Double-shell intelligent underwater electric switcher
By employing the dual-shell design and remote control technology of the dual-shell intelligent underwater electric pump switcher, the problems of high operational dependence and low safety in underwater electric pump switching are solved, achieving efficient and safe electric pump switching and monitoring, and reducing operating costs.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SHENZHEN BRANCH CHINA NAT OFFSHORE OIL CORP
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-23
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-28
AI Technical Summary
Existing underwater electric pump switching technology relies on underwater robot operation, which is greatly affected by sea conditions, has difficulty in guaranteeing accuracy, has low response time, and has low safety due to its single-shell structure.
It adopts a dual-shell design, combining mechanical transmission and remote control, and realizes circuit switching and status monitoring through ground equipment. It uses balancing airbags to alleviate pressure changes and eliminates the dependence on underwater robots and work boats.
It improves the safety and timeliness of underwater electric pump switching, reduces operating costs, and enhances the intelligence level and ease of installation of the equipment.
Smart Images

Figure CN121939718A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention belongs to the field of oil and gas drilling and production equipment technology, and in particular relates to a dual-shell intelligent underwater electric switch. Background Technology
[0002] In deepwater oilfield development, subsea production systems typically employ a single-well dual-pump redundancy configuration to improve reliability. When the primary production pump fails, it must be switched to the backup pump to maintain production. Currently, subsea pumps are usually powered via umbilical cables and rely on subsea wet-plug electrical connectors to connect the cables to the subsea production system.
[0003] Furthermore, the switching of electric pumps in domestic underwater production systems requires the use of underwater robots for mechanical docking or disconnection of wet-plug connectors. This method presents the following significant problems: 1. High dependence on operating environment: The operation of underwater machines is affected by sea conditions such as water flow and visibility, and they cannot operate during severe sea conditions; 2. Difficulty in guaranteeing docking accuracy: The operation of underwater robots is greatly affected by the skill level of the personnel. Improper operation can easily lead to insertion / removal failure or damage to the connector. 3. Low response time: For underwater facilities without long-term underwater machinery on duty, it is necessary to temporarily mobilize the work vessel and underwater machinery and equipment. From the occurrence of failure to the completion of the switchover, it usually takes several days or even several weeks, which can easily cause production delays.
[0004] Furthermore, most underwater electrical switchers are single-shell structures, which can affect overall functionality and reduce safety if accidentally damaged. Summary of the Invention
[0005] The problem this invention aims to solve is to provide a dual-shell intelligent underwater electrical switcher. It adopts a dual-shell, mechanical transmission, remote control and monitoring design, which allows for multiple switching of underwater circuits and monitoring of switch status remotely via ground equipment. This eliminates the dependence on underwater robots or workboats, resulting in high operational efficiency and low operating costs. At the same time, it uses a balancing airbag to mitigate damage to the internal mechanism caused by sudden pressure changes.
[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is: a dual-shell intelligent underwater electric switcher, including a shell, the shell being a cylindrical body, the shell having a cylindrical cavity inside, an upper cover being fastened to the top of the shell, a fixing rod being connected to the lower surface of the upper cover, the fixing rod sequentially fixing a first output power connection plate, an input power connection plate, and a second output power connection plate from top to bottom, a switching frame being provided inside the cylindrical cavity, the switching frame being a rectangular frame, the switching frame including an upper connecting plate, a connecting rod, a lower connecting plate, and a switching shaft connected clockwise in sequence, a motor being provided inside the switching frame, the motor being connected to a drive shaft through a reducer, the drive shaft being threadedly connected to the lower connecting plate, the switching shaft having an insulated switching shaft and a metal switching shaft arranged sequentially at intervals, the switching shaft having an insulating component, a balancing bladder being connected to the lower end of the fixing rod, the shell, the upper cover, and the balancing bladder forming an external pressure-bearing shell, the... The housings of the motor and the reducer form a pressure-bearing shell for the electrical control module. The pressure-bearing shell is filled with insulating gas, while the outer pressure-bearing shell and the outer pressure-bearing shell are filled with insulating liquid. A balancing bladder balances the volume changes of the insulating liquid under different conditions, mitigating damage to the internal mechanisms caused by sudden pressure changes. The upper cover is equipped with an input electrical connector, a first output electrical connector, a second output electrical connector, a motor control signal electrical connector, and an equipment pressure chamber. Ground control equipment connects to the motor control signal electrical connector, which provides an electrical signal to the motor. When the motor operates, it drives the transmission shaft to rotate, causing the switching frame to move up and down. This allows the first output power connection plate, the input power connection plate, and the second output power connection plate to contact the insulating switching shaft or the metal switching shaft, causing the input electrical connector to disconnect or connect with the first output electrical connector and the second output electrical connector.
[0007] Furthermore, the switching frame is connected to a sensor module, which analyzes the distance the switching frame travels, converts the signal by an encoder, and transmits it to the ground control device through the motor control signal connector and cable to determine the operating position and status of the motor.
[0008] Furthermore, the first output power connection board includes a first output power connection ring, and the first output terminal electrical connector is connected to the first output power connection ring of the first output power connection board via several cables; the input power connection board includes an input power connection ring, and the input terminal electrical connector is connected to several input power connection rings of the input power connection board via cables with the same number of connector cores; the second output power connection board includes a second output power connection ring, and the second output terminal electrical connector is connected to the second output power connection ring of the second output power connection board via several cables.
[0009] Furthermore, the first output power connection ring is externally wrapped with a first output power connection ring insulation layer, which is sandwiched between two first output power insulation baffles. A first output power contact ring is provided inside the first output power connection ring, and this first output power contact ring slides on the surface of the switching shaft. Similarly, the input power connection ring is externally wrapped with an input power connection ring insulation layer, which is sandwiched between two input power insulation baffles. An input power contact ring is provided inside the input power connection ring, and this input power contact ring slides on the surface of the switching shaft. The second output power connection ring is externally wrapped with a second output power connection ring insulation layer, which is sandwiched between two second output power insulation baffles. A second output power contact ring is provided inside the second output power connection ring, and this second output power contact ring slides on the surface of the switching shaft.
[0010] Furthermore, the switching shaft includes, from top to bottom, a first insulating switching shaft, a metal switching shaft, and a second insulating switching shaft that are connected by threads in sequence. Both ends of the switching shaft are connected to the upper connecting plate and the lower connecting plate by bolts.
[0011] Furthermore, an inner insulating component is fitted onto the outer surface of the switching shaft, and an outer insulating component is fitted onto the outer surface of the inner insulating component. The inner and outer insulating components prevent the switching shaft from being connected to external materials under high voltage.
[0012] Furthermore, a first switching shaft inner insulation component is fitted onto the upper end of the insulating layer of the first output power connection ring, and a first switching shaft outer insulation component is fitted onto the outside of the first switching shaft inner insulation component; a second switching shaft inner insulation component is fitted onto the lower end of the insulating layer of the first output power connection ring, and a second switching shaft outer insulation component is fitted onto the outside of the second switching shaft inner insulation component; a second switching shaft inner insulation component is fitted onto the upper end of the insulating layer of the input power connection ring, and a second switching shaft outer insulation component is fitted onto the outside of the second switching shaft inner insulation component; a third switching shaft inner insulation component is fitted onto the lower end of the insulating layer of the input power connection ring, and a third switching shaft outer insulation component is fitted onto the outside of the third switching shaft inner insulation component; a third switching shaft inner insulation component is fitted onto the upper end of the insulating layer of the second output power connection ring, and a third switching shaft outer insulation component is fitted onto the outside of the third switching shaft inner insulation component; a fourth switching shaft inner insulation component is fitted onto the lower end of the insulating layer of the second output power connection ring, and a fourth switching shaft outer insulation component is fitted onto the outside of the fourth switching shaft inner insulation component.
[0013] Furthermore, initially, the input power connection ring is located in the middle of the metal switching shaft, and the metal switching shaft is not in contact with the first output power connection ring, the first output power contact ring, the second output power connection ring, or the second output power contact ring. The input electrical connector is in a disconnected mode with both the first and second output electrical connectors. When the ground control equipment sends a signal to connect the input electrical connector to the first output electrical connector, the motor drives the transmission shaft, and the switching frame and the switching rod assembly move upward, so that the two ends of the metal switching shaft are connected to the first output power connection ring, the first output power contact ring and the input power connection ring, and the input power contact ring, thereby realizing the connection between the input electrical connector and the first output electrical connector. When the ground control equipment sends a signal to connect the input electrical connector to the second output electrical connector, the motor drives the transmission shaft, and the switching frame and the switching rod assembly move downward, so that the two ends of the metal switching shaft connect the input power connection ring, the input power contact ring and the second output power connection ring, the second output power contact ring, thereby connecting the input electrical connector to the second output electrical connector.
[0014] Furthermore, the upper end of the fixed connecting rod is provided with an upper end cap connecting thread, and the upper end cap is provided with an internal threaded hole. The upper end cap connecting thread mates with the internal threaded hole to realize the threaded connection between the upper end of the fixed connecting rod and the upper end cap. The lower end of the fixed connecting rod is connected to the balance bladder through a connecting bolt. The fixed connecting rod is fitted with a long matching sleeve and a short matching sleeve. The long matching sleeve is respectively placed between the first output power connection ring and the input power connection ring, and between the second output power connection ring and the input power connection ring. The short matching sleeve is respectively placed inside the first output power connection ring, the second output power connection ring, and the input power connection ring. One end of the fixed connecting rod is provided with a limiting step at the contact point with the first output power connection ring, and the other end of the fixed connecting rod is provided with a locking thread at the contact point with the second output power connection ring. A locking nut is fitted on the outer cylindrical surface of the locking thread.
[0015] Furthermore, the balancing bladder includes a metal support plate and a deformable bladder. The end face of the support plate is provided with multiple connecting holes, which connect the deformable bladder and the space of the cylindrical cavity to balance the volume change of the insulating liquid under different conditions and alleviate the damage caused by sudden pressure changes to the internal mechanism.
[0016] The advantages and positive effects of this invention are: 1. The double-shell structure of this invention has strong safety. Accidental damage to a single shell will not affect the overall function. The use of a balance airbag can alleviate the damage to the internal mechanism caused by sudden pressure changes and reduce the possibility of shell damage, thus ensuring strong safety.
[0017] 2. This invention incorporates electronic devices such as position sensors, encoders, and signal transmission equipment, enabling ground equipment to monitor the switching status of underwater electric pumps and improving the intelligence level of the equipment.
[0018] 3. This invention enables remote control of electric pump switching via ground equipment, eliminating reliance on underwater robots or workboats, resulting in high operational efficiency and low operating costs.
[0019] 4. The electric switch of the present invention has a compact structure, is easy to install, has strong compatibility, and can be widely used in the transformation work of various oil and gas fields, with a wide range of applications. Attached Figure Description
[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of an embodiment of the present invention.
[0021] Figure 2 This is a partial enlarged view of the fixed connecting rod according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0022] Figure 3 This is a partial enlarged view of the switching axis in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the initial state of an embodiment of the present invention.
[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the first electric pump being turned on according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of connecting the second electric pump according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] In the picture: 1. Upper retaining ring; 2. Upper end cover; 3. Outer shell; 4. Fixed connecting rod; 401. Upper end cover connecting thread; 402. Limiting step; 403. Long sleeve for long fitting; 404. Short sleeve for long fitting; 405. Locking nut; 406. Locking thread; 407. Connecting bolt; 5. Motor: 6. First output power supply connection board; 601. First output power supply insulation baffle; 602. Insulating layer of the first output power connection ring; 603. First output power connection ring; 604. First output power contact ring; 7. Input power connection plate; 701. Input power insulation baffle; 702. Input power connection ring insulation layer; 703. Input power connection ring; 704. Input power contact ring; 8. Second output power supply connection board; 801. Second output power supply insulation baffle; 802. Insulation layer of the second output power connector ring; 803. Second output power connector ring; 804. Second output power contact ring; 9. Reducer; 10. Sensor module; 11. Switching frame; 1101. Upper connecting plate; 1102. Connecting rod; 1103. Lower connecting plate; 12. Insulation sleeve assembly; 1201. First insulation switching shaft; 1202. Metal switching shaft; 1203. Second insulation switching shaft; 13. Switch the internal insulation assembly; 1301. First switch the internal insulation assembly; 1302. Second switching shaft internal insulation assembly; 1303. Third switching shaft internal insulation assembly; 1304. Fourth switching shaft internal insulation assembly; 14. Switching shaft external insulation assembly; 1401. First switching shaft external insulation assembly; 1402. Second switching shaft external insulation assembly; 1403. Third switching shaft external insulation assembly; 1404. Fourth switching shaft external insulation assembly; 15. Drive shaft; 16. Balance bladder; 1601. Support plate; 1602, bladder; 17, perforated end cap; 18, equipment pressure chamber; E1, Input electrical connector; E2, First output electrical connector; E3, Second output terminal electrical connector; E4, Motor control signal electrical connector. Detailed Implementation
[0027] The technical solution of the present invention will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0028] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.
[0029] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.
[0030] The embodiments of the present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings: like Figure 1 As shown, a dual-shell intelligent underwater power switcher includes a shell 3, which is cylindrical in shape and has a cylindrical cavity inside. An upper cover 2 is attached to the top of the shell 3, and a fixing rod 4 is connected to the lower surface of the upper cover 2. The fixing rod 4 sequentially fixes a first output power connection plate 6, an input power connection plate 7, and a second output power connection plate 8 from top to bottom. A switching frame 11 is housed within the cylindrical cavity. The switching frame 11 is a rectangular frame and includes an upper connecting plate 1101, a connecting rod 1102, a lower connecting plate 1103, and a switching shaft 12, which are sequentially connected clockwise by bolts. The switching frame 11 can slide upwards and downwards relative to a motor 5 under the drive of the transmission thread of the transmission shaft 15 and the guidance of guide holes on the first output power insulation baffle 601, the input power insulation baffle 701, and the second output power insulation baffle 801. A motor 5 is housed within the switching frame 11, and the motor 5 is connected to the transmission shaft 15 via a reducer. The transmission shaft 15 is threadedly connected to the lower connecting plate 1103.
[0031] The switching shaft 12 is provided with an insulated switching shaft and a metal switching shaft 1202 arranged at intervals. The switching shaft 12 is equipped with an insulating component, and the lower end of the fixed connecting rod 4 is connected to the balance bladder 16. The outer shell 3, the upper cover 2, and the balance bladder 16 form an outer pressure-bearing shell, and the outer shells of the motor 5 and the reducer 9 form an electrical control module pressure-bearing shell. The electrical control module pressure-bearing shell is filled with insulating gas, and the outer and inner sides of the electrical control module pressure-bearing shell are filled with insulating liquid. The balance bladder 16 balances the volume change of the insulating liquid under different conditions and alleviates the damage to the internal mechanism caused by sudden pressure changes. The upper cover 2 is equipped with an input electrical connector E1, a first output electrical connector E2, a second output electrical connector E3, a motor control signal electrical connector E4, and an equipment pressure chamber 18. The ground control equipment is connected to the motor control signal electrical connector E4, which provides an electrical signal to the motor 5. When the motor 5 runs, it drives the transmission shaft 15 to rotate, causing the switching frame 11 to move up and down. This enables the first output power connection plate 6, the input power connection plate 7, and the second output power connection plate 8 to contact the insulated switching shaft or the metal switching shaft 1202, thereby causing the input electrical connector E1 to disconnect or connect with the first output electrical connector E2 and the second output electrical connector E3.
[0032] Preferably, the upper end cover 2 is provided with an upper retaining ring 1, which is installed on the upper outer cylindrical surface of the outer shell 3. The balance bladder 16 is provided with a perforated end cover 17, which is fixed to the lower outer cylindrical surface of the outer shell 3.
[0033] Preferably, the switching frame 11 is connected to the sensor module 10. The sensor module 10 analyzes the distance traveled by the switching frame 11, converts the signal by the encoder, and transmits it to the ground control equipment through the motor control signal connector E4 and the cable to determine the motor's running position and running status.
[0034] Specifically, the first output power connection board 6 includes a first output power connection ring 603, and a first output connector E2 is connected to the first output power connection ring 603 of the first output power connection board 6 via several cables. The input power connection board 7 includes an input power connection ring 703, and an input connector E1 is connected to several input power connection rings 703 of the input power connection board 7 via a number of cables equal to the number of connector cores. The second output power connection board 8 includes a second output power connection ring 803, and a second output connector E3 is connected to the second output power connection ring 803 of the second output power connection board 8 via several cables.
[0035] like Figure 2As shown, the fixed connecting rod 4 is externally fitted with a long sleeve 403 and a short sleeve 404, which are used to separate the first output power insulation baffle 601, the input power insulation baffle 701 and the second output power insulation baffle 801. The long sleeve 403 is placed between the first output power connection ring 603 and the input power connection ring 703, and between the second output power connection ring 803 and the input power connection ring 703. The short sleeve 404 (404) is placed inside the first output power connection ring 603, the second output power connection ring 803, and the input power connection ring 703, respectively. One end of the fixed connecting rod 4 is provided with a limiting step 402 at the contact point with the first output power connection ring 603. The other end of the fixed connecting rod 4 is provided with a locking thread 406 at the contact point with the second output power connection ring 803. A locking nut 405 is sleeved on the outer cylindrical surface of the locking thread 406 for positioning and limiting the first output power insulation baffle 601, the input power insulation baffle 701, and the second output power insulation baffle 801.
[0036] The upper end of the fixed connecting rod 4 is provided with an upper end cover connecting thread 401, and the upper end cover 2 is provided with an internal threaded hole. The connecting thread of the upper end cover 2 mates with the internal threaded hole to realize the threaded connection between the upper end of the fixed connecting rod 4 and the upper end cover 2. The lower end of the fixed connecting rod 4 is connected to the balance bladder 16 through a connecting bolt 407.
[0037] like Figure 3 As shown, the first output power connection ring 603 is externally wrapped with a first output power connection ring insulation layer 602, which is sandwiched between two first output power insulation baffles 601. The first output power connection ring 603 has a first output power contact ring 604 inside, which slides on the surface of the switching shaft 12. The input power connection ring 703 is externally wrapped with an input power connection ring insulation layer 702, which is sandwiched between two input power insulation baffles 701. The input power connection ring 703 has an input power contact ring 704 inside, which slides on the surface of the switching shaft 12. The second output power connection ring 803 is externally wrapped with a second output power connection ring insulation layer 802, which is sandwiched between two second output power insulation baffles 801. The second output power connection ring 803 has a second output power contact ring 804 inside, which slides on the surface of the switching shaft 12.
[0038] like Figure 3 As shown, the switching shaft 12 includes, from top to bottom, a first insulating switching shaft 1201, a metal switching shaft 1202, and a second insulating switching shaft 1203 connected by threads in sequence. Both ends of the switching shaft 12 are connected to the upper connecting plate 1101 and the lower connecting plate 1103 by bolts.
[0039] An inner insulating component 13 is fitted onto the outer surface of the switching shaft 12, and an outer insulating component 14 is fitted onto the outer surface of the inner insulating component 13. The inner and outer insulating components 13 and 14 prevent the switching shaft 12 from communicating with external substances under high voltage, thus preventing equipment burnout. Preferably, a sliding sealing ring is provided between the inner insulating component 13 and the switching shaft 12, and filled with insulating liquid.
[0040] Specifically, the upper end of the first output power connection ring insulation layer 602 is fitted with a first switching shaft inner insulation component 1301, and the outer side of the first switching shaft inner insulation component 1301 is fitted with a first switching shaft outer insulation component 1401. The lower end of the first output power connection ring insulation layer 602 is fitted with a second switching shaft inner insulation component 1302, and the outer side of the second switching shaft inner insulation component 1302 is fitted with a second switching shaft outer insulation component 1402. The upper end of the input power connection ring insulation layer 702 is fitted with a second switching shaft inner insulation component 1302, and the outer side of the second switching shaft inner insulation component 1302 is fitted with a second switching shaft outer insulation component 1402. The lower end of the input power connection ring insulation layer 702 is fitted with a third switching shaft inner insulation component 1303, and the outer side of the third switching shaft inner insulation component 1303 is fitted with a third switching shaft outer insulation component 1403. The upper end of the insulation layer 802 of the second output power connection ring is fitted with the inner insulation component 1303 of the third switching shaft, and the outer end of the inner insulation component 1303 of the third switching shaft is fitted with the outer insulation component 1403 of the third switching shaft. The lower end of the insulation layer 802 of the second output power connection ring is fitted with the inner insulation component 1304 of the fourth switching shaft, and the outer end of the inner insulation component 1304 of the fourth switching shaft is fitted with the outer insulation component 1404 of the fourth switching shaft.
[0041] like Figure 1 As shown, the balancing bladder 16 includes a metal support plate 1601 and a deformable bladder 1602. The end face of the support plate 1601 is provided with multiple connecting holes, which connect the deformable bladder 1602 and the cylindrical cavity to balance the volume changes of the insulating liquid filled inside the outer pressure shell and outside the pressure shell of the electrical control module under different pressures and temperatures, thereby mitigating the damage to the internal mechanism caused by sudden pressure changes.
[0042] The input electrical connector E1, the first output electrical connector E2, and the second output electrical connector E3 enable the switching between three states: the input electrical connector E1 is connected to the first output electrical connector E2; the input electrical connector E1 is connected to the second output electrical connector E3; and the input electrical connector E1 is disconnected from both the first output electrical connector E2 and the second output electrical connector E3.
[0043] like Figure 4As shown, in the initial state, the input power connection ring 703 is in the middle position of the metal switching shaft 1202. The metal switching shaft 1202 is not in contact with the first output power connection ring 603, the first output power contact ring 604, the second output power connection ring 803, and the second output power contact ring 804. The input electrical connector E1 is in the disconnected mode with the first output electrical connector E2 and the second output electrical connector E3.
[0044] like Figure 5 As shown, when the ground control device sends a signal to connect the input electrical connector E1 and the first output electrical connector E2, the motor 5 drives the transmission shaft 15, and the switching frame 11 and the switching rod assembly move upward, so that the two ends of the metal switching shaft 1202 connect the first output power connection ring 603, the first output power contact ring 604 and the input power connection ring 703, the input power contact ring 704, thereby realizing the connection between the input electrical connector E1 and the first output electrical connector E2.
[0045] like Figure 6 As shown, when the ground control device sends a signal to connect the input electrical connector E1 and the second output electrical connector E3, the motor 5 drives the transmission shaft 15, and the switching frame 11 and the switching rod assembly move downwards, so that the two ends of the metal switching shaft 1202 are connected to the input power connection ring 703, the input power contact ring 704 and the second output power connection ring 803, and the second output power contact ring 804, thereby realizing the connection between the input electrical connector E1 and the second output electrical connector E3.
[0046] The installation process of this invention is as follows: Specifically, it includes the following four steps: land preparation, offshore installation, offshore pump commissioning, and offshore switchover.
[0047] S1, Land Preparation Before launching the underwater production system, the electrical switch is installed on the relevant equipment of the underwater production system and connected to the wiring and ground control equipment for functional testing. The input connector E1 is connected to the first output connector E2 and the second output connector E3 respectively to verify the first electric pump, the first electric pump circuit switching, and signal feedback. The electrical switch is then restored to its initial state, with the input connector E1 disconnected from the first output connector E2 and the second output connector E3.
[0048] S2, Offshore Installation The underwater production system is installed in place using a work vessel, and the electrical switch is connected to the external power supply cable.
[0049] S3, underwater pump start-up S31. Activate the first electric pump underwater: (Change from the initial state to the first electric pump being activated) When the ground sends a signal that the input connector E1 and the first output connector E2 are connected, the motor 5 drives the transmission shaft 15 to move the switching frame 11 and the switching rod assembly upward, so that the metal switching shaft 1202 connects the first output power connection ring 603 and the first output power contact ring 604 (604), and the input connector E1 and the first output connector E2 are connected.
[0050] S32. Activate the second electric pump underwater: (Change from the initial state to the second electric pump being activated) When the ground sends a signal to connect the input connector E1 and the second output connector E3, the motor 5 drives the transmission shaft 15 to move the switching frame 11 and the switching rod assembly downwards, so that the metal switching shaft 1202 connects the second output power connection ring 803 and the second output power contact ring 804, and the input connector E1 and the second output connector E3 are connected.
[0051] S4, Underwater Switching S41. Switching to the second electric pump underwater: (changing from the state of the first electric pump being turned on to the state of the second electric pump being turned on) When the ground sends a signal to connect the input connector E1 and the second output connector E3, the motor 5 drives the transmission shaft 15 to move the switching frame 11 and the switching rod assembly downwards, so that the metal switching shaft 1202 connects the second output power connection ring 803 and the second output power contact ring 804, and the input connector E1 and the second output connector E3 are connected.
[0052] S42. Underwater switch to first electric pump: (Change from second electric pump on to first electric pump on) When the ground sends a signal that the input connector E1 and the first output connector E2 are connected, the motor 5 drives the transmission shaft 15 to move the switching frame 11 and the switching rod assembly upward, so that the metal switching shaft 1202 connects the first output power connection ring 603 and the first output power contact ring 604, and the input connector E1 and the first output connector E2 are connected.
[0053] The advantages and positive effects of this invention are: 1. The double-shell structure of this invention has strong safety. Accidental damage to a single shell will not affect the overall function. The use of a balance airbag can alleviate the damage to the internal mechanism caused by sudden pressure changes and reduce the possibility of shell damage, thus ensuring strong safety.
[0054] 2. This invention incorporates electronic devices such as position sensors, encoders, and signal transmission equipment, enabling ground equipment to monitor the switching status of underwater electric pumps and improving the intelligence level of the equipment.
[0055] 3. This invention enables remote control of electric pump switching via ground equipment, eliminating reliance on underwater robots or workboats, resulting in high operational efficiency and low operating costs.
[0056] 4. The electric switch of the present invention has a compact structure, is easy to install, has strong compatibility, and can be widely used in the transformation work of various oil and gas fields, with a wide range of applications.
[0057] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention and not to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the above embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions can still be made to the specific implementation of the present invention. Any modifications or equivalent substitutions that do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention should be covered within the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.
Claims
1. A dual-shell intelligent underwater electrical switcher, characterized in that: The system includes an outer casing, which is cylindrical in shape and has a cylindrical cavity inside. An upper cover is attached to the top of the casing, and a fixing rod is connected to the lower surface of the upper cover. The fixing rod sequentially fixes a first output power connection plate, an input power connection plate, and a second output power connection plate from top to bottom. A switching frame, which is rectangular, is located within the cylindrical cavity. The switching frame includes an upper connecting plate, a connecting rod, a lower connecting plate, and a switching shaft connected clockwise. A motor is housed within the switching frame and connected to a drive shaft via a reducer. The drive shaft is threadedly connected to the lower connecting plate. The switching shaft includes an insulated switching shaft and a metal switching shaft spaced apart sequentially, and an insulating component is mounted on the switching shaft. A balance bladder is connected to the lower end of the fixing rod. The outer casing, the upper cover, and the balance bladder form an external pressure-bearing shell. The outer casing of the motor and the reducer form a support structure for the electronic control module. The pressure shell of the electrical control module is filled with insulating gas, while the outer pressure shell and the outer pressure shell are filled with insulating liquid. The balancing bladder balances the volume change of the insulating liquid under different conditions, mitigating the damage to the internal mechanism caused by sudden pressure changes. The upper cover is equipped with an input electrical connector, a first output electrical connector, a second output electrical connector, a motor control signal electrical connector, and an equipment pressure chamber. The ground control equipment is connected to the motor control signal electrical connector, which provides an electrical signal to the motor. When the motor operates, it drives the transmission shaft to rotate, causing the switching frame to move up and down. This enables the first output power connection plate, the input power connection plate, and the second output power connection plate to contact the insulating switching shaft or the metal switching shaft, thereby causing the input electrical connector to disconnect or connect with the first output electrical connector and the second output electrical connector.
2. The dual-shell intelligent underwater electrical switcher according to claim 1, characterized in that: The switching frame is connected to a sensor module. The sensor module analyzes the distance the switching frame travels, converts the signal by an encoder, and transmits it to the ground control device through the motor control signal connector and cable to determine the operating position and status of the motor.
3. A dual-shell intelligent underwater electrical switcher according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The first output power connection board includes a first output power connection ring, and the first output terminal electrical connector is connected to the first output power connection ring of the first output power connection board via several cables; the input power connection board includes an input power connection ring, and the input terminal electrical connector is connected to several input power connection rings of the input power connection board via cables with the same number of connector cores; the second output power connection board includes a second output power connection ring, and the second output terminal electrical connector is connected to the second output power connection ring of the second output power connection board via several cables.
4. The dual-shell intelligent underwater electrical switcher according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first output power connection ring is externally wrapped with a first output power connection ring insulation layer, which is sandwiched between two first output power insulation baffles. A first output power contact ring is provided inside the first output power connection ring, and the first output power contact ring slides on the surface of the switching shaft. The second output power connection ring is externally wrapped with a second output power connection ring insulation layer, which is sandwiched between two input power insulation baffles. An input power contact ring is provided inside the input power connection ring, and the input power contact ring slides on the surface of the switching shaft.
5. A dual-shell intelligent underwater electrical switcher according to claim 4, characterized in that: The switching shaft comprises, from top to bottom, a first insulated switching shaft, a metal switching shaft, and a second insulated switching shaft connected by threads in sequence. Both ends of the switching shaft are connected to the upper connecting plate and the lower connecting plate by bolts.
6. A dual-shell intelligent underwater electrical switcher according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that: An inner insulating component is fitted onto the outer surface of the switching shaft, and an outer insulating component is fitted onto the outer surface of the inner insulating component. The inner and outer insulating components prevent the switching shaft from being connected to external materials under high voltage.
7. A dual-shell intelligent underwater electrical switcher according to claim 6, characterized in that: The upper end of the insulation layer of the first output power connection ring is fitted with a first switching shaft inner insulation component, and the outer end of the first switching shaft inner insulation component is fitted with a first switching shaft outer insulation component. The lower end of the insulation layer of the first output power connection ring is fitted with a second switching shaft inner insulation component, and the outer end of the second switching shaft inner insulation component is fitted with a second switching shaft outer insulation component. The upper end of the insulation layer of the input power connection ring is fitted with a second switching shaft inner insulation component, and the outer end of the second switching shaft inner insulation component is fitted with a second switching shaft outer insulation component. The lower end of the insulation layer of the input power connection ring is fitted with a third switching shaft inner insulation component, and the outer end of the third switching shaft inner insulation component is fitted with a third switching shaft outer insulation component. The upper end of the insulation layer of the second output power connection ring is fitted with the third switching shaft inner insulation component, and the outer end of the third switching shaft inner insulation component is fitted with a third switching shaft outer insulation component. The lower end of the insulation layer of the second output power connection ring is fitted with a fourth switching shaft inner insulation component, and the outer end of the fourth switching shaft inner insulation component is fitted with a fourth switching shaft outer insulation component.
8. A dual-shell intelligent underwater electrical switcher according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that: Initially, the input power connection ring is in the middle position of the metal switching shaft. The metal switching shaft is not in contact with the first output power connection ring, the first output power contact ring, the second output power connection ring, or the second output power contact ring. The input electrical connector is in a disconnected mode with both the first and second output electrical connectors. When the ground control equipment sends a signal to connect the input electrical connector to the first output electrical connector, the motor drives the transmission shaft, and the switching frame and the switching rod assembly move upward, so that the two ends of the metal switching shaft are connected to the first output power connection ring, the first output power contact ring and the input power connection ring, and the input power contact ring, thereby realizing the connection between the input electrical connector and the first output electrical connector. When the ground control equipment sends a signal to connect the input electrical connector to the second output electrical connector, the motor drives the transmission shaft, and the switching frame and the switching rod assembly move downward, so that the two ends of the metal switching shaft connect the input power connection ring, the input power contact ring and the second output power connection ring, the second output power contact ring, thereby connecting the input electrical connector to the second output electrical connector.
9. A dual-shell intelligent underwater electrical switcher according to claim 3, characterized in that: The upper end of the fixed connecting rod is provided with an upper end cap connecting thread, and the upper end cap is provided with an internal threaded hole. The upper end cap connecting thread mates with the internal threaded hole to realize the threaded connection between the upper end of the fixed connecting rod and the upper end cap. The lower end of the fixed connecting rod is connected to the balance bladder through a connecting bolt. The fixed connecting rod is fitted with a long matching sleeve and a short matching sleeve. The long matching sleeve is respectively placed between the first output power connection ring and the input power connection ring, and between the second output power connection ring and the input power connection ring. The short matching sleeve is respectively placed inside the first output power connection ring, the second output power connection ring, and the input power connection ring. One end of the fixed connecting rod has a limiting step at the contact point with the first output power connection ring, and the other end of the fixed connecting rod has a locking thread at the contact point with the second output power connection ring. A locking nut is fitted on the outer cylindrical surface of the locking thread.
10. A dual-shell intelligent underwater electrical switcher according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The balancing bladder includes a metal support plate and a deformable bladder. The end face of the support plate is provided with multiple connecting holes, which connect the deformable bladder and the cylindrical cavity to balance the volume change of the insulating liquid under different conditions and alleviate the damage caused by sudden pressure changes to the internal mechanism.