Downhole Pulse Reflector Phase Shift Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In oil and gas operations, increased amplitude of pressure pulses for improved efficiency and signal transmission can cause undesirable side effects such as increased agitation and vibration, which may not be desirable for all applications.
Innovation Solution
A downhole apparatus comprising a pressure pulse generator and a pulse reflector that controls the phase shift of reflected pressure pulses with respect to incident pulses, allowing for the reduction or enhancement of constructive interference, thereby managing the amplitude and direction of pressure pulses to optimize their effect.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If maximum amplitude pressure pulses are used to improve efficiency and signal transmission distance, then signal transmission efficiency and agitation are improved, but undesirable vibrations and side effects increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the harmful reflected pressure pulses and their interference effects to achieve beneficial outcomes. By strategically positioning pulse reflectors at specific distances from the generator, the system converts unwanted reflections into constructive interference that enhances signal amplitude and transmission efficiency, while also using destructive interference to reduce undesirable vibrations at specific locations
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical parameter of pulse reflection by controlling the distance between the pulse generator and reflectors. By adjusting this distance to specific values (multiples of half-wavelength for constructive interference, odd multiples of quarter-wavelength for destructive interference), the system optimizes signal transmission while minimizing harmful vibrations
2Length of stationary object
If increased amplitude pressure pulses are used to lengthen signal transmission distance, then detectable transmission distance is increased, but pressure pulses reaching surface equipment increase causing harmful effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of pressure pulses reaching surface equipment into a beneficial signal enhancement mechanism. By positioning reflectors to create constructive interference, the system amplifies the signal before it reaches the surface, allowing for longer transmission distances while the same interference patterns prevent excessive pulse amplitudes from causing harm
3Productivity
If pressure pulses are used to provide agitation of downhole tubing string, then drilling efficiency is improved, but excessive agitation and vibration occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different qualities of pressure pulse interference to different locations in the system. By strategically positioning pulse reflectors, the system creates zones of constructive interference (enhancing agitation and drilling efficiency) and zones of destructive interference (reducing excessive vibration and maintaining tubing stability) at specific locations simultaneously
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 apparatus effectively reduces or enhances pressure pulses as needed, minimizing undesirable vibrations and maximizing signal transmission efficiency by controlling phase shifts and interference patterns, thus protecting equipment and enhancing specific operations like drilling or signal transmission.
Implementation Method 1
a pulse reflector for reflecting at least a portion of an incident pressure pulse from the generator as a reflected pressure pulse
Implementation Method 2
wherein the apparatus is configured to control a phase shift of the reflected pressure pulse with respect to the incident pressure pulse
Implementation Method 3
The apparatus may be configured to reduce a constructive interference, such as a constructive interference between the incident and reflected pulses
Implementation Method 4
The apparatus may be configured to generate a constructive interference. The apparatus may be configured to increase constructive interference. For example, the apparatus may be configured to enhance pressure pulses
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole apparatus includes a pressure pulse generator and a pulse reflector. The pulse reflector reflects at least a portion of an incident pressure pulse from the generator as a reflected pressure pulse. The apparatus is configured to provide the reflected pressure pulse with a phase shift with respect to the incident pressure pulse. A method of transmitting pressure pulses downhole includes generating a pressure pulse and reflecting at least a portion of an incident pressure pulse at a pulse reflector as a reflected pressure pulse. A phase shift of the reflected pressure pulse with respect to the incident pressure pulse is controlled.