Advanced Simulation Technology

It is often a prerequisite that service providers can simulate prototype technology, perform tuning, conduct testing, facilitate training, plan missions, and other applications. Simulations minimize risks associated with any endeavor, thereby enhancing the likelihood of success while optimizing schedules and reducing cost. It is instrumental to offer simulation services as an integral part of our service offerings. 

The benefits of simulation 

One of the greatest advantages of simulation is that it allows remotely operated vehicle (ROV) pilots to recognize and work through potential problems, such as visibility constraints and access issues. With a clear picture of how multiple work plans could be executed—and the ability to try them out in advance—engineers can refine work plans for faster and more efficient execution.  

In a virtual environment, you can conduct early-phase testing of technology and identify design flaws or impractical solutions that might otherwise remain undiscovered until real world operations commence. The risk of not doing a simulation includes either aborting the operation or prolonging execution schedules.  

Similarly, procedures or operational processes can undergo qualification in a virtual setting, allowing for necessary adjustments to be made. Not to mention, the advantages of training for complex tasks to hone the crew skills.  

Moreover, simulation offers many advantages to mission planning for autonomous technology, where the sole perspective lies within the mission code. Executing the mission code within a simulator substantially reduces risks and ensures the attainment of mission objectives and behaviors as intended. Data gathered during simulations can be used to define specific risk factors so mitigation strategies can be developed and tested before project execution to avoid complications in the field. 

Following processes in a test environment also allows better processes to be developed. And when processes have been revised, executing them in a simulated environment leads to improved preparedness, faster execution, and fewer mistakes. Walking through a project scope step by step, prior to an offshore operation, either at an onshore remote operations center or at offshore control room using laptop version with a gaming controller, gives ROV pilots the chance to hone their skills by carrying out complicated tasks and repeatedly performing operations that are particularly challenging. 

Creating a robust simulation environment 

At Oceaneering, engineers use computer-aided design (CAD) models from the client to populate a base template that is simplified before being imported to our simulation software. The software offers real-time, high-fidelity real-world simulations. The next step is the creation of a graphics gallery that includes collision geometry. The physics engine of the simulation software captures various fluid interactions such as buoyancy, drag, lift, added mass and inertia hydrodynamic effects to simulate how rigid bodies react in water. 

It also includes modeling capability of sea current conditions, wave interactions and underwater visibility, and physical obstructions. Our simulator software uses Oceaneering ROV models and proprietary tools and can accommodate third-party tools. 

Once the simulation model is developed, it undergoes rigorous testing by experienced ROV pilots before stakeholders are invited to participate in a simulation. Sophisticated simulations can test engineered solutions and products, verify operations, procedures, and methodology, and optimize operational efficiency by defining and mitigating risks. 

Capturing value in the field 

Multiple simulations have been completed that confirm the value of the simulation technology. 

In one recent project, a simulation was carried out to determine the best placement for I-tubes for a riser pull-in. The simulation confirmed that an ROV could access the floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessel turret to hot stab the I-tubes and provided visual confirmation of bend stiffener connector latching. The simulation enabled mapping of the most direct approach to the asset from the ROV launch point, and also identified the best locations for accessing the stabs and recommended placements for ROV handles to simplify subsequent work. 

Another simulation was carried out on a production manifold by removing blind flange and permanent abandonment. This requires intricate ROV maneuvering in a congested environment to allow the flange to be cut and plugged. One of the main objectives of this simulation was to find optimal placement of additional camera positions on the intervention tool for better visibility. The simulation also allowed for clash checks, ensured all necessary tools could be used with the ROV, and assessed tool behavior in the conditions experienced during the repair process. Because simulations were carried out very early in the process, changes to the design could be made before producing any hardware. This way, maximum benefit was gained. The successful execution of the work program proved the value of the simulation technology and in the process enabled ROV pilots to fine-tune their skills for similar precision work in limited-access areas.  

These successes illustrate how subsea simulation technology has been put to the test and has risen to the challenge, reducing risk, decreasing project execution times, and driving down the cost of complex and critical subsea operations.