Downhole Fiber Optic Connector With Independent Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In downhole operations, verifying a secure coupling between an optical fiber and an optical connector is time-consuming and costly due to the need for visual confirmation, which requires withdrawing equipment from the wellbore.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a fiber optic cable with a first optical fiber and a second optical fiber incorporating a reflective device, where the second optical fiber's state change indicates a secure mating with an optical device, allowing for processor-based verification of the connection without the need for visual confirmation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If visual confirmation of coupling is used, then connection security is verified, but operational time and cost increase due to equipment withdrawal from wellbore
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual inspection system with an optical sensing system. Optical fibers with reflective devices detect coupling status through light signal changes, eliminating the need for physical equipment withdrawal and visual confirmation, thereby reducing operational time while maintaining verification reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical fibers as intermediary sensing elements between the coupling interface and the detection system. These fibers transmit light signals that change state based on coupling conditions, serving as a mediator that provides verification information without requiring direct visual access or equipment withdrawal
2Reliability
If visual confirmation of coupling is used, then connection security is verified, but operational cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces costly mechanical withdrawal and visual inspection operations with in-situ optical sensing. The system uses light propagation through optical fibers to detect coupling status, eliminating the need for equipment retrieval and reducing operational costs while improving productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling interface itself generates the verification signal through its mechanical state. When coupled, the interface directly modulates the light signal in the optical fiber, making the system self-verifying without requiring external inspection equipment or personnel intervention
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 secure and efficient verification of optical connections by measuring signal changes in the second optical fiber, reducing operational time and costs associated with visual confirmation.
Implementation Method 1
the second optical fiber including a reflective device; extending the fiber optic cable changes a state of the reflective device of the second optical fiber when the secure mating is formed
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of forming an optical connection. A fiber optic cable includes a first optical fiber and a second optical fiber. The second optical fiber includes a reflective device. An optical device receives the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber. A first signal is observed to verify an optical connection between the first optical fiber and the optical device to verity the optical connection. The fiber optic cable is extended into the optical device to form a secure mating between the first optical fiber and the optical device, thereby changing a state of the reflective device. The secure mating between the first optical fiber and the optical device is determined from the state of the second signal in the second optical fiber.