ROV Power Management System Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) face challenges in simplifying operations and maintenance, achieving near-zero fluid emissions, and managing power effectively for scalable intervention capabilities, particularly in providing electrical power for propulsion and tooling while minimizing reliance on external power sources.
Innovation Solution
A power management system that diverts electrical and hydraulic power from the ROV to subsea systems, utilizing a signal diverter and power management module to maximize available power, manage loads, and integrate variable frequency drives, allowing the ROV to power tools and external systems without external power sources, and adjust power distribution based on monitored status values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If electrical power is provided to ROV propulsion and tooling, then power availability for subsea operations is improved, but power management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power management system is segmented into distinct functional modules including power distribution units, load management controllers, and priority-based allocation systems. This modular approach allows complex power management to be broken down into manageable segments that can be independently controlled and monitored, resolving the contradiction between providing sufficient power and maintaining manageable system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The power management system dynamically adjusts power allocation based on real-time operational demands, vehicle status, and priority settings. Variable frequency drives and electronic control systems enable continuous adaptation of power distribution without requiring complex manual intervention, thus providing high power availability while keeping the system dynamically manageable rather than statically complex.
2Loss of energy
If intelligent routing of power to subsystems is implemented, then power distribution efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intelligent power routing system incorporates feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor power consumption, system load, and operational status of various subsystems. This feedback enables automatic optimization of power distribution paths and timing, achieving high efficiency without requiring complex manual routing decisions. The feedback loops allow the system to self-adjust and optimize power flow based on actual conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The power management system performs self-service through automated power routing algorithms that independently determine optimal power distribution without external intervention. The system monitors its own status and automatically adjusts power allocation to subsystems based on priority settings and real-time demands, eliminating the need for complex external control while maintaining high distribution efficiency.
3Measurement precision
If variable frequency drives are integrated, then power control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The variable frequency drives are integrated into a universal power management platform that serves multiple functions including motor control, power factor correction, and energy recovery. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve precise power control for propulsion and tooling while consolidating control functions into integrated units, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the added precision capabilities.
Data Source
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AI summary
A power management system comprises a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), a tether management system (TMS), and an umbilical operatively in communication with the TMS external electrical power interface and the TMS-to-ROV umbilical interface. The system can be configured to provide electrical power management that moves some or all of the electrical power required for ROV propulsion and tooling to the ROV and/or TMS, and maximizes available power and manages loads across all systems as necessary and by priority. Power management may also be required that features intelligent routing of power to subsystems and integration of variable frequency drives (VFDs).