Coupling Device Stabilizes Wireline Cable in Wellbore
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wellbore measurements, the signal to noise ratio is compromised due to the movement of downhole toolstrings and sensors, especially in horizontal sections, leading to less accurate data collection, particularly when fiber optic cables are used.
Innovation Solution
A system and method involving coupling devices with through cavities to hold the cable against the wellbore surface, utilizing tractor devices with extendable arms and magnetized components to stabilize the toolstring and cable, ensuring a steady position and reducing signal degradation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If additional forces are used to propel downhole toolstrings into horizontal wellbore sections, then the toolstrings can reach desired locations, but the movement of toolstrings worsens the signal to noise ratio of measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the toolstring into multiple sections with independent propulsion and measurement capabilities. Each section can be propelled independently while maintaining stable measurement zones, allowing movement without compromising signal quality in active measurement sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary propulsion mechanisms (such as electromagnetic propellers or magnetic coupling devices) that enable toolstring movement through horizontal sections without direct mechanical contact or vibration transmission to the sensor sections, thus decoupling the propulsion function from the measurement function.
2Ease of operation
If the cable is allowed to move freely in the wellbore, then ease of operation is improved, but the signal to noise ratio deteriorates due to cable movement
Solution Approach 1:
The cable support system transitions from static to dynamic, using adjustable support sections that can adapt their positioning and support force based on real-time measurement needs and cable position, maintaining both operational flexibility and measurement stability.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the cable are given different functional properties: some sections are designed for easy deployment and movement, while other sections incorporate stabilization mechanisms, magnetic coupling, or vibration damping to maintain signal quality in measurement-critical zones.
3Measurement precision
If the toolstring is stabilized against the wellbore surface, then measurement accuracy improves, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The toolstring incorporates self-stabilizing features such as passive magnetic coupling with the wellbore, self-adjusting support sections, or vibration-damping materials that automatically reduce cable movement without requiring active control systems or complex mechanical stabilization mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical stabilization systems with non-mechanical or field-based solutions, such as electromagnetic coupling, magnetic attraction to the wellbore, or acoustic damping, thereby reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining stabilization effectiveness.
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
This approach improves the signal to noise ratio, allowing for more accurate geological formation characterization by maintaining the cable and toolstring in a stable position, thereby enhancing data quality and reducing signal attenuation.
Implementation Method 1
The cable or the toolstring, or both, comprise an electromagnetic device or an anchoring device, or both, configured to selectively hold the toolstring or the cable, or both, against a surface of the wellbore
Implementation Method 2
The cable or the toolstring, or both, comprise an electromagnetic device or an anchoring device, or both, configured to selectively hold the toolstring or the cable, or both, against a surface of the wellbore
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a cable and at least one coupling device installed along the cable. The coupling element has one or more through cavities for receiving the cable, and configured to hold the cable when disposed in the cavity against a surface of the wellbore.