Bipartite Downhole Coupler Assembly for Secure Drill String Data Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transmitting data along a drill string face challenges in retaining transmission lines under tension, minimizing interference with tools and debris, and quickly installing them without requiring expensive equipment or highly trained personnel.
Innovation Solution
A bipartite transmission coupler assembly with an elongate cylinder and annular spring ring secures the transmission line within the drill string, using annular grooves and seals to maintain stability and prevent contamination, while a resilient conductor with helical segments and an inductive coupler housing ensures reliable data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If transmission lines are installed in drill string components to enable high-speed data transmission, then data transmission capability is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for retention mechanisms, sealing, and isolation systems
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission line installation system is divided into separate functional components: a retention mechanism with grooves to secure the transmission line, a sealing system with seals to isolate from drilling fluids, and an anchoring system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission line is nested within the central bore of the drill string component, with the retention mechanism and sealing systems arranged concentrically around it. This nested configuration maximizes space utilization and integrates multiple functions within the existing drill string structure.
2Stability of the object's composition
If transmission lines are secured under tension to minimize movement, then transmission line stability is improved, but installation difficulty increases requiring expensive equipment or highly trained personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism is designed to automatically secure the transmission line under tension without requiring external equipment or specialized skills. The grooves and retention features engage the transmission line directly, allowing field personnel to install and secure the line using basic tools and procedures.
3Reliability
If seals are added to isolate transmission lines from drilling fluids, then transmission line protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Seals in the form of flexible rings or membranes are used to isolate the transmission line from drilling fluids. These thin-film sealing elements provide effective protection while maintaining a compact and simple overall structure that integrates easily with the existing drill string component.
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
The solution effectively retains transmission lines, maintains signal integrity, and facilitates quick installation, reducing the need for expensive equipment and specialized personnel, thus enhancing data transmission efficiency and safety in downhole operations.
Implementation Method 1
An annular spring ring may be compressed within the second annular groove such that when the first annular groove and the second annular groove are aligned within the bore, the spring ring at least partially expands radially into the first annular groove, securing the elongate cylinder within the axial bore.
Implementation Method 2
an inductive coupler housing ensures reliable data transmission
Data Source
AI summary
A bipartite transmission coupler assembly comprising a downhole tool such as a drill pipe having an axial bore comprising a bore wall. The bore wall comprising a first annular groove open to the bore. The coupler may comprise a cylinder comprising an outside wall and an inside wall separated by top and bottom walls. The top wall comprising an annular recess configured to house a transmission assembly. The outside wall comprising a second annular groove configured to align with the first annular groove when the cylinder is installed into the axial bore. An annular spring ring may be housed within the second annular groove such that when the grooves are aligned within the axial bore, the spring ring radially expands at least partially into the first annular groove, securing the elongate cylinder within the axial bore. The cylinder may be divided into a first part and a second part.