Wireless Modem Network Discovery via Acoustic Identification Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless modem systems in downhole environments face challenges in determining the identity, position, and relative order of other modems within a network, leading to potential communication signal loss due to improper assembly, which is inefficient and unreliable, especially when power consumption and data rates are limited.
Innovation Solution
A wireless modem system equipped with a network discovery algorithm that uses identification signals and local sensor measurements to determine the position and relative order of other modems via a communication channel, allowing for efficient communication without relying on precise modem placement, utilizing a combination of short hop acoustic telemetry and electromagnetic signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If wireless modems are programmed to communicate with known neighboring modems before installation, then communication efficiency is improved, but reliability deteriorates when modems are assembled in improper order
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by having modems transmit identification signals and store neighbor information in advance during manufacturing. The modems are pre-programmed with the capability to identify and communicate with specific neighboring modems based on their physical arrangement in the drill string, enabling quick network formation without requiring complex discovery protocols during field deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where modems continuously monitor communication quality and neighbor identification. When communication errors occur or neighbor identification fails, the system automatically adjusts by retransmitting identification signals and updating neighbor tables, ensuring reliable communication even when initial assembly is improper
2Loss of information
If flood algorithms are used to discover neighboring modems, then network discovery is thorough, but power consumption increases and data rates decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts only the essential elements needed for network discovery from the comprehensive flood algorithm approach. Instead of using full flood algorithms that broadcast to all possible neighbors, the system extracts and implements a targeted approach where modems only communicate with immediate physical neighbors through simplified identification signal exchanges, reducing computational overhead and power consumption while maintaining network discovery effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies partial action by implementing a streamlined neighbor discovery process that performs only the necessary minimum exchanges to identify immediate neighbors. Rather than executing complete flood algorithms that would discover the entire network topology, the modems perform limited identification signal transmissions sufficient for establishing local communication links, thereby conserving power and maintaining data rates
3Stability of the object's composition
If modems rely on precise placement order for proper communication, then network stability is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to assembly constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service through automatic neighbor identification and network configuration. Modems autonomously transmit identification signals, receive neighbor information, and update their communication tables without requiring manual configuration or precise placement. This self-organizing capability allows field engineers to assemble modems in any order while the system automatically establishes proper communication relationships
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes parameter changes in identification signals that encode neighbor relationship information. By embedding unique identifiers and position information in these signals, the system dynamically adapts to different assembly configurations. The modems adjust their communication parameters based on received identification signals, enabling network stability regardless of the physical assembly sequence
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
Enables reliable and efficient communication between downhole locations and the surface by ensuring wireless modems can identify and communicate with nearest neighbors, even when assembled improperly, optimizing energy use and data transmission rates.
Implementation Method 1
transmit an identification signal, via acoustic waves, to a communication channel
Implementation Method 2
receiving data packets originating from several downhole nodes. These packets are read to extract a unique identifier and hop count for each of the nodes
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A wireless modem for communication in a network of wireless modems via a communication channel includes a transceiver assembly, transceiver electronics and a power supply. The transceiver electronics include transmitter electronics, receiver electronics and at least one processing unit. The transmitter electronics cause the transceiver assembly to send wireless signals into the communication channel. The receiver electronics decode signals received by the transceiver assembly. The at least one processing unit executes instructions to (1) enable the transmitter electronics to transmit an identification signal into the communication channel, (2) receive data from at least one other wireless modem via the receiver electronics indicative of a unique identifier identifying the other wireless modem, and data indicative of at least one local sensor measurement related to the depth of the other wireless modem below the surface of the Earth, and (3) determine the position and/or relative order of the other wireless modem using the data indicative of the local sensor measurement. The power supply supplies power to the transceiver assembly and the transceiver electronics.