Inductive Charging Through Downhole Casing for EAT Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electro acoustic technology (EAT) devices deployed in downhole environments face limited useful lifespan due to battery depletion, as energy harvesting is insufficient, and existing inductive charging methods require a wireline unit, providing historical rather than real-time data.
Innovation Solution
The integration of pump down and wireline inductive charging modules that use induction coils to charge EAT devices through the casing wall, allowing for real-time data transmission and battery replenishment, with the ability to update programs and retrieve diagnostic information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If inductive charging is implemented through downhole casing, then battery lifespan is extended and continuous operation is enabled, but device complexity increases due to integration of charging modules
Solution Approach 1:
The inductive charging module is nested within the EAT device housing, with the transmitter coil integrated inside the device and the receiver coil integrated into the casing. This nested arrangement allows charging functionality to be embedded within the existing device structure without requiring separate external charging systems, thereby extending battery lifespan while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The inductive charging system provides multiple functions: it charges the battery, enables real-time data transmission, and allows for device localization. By integrating these functions into a single system, the patent achieves extended operational duration while the multi-functionality justifies the added complexity through consolidated design.
2Loss of information
If real-time data transmission is enabled through inductive charging, then data availability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic inductive charging cycles where the transmitter and receiver coils are activated at intervals to recharge the battery. This periodic action enables real-time data transmission capabilities while managing energy consumption by charging only when needed, rather than maintaining continuous power transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The EAT device autonomously manages its own charging cycle by detecting battery charge levels and activating the inductive charging system when recharge is needed. This self-service approach ensures real-time data availability while optimizing energy consumption by avoiding unnecessary charging cycles.
3Ease of operation
If inductive charging modules are integrated into EAT devices, then operational autonomy is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inductive charging system is divided into separate functional modules: a transmitter coil module that can be integrated into the EAT device, and a receiver coil module that can be integrated into the casing. This segmentation allows each module to be manufactured and tested independently, then assembled together, thereby improving operational autonomy while managing manufacturing complexity through modular construction.
4Duration of action of moving object
If induction coils are used for charging through casing, then battery recharging is enabled, but magnetic interference may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The casing material acts as an intermediary between the transmitter coil and the receiver coil, providing a controlled magnetic path for inductive charging while isolating the charging fields from sensitive electronic components. This intermediary structure enables battery recharging through the casing while mitigating magnetic interference with other device components.
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 continuous real-time data supply from EAT devices by efficiently recharging batteries and transferring data, extending their operational lifespan and facilitating remote operation without the need for manual battery replacement.
Implementation Method 1
The integration of pump down and wireline inductive charging modules that use induction coils to charge EAT devices through the casing wall
Implementation Method 2
use induction coils to charge EAT devices through the casing wall
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for enabling inductive charging through downhole casings for electro acoustic technology devices.