Power Allocation in Bottomhole Assembly Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
The limited power supply from a turbine generator in MWD tools restricts the number of logging tools that can be operated simultaneously in a bottomhole assembly (BHA), limiting the possible configurations and reducing the effectiveness of formation evaluation measurements while drilling.
Innovation Solution
A method to allocate electrical power among tools in a BHA using an electric generator, an electrical bus, and a bus master, allowing tools with selectable power modes to operate within a combined power requirement that does not exceed the maximum output value, achieved by synchronizing electronic components to select normal or low power modes and optimizing power usage through centralized or individual control mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple logging tools are operated simultaneously in a BHA, then formation evaluation measurement capability is improved, but the limited power supply from the turbine generator cannot support the additional power requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by dividing operation into normal and low power modes. During normal mode, tools operate at full power for formation evaluation measurements. When power constraints are detected, the system transitions to low power mode where non-essential electronic components are deactivated or operated at reduced power levels, allowing the BHA to continue functioning with limited power availability while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts power consumption based on real-time power availability and operational requirements. The bus master continuously monitors power conditions and dynamically switches tools between normal and low power modes, optimizing the balance between measurement capability and power consumption. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maximize formation evaluation capability within the constraints of the turbine generator's power supply.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more tools are included in the BHA configuration, then measurement versatility is improved, but the limited power output restricts the number of simultaneously operable tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the BHA into a power supply segment (turbine generator in the MWD tool) and multiple tool segments connected via the LTB. Each tool can be independently controlled to operate in normal or low power mode, allowing selective activation of measurement capabilities based on available power. This segmentation enables versatile tool configurations while managing power consumption through individual tool power mode selection.
3Measurement precision
If tools operate in normal power mode, then measurement quality is improved, but power consumption increases beyond the limited power supply capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes operational parameters by switching between normal and low power modes. In normal power mode, tools operate at full power for high-quality measurements. When power constraints are detected, the bus master commands tools to change parameters by entering low power mode, where non-essential electronic components are deactivated or operated at reduced power levels, reducing power consumption while maintaining essential measurement capabilities.
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
Enables more tools to be included in the BHA, allowing for simultaneous operation without exceeding the power supply capacity, thereby enhancing the capability for formation evaluation measurements and improving the efficiency of drilling operations.
Implementation Method 1
The source of this power is a turbine generator in the MWD tool that is driven by pressurized drilling fluid ('mud') when mud pumps are on.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method to allocate electrical power among tools in a bottomhole assembly disposed in a wellbore. A bottomhole assembly having an electric generator, an electrical bus, a bus master, and two or more tools is provided. One or more of the two or more tools has selectable power modes. Electrical power, up to a maximum output value, is provided through the electrical bus to the two or more tools using the electric generator. Electronic components of the two or more tools are synchronized, using the bus master to select a normal power mode or a low power mode for each tool having selectable power modes. The combined power requirements of the two or more tools at any given time do not exceed the maximum output value.