Extractable Cylinder for Drill String Data Transmission
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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 ensuring quick and cost-effective installation without requiring expensive equipment or highly trained personnel.
Innovation Solution
A tool string electrical transmission line housing system that includes a cylinder with an axial channel and housing, mounted on a split spring ring within the drill string component, featuring an anti-rotation lock and tab closures to secure the transmission line, and a gasket for contamination prevention, allowing for easy installation and secure retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If transmission lines are routed through the central bore of drill string components, then data transmission capability is improved, but the transmission lines interfere with tools or debris moving through the bore
Solution Approach 1:
The central bore is segmented into multiple regions: an inner region for transmission lines and an outer region for tool/debris passage. The retention sleeve creates this spatial segmentation, allowing both functions to coexist without interference while maintaining data transmission reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission lines are moved from occupying the entire bore cross-section to being confined within a cylindrical retention structure. This dimensional reorganization allows the bore to simultaneously accommodate transmission lines and allow tool/debris passage in the annular space around the cylinder
2Reliability
If transmission lines are held under tension to minimize movement, then data transmission stability is improved, but the installation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The split spring ring provides self-adjusting tension to the transmission lines automatically. When the ring is compressed during installation and then released, it expands to apply consistent tension to the lines, eliminating the need for manual tensioning adjustments or complex tensioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The split spring ring transitions from a compressed state during installation to an expanded state during operation, dynamically adapting to provide continuous tension. This dynamic mechanism simplifies installation while maintaining stable transmission line positioning
3Length of stationary object
If repeaters or amplifiers are added at selected intervals to boost signals, then data transmission distance is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the signal amplification function from separate repeater devices and integrates it into the transmission line housing structure itself. The housing incorporates shielding and grounding features that actively maintain signal integrity over distance, eliminating the need for discrete amplifier components
4Manufacturing precision
If expensive equipment or highly trained personnel are used for installation, then installation precision is improved, but the productivity and cost-effectiveness decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The retention sleeve and spring ring assembly are designed as self-aligning, self-retaining components that automatically position and secure the transmission lines during installation. The split spring ring's elastic deformation provides self-adjusting tension, and the anti-rotation lock automatically engages to prevent rotation, eliminating the need for specialized tools or highly trained personnel
Solution Approach 2:
The retention sleeve is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily installed and replaced if needed. Its straightforward design with basic features (cylindrical body, split ring, lock mechanism) allows installation by untrained personnel using common tools, prioritizing ease of installation over long-term durability
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 system effectively retains transmission lines within drill string components, maintaining tension and minimizing interference, while enabling quick and inexpensive installation, thus enhancing data transmission reliability and reducing operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
The spring ring may be compressed for insertion and then released within the groove
Implementation Method 2
An anti-rotation lock may be disposed on the top surface, between the cylinder outside side wall and the component bore wall. The lock may prevent the cylinder from movement within the bore
Implementation Method 3
The cover may prevent contamination from entering the housing or opening and interfering with the extractor
Data Source
AI summary
A cylindrical tool string assembly for downhole data transmission comprises a cylinder comprising a transmission element such as an inductive coupler installed within a groove in its top surface connected to a transmission line housed within its exterior wall. The assembly includes a split spring ring housed within a groove formed in a bore wall of a tool string component such as a drill pipe or a downhole tool within the bottom hole assembly. The spring ring may be compressed and released when positioned within the groove. The spring ring provides a platform on which cylinder may be mounted. The split provides a passageway for the transmission line to exit the cylinder. The cylinder includes a recess in its top surface housing an extractor to facilitate removal of the cylinder. An anti-rotation lock between the cylinder and bore of the tool string component may prevent movement of the cylinder.