Wired Pipe Coupler Connector Asymmetric Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wired pipe configurations for subterranean drilling and completion operations face challenges in efficiently connecting communication and power transmission devices due to variations in drill pipe lengths and the need for reliable electrical connections between non-cylindrical conductors.
Innovation Solution
A wired pipe segment design featuring a coupler with a communication element and a connector that electrically connects to a transmission line with an inner conductor having a non-cylindrical shape, accompanied by a connector that mates with the coupler and transmission line, ensuring stable power and data transmission across varying pipe lengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional cylindrical connectors are used for wired pipe configurations, then the connection structure is simple, but reliable electrical connections cannot be achieved with non-cylindrical conductors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by changing the connector geometry from traditional cylindrical symmetric shape to a non-cylindrical asymmetric shape that specifically matches the non-cylindrical conductor cross-section. This asymmetric design enables proper electrical contact between the connector and the non-cylindrical conductor, achieving reliable electrical connections while accommodating the specific conductor geometry.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-length pipe segments are used, then manufacturing and assembly are simplified, but variations in drill pipe lengths cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating an adjustable or telescoping mechanism within the connector that allows the electrical connection length to vary. This dynamic design enables the connector to accommodate different drill pipe lengths while maintaining reliable electrical contact, providing adaptability to varying operational requirements without requiring multiple fixed-length components.
3Reliability
If non-cylindrical conductors are used for improved signal transmission, then data transmission quality improves, but connection to traditional cylindrical connectors becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by designing the connector with a non-cylindrical internal geometry that precisely matches the non-cylindrical conductor cross-section. This asymmetric design enables proper electrical contact and signal transmission while accommodating the specific conductor shape, thereby maintaining data transmission reliability.
4Reliability
If custom non-cylindrical connectors are designed to match non-cylindrical conductors, then electrical connection reliability improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by designing the connector with a non-cylindrical internal geometry that precisely matches the non-cylindrical conductor cross-section. This asymmetric design enables proper electrical contact and signal transmission while accommodating the specific conductor shape, thereby maintaining data transmission reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A wired pipe segment includes a body extending from a box end to a pin end and a coupler located in one of the box end or the pin end, the coupler including a communication element and a coupler connector in electrical communication therewith and extending away from the communication element. The segment also includes a transmission line extending away from the coupler towards the other of the box and pin end, the transmission line including an inner conductor surrounded by an insulating material, the inner conductor of the transmission line having an end with a non-cylindrical shape. The segment also includes a connector that electrically connects the coupler to the transmission line.