Converter Sub for Wireline Signal Conversion in Borehole Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireline communication systems in borehole operations are prone to damage and disruption, particularly when running above a blowout preventer (BOP), leading to costly recovery operations and delays in borehole activities.
Innovation Solution
A converter sub with a communication and hanging system is used to secure the wireline, featuring a decoder and encoder that convert wireline signals into alternative communication methods such as wired pipe, mud pulse, or acoustic ping telemetry, allowing information to be transmitted to the surface without relying solely on traditional wireline communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wireline is run in the annular space above the BOP for logging operations, then logging information can be transmitted to surface, but the wireline is at risk of being damaged or severed due to surge and platform movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary communication system that transfers data from the wireline to the BOP control system through a converter sub and transducer assembly. This intermediary system allows logging information to be transmitted without requiring the wireline to extend into the hazardous annular space above the BOP, thus protecting the wireline from surge and platform movement while maintaining communication capability.
2Reliability
If wireline is protected by keeping it out of the annular space, then wireline damage is reduced, but additional equipment and system complexity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The converter sub and transducer assembly serve multiple functions: they act as a signal converter between wireline and BOP control systems, provide a mechanical interface for data transmission, and enable the BOP control system to receive and process logging information. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated equipment, thereby managing system complexity while achieving wireline protection.
3Loss of information
If traditional wireline communication is used throughout the entire string, then communication is maintained, but the length and cost of wired pipe required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication system into two distinct parts: the wireline portion that remains protected below the BOP, and the BOP control system portion that handles data transmission to surface. This segmentation eliminates the need for long lengths of expensive wired pipe to extend the entire communication system through the annular space, as the BOP control system serves as an intermediate data transfer point.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for communicating in a borehole includes running a pipe or tubing into a borehole the pipe or tubing conveying a sensor, running a wireline through the pipe or tubing, connecting the wireline with the sensor, attaching a converter sub to the pipe or tubing, communicating to surface information on the wireline in a method different than wireline.