Centralized Power System with Articulating Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Oilfield operations face inefficiencies in power supply and equipment startup, particularly in hydraulic fracturing, due to reliance on tractor engines which consume fuel, generate emissions, and incur high maintenance costs, as well as the need for multiple trailers and complex rig-up processes.
Innovation Solution
A centralized power system with a redundant engine and articulating power connectors that supply electricity, hydraulic, and pneumatic power to multiple equipment units, minimizing the need for tractor engines and simplifying the connection process through a control system and plug-and-play connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If tractor engines are used to supply power to oilfield equipment, then power can be provided to equipment, but fuel consumption and emissions increase due to oversized engines
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into a centralized power unit that serves multiple equipment pieces, replacing the traditional one-to-one tractor-equipment pairing. This allows the power source to be optimized for actual needs rather than oversized for potential maximum demand.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized power unit is designed to serve multiple different oilfield equipment pieces simultaneously or sequentially through articulating connectors, making a single power source universal for various equipment types rather than requiring dedicated power sources for each.
2Reliability
If multiple dedicated power sources are used for each equipment piece, then reliable power supply is ensured, but the footprint and complexity of power equipment at the wellsite increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple power supply functions are merged into a single centralized power unit. The articulating power connectors enable one power source to serve multiple equipment pieces that would traditionally require separate dedicated engines, reducing the overall number of power sources needed at the wellsite.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulating power connectors provide dynamic, flexible connections that allow the centralized power unit to adapt its power distribution to different equipment configurations and locations, maintaining reliable power supply despite the reduced number of power sources.
3Adaptability or versatility
If tractor engines are used for both hauling equipment and supplying power, then equipment can be transported and powered, but maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The functions of equipment hauling and power supply are segmented into separate systems. Tractors are used only for hauling equipment to the wellsite, while a dedicated centralized power unit handles all power supply functions, allowing each system to be optimized and maintained independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized power unit provides universal power supply capability for all oilfield equipment, replacing the need for each piece of equipment to have its own dedicated engine or power source, thereby consolidating maintenance requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A centralized power system including at least one engine having a plurality of discharge connectors; a plurality of articulating power connectors, each articulating power connector comprising a first end connected to a corresponding discharge connector, and a second end connectable to at least one piece of oilfield equipment thereby supplying power from the at least one engine to the oilfield equipment.