Acoustic Telemetry Nodes for Downhole Data Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data transmission systems in wellbores require precise machining of induction coils or placement of RF electrodes, and precise alignment of induction coils, which limits data transmission speed and range, and lacks a hybrid wired-and-wireless solution for capturing data from formations.
Innovation Solution
A downhole acoustic telemetry system using novel communications nodes spaced along pipe joints, with sensor communications nodes and acoustic communications nodes that transmit data wirelessly through the wellbore, eliminating the need for precise coil alignment and electrode placement, and allowing for hybrid wired-and-wireless data capture using a logging tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If induction coils are used for data transmission, then data can be transmitted through the wellbore, but precise machining and alignment of coils are required which increases device complexity and reduces transmission speed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electromagnetic induction coils with acoustic transducers that convert electrical signals to acoustic waves for data transmission through the wellbore. This substitution eliminates the need for precise coil alignment and machining, reducing device complexity while maintaining transmission capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the transmission medium parameter from electromagnetic fields to acoustic waves, allowing data transmission through the wellbore environment without requiring the precise geometric alignment that electromagnetic coils demand
2Ease of operation
If RF electrodes are used for data transmission, then data can be transmitted wirelessly, but precise electrode placement is required which increases installation complexity and limits transmission range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces RF electrodes with acoustic transducers that transmit data through the wellbore environment. This substitution eliminates the need for precise electrode placement while enabling wireless data capture from downhole sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The acoustic transducer system serves multiple functions: it can transmit data wirelessly, operate in various wellbore environments, and does not require precise installation positioning, making the system universally applicable across different well conditions
3Length of stationary object
If acoustic transducers are used for data transmission, then precise alignment is not required and transmission range is improved, but acoustic energy must be transmitted through the wellbore environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the wellbore environment itself as an intermediary medium for acoustic signal transmission. The acoustic transducers convert electrical signals to acoustic waves that propagate through the wellbore fluid and structures, enabling long-range transmission without requiring precise alignment
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 high-speed data transmission without the need for precise coil alignment or electrode placement, and allows for real-time data capture from downhole sensors, improving data transmission efficiency and range in wellbore environments.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the sensor communications nodes includes an acoustic transducer for converting electrical signals to acoustic waves
Implementation Method 2
The acoustic waves are transmitted through the wellbore environment to a surface acoustic receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A system for downhole telemetry is provided herein. The system employs a series of communications nodes spaced along a tubular body in a wellbore. Each communications node is associated with a sensor that senses data indicative of a formation condition or a wellbore parameter along a subsurface formation. The data is stored in memory until a logging tool is run into the wellbore. The data is transmitted from the respective communications nodes to a receiver in the logging tool. The data is then transferred to the surface. A method of transmitting data in a wellbore is also provided herein. The method uses a logging tool to harvest data in a wellbore from a plurality of sensor communications nodes.