Radial Wraparound Antenna Coupling for Downhole Tubulars
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing well monitoring systems face challenges in efficiently providing wireless power and communication to downhole gauges due to eddy current interference and misalignment issues with axial induction coils, leading to low coupling efficiency and signal attenuation, especially in subsea environments.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of radial directional coils that wrap partially around tubular structures in the well casing annulus, optimizing frequency operation and resonant coupling for improved wireless power transfer and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If axial induction coils are used for wireless power transmission and communication, then power can be transmitted to downhole gauges, but eddy current interference causes signal attenuation and low coupling efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional axial induction coil configuration by using radial directional coils. Instead of transmitting power axially through the tubing, the coils are oriented radially to wrap around the tubing structure, which eliminates eddy current interference while maintaining power transmission capability. This directional inversion fundamentally resolves the harmful eddy current effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional axial coil orientation to two-dimensional radial wrapping configuration. The radial coils wrap around the tubing in a circumferential manner, creating a multi-dimensional coupling structure that improves magnetic field distribution and eliminates the harmful eddy currents generated by axial configurations.
2Reliability
If axial induction coils are used, then wireless communication can be established, but misalignment issues reduce coupling efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the alignment requirement by switching from axial to radial coil orientation. The radial wrapping configuration naturally aligns with the cylindrical tubing geometry, eliminating the precise axial alignment requirements that plague conventional systems. The coils wrap around the tubing rather than requiring precise end-to-end alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs curved radial coils that wrap around the cylindrical tubing structure. This curvature-based configuration naturally conforms to the tubing geometry, providing robust coupling that is insensitive to axial misalignment. The circular wrapping pattern ensures consistent magnetic field coupling regardless of precise positioning.
3Loss of energy
If radial directional coils wrapping around tubular structures are implemented, then coupling efficiency and power transmission are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radial directional coil assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides wireless power transmission, enables communication, and structurally wraps around the tubing for mechanical support. This multi-functionality consolidates several components into one integrated assembly, reducing overall system complexity despite the advanced coil configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested configuration where the radial coils wrap around the tubing structure, with the antenna elements integrated within the coil assembly. This nesting approach consolidates multiple functional elements into a compact hierarchical structure, minimizing space requirements and simplifying installation while maintaining high coupling efficiency.
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
Enhances system efficiency by reducing eddy current interference and misalignment issues, achieving higher power transmission and communication efficiency, suitable for both offshore and onshore operations.
Implementation Method 1
radial directional coils that wrap partially around tubular structures in the well casing annulus, optimizing frequency operation and resonant coupling for improved wireless power transfer and communication
Implementation Method 2
optimizing frequency operation and resonant coupling for improved wireless power transfer and communication
Implementation Method 3
An antenna assembly includes an antenna releasably fastened to a member disposed in a borehole
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna assembly includes an antenna releasably fastened to a member disposed in a borehole, where the antenna partially wraps around the member. The antenna assembly includes a fastening assembly configured to releasably fasten the antenna to the member. A fastening assembly includes one or more fastening portions configured to releasably fasten an antenna to a member disposed in a borehole. The one or more fastening portions extend across at least one surface of the antenna and extend around the member, and the one or more fastening portions are configured to contact the at least one surface of the antenna and are configured to contact an outer surface of the member, where the antenna partially wraps around the member.