Piezoelectric Fiber Composite Sensor for Borehole Telemetry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subterranean drilling telemetry systems face challenges in accurately detecting telemetry signals due to complex fiber optic methods and compensation issues, which affect signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), channel capacity, and data throughput.
Innovation Solution
The use of piezoelectric fiber composite (PFC) sensors acoustically coupled to a carrier to detect stress induced by telemetry pulses, allowing for flexible attachment to pipes and employing spatial diversity to enhance signal detectability and data throughput.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex fiber optic detection methods are used, then signal detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases and compensation issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the detection function from complex fiber optic systems and implements it using simpler piezoelectric sensors that directly detect stress waves in the drill string, eliminating the need for complex optical compensation mechanisms while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the optical detection system with a mechanical/electrical sensing system using piezoelectric sensors that convert mechanical stress directly into electrical signals, simplifying the overall detection architecture
2Measurement precision
If spatial diversity is employed, then signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection system into multiple spatially distributed piezoelectric sensors positioned at different locations along the drill string, allowing independent detection channels to be combined for improved signal-to-noise ratio through spatial diversity processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions sensors at specific locations where stress wave detection is optimized, with each sensor having a tailored orientation and placement strategy to maximize local detection quality while maintaining overall system simplicity
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 PFC sensors improve signal-to-noise ratio, channel capacity, and data throughput by effectively detecting telemetry signals through stress-induced voltage changes, enabling more reliable communication in subterranean drilling operations.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric fiber composite (PFC) sensor coupled to the carrier and configured to generate a signal indicative of a stress in the carrier
Implementation Method 2
detect a transmitted telemetry signal... detecting telemetry signals through stress-induced voltage changes
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for signal communication using a piezoelectric fiber composite (PFC) sensor. A telemetry module is locatable within a borehole intersecting a subterranean earth formation. The PFC sensor is coupled to a carrier in communication with the telemetry module. The PFC sensor is configured to generate a signal indicative of a stress in the carrier. A processor in communication with the PFC sensor is configured to convert the signal generated by the PFC sensor into a telemetry signal transmitted by the telemetry module.