BR122017005600B1 - APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRANSCEIVER FOR ACOUSTIC TELEMETRY - Google Patents

Description

“Apparatus, System and Method for a Transceiver for Acoustic Telemetry” Divided from PI0512694-0, filed 01/07/2005 Technical Field [001] The invention is generally related to communications. In particular, the invention relates to acoustic communications between a downhole drilling assembly and a well surface.

Background During hydrocarbon drilling operations, a variety of communication and transmission techniques have been attempted to provide real-time data from the drill's vicinity to the surface during drilling. Using drilling measurements (MWD) with real time data transmission provides substantial benefits during a drilling operation. For example, downhole condition monitoring allows immediate response to potential well control problems and improves mud programs.

[003] Measurement of parameters such as drill weight, torque, and wear condition and real-time support provide more efficient drilling operations. Indeed, faster penetration speeds, better stroke planning, reduced equipment failures, fewer delays for directional surveys and elimination of the need to interrupt drilling for abnormal pressure detection can be achieved using MWD techniques.

There are currently four main categories of telemetry systems that have been used to attempt to provide real-time data from the drill bit vicinity to the surface; namely acoustic waves, mud pressure pulses, insulated conductors and electromagnetic waves.

With respect to acoustic waves, typically an acoustic signal is generated near the drill and is transmitted through the drill pipe, mud column or earth. It has been found, however, that the very low signal strength that can be generated downstream, together with the acoustic noise generated by the drilling system, makes signal detection difficult. Reflective and refractive interference that results from changes in diameter and set of threads in tool joints make up the signal attenuation problem for drill pipe transmissions. Such reflective and refractive interference causes inter-bit interference between the data bits being transmitted. Additionally, environmental thermal and loading elongation may cause loss of contact between transmitter components in an acoustic transmitter. Compression loading on such a transmitter may lock the piezoelectric stack and therefore may not allow momentum transfer to the piping. In addition, coarse vibration and shock loads tend to induce stress fractures in the friable and magnetostrictive piezoelectric materials, which could disintegrate the acoustic transmitter assembly.

[006] In a mud pressure pulse system the mud flow resistance through a drill string is modulated by means of a valve and control mechanism mounted on a special drill collar near the drill bit. This type of system typically transmits at a bit per second when the pressure pulse travels up the mud column near the speed of sound in the mud. It is well known that mud pulse systems are intrinsically limited to a few bits per second due to pulse attenuation and dispersion.

Insulated conductors or wire connection from drill bit to surface is an alternative method for establishing downhole communications. This type of system is capable of a high data rate, and two-way communication is possible. However, it has been found that this type of system requires a special drill pipe and special tool joint connectors, which substantially increase the cost of a drilling operation. Also, these systems can lead to failure as a result of the abrasive conditions of the mud system and the wear caused by rotation of the drill string.

The fourth technique used to make down-hole data telemetry to the surface uses the transmission of electromagnetic waves across the earth. A chain carrying downward bore data signal is introduced into a log or collar positioned adjacent to the drill bit or inserted directly into the drill string. When a log is used, a primary winding, which carries the data for transmission, is wound around the log and a secondary is formed by the drill pipe. A receiver is connected to surface terrain where electromagnetic data is captured and recorded. It has been found, however, that in deep or noisy well applications, conventional electromagnetic systems are unable to generate a signal of sufficient intensity to be recovered at the surface.

In general the quality of an electromagnetic signal reaching the surface is measured in terms of signal to noise ratio. When the relationship drops, it becomes more difficult to recover or reconstitute the signal. While increasing transmitted signal energy is an obvious way to increase signal-to-ground ratio, this approach is limited by purpose-appropriate batteries and the desire to extend the time between battery replacements. These approaches have enabled the development of commercial borehole electromagnetic telemetry systems that work at data speeds of up to 4 bits per second and at depths of up to 4,000 feet (1216 m) without repeaters in MWD applications. It would be desirable to transmit signals from deeper wells and at much higher data rates, which will be required for drilling logging (LWD) systems.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments of the invention may be better understood by reference to the following description and accompanying drawings illustrating such configurations. The numbering scheme for the Figures included therein is such that the leading number for a given reference number in a Figure is associated with the figure number. For example, a system 100 may be located in Figure 1.

However, the reference numbers are the same for those elements that are the same across the different Figures. In the drawings.

Figure 1 illustrates a system for drilling operations in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

Figure 2 illustrates an acoustic telemetry transceiver according to some embodiments of the invention.

Figures 3A-3B illustrate top views of a mandrel housing an acoustic telemetry transceiver in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

Figure 4 illustrates a portion of a piezoelectric transducer within an acoustic telemetry transceiver according to some embodiments of the invention.

Figure 5 illustrates a bottom view of a piezoelectric transducer on an acoustic telemetry transceiver according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0017] Figure 6 illustrates a more detailed diagram of a tapered tapered section on an acoustic telemetry transceiver according to some embodiments of the invention.

Figures 7A-7B illustrate a configuration for a reinforcing mass and its supporting components for an acoustic telemetry transceiver according to some embodiments of the invention.

Figure 8 illustrates the flowchart for mounting an acoustic telemetry transceiver including support objects shown in Figures 7A-7B for a reinforcing mass according to some embodiments of the invention.

Figure 9 illustrates a system for generating acoustic waveforms according to some embodiments of the invention.

Figure 10 illustrates a flowchart for generating an acoustic signal according to some embodiments of the invention.

Detailed Description Methods, apparatus and systems for an acoustic telemetry transceiver are described. In the following description numerous specific details are described. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known circuits, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail to obscure the understanding of this description.

Although described with reference to downward bore data transmission to the surface during drilling measurements, embodiments of the invention are not limited thereto. For example, some configurations are applicable to data transmission from the surface to equipment that is downhole. Additionally, some embodiments of the invention are applicable not only during drilling, but throughout the life of a wellbore, which include, but are not limited to during, logging, drilling rod testing, completion and production. In addition, some embodiments of the invention may be in other noise conditions such as hydraulic fracturing and cementation.

As further described below, configurations provide a system for transmitting the acoustic signal which is essentially linear. Configurations allow such linearity by having an acoustic telemetry transceiver that approximately removes lateral movement (relative to the drill string axis) while allowing approximately unrestricted movement along the drill string axis. Additionally, transceiver configurations for acoustic telemetry can be configured to be stable over a wide range of operating temperatures and to withstand large shocks and vibrations. Some configurations include an acoustic telemetry transceiver that has a reinforcing mass that is housed in a linear / bearing support. In some configurations an acoustic telemetry transceiver (which includes the piezoelectric stack) is independent of nonpermanent joints such as solder joints. In some configurations the piezoelectric stack is coupled to a tapered tapered section of a drill string mandrel through a different tapered tapered section. As further described below, the positions of tapered tapered sections are such that contact is increased between them based on a pressure of a fluid flow between the piezoelectric stack and the mandrel. In addition, some configurations provide modular components such that one of the components in the system can be interchanged without having to interchange other components in it.

Figure 1 illustrates a system for drilling operations in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. One system 100 includes drilling rig 102 located on a well surface 104. The drilling rig 102 provides support for a drilling column 108. The drilling column 108 penetrates a rotary table 110 to drill a borehole 112 through subsurface formations 114. The drilling column 108 includes a “Kelly”. 116 (at the top portion), a drill pipe 118 and a bottom bore assembly 120 located at the lowest portion of the drill pipe 118.0 a bottom bore assembly 120 may include a drill collar 122, a bore tool downward drill 124 and a drill bit 126. The downward drill tool 124 can be any of a number of different types of tools including punch-in (MWD), record-in-punch (LWD), and the like.

During drilling operations the drill string 108 (which includes the “Kelly” 116, the drill pipe 118 and the bottom hole assembly 120) can be rotated by means of the rotary table 110. In addition or as an alternative at such rotation, the bottom hole assembly 120 may also be rotated by means of a motor (not shown) which is downward hole. The drill collar 122 may be used to add weight to the drill bit 126. The drill collar 122 may also stiffen the bottom hole assembly 120 to allow the bottom hole assembly 120 to transfer weight to the drill bit 126. Accordingly, this weight provided by the drill collar 122 also assists the drill bit 126 in penetrating surface 104 and subsurface formations 114.

During drilling operations a mud pump 132 may pump drilling fluid (known as "drilling mud") from a mud well 134 through a hose 136 into the drill pipe 118 to down to drill bit 126. Drilling fluid may flow out of drill bit 126 and resume to the surface through an annular area 140 between drill pipe 118 and the sides of borehole 112. Drilling fluid Drilling can then be resumed to mud well 134, where such fluid is filtered. Accordingly, the drilling fluid may cool the drill bit 126 as well as provide lubrication to the drill bit 126 during the drilling operation. Additionally, the drill hole removes the cuts from the subsurface formations 114 created by the drill bit 126.

The drill string 108 may include one to a number of different sensors 151, which monitor different downhole parameters. Such parameters may include temperature and downhole pressure, the various characteristics of subsurface formations (such as resistivity, density, porosity, etc.), drillhole characteristics (eg, size, shape, etc.). etc. The drill string 108 may also include an acoustic telemetry transceiver 123 that transmits telemetry signals in the form of acoustic vibrations on the drill column pipe wall 108. An acoustic telemetry receiver 115 is coupled to the Kelly 116 to receive signals. of telemetry transmitted. One or more repeaters 119 may be provided along the drill string 108 to receive and relay the telemetry signals. Repeaters 119 may include both an acoustic telemetry receiver and an acoustic telemetry transmitter similarly configured to an acoustic telemetry receiver 115 and an acoustic telemetry transceiver 123.

Figure 2 illustrates an acoustic telemetry transceiver according to some embodiments of the invention. In particular Figure 2 illustrates a configuration of the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123. As shown, the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123 is within a mandrel 204 that is part of the drill string 108. The acoustic telemetry transceiver 123 may include a centering assembly 201, an upper sub 203, an acoustic actuator 206, a linear or plain bearing 214, a housing 215, a sleeve 216 having 213 threads and a tapered tapered section 218 and wiring 221. The acoustic actuator 206 may include a grease 208, a piezoelectric transducer 210 (including a disc 211), and a strain gauge 217. Centralizer assembly 201 may include a centralizer 202, a subcentrator 205, and a screw 241. Screw 241 may include an annular groove. The upper sub may include an O-ring groove 232 and an O-ring groove 233. In some configurations an acoustic actuator 206 may be housed in a pressure-sealed chamber. The acoustic telemetry transceiver 123 may be positioned on the downhole tool 124 such that the reinforcing mass 208 is above the piezoelectric transducer 210 relative to the surface. Although acoustic actuator 206 is described as having a piezoelectric transducer, in some configurations any type of vibratory actuator may be used in place of the piezoelectric transducer. Tapered tapered section 218 may include inner threads 220, first outer threads 225, second outer threads 207, and a bulkhead connector 229.

Piezoelectric transducer 210 is housed in sleeve 216. In the context of this assembly, sleeve 216 may be a suitable geometry member and may be made of materials such that sleeve 216 expands and contracts proportionally to the forces transmitted at the ends of the sleeve. glove 216. Thus, in one embodiment, a metal rod may be used as the glove 216.

Reinforcing mass 208 may be threaded into sleeve 213 of sleeve 216 until reinforcing mass 208 tops against piezoelectric transducer 210. In some configurations piezoelectric transducer 210 includes disc 211. Disc 211 may be floatable free until reinforcing mass 208 tops disc 211. Disc 211 can act as a damper to prevent torque to the elements on piezoelectric transducer 210 while reinforcing mass 208 is threaded into sleeve 216 against transducer piezoelectric 210. In other words, the disc 211 may act to separate the reinforcing mass 208 from the piezoelectric elements in the piezoelectric transducer 210 in terms of the torque applied to the reinforcing mass 208.

The strain gauge 217 can be positioned on one side of sleeve 216 to monitor the load on the piezoelectric transducer 210. The strain gauge 217 can be temperature compensated. In some configurations sleeve 216 may be linear in displacement against the load. Sleeve 216 may be tensioned by a torque mechanism until a desired tension is achieved as reflected by tension gauge 217. Consequently, the torque level applied due to tapping of grease 208 on threads 213 may be monitored by the gauge 213. tension 217. Once the given torque has been applied, one or more bolts (not shown) can be threaded into sleeve 216 to lock the thread in place, thereby preventing loss of this torque during subsequent operations.

The sleeve 216 allows compression of the piezoelectric elements on the piezoelectric transducer 210. When the sleeve 216 is stretched, the piezoelectric elements may be compressed. In some configurations the sleeve material 216 may be suitably selected to have a low coefficient of thermal expansion (e.g., invar) to prevent tension release due to changes in temperature. Glove 216 may be composed of one of a number of different materials including invar, steel, stainless steel, etc. Sleeve 216 may be a hollow sleeve of suitable rigidity to permit vibratory resonances in the frequency band of interest. The stiffness of the sleeve 216 can be modified to suit the vibratory characteristics of the assembly by varying the thickness of the sleeve 216.

Reinforcing grease 208 may be composed of one of a number of different materials including tungsten, steel, aluminum, stainless steel, depleted uranium, lead, etc. A mass value of the reinforcing mass 208 is such that the acoustic actuator 206 may be resonant over a given frequency range.

In some configurations the reinforcing mass 208 may be within the linear bearing bracket 214. The linear bearing 214 may be within the housing 215. The linear bearing 214 may act as a guide for the reinforcing mass 208. In particular the linear bearing 214 can essentially prevent reinforcing mass 208 from shifting transversely with respect to mandrel 204, while allowing reinforcing mass 208 to move axially with respect to mandrel 204. Consequently, this prevention of lateral movement of the mass is consequently prevented. No. 208 avoids additional loading on one side of the piezoelectric transducer 210 and the stresses of separating the opposite side of the piezoelectric transducer 210. Configurations of the invention are not limited to the use of a linear bearing to restrict / allow such movements of the reinforcing mass. 208, an alternative embodiment for restricting / allowing such movements of reinforcing mass 208 is shown in Figs. 7A-7B, which are described in more detail below.

Piezoelectric transducer 210 may be housed in sleeve 216. Sleeve 216 may then be threaded into the internal threads 220 of tapered tapered section 218. Reinforcing mass 208 may then be threaded into threads 213 of sleeve 216, as described above. . The amount of torque applied due to tapping of the grease 208 on the sleeve 218 can be monitored by the tension gauge 217. After the grease 208 is threaded into place, the screws are placed on the sleeve 216 to lock the grease. 208 and glove 216 in place. The housing 215 may be threaded on the first outer threads 225. In some configurations after the housing 215 is threaded on the first outer threads 225, the support members (described in Figures 7A-7B) for the grease 208 may be positioned on the housing 215.0 top sub 203 can then be threaded to the top of housing 215. This top sub 203 closes the top of housing 215 to prevent fluid (e.g. drilling mud) from flowing into housing 215. In some configurations the pressure within the housing 215 is approximately atmospheric. In addition, tapered tapered section 218 may be coupled to mandrel 204. Centering assembly 201 may then be coupled to upper sub 203. Further details of such operations are provided below.

In some configurations the piezoelectric transducer 210 may be constantly under compression under a combination of drilling loads and actuation loads while the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123 is downward bore. A configuration of the partially assembled piezoelectric transducer 210 is shown in Figure 3, which is described in more detail below.

As further described below, acoustic actuator 206 can receive an electrical input from a trigger and convert such input into an acoustic output. This acoustic output from acoustic actuator 206 can be modulated along mandrel 204 via tapered tapered section 218. Accordingly, in some configurations an acoustic actuator 206 transmits acoustic output to mandrel 204 through a single contact point ( tapered tapered section 218).

In particular, tapered tapered section 218 may couple piezoelectric transducer 210 to mandrel 204, to enable transmission of the acoustic signal (generated by piezoelectric transducer 210) along mandrel 204 to an acoustic receiver (part of a repeater to drilling column, surface receiver, etc.). The more contact between acoustic actuator 206 and chuck 204, the better the acoustic signal transfer between them. In some configurations a tapered tapered section 219 may be machined on mandrel 204. Consequently, tapered tapered section 218 and tapered tapered section 219 together may provide rigid contact between them. In some configurations tapered tapered section 218 and tapered tapered section 219 may include corresponding chamfers and threads to allow such sections to be coupled together. Accordingly, the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123 may be threaded and torqueed to the mandrel 204 using tapered tapered section 218 and tapered tapered section 219. In addition, the second outer threads 227 of tapered tapered section 218 may be tapped and torqueed to a taper. part of mandrel 204 to allow additional contact between tapered tapered section 218 and mandrel 204.

In addition, tapered tapered section 218 may include o-ring grooves 233 and 234. O-rings may be placed in o-ring grooves 233 and 234. In some configurations the diameter of the o-ring placed in the groove for O-ring 233 is larger than the diameter of the O-ring placed in the O-ring 234 groove. In operation, pressure that is created by drilling mud as well as pressure created by pumping downhole drilling mud is placed on these two different o-rings. The pressure between O-ring grooves 233 and 234 is atmospheric. Since the pressure placed on one of the two different O-rings is approximately the same, the larger diameter of the O-ring in the O-ring groove 233 (relative to the O-ring in the O-ring groove 234) can cause a resulting force to be directed downwardly from the tapered tapered section bevel 218. In other words, a pressure lock is created between the two different O-ring grooves 233 and 234. This pressure lock can allow a more rigid contact between tapered tapered section 218 and tapered tapered section 219.

Consequently, tapered tapered section 218 and tapered tapered section 219, together with the drilling mud flow between the chuck 204 and the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123, allow more contact between the acoustic actuator 206 and the chuck 204. In particular, the contact between tapered tapered section 218 and tapered tapered section 219 increases as drilling mud seeps. Moreover, during a disassembly operation this drilling mud flow pressure is not present, thereby allowing for a potentially easier disassembly operation. Accordingly, some embodiments of the invention allow more contact between acoustic actuator 206 and mandrel 204, while still allowing for potentially easier disassembly operation.

Tapered tapered section 218 may also include bulkhead connector 229 on tapered tapered section 218. Bulkhead connector 229 may prevent pressure leakage in section including wiring 221 to penetrate the area including piezoelectric transducer 210. In particular, bulkhead connector 229 may include a section for coupling wiring 221 to wiring on piezoelectric transducer 210 through springs within tapered tapered section 218, which is described in more detail below in conjunction with Figures 5 and 6. In some configurations this coupling may be through a welding operation. Wiring 221 may electrically couple piezoelectric transducer 210 to a signal source (not shown) to drive and control piezoelectric transducer 210. Such signal source may include an electrical trigger, control / electronics, etc.

The centering assembly 201 may provide support at the top end of the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123. In particular, the centering 202 may couple the upper sub-203 to the mandrel 204. The centering 202 may be a ring of a number of fingers ( for example, four) attaching the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123 to the mandrel 204. The ring side adjacent to the upper sub 203 may include a groove. As shown, a centralizer bevel 202 may be approximately the same as the upper sub bevel 203. After the centralizer 202 is placed over the upper sub 203, the sub centralizer 205 may be threaded into the upper sub 203. This tapping may make causing the centralizer 202 to be pushed over the upper sub bevel 203. Additionally this tapping may cause the groove in the centralizer 202 to open causing this the centralizer 202 to expand outward towards the mandrel 204. Consequently, the centralizer 202 finds the chuck 204 to provide support at the top end of the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123.

Additionally, o-rings are placed in o-ring grooves 231, 232 and 233. In some configurations the diameter of o-rings placed in o-ring grooves 231 and 232 are larger than the diameter of o-ring. O placed in O-ring groove 233. In operation, pressure created by the drilling mud, as well as pumping the drilling mud, is placed on two of these different O-rings. In some configurations a pressure lock is created between O-ring 231 and O-ring 233. O-ring 232 may provide redundancy for this pressure lock. In other words, if the pressure lock between O-ring 231 and O-ring 233 should fail, a pressure lock is created between O-ring 232 and O-ring 233.

In addition, bolt 241 may be threaded on top of the sub 205 centralizer until the bolt meets upper sub 203. Consequently, centralizer 202 may remain in place against mandrel 204 due to (1) the torque applied by threading of the sub centralizer 205 over the upper sub 203; (2) the pressure lock generated by the O-rings; and (3) screw 241 being threaded on top of subcenter 205. Therefore, centering assembly 201 may prevent lateral movement of the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123.

Figures 3A-3B illustrate top views of a mandrel housing an acoustic telemetry transceiver according to some embodiments of the invention. In particular, Figure 3A illustrates a top view of a first configuration of the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123 within mandrel 204. Within mandrel 204 the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123 is surrounded by mud flow openings 302A-302C. Figure 3B illustrates a top view of a second configuration of the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123 within mandrel 204. In such a configuration a mud flow transceiver 304 is adjacent to the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123. Mud flow openings 302A- 302C and 304 allow the drilling mud from the surface to flow down through the drillhole to the drill bit 126. The acoustic telemetry transceiver configurations 123 and the mud flow openings are by way of example, not by way of limitation. In particular, the configurations may include a smaller or larger number of drilling mud openings. Additionally, such drilling mud openings may be of alternative shapes and dimensions.

Figure 3A illustrates a configuration in which a pressure from the mud flow through the surrounding mud flow openings 302A-302C can assist in preventing lateral movement by the acoustic telemetry transceiver components 123. Figure 3B illustrates a configuration in which mud flow is more contiguous through a single opening. Such a configuration may reduce the amount of wear and damage that mud may cause on the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123. In addition, this configuration may allow easier passage of a cable line that may need to be passed through the chuck 204 during operation.

Figure 4 illustrates a portion of a piezoelectric transducer within an acoustic telemetry transceiver according to some embodiments of the invention. In particular, Figure 4 illustrates a configuration of a portion of piezoelectric transducer 210 before it is fully assembled. Piezoelectric transducer 210 includes an electrode 402A, an electrode 402B and an electrode 402C. Piezoelectric transducer 210 also includes a piezoelectric element 404A, a piezoelectric element 404B, a piezoelectric element 404C and a piezoelectric element 404D. Piezoelectric transducer 210 may include fewer or more electrodes 402 and / or piezoelectric elements 404.

As shown, the electrodes 402A-402D may be a single sheet of material that is independent of nonpermanent joints such as welded joints, welding joints, etc. Thereafter, the 402A-402D electrodes may be bent over the piezoelectric elements 404A-404D as part of complementing the piezoelectric transducer assembly 210. In some configurations, the 402A-402D electrode components may be comprised of beryllium copper, copper, brass. , silver, etc. Piezoelectric elements 404A-404D may be disks which are composed of ceramic material such as lead-zirconate titanate (PZT), lead-titanate (PbTi02), lead-zirconate (PbZr03), barium-titanate (BaTi03), etc. In some configurations the piezoelectric transducer 210 may be replaced by suitable transducers constructed of magnetostrictive materials. In such a configuration, connections between electromagnets and drive circuits may be designed to eliminate nonpermanent joints such as (soldered).

In some configurations the electrodes 402A-402D may include one to a number of holes. An adhesive such as an epoxy may be inserted between the piezoelectric elements 404A-404D. Such adhesive may flow into the holes of the electrodes 402A-402D, thereby forming a stronger bond between the piezoelectric elements 404A-404D. This adhesive can prevent piezoelectric elements 404A-404D from moving relative to each other. Accordingly, such a configuration may allow the output shape of the piezoelectric transducer 210 to be more consistent.

Figures 5 and 6 together illustrate a configuration for coupling piezoelectric transducer 210 to a signal source without using nonpermanent joints. Figure 5 illustrates a bottom view of a piezoelectric transducer on an acoustic telemetry transceiver according to some embodiments of the invention. In particular, Figure 5 illustrates a bottom view configuration of the piezoelectric transducer 210. As shown, the bottom of the piezoelectric transducer 210 includes electrical contacts 502A-502N.

Figure 6 illustrates a more detailed diagram of a tapered tapered section on an acoustic telemetry transceiver according to some embodiments of the invention. In particular, Figure 6 illustrates a tapered tapered section configuration 218 that can be used in conjunction with the piezoelectric transducer 210 shown in Figure 5. As shown in Figure 2, the piezoelectric transducer 210 can be positioned relative to the surface at the top of the Tapered tapered section 218. Tapered tapered section 218 includes bulkhead connectors 229A-229N, springs 602A-602N, and 221A-22IN wiring. In particular, tapered tapered section 218 may include one to a number of bulkhead connectors 229, springs 602, and wiring 221. The tops of spring 602A-602N may be aligned with electrical contacts 502A-502N (shown in Figure 5). In some configurations there is a one to one relationship between the 502A-502N electrical contacts and the 602A-602N springs. Consequently, spring 602A can be aligned with electrical contact 502A. Spring 602B can be aligned with electrical contact 502B. Spring 602C can be aligned with electrical contact 502C. Spring 602N can be aligned with electrical contact 502N. The tops of the 602A-602N springs may protrude outside the top of tapered tapered section 218. The bulkhead connectors 229 couple the springs 602 to the wiring 221 that can be coupled to a signal source such as a trigger, digital signal processor , etc.

Accordingly, coupling of piezoelectric transducer 210 to wiring 221 through tapered tapered section 218 does not include nonpermanent joints. Instead, piezoelectric transducer 210 is positioned at the top of tapered tapered section 218. The weight provided by reinforcing mass 208, piezoelectric transducer 210, and the compressive pretension load applied on piezoelectric transducer 210 allows electrical contacts 502 remain in contact with springs 602. Since this coupling does not include nonpermanent joints, such coupling is not subject to disruption due to actuator-induced vibration stresses as well as surrounding environment vibrations that are inherent during operation. drilling.

Figures 7A-7B illustrate a configuration for a reinforcing mass and its supporting components for an acoustic telemetry transceiver according to some embodiments of the invention. In particular, Figure 7A illustrates a reinforcing mass 700 and Figure 7B illustrates a number of supporting components of the reinforcing mass 700. Referring to Figure 2, the reinforcing mass 700 and its supporting components may be substituted in place of the reinforcing mass 208 and linear bearing 214.

The top of the gusset 700 includes a threaded hole 704. There are a number of slots 702A-702E along the sides of the gusset 700. The bottom of the gusset 700 includes a threaded fitting 706. The threaded fitting 706 may be used to couple the grease 700 to the piezoelectric transducer 210.

Figure 7B includes a push down component 708 which includes a threaded connection 710. Figure 7B also illustrates a set of components to be inserted into one of the slots 702. Accordingly, although not shown, each of the slots 702A-702E may include such components. Components to be inserted into one of slots 702 include a number of inserts 712A-712N and a number of carrier objects 714A-714N. Figures 7A-7B illustrate an established number of slots 702 as well as an established number of inserts 712 and support objects 714 to be inserted into a given slot 702. Configurations of the invention may include a smaller or larger number of slots 702 of inserts 712 and / or support objects 714. In some configurations the composition of support objects 714 includes beryllium copper, steel, brass, stainless steel, etc. Supporting objects 714 may be of different shapes. For example, support objects 714 may be approximately round. Supporting objects 714 may be approximately round to the side facing the housing, while they are wedge-shaped, square and so on. on the opposite side. A given set of objects 714 for a given reinforcing mass 700 and / or a given slot 702 may be of different shapes and dimensions. A configuration of an assembly operation of the grease 700 and its supporting components shown in Figures 7A-7B is now described.

In particular, Figure 8 illustrates a flowchart for mounting an acoustic telemetry transceiver including support objects shown in Figures 7A-7B for a reinforcement mass according to some embodiments of the invention.

In block 802 of a flowchart 800 the piezoelectric transducer is positioned in the tapered tapered section. Referring to the configuration of Figure 2, piezoelectric transducer 210 is positioned at tapered tapered section 218. Continuous control on block 804.

In block 804 the sleeve is threaded (over the piezoelectric transducer) into the tapered tapered section. Referring to the configuration of Figure 2, sleeve 216 is threaded over piezoelectric transducer 210 into the internal threads 220 of tapered tapered section 218. Continuous control on block 806.

In block 806 the reinforcing mass is threaded into the sleeve to a given compression for the piezoelectric transducer. Referring to the configuration of Figure 2, the reinforcing mass 208 is threaded into the sleeve 213 of the sleeve 216. In some configurations this threading undergoes torque such that a given compression is applied to the piezoelectric transducer 210. The strain gauge 217 can measure this. compression. Control continues at block 808.

In block 808 the sleeve threads (for coupling to the grease) are locked with screws. Referring to the configuration of Figure 2, threads 213 are bolted (not shown) after reinforcing mass 208 is threaded thereon. Control continues at block 810.

In block 810 the housing is threaded (over the reinforcing mass, sleeve and piezoelectric transducer) into the tapered tapered section. Referring to the configuration of Figure 2, housing 215 is threaded over gusset 208, sleeve 216, and piezoelectric transducer 210 on tapers 225 of tapered tapered section 218. In some configurations the size of gusset 208 is such. that grease 208 is not in contact with frame 215. Control continues on block 812.

In block 812 support object (s) and insert (s) are dropped into each of the slots along the side of the back support mass in alternate order until the slots are filled. Referring to the configurations of FIGS. 7A-7B, the support object (s) 714 and insert (s) 712 are dropped into each of the slots 702 in alternate order until the slots are filled. In some configurations the dimensions of the carrier objects 714 and housing 215 are such that the carrier objects 714 are not in contact with the housing 215 when such objects are initially dropped into slots 702. Continuous control in block 814.

In block 814 a push down member is inserted on top of the reinforcing mass. Referring to the configurations of Figures 7A-7B, the threaded connection 710 of the push down component 708 is inserted into the threaded hole 704. Control continues at block 816.

In block 816 the push down member is rotated until the holder object (s) have sufficient contact with the housing. Referring to the configurations of Figures 2 and 7A-7B, the push down member 708 is rotated causing the insert (s) 712 to be pushed towards each other. Pushing inserts 712 together causes carrier objects 714 to push outward. Accordingly, the push down member 708 may continue to be rotated until the support objects 714 have sufficient contact with the housing 215. In some configurations if the support objects 714 are wheels, there is sufficient contact with the housing 215 and the support objects 714 essentially prevent lateral movement of the reinforcing mass 700 while allowing axial movement of the reinforcing mass 700 with respect to the spindle axis 204. As described, the supporting objects 714 are in contact with the housing 215 in a limited number of places. Such contact is sufficient support to prevent lateral movement. Additionally, the limited contact still allows axial movement along the axis of the mandrel 204.

Although flowchart 800 is described such that the reinforcing mass 208 is supported by the supporting components shown in Figures 7A-7B, similar operations may be performed such that the reinforcing mass 208 is supported by the linear bearing 214.

Figure 9 illustrates a system for generating acoustic waveforms according to some embodiments of the invention. In particular, Figure 9 illustrates a system 900 that is part of a descending hole tool in a drill string. Turning to Figure 1 to help illustrate, system 900 may be part of the downhole tool 124. System 900 includes a microprocessor system 902, a digital to analog converter (D / A) 904, a driver 906, and the transducer 210. A microprocessor system output 902 is coupled to a D / A converter input 904. A D / A converter output 904 is coupled to a driver input 906. A driver output 906 is coupled to a transducer input 210. With reference to Figure 2, microprocessor system 902, D / A converter 904, and driver 906 may be coupled to wiring 221.

System 900 can generate any of a number of different acoustic waveforms including Frequency Shift Key (FSK), Phase Shift Key (PSK), Discrete Multi -Tone (DMT) (discrete multi-tone), etc. Additionally, system 900 can generate such acoustic waveforms in a number of different types of windows, including Hamming, Hanning, etc.

The microprocessor system 902 may include different types of processors that generate different acoustic waveforms. For example, microprocessor system 902 may include a general purpose microprocessor, different types of digital signal processors (DSPs) (such as floating point DSPs), and the like. The microprocessor system 902 may also include different types of memories, which include different types of volatile and nonvolatile memory. For example, microprocessor system 902 may include flash memory, random access memory (RAM) (e.g., synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), DRAM, DDR-SDRAM, etc.), etc.

The microprocessor system 902 may also include different types of output input (I / O) logic. Such I / O logic may comprise any suitable interface controllers to provide a suitable communication link. I / O logic for a configuration provides proper arbitration and accumulation for one of a number of interfaces. For example, the microprocessor system 902 may have one or more suitable serial ports, parallel, USB (universal serial conductor), etc. In some embodiments the microprocessor system 902 may generate different waveforms, representative of data communications, that must be transmitted to the surface. Microprocessor system 902 may generate digital representations of such waveforms, which are outputs to D / A converter 904.

The D / A converter 904 may be part of an Encoder / Decoder (CODEC) which encodes and decodes analog signals. D / A converter 904 can receive digital waveforms and convert such digital waveforms into an analog signal. D / A converter 904 can output this analog signal to driver 906.

This analog signal may be a low voltage signal (for example, approximately one volt). Based on this analog signal the driver 906 can generate a high voltage signal (for example, approximately + 300 volts up to - 300 volts; + 150 volts up to - 150 volts etc.). The 906 trigger can be a bridge mode amplifier that can generate double voltage from peak to peak of the difference in power supplies. This voltage generated by driver 906 can be used to drive piezoelectric transducer 210.

[0073] In some configurations the 900 system is modular. In particular, system 900 is such that one of the different components of it can be interchanged without having to interchange another of the different components. For example, any or all of microprocessor system 902, D / A converter 904, and driver 906 may be on a single printed circuit board. Accordingly, if a different driver 906 is required, for example, to supply a different level of power, only the printed circuit board for driver 906 may be exchanged.

Figure 10 illustrates a flowchart for generating an acoustic signal according to some embodiments of the invention. In particular, a flow chart 1000 illustrates a configuration of an acoustic signaling operation by means of the acoustic telemetry transceiver 123 which is within the downhole tool 124.

In block 1002 a digital waveform is generated. Referring to the configuration of Figure 9, microprocessor system 902 generates this digital waveform. Control continues at block 1004.

In block 1004 the digital waveform is converted to an analog waveform. Referring to the configuration of Figure 9, D / A converter 904 performs this conversion. Control continues at block 1006.

In block 1006 an acoustic actuator is actuated to generate an acoustic signal which must be modulated along a spindle of a drill string. Referring to the configurations of Figures 1, 2 and 9, driver 906 drives piezoelectric transducer 210 on acoustic actuator 206 to generate an acoustic signal that must modulate along mandrel 204 of drill string 108.

In the description, a number of specific details, such as logical implementations, machine language instruction chunks, operand-specifying devices, resource division / sharing / duplication implementations, system component types and interrelationships, and choices of Division / integration logic are described to provide a broader understanding of the present invention. It will be appreciated, however, by one of ordinary skill in the art that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without such specific details. In other cases, control structures, gate level circuits and complete software instruction sequences have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the inventive configurations. Those of ordinary skill in the art, with descriptions included, will be able to implement the appropriate functionality without undue experimentation.

References in the specification to "a configuration", "configuration", "an example configuration", etc., indicate that the described configuration may include a particular aspect, height, or feature, but each configuration may not necessarily include the appearance. particular structure or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same configuration. Furthermore, when a particular aspect, structure or feature is described in connection with one embodiment, it is suggested that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such aspect, structure or feature in connection with other embodiments whether or not described. explicitly.

[0080] Embodiments of the invention include aspects, methods or processes that may be configured within machine executable instructions provided by machine readable medium. A machine readable medium includes any mechanism that provides (that is, stores and / or transmits) information in a form accessible via a machine (for example, a computer, a network device, a personal digital assistant, a manufacturing tool). , any device with a set of one or more processors, etc.). In an example configuration, a machine readable medium includes volatile and / or nonvolatile media (eg read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk storage medium, storage medium optical devices, flash memory devices, etc.) as well as electrical, optical, acoustic, or other forms of propagated signals (eg carrier waves, infrared signals, digital signals, etc.).

Such instructions are used to cause a generic or special purpose processor programmed with the instructions to perform methods or processes of the inventive configurations. Alternatively, the aspects, configurations operations of the invention are performed by specific hardware components containing wired logic to perform the operations, or by any combination of programmed data processing components and specific hardware components. Embodiments of the invention include software, data processing hardware, methods implemented by data processing system and various processing operations further described therein.

A number of Figures show block diagrams of systems and apparatus for an acoustic telemetry transceiver according to some embodiments of the invention. A number of Figures show a flowchart illustrating operations for an acoustic telemetry transceiver according to some embodiments of the invention. Flowchart operations are described with references to the systems / apparatus shown in the block diagrams. However, it should be understood that flowchart operations could be performed by systems and apparatus configurations other than those discussed with reference to the block diagrams and configurations discussed with reference to systems / apparatuses could perform operations different from those discussed with reference to flowcharts.

In view of the wide variety of permutations of the embodiments described herein, this detailed description is designed to be illustrative only, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. For example, embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the acoustic telemetry transceiver being internal to an internal mandrel where the drilling mud drains. However, embodiments of the invention are thus not limited. In some configurations the transceiver for acoustic telemetry may be positioned outside an internal mandrel, but within an external mandrel. What is claimed as the invention, therefore, are all such modifications that come within the scope and spirit of the following claims and are equivalent thereto. Therefore, the specification and drawings should be observed in an illustrative sense rather than a restrictive sense.

Claims (31)

Apparatus for an acoustic telemetry transceiver (123), characterized in that it comprises: a signal source; a piezoelectric transducer (210) for generating an acoustic signal that must modulate along a mandrel (204), wherein the piezoelectric transducer (210) includes a bottom end having one or more electric tabs (5G2A-502N); and, a section (218) having one or more springs (602A-602N), the section (218) for coupling the signal source to the piezoelectric transducer (210) with one or more springs (602A-602N) that are aligned with one or more electrical tabs (5Ü2A-502N), in which section (218) and piezoelectric transducer (210) are not physically connected together. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the piezoelectric transducer (210) is without a non-permanent joint. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a reinforcing mass (208, 700) positioned adjacent to the piezoelectric transducer (210) and housed in a linear bearing (214). Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the section for coupling the signal source to the piezoelectric transducer (210) comprises a tapered tapered section (218). Apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the mandrel (204) has a tapered section (219) to correspond with the tapered tapered section (218). Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the signal source comprises at least one of: a waveform generator for generating a signal for driving the piezoelectric transducer (210) for generating an acoustic signal; and a driver (906), a microprocessor system (902) and a digital to analog converter (904). Apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the driver (906) is located on a circuit board which is separated from a circuit board including the microprocessor system (902) and the digital to analog converter ( 904). Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the signal source is a waveform generator which is to generate an acoustic signal Frequency Shift Key (FSK), an acoustic signal Phase Shift Key (PSK), or a Discrete Multi-Tone (DMT) acoustic signal. Apparatus for an acoustic telemetry transceiver (123), characterized in that it comprises: a piezoelectric transducer (210) for generating an acoustic signal which must modulate along a mandrel (204), in which the piezoelectric transducer (210) ) includes at least one piezoelectric element (404A-404D) and at least one electrode (402A-402D) that is without nonpermanent joints. Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that at least one electrode (402A-402D) comprises at least two electrodes, in which at least two electrodes are part of the same sheet of conductive material which is bent over. at least one piezoelectric element (404A-404D). Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that at least one piezoelectric element (404A-404D) is made of a ceramic material. Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that it further comprises: a reinforcing mass (208, 700) positioned adjacent to the piezoelectric transducer (210) and housed in a linear bearing (214); and, a centering assembly (201) coupled to the mandrel (204) at one end of the reinforcing mass (208, 700) that is opposite an end that is adjacent to the piezoelectric transducer (210). Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that it further comprises a sleeve (216) for housing the piezoelectric transducer (210). Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that it further comprises a tapered tapered section (218) which is coupled to an end that is opposite an end that is adjacent to the reinforcing mass (208, 700) at which mandrel (204) has a tapered section (219) to correspond with tapered tapered section (218). Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that it further comprises a signal source for generating a signal for driving the piezoelectric transducer (210) for generating the acoustic signal, wherein the signal source includes a driver (906 ), a microprocessor system (902) and a digital to analog converter (904), Apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that the driver (906) is located on a circuit board which is separate from a circuit board including the microprocessor system (902) and the digital to analog converter ( 904). An acoustic telemetry transceiver system (123) comprising: a drill string (108) having a mandrel (204) in which the drill string (108) includes: a sensor (151) ) to monitor a downhole drilling parameter; and, a bottom hole assembly (120) having a descending hole tool (124) including an acoustic actuator (206) comprising a piezoelectric transducer (210) for generating an acoustic signal which is a data communication related to descending hole drilling parameter, which is to modulate along a mandrel (204), wherein the piezoelectric transducer (210) includes at least one piezoelectric element (404A-404D) and at least one electrode (402A -402D) which is without nonpermanent joints. A system according to claim 17, characterized in that at least one electrode (402A-402D) comprises at least two electrodes, in which at least two electrodes are part of the same sheet of conductive material which is bent over. at least one piezoelectric element (404A-404D). A system according to claim 17, characterized in that the acoustic actuator (206) further comprises a reinforcing mass (208, 700) positioned adjacent to the piezoelectric transducer (210) and housed in a linear bearing (214). A system according to claim 19, characterized in that the down-hole tool (124) further comprises a centering assembly (201) coupled to the mandrel (204) at one end of the reinforcing mass (208, 700) it is opposite an end that is adjacent to the piezoelectric transducer (210). System according to claim 20, characterized in that the descending hole tool (124) further comprises a tapered tapered section (218) which is coupled to one end of a housing (215) which is opposite to one end. which is adjacent to the reinforcing mass (208, 700). System according to claim 21, characterized in that the mandrel (204) has a tapered section (219) to correspond with the tapered tapered section (218). A system according to claim 22, characterized in that a tapered tapered section (218) position relative to a tapered tapered section (219) position of the mandrel (204) is for increasing contact between tapered tapered section (218). 218) and the tapered section (219) of the mandrel (204) based on a pressure of a fluid flow between the piezoelectric transducer (210) and the mandrel (204). A system according to claim 17, characterized in that the downhole tool (124) further comprises a signal source for generating a signal for driving the piezoelectric transducer (210) for generating the acoustic signal. A system according to claim 24, characterized in that the signal source comprises a driver (906), a microprocessor system (902) and a digital to analog converter (904). A system according to claim 25, characterized in that the driver is located on a circuit board which is separated from a circuit board including the microprocessor system (902) and the digital to analog converter (904). 27. Method for an acoustic telemetry transceiver (123), characterized in that it comprises the steps of: generating a digital waveform; convert the digital waveform to an analog waveform; and driving an acoustic actuator (206) to generate an acoustic signal which is to modulate along a spindle (204) of a drill string (108), wherein the acoustic actuator (206) includes a piezoelectric stack that includes, at least one piezoelectric element (404A-404D) and at least one electrode (402A-402D) that is without nonpermanent joints. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that the step of actuating the acoustic actuator (206) to generate the acoustic signal which is to modulate along the chuck (204) of the drill string (108) comprises actuating acoustic actuator (206) for generating an acoustic signal which is to be modulated along the drill string (204) of the drill string (108), in which at least one piezoelectric element (404A-404D) is comprised of a ceramic material. A method according to claim 27, characterized in that the step of generating the digital waveform comprises generating the digital waveform with a digital signal processor. A method according to claim 27, characterized in that the step of converting the digital waveform to the analog waveform comprises converting the digital waveform to the analog waveform with a digital to analog converter ( GIVES). A method according to claim 27, characterized in that the step of actuating the acoustic actuator (206) to generate an acoustic signal that is to modulate along the chuck (204) of the drill string (108) comprises actuating acoustic actuator (206) with a dual mode bridge amplifier, in which the dual mode bridge amplifier is located on a circuit board that is separate from a circuit board that includes the digital signal processor and converter D / A (904).