Angled Transmission Line Tension Anchors for Drill String Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drill string components lack effective methods to retain transmission lines under tension, minimize movement and interference with tools or debris, and facilitate quick and inexpensive installation without requiring expensive equipment or highly trained personnel.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus and methods involve incorporating slots and features in drill string components to retain transmission lines, using tension anchors such as flares, threads, and crimps to maintain tension, and employing angled surfaces to keep the lines secured within the slots, allowing for quick and cost-effective installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If transmission lines are routed through drill string components, then data transmission capability is improved, but the transmission lines move and interfere with tools or debris
Solution Approach 1:
The drill string component is divided into separate functional zones: a central bore for tools/debris, a slot for the transmission line, and a retention feature to secure the transmission line. This segmentation prevents interference between different components while maintaining data transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
A retention feature acts as an intermediary element between the transmission line and the drill string component structure. This feature secures the transmission line in place without restricting the movement of tools or debris through the central bore, solving the interference problem.
2Ease of operation
If transmission lines are secured firmly in drill string components, then movement and interference are minimized, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The retention feature is designed to automatically secure the transmission line through its own structural characteristics (such as engagement surfaces or mechanical interlocks) without requiring external fastening operations, expensive equipment, or highly trained personnel. The design itself provides the securing function.
3Reliability
If traditional transmission line installation methods are used, then data transmission is achieved, but expensive equipment and highly trained personnel are required
Solution Approach 1:
The retention feature is designed as an integrated, low-cost component that can be easily manufactured and installed without requiring expensive specialized equipment. The simplicity of the design allows for economical production and installation while maintaining effective transmission line securing.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus for retaining a transmission line within a drill string component includes a drill string component comprising a bore having an internal diameter. A slot is formed in the internal diameter to receive a transmission line. A first feature within the slot is configured to engage a corresponding second feature on the transmission line and thereby retain an end of the transmission line. The first feature comprises a first angled surface configured to contact and engage a corresponding second angled surface of the second feature. The first and second angled surfaces are oriented such to keep the transmission line retained within the slot when tension is placed on the transmission line. A corresponding system is also disclosed.