Downhole Power Generation System with Adaptive Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional downhole power generation systems are inefficient as they provide high power continuously, leading to increased power loss when loads are in a non-working state, as they are designed for high power ratings and do not adapt to lower power requirements during standby conditions.
Innovation Solution
A downhole power generation system that includes a turbine-driven generator with an AC-DC rectifier and a power conversion circuit using separate DC-DC converters to provide different power levels based on the load's mode, with a power converter controller to switch between working and non-working modes, and incorporates energy storage devices for additional power support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the downhole power generation device is designed according to high power rating to ensure operation of the downhole load, then the load can operate in working mode, but the device has poorer efficiency and increased power loss when delivering low power in non-working condition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the power generation system adaptable through a power conversion circuit that can dynamically switch between different power output modes (first power for working mode, second power for non-working mode). This allows the system to adjust its power delivery according to the actual load requirements rather than operating at fixed high power rating, thereby reducing energy loss during standby conditions while maintaining sufficient power capability when needed.
2Reliability
If the downhole power generation device always provides high power to ensure load operation, then the load can function reliably, but the system cannot adapt to lower power requirements during standby conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements adaptability through a power conversion circuit capable of dynamic mode switching between first power and second power outputs. This dynamic adjustment mechanism allows the system to adapt to different load conditions (working vs. non-working modes) while maintaining reliable power supply when required, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the power output parameter based on operational mode. The power conversion circuit changes the power delivery parameter from high (first power) to low (second power) according to whether the load is in working or non-working mode, enabling the system to maintain reliability when needed while adapting to varying power requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system reduces power loss by adapting power output to the load's mode, providing high power when needed and low power when not, and ensures reliable and efficient energy supply through energy storage, achieving high power density and cost-effective operation.
Implementation Method 1
a turbine driven by flow of a downhole fluid to rotate
Implementation Method 2
a generator coupled with the turbine for converting rotational energy from the turbine to electrical energy
Implementation Method 3
an AC-DC rectifier coupled with the generator for converting an alternating current voltage from the generator to a direct current voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole power generation includes a power generation module for providing power to a load. A turbine is driven by flow of a downhole fluid to rotate. A generator is coupled with the turbine for converting rotational energy from the turbine to electrical energy, and an AC-DC rectifier is coupled with the generator for converting an alternating voltage from the generator to a direct voltage. A power conversion circuit couples the AC-DC rectifier with the load. The power conversion circuit is configured for providing a first power to the load when the load is in a working mode and providing a second power to the load when the load is in a non-working mode. The second power is less than the first power. A downhole power generation method is also disclosed.