Modular Subsea DC Boosting System Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Subsea boosting systems using alternating current (AC) transmission and distribution face challenges such as high costs and complexity due to the need for wet mateable connectors and large, heavy components, especially when transmission distances exceed fifty kilometers, which constrain power delivery capability and increase system costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular, vertically integrated subsea boosting system using direct current (DC) power, where each module integrates a motor, pump, and power components within a compartmentalized pressure vessel, minimizing power penetrators and allowing for scalable system design with lower size and mass, and higher reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If AC transmission and distribution systems are used for power delivery to subsea locations, then power can be transmitted over long distances, but the system cost increases and reliability decreases due to the need for wet mateable connectors and large heavy components
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple modular subsea boosting units, each containing its own pump and motor assembly. These modules can be independently deployed and connected in series to achieve long transmission distances while maintaining system reliability through modular redundancy and simplified dry-mateable connectors.
2Length of stationary object
If AC transmission and distribution systems are used for power delivery to subsea locations, then power can be transmitted over long distances, but system cost increases due to wet mateable connectors and large heavy components
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple modular subsea boosting units, each containing its own pump and motor assembly. These modules can be independently deployed and connected in series to achieve long transmission distances while maintaining system reliability through modular redundancy and simplified dry-mateable connectors.
3Power
If large heavy components are used in subsea boosting systems, then sufficient power delivery capability is achieved, but component size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple modular subsea boosting units, each containing its own pump and motor assembly. These modules can be independently deployed and connected in series to achieve long transmission distances while maintaining system reliability through modular redundancy and simplified dry-mateable connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional AC transmission and distribution systems with a DC-powered system. This substitution eliminates the need for heavy transformers and complex switching equipment, significantly reducing component weight and size while maintaining power delivery capability through efficient DC motors and pumps.
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 modular DC-powered subsea boosting system reduces system downtime, lowers costs, and enhances reliability by allowing for flexible power matching and reduced component size and weight, while maintaining efficient power delivery over long distances.
Implementation Method 1
An electric motor is disposed within the interior chamber and drivingly coupled to the fluid pump
Data Source
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AI summary
A subsea boosting module (106) for use with a direct current (DC) power system (102) includes a housing (108) defining at least one interior chamber (110). A fluid pump (112) is disposed within the interior chamber (110). An electric motor (114) is disposed within the interior chamber (110) and drivingly coupled to the fluid pump (112). A plurality of power components (116) are disposed within the interior chamber to deliver power to the electric motor (114).