Redundant Power Source for Permanent Well Completion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Permanent well completion systems rely on a single electrical power source, rendering downhole components inoperable when that source fails, leading to potential costly downtime, especially in deepwater operations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system with multiple redundant power sources of different types (surface-generated, downhole-generated, and locally-stored) and power distribution electronics that can switch between them based on selection priority and operating mode to ensure continuous functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single electrical power source is used in permanent well completion systems, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates when the power source fails
Solution Approach 1:
The power source system is segmented into multiple independent power sources (first power source and second power source) that can operate independently. Each power source is a separate entity with its own power distribution circuit, allowing the system to divide the power supply function across multiple components rather than relying on a single centralized power source.
Solution Approach 2:
A second power source is provided as a backup before the first power source fails. The system includes circuitry configured to detect when the first power source is unavailable and automatically switch to the second power source, providing beforehand cushioning against power failure. This ensures continuous operation without interruption.
2Reliability
If multiple redundant power sources are implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second power source is configured to perform the same function as the first power source - providing electrical power to the downhole components. Both power sources are universally capable of powering the same load, allowing seamless substitution without requiring specialized backup equipment. This multi-functionality simplifies the overall system architecture despite having multiple power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
Power distribution circuitry acts as an intermediary between the multiple power sources and the downhole components. This intermediary circuitry manages the switching between power sources, handles power allocation, and ensures seamless transition when one power source becomes unavailable, thereby managing complexity through a dedicated control layer.
3Loss of time
If a single power source is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but loss of time increases when power failure occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The second power source is pre-configured and ready for immediate operation before any failure occurs. The system performs preliminary setup of backup power capabilities, including pre-established electrical connections and pre-programmed switching logic in the power distribution circuitry. When the first power source fails, the transition to the second power source occurs automatically without requiring time-consuming manual intervention or reconfiguration.
Data Source
AI summary
A completion system and a method for powering a downhole component of a wellbore are provided. In one example, in the completion system comprises at least three different types of power sources for powering a downhole component in a wellbore and a power distribution circuit including a power distribution node and a control circuit, wherein the control circuit is configured to select at least one power source of the at least three different types of power sources to connect to the power distribution node based on a selection priority of the power sources, and the power distribution node is configured to provide power from the at least one power source to the downhole component.