Subsea Electronics Module Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Subsea Electronics Modules (SEMs) face challenges with wasted space due to rectangular printed wiring boards, crosstalk between Ethernet communications and input/output and power feeds, and limited room for additional components, primarily because communication components are integrated into the motherboard.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves relocating Ethernet switching electronics to separate printed wiring boards mounted above the well control circuit boards, interfacing via connectors, which utilizes the space between the boards and the SEM body, reducing crosstalk and motherboard complexity by separating communication wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Ethernet switching electronics are integrated into the motherboard, then communication functionality is provided, but crosstalk occurs between Ethernet communications and input/output and power feeds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the SEM into functionally separate modules: well control circuit boards for I/O operations, power supply units for power distribution, and Ethernet switching blades for communication. This segmentation physically isolates communication signals from power and I/O feeds, eliminating crosstalk while maintaining all necessary functionalities.
2Ease of manufacture
If rectangular printed wiring boards are used, then cost-effective arrangement is achieved, but space between the top of the boards and the cylindrical SEM is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional board layout problem to a three-dimensional modular architecture. Ethernet switching blades are stacked vertically in racks above the well control circuit boards, utilizing the vertical space between the boards and the cylindrical SEM housing. This dimensional change eliminates wasted space while maintaining rectangular board manufacturing advantages.
3Adaptability or versatility
If communication components are mounted on the motherboard, then Ethernet switching is enabled, but valuable board area is consumed and space for additional components is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts Ethernet switching electronics from the well control motherboards and places them in separate, dedicated Ethernet switching blades. This extraction frees up valuable board area on the well control boards for additional control circuitry and components, while the Ethernet switching functionality is preserved in the extracted blades mounted in the available vertical space.
Data Source
AI summary
A Subsea Electronics Module for a well installation, comprising:a housing;at least two printed circuit boards having control circuitry provided thereon; anda communications component for enabling communication between the control printed circuit boards;wherein the module further comprises a communications handling board operatively connected to the printed circuit boards, the communications component being mounted on the communications handling board.