System for controlling functions of a subsea structure, such as a blowout preventer

摘要

A system for controlling functions of a subsea structure, such as a blowout preventer, has a plurality of actuators respectively affixed to a plurality of controls of the subsea structure, and an acoustic signal generator positioned remotely from the plurality of actuators. Each of the plurality of actuators has a transponder connected thereto. The acoustic signal generator produces an acoustic signal so as to actuate at least one of the plurality of actuators. Each of the actuators is an electrically-powered torque wrench having a battery affixed there to so as to supply power thereto. An induction generator can transmit an electromagnetic wave along the tubing associated with the blowout preventer so as to recharge the batteries of the torque wrenches.

主权项

1. A control system comprising:
a blowout preventer having a control thereon; a pipe extending upwardly from said blowout preventer; an acoustic signal generator; a transponder positioned remotely from said acoustic signal generator; an electrically-powered torque wrench connected to said transponder, said transponder extending outwardly of said torque wrench, said torque wrench having a head directly connected to said control of said blowout preventer, said acoustic signal generator suitable for passing a signal to said transponder so as to drive said torque wrench; a battery electrically connected to said torque wrench so as to supply power to said torque wrench; and an induction generator connected to said pipe so as to resonantly electrically charge said battery of said torque wrench.