Node Terminator Consumable Linkage for Subsurface Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inaccessible electronic and hydraulic devices in subsurface locations, such as boreholes, pose challenges in isolating them from larger systems to prevent system failures, as existing methods are either costly or impractical for intervention.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus that includes a node terminator with a communication linkage and control members to terminate signal communication by destroying a consumable element of the linkage upon receiving a controlled signal, using electrical energy to isolate nodes from the carrier, allowing for operational isolation without requiring power adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If communication with subsurface nodes is terminated by physical retrieval or intervention, then system isolation is achieved, but operational complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The node terminator enables nodes to perform self-isolation by automatically destroying their communication linkage when receiving a controlled signal, eliminating the need for external intervention or physical retrieval operations
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces mechanical intervention methods (physical retrieval, manual isolation) with an electrical/electronic system that uses controlled signals and consumable elements to achieve communication termination
2Reliability
If communication linkage is destroyed to isolate nodes, then system failure prevention is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts only the necessary energy amount required to destroy the consumable element and break the communication linkage, rather than requiring continuous or excessive energy input for sustained isolation
Solution Approach 2:
The controlled signal changes the energy state of the consumable element by delivering a specific energy threshold that transforms the element from functional to non-functional state, achieving isolation through parameter transformation
3Ease of operation
If nodes remain connected to carrier, then operational simplicity is maintained, but system vulnerability to failures increases
Solution Approach 1:
The node terminator is pre-configured with the capability to destroy the communication linkage upon receiving a controlled signal, allowing isolation to be executed as a preliminary protective measure before system failures can propagate
Solution Approach 2:
The invention segments the communication system into independent node units with individual terminators, allowing selective isolation of specific nodes without affecting the entire system, thus maintaining operational simplicity while reducing vulnerability
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
Effectively isolates nodes from the carrier, preventing system failures by terminating communication and requiring in-situ repair or retrieval for reactivation, independent of carrier operation parameters.
Implementation Method 1
the energy flow includes electrical energy
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to apparatuses and methods for terminating communication on a communication line between a carrier and at least one node located at a subsurface location. The apparatus may include a control member configured to initiate termination of communication in response to a controlled signal. The apparatus may also include a communication linkage configured to terminate the communication in a manner that cannot be remotely restored in response to the control member. The apparatus may also include a power source to maintain power to the communication linkage termination operation. The apparatus may be configured to use energy from the communication line to cause the communication linkage to terminate communication. The apparatus may be configured to use a communication linkage that is at least partially consumable. The method includes the use of the apparatus.