Split-coil annular coupler for redundant downhole telemetry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Downhole drilling networks face challenges in building redundancy due to the linear structure of drill strings, leading to reliability issues as a single break or malfunction can disrupt communication between the surface and downhole components.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of split-coil annular couplers that provide multiple redundant paths of communication by dividing the coupler into segments spanning half the circumference of the annular coupler, ensuring that if one segment fails, the other can continue to transmit data, thereby maintaining network functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single linear communication path is used in the drill string, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates because any break or malfunction causes communication loss
Solution Approach 1:
The annular coupler is divided into multiple independent segments (at least two) arranged around the circumference of the tool joint. Each segment contains its own transmission line and can independently transmit data signals. This segmentation allows the system to maintain communication through alternative segments if one fails, thereby improving reliability without requiring a completely complex redundant network architecture.
2Reliability
If multiple redundant communication paths are implemented, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple transmission lines and coupler segments are merged into a single annular coupler structure that interfaces with the tool joint. The segments are integrated around the circumference of the same coupling interface, allowing redundant communication paths to be combined within one compact component rather than requiring separate distributed systems throughout the drill string.
3Reliability
If transmission lines are incorporated into downhole tools, then data transmission capability is improved, but the risk of communication loss increases due to potential breaks or malfunctions in the linear drill string structure
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates备用 (standby) transmission segments that are prepared in advance within the annular coupler. When a break or malfunction occurs in one transmission line, the system can immediately switch to an alternative segment, providing beforehand cushioning against communication disruption. This proactive redundancy design mitigates the harmful effects of potential failures before they cause complete communication loss.
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
This configuration enhances the reliability of downhole communication networks by providing multiple paths for data transmission, reducing the risk of communication loss and ensuring continuous data flow even if one transmission line fails.
Implementation Method 1
Communication elements, such as magnetic couplers, may be incorporated into the ends of downhole tools to transmit data across the tool joints
Data Source
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AI summary
An annular coupler for transmitting data across a tool joint may include a first coupler segment spanning a first portion of the circumference of the annular coupler. The annular coupler may further include a second coupler segment, electrically insulated from the first coupler segment, which spans a second portion of the circumference of the annular coupler. In selected aspects, the first and second portions do not overlap one another along the circumference. In certain aspects, the first and second coupler segments each span about fifty percent of the circumference of the annular coupler. Thus, each coupler segment may make up roughly half of the annular coupler.