Wireless MWD Module Antenna Through Pressure Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Measurement while drilling (MWD) tools are pressure sealed, preventing communication with internal components during loading or unloading, which limits data transmission and configuration changes when the tool is on the rig surface.
Innovation Solution
A wireless measurement while drilling (MWD) module with a transceiver and antennas configured to provide bidirectional communication through sealing portions and slots in the housing, enabling communication with a rig wireless module using a 2.4 Gigahertz protocol, and a repeater at the drill collar's top to extend communication range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the MWD tool is pressure sealed, then reliability of the tool is improved, but communication with internal components is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
A wireless communication module with antenna is introduced as an intermediary component within the pressure-sealed MWD tool. This antenna can transmit and receive electromagnetic signals through the pressure seal housing, enabling data communication between internal components and external systems without compromising the pressure seal integrity. The wireless module acts as a mediator that bridges the isolation created by the pressure seal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical communication methods (such as physical connections or openings in the housing) with electromagnetic wireless communication. Instead of creating mechanical openings in the pressure seal to enable communication, the system uses electromagnetic waves that can penetrate the housing material, thus substituting a mechanical approach with an electromagnetic field-based approach.
2Reliability
If the MWD tool remains pressure sealed during loading and unloading, then reliability is maintained, but data transmission and configuration changes are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless communication module serves as an intermediary that enables data transmission and configuration changes while the tool remains under pressure seal. During loading and unloading operations, the antenna can communicate with external wireless devices, allowing data to be transmitted and configurations to be modified without breaking the pressure seal, thus maintaining reliability while improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows configuration changes and data transmissions to be performed in advance or during transitional periods when the tool is being loaded or unloaded, but remains pressure sealed. This preliminary action capability ensures that communication needs are met before critical operations begin, improving overall workflow efficiency without compromising seal integrity.
3Loss of information
If communication openings are added to the housing, then communication capability is improved, but pressure seal integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for physical communication openings by substituting mechanical/electrical connection methods with wireless electromagnetic communication. The antenna system can transmit signals through the housing material without requiring any openings, thus maintaining pressure seal integrity while achieving full communication capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless antenna acts as an intermediary that enables communication through the housing material itself without requiring openings. The electromagnetic waves can penetrate the housing, allowing the antenna to communicate with external devices while the housing remains fully sealed for pressure containment.
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 seamless, low-latency, and reliable data transmission and configuration changes without breaking the pressure seal, allowing for efficient data retrieval and tool operation when the MWD tool is on the rig surface or within the drill collar.
Implementation Method 1
the one or more antennas are configured to provide bidirectional wireless communication with the rig wireless module through the one or more sealing portions and the one or more slots in the housing
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, a wireless MWD module is included in a MWD tool to enable communication between the MWD tool and a rig wireless module located at a rig surface. In some embodiments, a repeater is disposed at a drill collar to enable enhanced communication between the wireless MWD module in the MWD tool disposed within a borehole and the rig wireless module located at the rig surface.