Insulated Two-Conductor Drill Rod Assembly for Short-Circuit Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drill rod systems face issues with short circuits, particularly when multiple conductors are used in the presence of drilling fluid, which can lead to electrical failures.
Innovation Solution
A two-conductor system is designed with a unique electrical conduction path that extends from the exposed end of one conductor in a direction opposite to the connection direction, allowing for insulation between conductors and incorporating a pressure relief valve to manage fluid pressure, ensuring easy assembly and disconnection without short circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple conductors are provided in the earth drill rod section to supply electrical equipment and transmit signals, then the functionality for power and signal transmission is improved, but the risk of short circuits increases due to drilling fluid presence
Solution Approach 1:
The cable string is segmented into multiple independent conductors (tubular outer conductor and rod-shaped inner conductor), each capable of carrying current or signals independently. This segmentation allows versatile electrical functionality while maintaining physical separation to prevent short circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
Insulation layers act as intermediary elements between the conductors and the drilling fluid environment. The outer and inner insulation protect the conductors from drilling fluid contact, preventing short circuits while allowing the conductors to perform their electrical functions.
2Strength
If conductors are routed inside the drill string section to protect them, then the conductors are protected from damage, but the complexity of the system increases and assembly becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple conductors and their insulation layers are merged into a single integrated cable string assembly. This unified structure protects all conductors simultaneously while simplifying handling and installation, as the entire assembly can be inserted as one unit rather than individual conductors.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable string serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical protection for conductors, electrical insulation, structural support within the hollow drill rod, and facilitates easy assembly through its self-contained design with expanded end sections for positioning.
3Ease of operation
If the cable string has expanded end sections for connection and positioning, then the ease of assembly and connection is improved, but the volume of the conductor system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable string is pre-formed with expanded end sections during manufacturing. These expansions are prepared in advance to facilitate easy insertion and positioning within the hollow drill rod sections, allowing for quick assembly without requiring additional field preparation or complex installation procedures.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a two-conductor system for earth drill rod sections for forming a drill string for an earth drilling device, wherein the two-conductor system comprises an insulated assembly of a first conductor and a second conductor, and the first and second conductors are each exposed at one end of the assembly in a connection direction, and at least one section of an exposed end of one of the conductors is circumferentially surrounded by an inner and an outer insulating sleeve.