Multi-gauge ESP Power Bus Data Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole gauge systems in hydrocarbon production environments face challenges in accurately transmitting data due to faults in the three-phase power cable, limiting the retrieval of reliable data about wellbore and wellhead conditions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multiple gauges along a three-phase power cable, using a data delivery system where gauges communicate by modulating current consumption, allowing data transmission even with ground faults or conductor issues, and employing timing diagrams and unique voltage levels to prevent data packet overlap, enabling reliable data collection from various locations within the well.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple gauges are deployed along the power cable to expand monitoring coverage, then data collection capability improves, but data transmission reliability deteriorates due to potential faults in the three-phase power cable
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the monitoring function by deploying multiple independent gauges at different locations along the wellbore, each monitoring local conditions. This allows expanded coverage while maintaining individual gauge independence, so that faults in one segment do not affect others.
Solution Approach 2:
The power cable is given multiple functions: it serves both as the power delivery medium for the ESP motor and as the communication bus for data transmission from multiple gauges. This eliminates the need for separate communication wiring, reducing potential failure points while maintaining reliability through the existing robust power cable infrastructure.
2Device complexity
If data signals are transmitted over the power cable, then separate communication wiring is eliminated, but data transmission becomes unreliable due to ground faults or conductor issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power delivery function and data communication function into a single medium (the power cable). By superimposing communication signals on the power conductors, the system eliminates separate communication wiring, reducing overall system complexity and potential failure points.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary modulation technique where gauges encode data by varying their power consumption patterns rather than transmitting separate electrical signals. This allows data communication through the power cable without requiring the cable to function as a traditional communication medium, thereby maintaining reliability even in the presence of ground faults or conductor issues.
3Productivity
If gauges transmit data simultaneously over the power cable, then communication efficiency improves, but data packet overlap occurs causing transmission errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic time-division multiplexing where gauges transmit data in sequential time slots rather than simultaneously. Each gauge is assigned specific time windows for transmission, eliminating data packet overlap while maintaining efficient use of the communication medium through structured periodic communication cycles.
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
This solution provides a cost-effective and reliable means for deploying downhole gauges that cover long communication distances, offering accurate data on ESP system operating conditions and reducing human error in mechanical splicing, thus enhancing data accuracy and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
gauges communicate by modulating current consumption, allowing data transmission even with ground faults or conductor issues
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed embodiments include a power and data delivery system for downhole gauges of a well. The power and data delivery system includes a three-phase power supply coupled to a power cable to supply power to a downhole motor positioned along a wellbore. Additionally, the power cable transmits power and data signals. The power and data delivery system also includes a downhole gauge coupled to the downhole motor, and the downhole gauge transmits downhole data signals along the power cable to a gauge surface panel. Further, the power and data delivery system includes at least one gauge positioned remotely from the downhole gauge and coupled to the power cable. The at least one gauge also transmits gauge data signals along the power cable to the gauge surface panel.