Wired Pipe Coupler Antenna Spacing for Signal Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wired pipe configurations for subterranean drilling and completion operations face challenges in reliably transmitting power and data through threaded connections, particularly in harsh downhole environments, where mechanical robustness and signal integrity are compromised by high pressures and dynamic loads.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a wired pipe segment with a coupler featuring a carrier with electrical components and antennas, supported by spacers, which are electrically coupled to a transmission line, providing robust communication and power transmission capabilities through threaded connections that can withstand downhole conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If threaded connections are used to connect pipe segments, then mechanical robustness is improved, but signal integrity deteriorates under high pressure and dynamic loads
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is divided into distinct functional components: a carrier housing for mechanical connection, a separate antenna assembly for signal transmission, and electrical components mounted on the carrier. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the carrier provides mechanical strength while the antenna assembly maintains signal integrity despite mechanical stresses
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier acts as an intermediary structure between the threaded mechanical connection and the antenna assembly. It provides a stable mounting platform for electrical components and antennas, isolating them from direct mechanical stresses of the threaded connection while maintaining both mechanical robustness and signal integrity
2Device complexity
If coupler components are integrated into the pipe ends, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier is designed as a universal component that can be mounted on various pipe segment configurations (pin end or box end) while providing the same functional benefits. The standardized carrier design with integrated mounting features reduces overall device complexity while maintaining consistent manufacturing precision requirements across different applications
3Reliability
If antennas are spaced from the carrier, then signal transmission quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna assembly is positioned in a dimensionally optimized configuration relative to the carrier, with specific spacing distances established to maximize signal transmission quality. The spacers provide precise dimensional control, creating optimal electromagnetic field patterns while the integrated mounting structure keeps the overall device complexity manageable
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 solution ensures reliable transmission of data and power signals, maintaining signal integrity and mechanical robustness even under high pressure and dynamic loads, enhancing the operational efficiency of subterranean drilling and completion operations.
Implementation Method 1
one or more antennas supported by and spaced from the carrier and being electrically coupled to the carrier through at least one of the electrical components
Data Source
AI summary
A wired pipe coupler that carries at least a data signal includes a carrier having a plurality of electrical components disposed therein and one or more antennas supported by and spaced from the carrier, the one or more antennas being electrically coupled to the carrier through respective ones of the plurality of electrical components.