] The cart transport device further comprises a drive 133 for
pulling the chains along the rails. Each cart is provided with a
couple device for coupling the cart with the chains of the
transport system. In the embodiment shown, the carts are provided
with arms 134 extending adjacent the chains, and provided with
openings for receiving a pin or other coupling devices to attach
the arms, and thus the carts, to the chains. Once the cart has been
secured to the chains, it can be moves along the rails by pulling
the chains using the china drive 133.
[0195] In an alternative embodiment, a further coupling device, for
example a yoke, can be used for connecting the cart with the
transport devices of the transport system. In an embodiment, the
transport system comprises a yoke for each cart, and preferably at
least the hanger body of the cart is rotatably supported in the
yoke such that at least the hanger body of the cart can be rotated,
relative to the yoke, about a vertical axis of the vertical passage
of the hanger body of that cart. The yoke is to be coupled with the
transport devices, for example a chain extending along the rails of
the tubular string support structure.
[0196] FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of the tubular support
structure of FIG. 13 with an alternative cart transport system 141.
FIG. 17 shows a side view of the tubular support structure of FIG.
16. In the embodiment shown, the transport system comprises a yoke
136 for each cart. The yoke-is a plate shaped table comprising an
opening in which the hanger body of the cart is mounted. The hanger
body 115 of each the cart 113,114 is rotatably supported in the
yoke 136 such that at least the hanger body 115 of the cart can be
rotated relative to the yoke, about a vertical axis of the vertical
passage of the hanger body of that cart.
[0197] The transport devices of the transport system are provided
on opposite sides of the track formed by the rails 111, and each
comprise a hydraulic cylinder 135. The cylinders extend on opposite
sides of the elongated opening and extend in a direction
substantially parallel to the rails of the tubular string support
system. Each cylinder is coupled with one end to the yoke of one of
the two carts and with an opposite end to the yoke of the other of
the two carts. Thus, the cylinders of the transport system can be
used to pull the carts towards each other, and to push them away
from each other.
[0198] Each yoke is furthermore provided with a couple device, not
shown in the figure, for coupling the yoke to the frame of the
transport system, or to for example the hull of the vessel, to
secure the cart in its secondary position. Thus, when one yoke is
secured in its secondary position, the cylinders can be used to
move the other yoke, and thus to move the cart mounted in that yoke
between its central support position and its secondary
position.
[0199] In an alternative embodiment, the transport devices of the
cart transport system each comprise two cylinders. Thus, on each
side of the track formed by the rails supporting the carts, two
cylinders are provided, one cylinder for each cart. The pairs of
cylinders provided on opposite sides of the track and elongated
opening of the tubular string support structure each extend
substantially parallel to the rails. Each cylinder is coupled with
one end to a frame of the tubular string support structure and with
an opposite end to a yoke. Thus, each yoke is provided with two
dedicated cylinders, and can be moved independent of the other
yoke.
[0200] It is observed that a cart according to the invention
comprises at least a hanger body for supporting a tubular or
tubular string. The hanger body can be configured for supporting a
tubular or tubular string for example by engaging the body of the
tubular with clamps, or by providing a support surface for the
flange of a tubular body. Also, a hanger body can be configured for
both engaging a tubular using clamps and by supporting a tubular
flange. Preferably, the hanger body is provided with moveable
support devices, for example clamps that can be inserted into the
vertical passage of the hanger body to engage a tubular, or dogs
that can be inserted into the vertical passage to provide a support
surface for supporting the flange of a tubular body. In an
embodiment, the hanger body comprises both clamps and dogs, in a
further embodiment, dogs and clams are integrated such that the
clamps also provide a support surface for supporting the flange of
a tubular. In an embodiment, the hanger body is the cart, and no
additional devices are provided. In such an embodiment, the hanger
body is provided with a skid surface for movement over the rails of
the tubular string support structure. In an alternative embodiment,
the hanger body is provided with wheels for movement over the rails
of the tubular string support structure. In a further embodiment,
the hanger body is mounted in a frame, for example such that it can
be rotated about a central axis through its vertical passage in
said frame. In a further embodiment, the hanger body is supported
in a frame which frame is provided with wheels. Further alternative
configurations of the carts of a tubular string support structure
according to the invention are also possible within the scope of
the invention.
[0201] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the carts
113,114 each comprise a hanger body 115 that is similar to the one
depicted in FIGS. 7-12. FIGS. 15a-15f show the tubular support
structure 103 with the hanger body 115 of one cart in different
working positions.
[0202] FIGS. 15a-c show a cart being moved by the cart transport
system into the central support position for engaging a tubular
supported in the firing line, for example a tubular that is part of
a tubular string supported by a hoisting device of the drilling
tower in the firing line. In FIG. 15d the doors of the hanger body
are closed and locked together, for example by inserting a locking
pin, to provide a ring shaped support for the tubular. In FIG. 15e,
the support devices of the hanger body are inserted into the
vertical passage to engage the tubular. In FIG. 15f, the cart has
been disconnected from the cart transport system, has been secured
to the bearing support, and has subsequently be rotated about a
central axis of the vertical passage of the hanger body, to thus
rotate the tubular supported by the hanger body about its
longitudinal axis. It is observed that when the hanger body of the
cart is rotatably supported in a yoke, which yoke is coupled with
the transport devices of the transport system, there is no need to
disconnect the yoke or cart to enable rotation of the cart, more in
particular the hanger body. It is furthermore observed that the
steps shown in FIGS. 15a-15f are similar to the ones shown in FIGS.
7-9, be it that in those figures a different embodiment of a
tubular string support structure according to the invention has
been depicted.
[0203] Of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the hanger body
115 of each cart comprises a frame composed out of multiple frame
sections 137. The hanger bodies furthermore comprise two frame
sections 138 that function as doors for closing the lateral opening
of the hanger body. FIGS. 5a-c show the hanger body with the doors
open, FIGS. 5d-f show the hanger body with the doors closed. With
the doors closed and secured to each other, the frame of the hanger
body is essentially ring shaped, which is beneficial for supporting
the weight of a tubular string engaged in the vertical passage.
[0204] The hanger body 115 of the carts 113,114 is furthermore
provided with multiple hydraulically actuable support devices 139.
In the embodiment shown the support devices 139 are provided in the
form of slip like clamps that can be moved into and out of the
vertical passage 116 for engaging and releasing respectively a
tubular in said vertical passage. FIGS. 15a-d show the support
devices 139 of the hanger body 115 in their inactive, retracted
position. FIGS. 15 e-f show the support devices 139 of the hanger
body 115 in their active clamping position.
[0205] In an active extended position, in the support devices
extend in the vertical passage of the hanger body for supporting a
tubular, and a retracted passive position, in which they allow for
passing a tubular through the vertical passage of the hanger body
in a vertical direction and/or into and out of the vertical passage
via the lateral passage.
[0206] It is observed that for the sake of clarity, no tubular has
been depicted in the Figs. In practice, the active position of the
clamping devices is the position in which the engage the body of
the tubular in the firing line, such that the tubular is supported.
This position depends on the diameter of the tubular. In the
figures, the clamping devices contact each other, such that there
is no room for a tubular between them. Thus, when engaging a
tubular, the clamping devices will be positioned in a radially more
outward position than the position in which they are depicted in
these Figs.
[0207] Typically, the clamping devices as shown in the embodiment
in FIGS. 13-15 can be extended into a range of active positions,
such that the active position of the support devices can be adapted
to fit the diameter of a tubular in the vertical passage, and the
hanger body can thus be used with a range of tubulars.
[0208] In an embodiment, the drilling vessel according to the
invention comprises a mast type drilling tower, with at least one
firing line located outside the mast type construction, and,
according to the invention, the at least one firing line extends
through an opening in deck, which opening is the centre of a
central support position and is located between two secondary
positions of the carts, which carts are configured to support a
tubular or a tubular string in the firing line when located in the
central support position.
[0209] It is noted that a drilling tower, in particular a mast type
drilling tower, is typically provided with one or more hoisting
devices to lift, lower and support objects, such as tubular
strings, for example a casing string or a riser string, in the
firing line of that drilling tower.
[0210] From the foregoing, it will be clear to the skilled person,
that within the framework of the invention as set forth in the
claims also many variations other than the examples described above
are conceivable.
* * * * *