NO335816B1 - Energized drag assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

A towing assembly comprising a towing ring and an electrical contact assembly. The towing ring forms a periphery and an electrical contact groove extending around the periphery of the towing ring. The electrical contact assembly preferably comprises a plurality of electrical contacts spaced along the periphery of the tow to engage the electrical contact groove. In addition, a forcing mechanism is associated with each of the electrical contacts to force the electrical contacts against engagement with the electrical contact groove. Further, a wiper is preferably each of the electrical contacts to extend in the electrical contact groove to prevent fluid from passing through the electrical contact groove.

Description

The invention relates to an instrument insert for use in a tool of the type comprising an internal element and an external element, preferably a well tool with a rotatable internal element or shaft and a non-rotatable external element or housing. In particular, the invention relates to a floating instrument insert mounted between the inner and outer element of the tool which compensates for slurring or relative longitudinal movement between the inner and outer element. Preferably, the instrument in the instrument insert comprises a slip ring assembly. Finally, the invention includes an improved slip ring assembly.

Directional drilling involves controlling the direction of a borehole when drilling. Specifically, the goal of directional drilling is to reach a target in the subsurface, typically a potential hydrocarbon-producing formation with a drill string. To carry out the drilling operation, specialized well tools are used. These tools include various sensors and other electronic components or equipment to provide the desired information or data about the environmental conditions in the enclosing formation being drilled and to provide the desired information or data and communication instructions about the operating and directional parameters of the drill string in the borehole.

Various well tools typically include an internal element, e.g. a rotatable shaft extending into an external element, e.g. a house. Various instruments can also be mounted in the tool at the interface between the internal and external element. E.g. the instrument in the interface may include a sensor to sense the rotation or alignment of the internal element in relation to the external element.

Furthermore, the instrument includes in the interface a connection assembly or the device for communicating or transmitting electrical signals or electricity along the tool between the internal and external element. E.g. electrical signals or electricity may consist of data, instructions or sensed information communicated between a location uphole and a downhole sensor, or an electronic component, or may provide power sent from an uphole power source to a sensor or electronic component down the hole.

E.g. it is often necessary or desirable to place or position the well sensor in a non-rotating element or component of a tool along a rotating drill string to allow or facilitate the proper functioning or operation of the sensor. Consequently, an electrical signal consisting of data communication, sensed information, instructions and/or power may need to be transmitted between a non-rotating element of the tool housing containing the well sensor and a rotating element of the tool coupled to a drive shaft or other section of the rotating drill string. Thus, an instrument consisting of a coupling assembly or device can be mounted at the interface between the tool's rotating and non-rotating elements. It has been found to be particularly difficult to transmit power over the interface, compared to data transmission.

E.g. slip ring assemblies are often used to transmit power and data between rotating and non-rotating elements, as described in US Patent 4,031,544, US Patent 5,841,734, US Patent 6,238,142, and US Patent 6,392,561.

The slip ring assembly provides electrical contact between a slip ring and contact brushes each mounted to one of the rotating and non-rotating elements of a tool. The efficiency of the transmission of the electrical signals of the slip ring assembly depends on the adaptation of the contact brushes to the slip ring. Accordingly, from the mounting of these components to the rotating and non-rotating elements of the tool, the efficiency of the transmission of the electrical signals depends on the maintenance of a longitudinal alignment between the rotating and non-rotating elements. In other words, any condition or influence on the elements that causes relative longitudinal movement therebetween can adversely affect the slip ring assembly.

As an alternative to the use of a slip ring assembly, power transmission and data communication can be provided by inductive coupling of the rotating and non-rotating elements of a tool. E.g. an electromagnetic coupling device can be provided at the interface between the rotating and non-rotating element of the tool, as described in US Patent 6,244,361. However, inductive coupling is not always desirable. Furthermore, inductive coupling has not been found to be as efficient as a slip ring assembly for transmitting power, compared to data communication. Finally, any instrument mounted at the interface between the rotating and non-rotating element of the tool can be adversely affected by the relative longitudinal movement of these elements.

In patent document US 4924949, methods and devices are described for drilling underground holes, injecting high-pressure and low-pressure fluids into multi-line pipes and monitoring wellbore parameters to control drilling or production operations and thereby optimize efficiency.

In the case of well tools, the tool may encounter conditions in the borehole that may interfere with the longitudinal fit between the inner and outer element of the tool. In particular, conditions down in the well, including vibration, temperature changes, pressure changes and the application of tension and compression forces to the tool, can lead to a longitudinal movement of one element in relation to the other. E.g. can the inner member undergo an expansion or contraction that leads to longitudinal movement relative to the outer member. When an instrument is mounted at the interface between the internal and external element, the relative longitudinal movement can lead to a misalignment of the instrument's components which negatively affects the instrument's operation. When the slip ring assembly e.g. is mounted in the interface, the relative longitudinal movement of the inner and outer element of the tool can lead to a misalignment of the slip ring and brush contacts and thus potentially disrupt the data or power transfer between them.

There is thus a need in the industry for a device or apparatus for mounting an instrument in a tool of the type which comprises an internal and an external element, the internal and external element being able to make a relative longitudinal movement and where the instrument must be mounted at the interface between the elements. In particular, there is a need for the device or apparatus to compensate for the slur or a relative longitudinal movement of the inner and outer element of the tool in order to achieve the correct functioning or operation of the instrument. Furthermore, there is a need for an improved slip ring assembly.

According to the present invention, a slip ring assembly as stated in claim 1 is provided.

A device or apparatus for mounting or positioning an instrument in a tool, here called an instrument insert is provided. An instrument insert is provided for use in a tool of the type comprising an inner member extending into an outer member, the inner member and the outer member being capable of relative longitudinal movement. The instrument insert allows or provides for mounting the instrument insert in the tool in a radial position at the interface between the inner and outer element. Furthermore, the instrument insert preferably compensates or adjusts for, or otherwise counteracts any slurring or relative, longitudinal movement or back and forth movement between the internal and external element of the tool, so that the correct functioning or operation of the instrument is not significantly affected or weakened thereby.

Thus, the instrument insert is provided for mounting between reciprocating internal and external elements of the tool in that these move longitudinally in relation to each other. In addition, the instrument insert can be provided for mounting between rotating internal and external elements of the tool. In the preferred embodiment, the instrument insert is provided for mounting in the tool between the inner and outer element, the elements being able to make both a longitudinal or reciprocating movement and relative rotation. Thus, in the preferred embodiment, the instrument does not interfere with the relative rotation between the elements, while compensating or adjusting for a relative longitudinal movement.

Although the instrument insert may be used in any tool, apparatus or any structure with an internal and external member capable of relative longitudinal movement, the instrument insert in the preferred embodiment of the invention is provided for use in a well tool for a borehole. E.g. the tool may comprise part of a reciprocating or rotating production or drill string. Preferably, the instrument insert is for mounting in a well drilling tool between a rotating element, e.g. an internal rotating shaft and a non-rotating element, e.g. an exterior, stationary house.

Preferably, the instrument insert is a "floating" insert in that the instrument insert can move longitudinally in the interface between the inner and outer element to counteract or counterbalance a relative, longitudinal movement between the inner and outer element which may interfere with the operation of the instrument associated with the instrument insert. Thus, the instrument insert in the preferred embodiment is adapted for mounting in the tool in a radial position between the inner and the outer element, so that the instrument insert can move longitudinally in relation to at least the inner and the outer element.

In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the invention is directed to an instrument insert for a well drilling tool with a rotating, internal element that extends into a substantially stationary, external element. The instrument insert can be mounted in the tool in a radial position between the inner and outer element, so that the instrument insert can move longitudinally in relation to at least the rotatable inner element and the stationary outer element. Thus, the instrument insert can compensate for any relative, longitudinal movement, e.g. a contraction or expansion of the internal element down in the well within the external element as a result of well conditions in the borehole.

In one aspect of the invention, the invention comprises an instrument insert for a tool of the type which comprises an internal element that extends into an external element, the internal element and the external element being able to make a relative, longitudinal movement, the instrument insert comprising: (a ) a first insert part which can be connected to either the internal element or the external element, the first insert part comprising a first instrument component of an instrument, (b) a second insert part which can be connected to the second of the internal or the external element, the second insert member comprises a second instrument component of the instrument, and (c) a coupling mechanism for coupling the first insert member to the second insert member and for holding the first insert member and the second insert member in a fixed, relative

longitudinal position,

the instrument insert being adapted for mounting in the tool in a radial position between the inner and the outer element, so that the instrument insert can make a longitudinal movement in relation to at least the inner and the outer element.

Any shape or configuration of the instrument insert may be performed which allows proper functioning of the instrument associated with the instrument insert and which allows the instrument insert to move longitudinally relative to at least one of the inner or outer element. However, the instrument insert comprises the first insert part, the second insert part and the coupling mechanism as mentioned above.

Furthermore, the first and second insert parts can be connected in any way and by means of any mechanism which can, or is suitable for connecting the parts to maintain the first and second parts in a fixed, relative longitudinal position. As a result, the first instrument component and the second instrument component comprising the first and second insert parts are also held in a fixed relative longitudinal position.

In addition, the components of the instrument insert may be adapted for mounting in the tool to allow desired longitudinal movement relative to at least either the inner member or the outer member. However, at least either the first insert or the second insert is adapted to couple to either the inner or the outer member of the tool to provide the relative longitudinal movement.

Thus, upon any relative longitudinal movement of the inner and outer members of the tool, the first and second inserts are held in a fixed relative longitudinal position so that the instrument insert moves longitudinally as a unit or as an integral element relative to at least either the internal or the external element. In the case of the tool, the inner element extends, as mentioned within the outer and the inner element and the outer element can move relatively longitudinally or back and forth. Furthermore, the inner and the outer element can preferably be rotated relatively. Thus, the instrument insert is preferably mounted in the tool in a radial position between the inner and outer element, the inner and outer element being able to make relative, longitudinal movement and relative rotation. The instrument insert can be mounted in the tool with the internal and external element.

The first insert part is preferably adapted to be connected to either the internal or the external element, while the second insert part can be connected to the other of the internal or the external element. First and second inserts may be adapted for connection to the inner or outer member in any manner and by means of any mechanism or construction capable of, or suitable for, permitting the desired relative movement between the inner and outer member, longitudinally and preferably rotating, and at the same time also allow the coupling mechanism to hold the first and second insert parts in the fixed, relative longitudinal position.

In the preferred embodiment where the inner and outer elements are capable of relative rotation, the first insert is adapted to be non-rotatably connected to either the inner element or the outer element and the second insert is adapted to be non-rotatably connected to the other of the internal or external element. Furthermore, the coupling mechanism comprises at least one bearing, so that relative rotation of the inner and outer elements leads to a relative rotation of the first insert part and the second insert part.

Although the coupling mechanism preferably comprises at least one bearing, and preferably two, the coupling mechanism may comprise any device or structure which can, or is suitable for coupling and holding the first and second insert parts in the fixed, relative longitudinal position and at the same time allowing a relative rotation between the first and other input parts. Although first and second instrument components of the instrument comprising first and second insert parts are allowed to rotate relative to each other with rotation of the inner and outer member of the tool, the first and second instrument components are held in a longitudinal alignment for easier operation of the instrument.

Furthermore, the first insert part can be adapted to be non-rotatably connected to either the inner or the outer element while the second insert part is adapted to be non-rotatably connected to the other of the inner or the outer element. In the preferred embodiment, however, the first insert part is adapted to be non-rotatably connected to the inner element and the second insert part is adapted to be non-rotatably connected to the outer element. When the inner element consequently rotates in a substantially stationary outer element, the first insert part rotates with the inner element while the second insert part remains substantially stationary with the outer element.

As mentioned, the instrument insert is further adapted for mounting in the tool, so that the instrument insert can make a longitudinal or reciprocating movement in relation to at least either the internal or the external element. Although the instrument insert may be adapted in a way to allow this movement, the first and second insert parts are preferably particularly adapted to allow the relative, longitudinal movement. In particular, either at least either the internal insert part or the external insert part is reciprocally connected to either the internal or the external element of the tool, so that the instrument insert can move longitudinally in relation to the element. In other words, at least either the internal insert part or the external insert part is connected to either the internal or the external element of the tool in a way that allows a reciprocating or longitudinal movement in relation to the element.

When the first insert part is connected to the inner element and the second insert part is connected to the outer element in the first embodiment, further the first and second insert parts can both be reciprocally connected to the inner or the outer element respectively. However, preferably either the first insert part or the second insert part is reciprocatingly connected to its respective internal or external element, while the other of either the first insert part or the second insert part is non-reciprocatingly connected to its respective internal or external element. Accordingly, the instrument insert is able to move longitudinally or reciprocatingly relative to either the inner or the outer element only.

In the preferred embodiment, the first insert part is adapted to be non-reciprocatingly connected to the inner element, so that the first insert part moves longitudinally with the inner element and the second insert part is adapted to be reciprocatingly connected to the outer element, so that the second insert part moves longitudinally with the first insert part, whereby the instrument insert can move longitudinally in relation to the external element.

Thus, in the preferred embodiment, the first insert part is adapted to be non-rotatable and non-reciprocatingly connected to the inner element, and the second insert part is adapted to be non-rotatable and reciprocatingly connected to the outer element. Accordingly, when the inner member rotates in a substantially stationary outer member, the first insert will rotate and move longitudinally as a unit with the inner member, while the second insert remains substantially stationary rotatably with the outer member, but can reciprocate longitudinally in relation to the external element. As a result, the instrument insert moves longitudinally as a unit with the inner member relative to the outer member, while the first and second instrument components of the instrument are allowed to rotate relative to each other but are held in a fixed relative longitudinal position.

Preferably, the instrument insert further comprises a first connection mechanism for non-rotating and non-reciprocating connection of the first insert part to the internal element. The first connection mechanism may comprise any device, mechanism, construction or combinations thereof which can, or is suitable for both non-rotating and non-reciprocating mounting, connection, attachment or otherwise attachment of the first insert to the internal element.

However, preferably the first insert part comprises a mounting sleeve which is adapted to enclose the internal element. Furthermore, the first connection mechanism is associated with the mounting sleeve for a non-rotating and non-reciprocating connection of the mounting loop to the internal element. In the preferred embodiment, the first connection mechanism comprises a locking ring or chamfered lock which is peripherally attached around the mounting sleeve for firmly connecting the mounting sleeve to the internal element.

Preferably, the instrument insert also comprises a second connection mechanism for a non-rotating and reciprocating connection of the second insert part to the external element. The second connection mechanism may include any device, mechanism, construction or combinations thereof which can, or is suitable for both non-rotating and reciprocating mounting, connection, attachment or otherwise connecting the second insert part to the external element.

However, preferably the second insert part comprises an external insert housing where the second connection mechanism comprises a wedge or a wedge slot associated with the external insert housing which grips a complementary construction associated with the external element for a non-rotating and reciprocating connection of the external insert housing to the external element. In this preferred embodiment, a wedge groove is connected to the external insert housing for engagement in a complementary wedge construction connected to the external element. The keyway of the outer insert housing is configured and arranged to allow movement of the key therein, longitudinally, but not rotatably, or peripherally relative to the other insert part.

The instrument comprising the first and second instrument components can be of any type or mechanical and/or electronic or electrical mechanism, device or device that it is desirable to mount in the tool. However, the invention is particularly applicable when the instrument is of a type with a first instrument component and a second instrument component which is preferably held in a fixed, relative, longitudinal position to make it easier, or to ensure the correct functioning of the instrument and which is desirable or required to mount between the inner and outer element of a tool that can move longitudinally in relation to each other. Furthermore, the invention is particularly applicable when it is required or desirable to have an instrument mounted between the inner and outer element of a tool which can both move longitudinally and be rotated in relation to each other.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a rotation sensing device for sensing the relative rotation of the inner element and the outer element. In this embodiment, the first instrument component comprises at least one magnet, the second instrument component a magnetic sensor for sensing the magnet's proximity to the magnetic sensor and where the first insert part and the second insert part are connected so that the magnetic sensor can sense the magnet's proximity to the magnetic sensor.

In another embodiment, the instrument includes a slip ring assembly for transferring electricity between the inner and outer elements. In this application, "electricity" or an "electrical signal" includes the transmission or provision of signals that include or involve either or both data communication and power supply. In this second embodiment, the first instrument component comprises a conductive slip ring, the second instrument component comprising an electrical contact assembly to provide an electrical contact with the slip ring and where the first insert part and the second insert part are connected so that the slip ring grips the electrical contact assembly. In other words, the "electrical contact" allows the transmission or communication of electricity or electrical signal between the components.

Furthermore, the first insert part and the second insert part of the instrument insert comprise a first and second instrument component of an instrument, e.g. the rotation sensing device and slip ring assembly. Although the instrument effort includes at least one instrument, it can thus also include several instruments. In other words, the first insert part can comprise several first instrument components of several instruments and the second insert part can comprise several second instrument components of several instruments. Preferably, multiple instruments comprise a first instrument component and a compatible second instrument component. E.g. the instrument insert in the preferred embodiment comprises two instruments, a first instrument consisting of the rotation sensor apparatus and a second instrument consisting of the slip ring assembly.

To make it easier, or to improve the proper functioning of the instrument or instruments of the instrument insert, in addition, fluid passing within the instrument insert is preferably filtered to limit the passage of debris or other harmful substances until the instrument insert of the instrument. Accordingly, the instrument insert preferably comprises a filtering mechanism. In the preferred embodiments, the second insert part further comprises an external insert housing which consists of a filter mechanism for filtering a fluid when the fluid passes from the outside of the external insert housing to the inside of the external insert housing. However, any suitable type, configuration or construction of the filtering mechanism capable of filtering the fluid may be used.

The invention also relates to innovations in a slip ring assembly. The innovations can be incorporated into a drag ring assembly that is used with the instrument insert according to the invention, or the innovations can be incorporated into a drag ring assembly that is used independently of the instrument insert of the invention. A slip ring assembly according to the invention can include one or more of the innovations.

The innovations are aimed at improving the performance of the slip ring assembly and consist of a slip ring and an electrical contact assembly that includes at least one electrical contact that engages the slip ring.

A first innovation is aimed at improving the engagement between the electrical contact and the slip ring by providing a forcing mechanism to force the electrical contact against the engagement of the slip ring.

A second innovation is directed at improving the performance of the slip ring assembly in response to lateral vibrations between the slip ring and the electrical contact assembly by providing multiple electrical contacts located around the periphery of the slip ring.

A third innovation is aimed at improving slip ring assembly performance in environments where fluids can pass between the slip ring and the electrical contact assembly and consequently disrupt the engagement between the electrical contact and the slip ring by providing a wiper between the electrical contact and the slip ring that prevents fluid from passing between it electrical contact and slip ring.

In one aspect, a slip ring assembly comprising all three innovations may comprise: (a) a slip ring forming a periphery and wherein the slip ring forms an electrical

contact grooves that extend around the periphery of the slip ring,

(b) an electrical contact assembly comprising a plurality of electrical contacts spaced around the periphery of the slip ring to engage it

electrical contact traces

(c) a forcing mechanism associated with each of the electrical contacts to force them

electrical contacts against interference in the electrical contact track, and

(d) a wiper associated with each of the electrical contacts extending into the electrical contact groove to prevent fluid from passing through the electrical contact groove.

In a second aspect, the slip ring assembly comprising at least one of the innovations may include a slip ring and an electrical contact assembly, wherein the electrical contact assembly comprises an electrical contact that engages the slip ring and where the electrical contact assembly comprises a forcing mechanism to force the electrical contact against engagement with the slip ring.

In a third aspect, a drag ring assembly comprising at least one of the innovations, a drag ring and an electrical contact assembly, with the drag ring forming a periphery and the electrical contact assembly comprising several electrical contacts placed at intermediate distances around the periphery of the drag ring.

In a fourth aspect, a slip ring assembly comprising at least one of the innovations, a slip ring and an electrical contact assembly, wherein the slip ring forms a periphery and the slip ring forms an electrical contact track extending around the periphery of the slip ring, the electrical contact assembly comprising an electrical contact that engages the electrical contact track and wherein the electrical contact assembly further comprises a wiper extending into the electrical contact track to prevent a fluid from passing through the electrical contact track.

In other aspects, the slip ring assembly may comprise at least two of the innovations.

The forcing mechanism can comprise any suitable structure, device or device that can force the electrical contact against engagement with the slip ring and/or the electrical contact track. Preferably, the forcing mechanism comprises a spring associated with the electrical contact. When the slip ring assembly comprises more than one electrical contact, the forcing mechanism preferably comprises several springs, so that one of the springs is connected to each of the electrical contacts.

The electrical contact assembly further preferably comprises a brush block, so that the electrical contact is carried by the brush block. The forcing mechanism can force both the brush block and the electrical contact, or only the electrical contact against engagement with the slip ring and/or the electrical contact track. When the forcing mechanism only forces the electrical contact against engagement with the slip ring and/or the electrical contact groove, the forcing mechanism is preferably placed between the brush block and the electrical contact. When the electrical contact assembly comprises more than one electrical contact, the electrical contact assembly preferably comprises either a single brush block for all the electrical contacts, or separate brush blocks for each of the electrical contacts.

The drag ring forms a periphery which can be an internal periphery, preferably an external periphery. When the slip ring assembly comprises several electrical contacts that extend around the periphery of the slip ring, the electrical contacts are preferably placed at even intervals, unless the expected load on the slip ring assembly suggests that the electrical contacts should be placed more unevenly. Any number of electrical contacts can be used. In a preferred embodiment, the electrical contact assembly comprises three electrical contacts which are placed substantially 120 degrees from each other around the periphery of the drag ring.

The drag ring preferably forms at least one electrical contact groove which extends around the periphery of the drag ring, so that the electrical contact travels in the electrical contact groove. When more than one electrical "channel" is required, either for backup or to transmit other electrical signals, the slip ring may form multiple electrical contact tracks and the electrical contact may include multiple electrical contact wires that engage the electrical contact tracks.

The slip ring assembly may include a wiper when fluid passing through the slip ring is expected and the electrical contact may disrupt the connections between these. The wiper preferably comprises an element which partially or completely blocks the passage between the drag ring and the electrical contact assembly. The drag is particularly advantageous when the drag ring forms one or more electrical contact tracks, since these tracks provide a relatively large passage between the drag ring and the electrical contact assembly.

The wiper may include any structure, any device or any device that may partially or completely block the passage between the slip ring and the electrical contact assembly. Preferably, the wiper comprises a clearance between the slip ring and the electrical contact assembly to minimize wear and to avoid the wiper interfering with the engagement between the electrical contact and the slip ring.

Preferably, the wiper comprises one or more wiper elements. A wiper element may be of any shape and size compatible with the slip ring and electrical contact assembly. When the electrical contact is carried by a brush block, the wiper is preferably placed on this.

The drag ring and the electrical contact assembly can typically rotate in relation to each other, so that the electrical contact comprises an upstream side and a downstream side. The upstream side of the electrical contact is the leading edge of the electrical contact and the downstream side of the electrical contact is the trailing edge of the electrical contact during the relative rotation between the slip ring and the electrical contact assembly. The wiper is preferably placed on the upstream side of the electrical contact. The wiper can also be placed close to the downstream side of the electrical contact, so that the wiper is placed on both sides of the electrical contact.

The wiper may comprise an elongated rib which is placed near the upstream side of the electrical contact and which extends into the electrical contact groove and substantially parallel to this.

Alternatively, the wiper may comprise an upstream wiper element located near the upstream side of the electrical contact and a downstream wiper element located near the downstream side of the electrical contact. Preferably, the upstream wiper element comprises an upstream, elongated rib which extends substantially parallel to the electrical contact board and the downstream wiper element comprises a downstream, elongated rib which extends substantially parallel to the electrical contact track.

When the electrical contact assembly comprises several electrical contacts, a wiper is preferably associated with each of these electrical contacts. When the drag ring forms several electrical contact grooves and the electrical contact comprises several electrical contact lines, the wiper preferably comprises wiper elements that extend within each of the electrical contact grooves.

The invention shall be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings, where: Fig. 1 is a longitudinal view of a preferred embodiment of an instrument insert mounted in an internal element and an external element of a tool,

fig. 2 is a more detailed view of the instrument insert within the tool as shown in fig. 1,

Fig. 3 is an end view of the instrument insert and part of the outer element of the tool shown in Fig. 1,

fig. 4 is a longitudinal view of the instrument insert and part of the outer member of the tool along the line 4-4 of FIG. 3,

fig. 5 is a longitudinal view of the instrument insert and part of the outer member of the tool along the line 5-5 of FIG. 3,

fig. 6 is a longitudinal view of the instrument insert and part of the outer member of the tool along the line 6-6 of FIG. 3,

fig. 7 is a longitudinal view of the instrument insert in insulation, along the line 7-7 of FIG. 3,

fig. 8 is a perspective view of the instrument insert in isolation, as shown in fig. 7,

fig. 9 is a perspective view of a slip ring assembly according to the invention comprising a slip ring and an electrical contact assembly, the electrical contact assembly comprising three electrical contacts,

fig. 10 is a side view of the slip ring assembly shown in FIG. 9,

fig. 11 is a top view of the slip ring assembly shown in FIG. 9,

fig. 12 is a perspective view of a single electrical contact in FIG. 9, shown in isolation,

fig. 13 is an end view of an upstream side of the electrical contact shown in FIG. 12,

fig. 14 is a side view of the electrical contact shown in fig. 12, and fig. 15 is a diagram of the electrical contact along the line 15-15 in fig. 13.

In fig. 1 and 2, the invention is directed to an instrument insert 20 for a tool 22, the instrument insert 20 being connected to, or comprising an instrument 21 as described here. The instrument insert 20 is especially for use in a tool 22 of the type which comprises an internal element 24 which extends into an external element 26, the internal element 24 and the external element 26 being able to make a relative, longitudinal movement. The longitudinal movement, or reciprocating movement, is the movement in the direction of the longitudinal axes of the inner and outer member 24, 26. Although not required in preferred embodiments, the inner member 24 and the outer member 26 are also capable of to make a relative turn.

The instrument insert 20 can be used in any tool 22 of the type described. However, the instrument insert 20 is used in a wellbore for insertion into a borehole. In particular, the well tool is preferably a well drilling tool. Specifically, the tool is preferably incorporated into, or comprises a part or section of a drill string that extends from the surface into the borehole.

Preferably, the tool 22 is incorporated into, or comprises a part or section, or all of a drilling direction control device for aligning a drilling system down the well, e.g. a rotary drilling system. In the preferred embodiment, the tool 22 comprises the drilling direction control device described in US patent 6,244,361 of 12 June 2001 to Comeau et al. The drilling direction control device and thus the tool 22 comprises a rotating shaft 28 which is connected to the drill string and a housing 30 for rotatably supporting a length of the shaft 28 for rotation therein. A part of the tool 22 with the tool insert 20 mounted therein is shown in fig. 1 and 2.

Thus, in the preferred embodiment, the inner element 24 comprises the rotatable shaft 28, while the outer element 26 comprises the housing 30. To allow or make the relative rotation between the inner and outer elements 24, 26 easier, as they comprise the rotating shaft 28 and the housing 30, the external element 26 can be connected to a device (not shown) to prevent the rotation of the external element 26 when the internal element 24 is rotated, e.g. during the drilling operation. Preferably, the outer element 26 is held or prevented from rotating in a substantially stationary position.

In fig. 1 and 2, the internal element 24 extends into the external element 26. The internal element 24 of the tool 22 may comprise a single element or component, or may comprise several elements, sections or components connected together, attached or otherwise firmly connected together to form the internal element 24.1 the preferred embodiment, the internal element 24 comprises an elongated element, e.g. the rotatable shaft 28 having an outer peripheral surface 32 and forming a longitudinal axis 34 extending therethrough.

Likewise, the external element 26 of the tool 22 may comprise a single element or component or may comprise several elements, sections or components connected, attached or otherwise fastened together to form the external element 26. In the preferred embodiment, the external element 26 comprises several elements or sections that are firmly connected or fastened together to move as a unit. In particular, the outer element 26 comprises an elongated and essentially tubular housing element 35, e.g. housing 30, with a bore 36 forming the inner peripheral surface 38 therein.

In addition, the outer element 26 further comprises a housing insert 40 in the bore 36 of the housing element 35 and which is fixed and not rotatably connected to the housing element 35. The housing insert 40 comprises an elongated and substantially tubular element with an outer periphery 42 which is attached to the inner surface 38 of the housing element 35. Furthermore, the housing insert 40 has a bore 44 which forms an internal peripheral surface 46 therein. The housing element 35 and the housing insert 40 together form a longitudinal axis 48 of the external element 26 which extends through it.

Preferably, the longitudinal axis 34 of the internal element 24 coincides with the longitudinal axis 48 of the external element 26. A longitudinal movement herein refers to the movement along, or in the direction of, the longitudinal axes 34,

48. Furthermore, the internal element 24 extends into, and is supported by, the external element 26, so that a relative, longitudinal movement can be allowed therebetween. In the preferred embodiment, the internal element 24 is further supported by the external element 26, so that the internal element 24 and the external element 26 can be rotated relatively around their longitudinal axes 34, 48. Any mechanism, any device or any device or construction which rotating can carry the inner element 24 in the outer element 26 in the manner described, can be used. E.g. one or more radial bearings 50 may be provided between the inner and outer element 24, 26 to rotatably support and centralize the inner element 24 in the outer element 26.

Finally, the inner element 24 is carried in the outer element 26, so that a radial space or space 52 is provided between the inner and outer elements 24, 26 to position the instrument insert 20 therein. Preferably, the radial space 52 is provided between the outer surface 32 of the inner element 24 and the inner surface 40 of the housing insert 40 which comprises the outer element 26. As mentioned, the instrument insert 20 is mounted in the tool 22 in a radial position, preferably in the radial space 52 between the internal and external elements 24,26.

In fig. 1-8, the instrument insert 20 comprises a first insert part 54 and a second insert part 56 and a coupling mechanism 58. The first insert part 54 can be connected to either the inner element 24 or the outer element 26 of the tool 22, while the second insert part 56 can be connected to the other of the inner element 24 and the outer element 26.

In the preferred embodiment, the first insert part 54 can be connected to the internal element 24. The first insert part 54 can have any shape or configuration that can connect it to the internal element 24 in the desired manner as described herein. However, the first insert part 54 is substantially tubular or forms a peripheral inner surface 60, an outer surface 62 and opposed first and second ends 64, 66. The inner surface 60 of the first insert part 54 is preferably adapted to receive the internal element 24 of the tool 22 therein. Furthermore, the inner surface 60 of the first insert part 54 is preferably particularly adapted to be connected to the nearby, outer peripheral surface 32 of the inner element 24.

In the preferred embodiment, the second insert part 56 is further adapted to be connected to the external element 26. The second insert part 56 can have any shape or configuration that is compatible for connection to the external element 26 in the desired way, as described herein. However, the second insert portion 56 is also substantially tubular and forms an inner surface 68, a peripheral outer surface 70, and opposing first and second ends 72, 74. The second insert portion 56 is adapted or configured to receive at least a portion of the first insert portion 54 therein. Furthermore, the second insert part 56 is preferably adapted or configured to be received in the external element 26, especially the housing insert 40. Thus, the outer surface 70 of the second insert part 56 is preferably particularly adapted to be connected to the nearby inner surface 46 of the housing insert 40 which comprises the external element 26.

As mentioned, the instrument insert 20 is adapted for mounting in the radial space 52, so that the instrument insert 20 can move longitudinally in relation to at least either the internal element 24 or the external element 26. Thus, either the first insert part 54 or the second insert part 56 can move itself longitudinally in relation to at least either the internal element 24 or the external element 26.

In the preferred embodiment, the instrument insert 20 is adapted for mounting, so that the instrument insert 20 can move longitudinally in relation to only the outer element 26. Thus, the first insert part 54 is adapted to be connected non-reciprocally to the inner element 24, so that the first insert part 54 moves longitudinally, or moves back and forth along the longitudinal axis 34 with the inner element 24. Furthermore, the second insert part 56 is adapted to be coupled reciprocally to the outer element 26, so that the second insert part 56 moves longitudinally or back and forth with the first insert 54, as a result of the coupling mechanisms 58 which hold the first insert 54 and the second insert 56 in a fixed, relative, longitudinal position. In other words, the insert part 56 moves longitudinally, or reciprocates along the longitudinal axis 48 in relation to the outer element 26.

In particular, the inner surface 60 of the first insert part 54, in the preferred embodiment, is adapted to be non-reciprocatingly connected to the adjacent outer surface 32 of the internal element 24, while the outer surface 70 of the second insert part 56 is adapted to be reciprocatingly connected to it proximate inner surface 56 of the housing insert 40. In other words, the first insert part 54 is connected to the internal element 24 in a way that prevents any relative, longitudinal or reciprocating movement therebetween, while the second insert part 56 is connected to the housing insert 40 in a way that allows a relative, longitudinal or reciprocal movement therebetween.

In addition, the inner and outer elements 24, 26 of the tool 22, in the preferred embodiment, can move relatively. Furthermore, either the first insert part 54 or the second insert part 56 can be further adapted for non-rotatable connection to the inner element 24 or the outer element 26. Thus, the inner surface 60 of the first insert part 54 is adapted to be non-reciprocating and non-rotatable coupled to the adjacent outer surface 32 of the inner member 24, while the outer surface 70 of the second insert part 56 is adapted to be reciprocatingly and non-rotatably coupled to the adjacent inner surface 46 of the housing insert 40.

The first insert member 54 may be adapted to be non-rotatably and non-reciprocatingly coupled to the inner member 24 by any mechanism, device or construction that can prevent any relative rotation or longitudinal movement between the first insert member 54 and the inner member 24. In fig. 1, 2 and 4-6 in the preferred embodiment, the instrument insert 20 further comprises a first coupling mechanism 76 for non-rotatably and non-reciprocatingly coupling the first insert part 54 to the internal element 24. In particular, coupling, securing or otherwise mounting , either permanently or releasably and either directly or indirectly, the first coupling mechanism 76 the inner surface 60 of the first insert part 54 to the outer surface 32 of the inner element 24.

The first insert part 54 can comprise a single element or component which can provide an integrated unit. However, the first insert part 54 comprises several elements, or components, which are connected, attached or otherwise held together to form the first insert part 54. E.g. The first insert part 54 in the preferred embodiment comprises an internal mounting sleeve 78 and an external sleeve 79. The internal mounting sleeve 78 comprises, or defines, the inner surface 60 of the first insert part 54 and extends between the first and second ends 64, 66. The mounting sleeve 78 has a tubular configuration or construction and may enclose the interior member 24 so that it may be received therein. The outer sleeve 79 comprises, or defines, at least a portion of the outer surface 62 of the first insert portion 54 and also has a tubular configuration or construction so that it can be adapted to enclose a portion of the mounting sleeve 78 between the first and second ends 64, 66.

On Fig. 7 in the preferred embodiment, the outer sleeve 79 is provided to carry or hold various components or elements of the first insert part 54, as mentioned below. The outer sleeve 79 can be held in the desired position or at a desired location in relation to the mounting sleeve 78 by a holding structure or device. However, the outer sleeve 79 is held in position around the mounting sleeve 78 between a shoulder 80 defined by the mounting sleeve 78 and a retaining ring 82 that extends around the mounting sleeve 78. One or more spacers 84 may also be used as desired or as needed to achieve or maintain the desired position of the outer sleeve 79 on the mounting sleeve 78. In other words, the outer sleeve 79 is held in contact between the shoulder 80 of the mounting sleeve 78 and the retaining ring 82 by means of one or more spacers 84, as required.

Furthermore, the first insert part 54 and the second insert part 56 are held in a fixed, relatively longitudinal position by the coupling mechanism 58. Although the first insert part 54 and the second insert part 56 can be held in any fixed position relative to each other, the second insert part 56 is preferably attached around all or part of the first insert part 54, so that at least part of the outer surface 62 of the first insert part 54 is opposite or close to at least part of the inner surface 68 of the second insert part 56. In the preferred embodiment, the second insert part 56 fixed in a position around the first insert 54 such that first and second ends 64, 66 of the first insert 54 extend from first and second ends 72, 74 of the second insert 56. Specifically, the mounting sleeve 78, which forms the first and second ends 64, 66 of the first insert part 54 separate from the first and second ends 72, 74 of the second insert part 56.

The first coupling mechanism 76 is preferably associated with the mounting sleeve

78 for non-rotating and non-reciprocating coupling of the mounting sleeve 78 to the internal member 24. The first coupling mechanism 76 can be connected to the mounting sleeve 78 at any position or location along its length between the first and second ends 64, 66 of the first insert part 54. However, preferably the first connection mechanism 76 is connected to the mounting sleeve 78 at either the first or the second end 64, 66 of the first insert part 54. In the preferred embodiment, the first connection mechanism 76 is connected to the mounting sleeve 78 at the first end 64, where the mounting sleeve 78 extends from the first end

72 of the second insert part 56.

As mentioned above, in addition at least one radial bearing 50 can be provided between the inner and outer element 24, 26 to rotatably support and centralize the inner element 24 in the outer element 26, as shown in fig. 2 and 4-6. In the preferred embodiment, the second end 66 of the first insert part 54 comprises the mounting sleeve 78 which extends from the second end 74 of the second insert part 56 to a position near the housing insert 40 which comprises the outer element 26. In other words, the mounting sleeve 78 is at the second end 66 of the first insert part 54 placed between the outer surface 32 of the internal element 24 and the inner surface 46 of the housing insert 40. Since the mounting sleeve 78 is fixed in the internal element 24, the mounting sleeve 78 rotates in relation to the housing insert 40.

As a result, a radial bearing 50, in the preferred embodiment, is located between the mounting sleeve 78 at the other end 66 of the first insert part 54 and the adjacent inner surface 46 of the housing insert 40. The radial bearing 50 can be held in the desired position between the mounting sleeve 78 and the housing insert 40 by means of any mechanism or construction. However, in the preferred embodiment, the radial bearing 50 is held in abutment against a shoulder 86 formed by the inner surface 46 of the housing insert 40. Specifically, the radial bearing 50 is held between the shoulder 86 and a retaining ring 88 mounted to and extending from the inner surface 46 of the housing insert 40. In order to keep the bearing 50 in the desired position during longitudinal movement of the internal element 24, the bearing 50 is further forced away from the retaining ring 88 and into contact with the shoulder 86 by a biasing mechanism or device, e.g. a spring 90. In the preferred embodiment, the spring 90 comprises at least one wave spring.

Preferably, the first coupling mechanism 76 comprises any mechanism, any device or structure which can firmly or rigidly connect, fasten or otherwise hold the mounting sleeve 78 around the internal element 24. In fig. 1, 2 and 4-6 in the preferred embodiment, the first coupling mechanism 76 comprises a conical lock 92, also called a lock ring. In the preferred embodiment, the conical lock 92 comprises a three-part conical lock for tightening the mounting sleeve 78 around the inner member 24.

The conical lock 92 includes a peripheral inner ring 94 which is mounted around the mounting sleeve 78 at the first end 64 of the first insert part 54. Although the inner part 54 can be mounted in any manner, the inner ring 94 is preferably mounted by means of several screws or bolts 96 extending between the inner ring 94 and the mounting sleeve 78 and placed peripherally around the inner ring 94. Furthermore, the inner ring 94 has an upper side 98 which forms two inclined parts 100 which each slope outward away from the center of the upper side 98 in an inward direction towards the mounting sleeve 78, as shown on the figures.

The conical lock 92 further comprises two opposite, peripheral outer rings 102 which enclose the inner ring 94. Each inner ring 102 has a lower surface 104 which forms a compatible slope for engagement with one of the sloped part 100 of the upper side 98 of the inner ring 94. When the outer rings 102 are mounted in position around the inner ring 94, the screws 96 that mount the inner ring 94 to the mounting sleeve 78 are placed between the outer rings 102. Furthermore, the inclined parts 100 of the upper side 98 of the inner ring 94 grip the inclined, lower surfaces 104 of the outer rings 102. Finally, several bolts or screws 106 extend between the opposing outer rings 102. Tightening the bolts 106 pulls the outer rings 102 closer together and moves the lower face 104 of each outer ring 102 along the bevels 100 of the inner ring 94 to cause the mounting sleeve 98 to more firmly grip the inner member 24.

The second insert part 56 can be adapted for non-rotating and reciprocating coupling to the outer element 26 in any way, or by means of any mechanism, device or construction that can hold or prevent a relative rotation and at the same time allow a longitudinal movement between the second insert part 56 and the external element 26.1 the preferred embodiment further comprises the instrument insert 20 a second connection mechanism 108 for non-rotatable and reciprocating coupling of the second insert part 56 and the outer element 26. In particular, the second coupling mechanism 108 connects, fastens or otherwise mounts in the desired manner, either permanently or releasably and either directly or indirectly, the outer surface 70 of the second insert part 56 to the inner surface 46 of the outer element 26, especially the housing insert 40.

The second insert part 56 may comprise a single element or component that provides an integrated unit or several elements or components that couple, attach or otherwise hold together to form the second insert part 56. In the preferred embodiment, the second insert part 56 comprises an external housing insert 110. Preferably, the outer insert housing 110 comprises, or defines both the inner and outer surfaces 68, 70 of the second insert part 56 and extends between first and second ends 72, 74. The outer insert housing 110 preferably has a tubular configuration or construction and can enclose the first insert part 54 between the first and second ends 64, 66 thereof, as mentioned above, so that the first insert part 54 extends through the outer insert housing 110.

In the preferred embodiment, the external insert housing 110 can be held in the desired position or at the desired location in relation to the first insert part 54 by means of any holding structure or device. However, the outer insert housing 110 is held in position around the first insert part 54 by means of the coupling mechanism 58, as described in detail below.

In fig. 1, 2 and 4, the second coupling mechanism 108 is preferably associated with the interface between the external insert housing 110 which forms the outer surface 70 of the second insert part 56 and the housing insert 40 forms the inner surface 46 of the external element 26. Specifically, the second coupling mechanism 108 comprises complementary, or compatible constructions on each of the adjacent surfaces of the outer insert housing 110 and the housing insert 40 for non-rotating and reciprocating coupling of the outer insert housing 108 to the housing insert 40. Any complementary or compatible construction that can provide the desired non-rotating, reciprocating coupling can be used, e.g. .ex. complementary longitudinal splines and grooves or complementary keyway structures.

The second coupling mechanism 108 can be connected to the outer insert housing 110 at any point along its length between the first and second ends 72, 74 of the second insert part 56. However, preferably the second coupling mechanism 108 is connected to the outer insert housing 110 at about the midpoint between or about the middle of first and second ends 72, 74.

In fig. 1, 2 and 4, the second coupling mechanism 108 comprises a wedge and a wedge groove associated with the external insert housing 110 which can engage a complementary construction associated with the external element 26, in particular the housing insert 40, in order not to rotatably and reciprocally connect the external insert housing 110 to the external element 26.1 the preferred embodiment becomes at least one elongated longitudinal keyway 112, either in the form of a slot or a slot, defined by the outer surface 70 of the outer insert housing 110 of the second insert part 56. Each keyway 112 is provided to receive at least one complementary key 114 therein. Each wedge 114 is fixedly mounted to and extends from the inner surface 46 of the housing insert 40. In the preferred embodiment, two wedges 114 extend from the housing insert 40 to be received in a single keyway 112 defined by the outer insert housing 110. However, any number of keyways 112 and complementary wedges 114 are used as desired or needed for the purpose. In the preferred embodiment, each wedge 114 preferably includes a screw with one end extending from the housing insert 40 to act as, or provide the wedge structure 114.

In addition, a device or structure may further be provided at the interface between the outer insert housing 110 and the housing insert 40 to facilitate the longitudinal movement between the instrument insert 20 and the outer element 26 and to assist with the centralization of the instrument insert 20 in the outer element 26.1 the preferred embodiment is at least one peripheral slide button or slip ring 116 mounted to at least one groove 118 defined by the outer surface 70 of the outer insert housing 110 to engage the adjacent surface of the housing insert 40.

When the first insert part 54 and the second insert part 56 are coupled to form the instrument insert 20 and the instrument insert 20 is placed in the radial space 52 provided between the inner and outer elements 24, 26 of the tool 22, the other components of the tool 22 must be placed in the tool 22 adjacent the instrument insert 20 in a way that allows any necessary or required longitudinal movement of the instrument insert 20 as a result of the relative longitudinal movement of the inner and outer elements 24, 26. Thus, the radial space 52 provided for the instrument set 20 has a length which is sufficient to accommodate the instrument insert 20 and to accommodate any necessary or required longitudinal movement from the instrument insert 20.

Figs. 2 and 4-6 in particular show an axial or longitudinal space 120 provided in the radial space 52 between the instrument insert 20 and the other components of the tool 22 placed or positioned longitudinally at each end of the instrument insert 20. The total length of the longitudinal space 120 determines the amount of longitudinal movement or travel permitted by the instrument insert 20 relative to the outer element 26. The total size or length of the longitudinal space 120 is equal to the total size or length of the longitudinal spaces at each end of the instrument insert 20. I the preferred embodiment and when the instrument insert 20 is assembled with the tool 22, e.g. the instrument insert 20 in the radial space 52 to approximately equalize the size or parts of the longitudinal space 120 that exists on each side of the instrument insert 20. Thus, a part of the total space 120 will be present on each side of the instrument insert 20 so that the desired, longitudinal movement of the instrument insert 20 relative to the outer element 26 may be permitted in either direction. In other words, the sizes or length of the total, longitudinal space 120 is selected depending on the desired size or travel of the instrument insert 20 longitudinally in relation to the outer element 26.

In particular, the axial or longitudinal space 120 comprises a first part 122 and a second part 124. The combination of the first part 122 and the second part 124 provides the total longitudinal space 120 or the amount of available travel of the instrument insert 20 in the radial space 52. In fig. 2, the first part 122 of the longitudinal space 120 is, in the preferred embodiment, placed between the first end 72 of the second insert part 56 and the adjacent component of the tool 22 which is a spacer set 126 with one or more spacers, washers and/or springs for a nearby sub or tube member 128. The second portion 124 of the longitudinal space 120 is located between the second end 74 of the second insert portion 56 and the adjacent component of the tool 22, which is one end of the housing insert 40, which includes the external element 26.

In order to filter any fluid that passes into the instrument insert 20 from the outside of the instrument insert 20, the instrument insert 20 preferably further comprises a filtering mechanism 130, which is particularly shown in fig. 4 and 5. The filter mechanism 130 preferably prevents the passage of any waste, e.g. metal particles or file chips from the tool 22 into the instrument insert 20, which may interfere with its functioning or the functioning of the instrument 21, as described further below.

The filter mechanisms 130 can include any device or mechanism that can filter the fluid from the enclosing tool 22 for passage in the instrument insert 20. Furthermore, the filter mechanism 130 can be connected to any part or any element that comprises the instrument insert 20. Preferably, the external insert housing 110 includes the filter mechanism 130 for filtering a fluid as it passes from the outside of the outer insert housing 110, which is outside the instrument insert 20, to the inside of the outer insert housing 110 which is the instrument insert 20. In the preferred embodiment, the filter mechanism 130 comprises a fluid channel 132 formed by the outer insert housing 110 and which extends from the inside of the outer insert housing 110 to the other end 74 of the second insert part 56 to communicate with the inside of the outer insert housing 110. In addition, the filter mechanism 130 comprises a filter material or screen 134 placed in the fluid channel 122 near the other end 74 of the other insert part 5 6.

As previously mentioned, the instrument insert 20 further comprises, or is associated with, an instrument 21. Specifically, the construction of the instrument insert 20 allows the components of the instrument 21 to be attached thereby, and held in a fixed, relative, longitudinal position while the inner and outer elements 24, 26 of the tool 22 may rotate and reciprocate in relation to each other. Thus, the instrument insert 20 makes it easier to operate and make the instrument 21 work together with the instrument insert 20.

In fig. 3-8, the first insert part 54 preferably comprises a first instrument component 136 of the instrument 21. Furthermore, the second insert part 56 comprises the second instrument component 138 of the instrument 21. In other words, the instrument 21 comprises the first instrument component 136 and the second instrument component 138. The coupling mechanism 58 connects the first insert part 54 to the second insert part 56 and holds the first and second insert parts 54, 56 in a fixed, relative, longitudinal position. Consequently, the first instrument component 136 and the second instrument component 138 are also held in a fixed, relative, longitudinal position.

The first insert part 54 comprising the first instrument component 136 and the second insert part 56 comprising the second instrument component 138 are held in a fixed, relative, longitudinal position by the coupling mechanism 58. Although the first insert part 54 and the second insert part 56 can be held in any fixed position relative to each other, the second insert part 56 is preferably fixed around all or part of the first insert part 54, so that at least part of the outer surface 62 of the first insert part 54 is positioned opposite or close to at least part of the inner surface 68 of the second insert part 56. Furthermore, the second insert part 56 is preferably fixed around the first insert part 54 in a position so that the second instrument component 138 is opposite the first instrument component 136.

In the preferred embodiment, the second insert part 56 is fixed in a position around the first insert part 54, so that the first and second ends 64, 66 of the first insert part extend from the first and second ends 72, 74 of the second insert part 56. Specifically, extending the mounting sleeve 78, which forms the first and second ends 64, 66 of the first insert part 54 separate from the first and second ends 72, 74 of the second insert part 56. Furthermore, the second insert part 56 is fixed in a position around the first insert part 54, so that the second instrument part 138 and the first instrument part 138 face each other to make the instrument 21 function with the components 136, 138.

The coupling mechanism 58 may comprise any internal device, any device or element which can and is suitable for coupling the first and second insert parts 56, 58 and holding them in a fixed, relative, longitudinal position. Preferably, the coupling mechanism 58 performs this function while also allowing relative rotation of the first and second insert parts 54, 56 as a result of the relative rotation of the inner and outer element 24, 26 of the tool 22. Thus, the coupling mechanism 58 preferably comprises at least one bearing, such that the relative rotation of the inner element 24 and the outer element 26 leads to a relative rotation of the first insert part 54 and the second insert part 56 and thus relative rotation of the first instrument component 163 and the second instrument component 138.

In the preferred embodiment, the coupling mechanism 58 comprises a first coupling bearing 140 and a second coupling bearing 142. Each of the coupling bearings 140, 142 is preferably a radial bearing. However, in the preferred embodiment, each of the coupling bearings 140, 142 is a radial and an axial bearing. In particular, each of the coupling bearings 140, 142 comprises a four-point contact ball bearing. The coupling bearings 140, 142 may be located anywhere between the first and second insert parts 54, 56 that do not interfere with the first and second instrument components 136, 138. However, the coupling bearings 140, 142 are spaced apart to improve the stability of the instrument insert 20. In the preferred embodiment, the first coupling bearing 140 is placed at or near the first end 72 of the second insert part 56, while the second coupling bearing 152 is placed at or near the second end 74 of the second insert part 56. In addition, any mechanism, device or construction is used to hold each of the first and second coupling bearings 140, 142 in the desired position between the first and second insert parts 54, 56.

In the preferred embodiment, the first coupling bearing 140 is placed close to the first end 72 of the second insert part 56 between the inner surface 68 of the second insert part 56 which consists of the outer insert housing 110 and the outer surface 62 of the first insert part 54 which includes the outer sleeve 79. In particular, the first coupling bearing 140 is held in the desired position by at least one retaining ring 144. Specifically, the outer insert housing 110 or the outer sleeve 79 forms a complementary, opposite bearing shoulder 146 which grips and rests against the first coupling bearing 140. The first coupling bearing 140 is held in engages or rests against the opposite bearing shoulders 146 of one or more retaining rings 144 that extend from one or both of the inner surface 68 of the outer insert housing 110 and the outer surface 62 of the outer sleeve 79. Furthermore, one or more spacers 148 can be placed between the first coupling bearing if necessary 140 and the retaining rings 144 to provide a firm or secure engagement of the first coupling bearing 140 against the bearing shoulders 146.

In the preferred embodiment, and especially in fig. 7, the second coupling bearing 142 is placed closer to the second end 74 of the first end 72 of the second insert part 56 between the inner surface 68 of the second insert part 56 which comprises the outer insert housing 110 and the outer surface 62 of the first insert part 54 which comprises the mounting sleeve 78. In particular, the second coupling bearing 142 rests in the bearing carrier 150 placed between the second coupling bearing 142 and the mounting sleeve 78. Furthermore, the outer insert housing 110 forms a bearing shoulder 152 for engagement or bearing against the second coupling bearing 142. Specifically, the second coupling bearing 142 is held in the desired position between and in engagement with the bearing shoulders 152 and the bearing carrier 150.

In order to improve or ease the engagement between the second coupling bearing 142 and the bearing shoulder 152 and the bearing carrier 150, the bearing carrier 150 is additionally preferably forced against the second coupling bearing 142 by means of a biasing mechanism or device, e.g. a spring 154. In the preferred embodiment, the spring 154 comprises at least one wave spring. Preferably, the external insert housing 110 also forms a spring shoulder 156, so that the spring 154 can be placed between the spring shoulder 156 and the bearing carrier 150. If necessary, one or more spacers 158 can finally be connected to the spring 154 and placed between the spring shoulder 156 and the bearing carrier 150 to improve or facilitate the effect from the spring 154. Alternatively, the second coupling bearing 142 with or without the bearing carrier 150 can be held in the desired position by one or more retaining rings.

The instrument insert 20 comprises the first instrument component 136 and the second instrument component 138 for at least one instrument 21. However, the instrument insert 20 may comprise several first and second instrument components 136, 138 for several instruments 21. In the preferred embodiment, the instrument insert 20 comprises a first instrument component 136 and a second instrument component 138 for each of the two instruments 21.

The instrument insert 20 can comprise any type of first and second instrument components 136, 138 for any type of instrument 21 that it is desirable to mount in the relevant tool 22. However, the instrument insert 20 is preferably configured for use with an instrument 21 where it is desirable that the instrument 21 acts or functions properly to hold the first and second instrument components 136, 138 in a fixed, relative, longitudinal position while at the same time that some relative, longitudinal movement between the inner and outer elements 24, 26 of the tool 22 is desirable and preferably allows a relative rotation between the inner and outer element 24, 26. Thus, the instrument 21 can be of any type, where it is desirable to mount first and second instrument components 136, 138 in the tool 22 at the same time as first and second instrument components 136, 138 are held in a fixed , relative, longitudinal position. In the preferred embodiment, the instrument 21 is of any type, where it is desirable to allow a relative rotation between the first and second instrument components 136, 138 while the first and second instrument components 136, 138 are held in a fixed, relative, longitudinal position.

E.g. the instrument 21 may comprise a slip ring assembly 160 for transmitting electricity or an electrical signal comprising data communication and/or power between the inner element 24 and the outer element 26. Thus, the instrument insert 20 comprises the slip ring assembly 160 which transmits power or data, e.g. instructions or information between the inner and outer element 24, 26 of the tool 22. Furthermore, the tool 21 may comprise a rotation sensor device 162 to sense the relative rotation of the inner element 24 and the outer element 26. In the preferred embodiment, two instruments 21 are connected the instrument insert 20, one instrument 21 comprising the slip ring assembly 160 and the other instrument 21 comprising the rotation sensor device 162.

Preferably, the ability of the instrument 21 to perform its particular function is not substantially or significantly affected or impaired by a relative, longitudinal movement between the inner and outer elements 24, 26 of the tool 22, as may be experienced by well tools due to resulting tension and compression of various borehole conditions, including vibration, temperature changes and pressure changes and the use of the weight-on-bit tool 22 of a drilling tool. The instrument insert 20 is provided to absorb or compensate for the relative, longitudinal movement between the inner and outer elements 24, 26 while simultaneously holding the first and second components 136, 138 of each instrument 21 in a fixed, relative, longitudinal position and thus facilitating its operation or functioning. In particular, the instrument insert 20 compensates for the movement by floating as a unit in the radial space 52 between the inner and outer elements 24, 26. In particular, the instrument insert 20 floats, or is able to make a longitudinal movement relative to at least either the inner or the outer element 24, 26.

When the instrument 21 comprises the slip ring assembly 160, the first instrument component 136 comprises either a conductive slip ring 164 or a compatible electrical contact assembly 166 and the second instrument component 138 comprises the other of either the conductive slip ring 164 or the electrical contact assembly 166. Preferably, the first instrument component 136 comprises , for easy maintenance and repair of the slip ring assembly 160, the conductive slip ring 164 and the second instrument component 138 preferably comprise the compatible electrical contact assembly 166. Thus, in the preferred embodiment, the slip ring 164 rotates relative to the electrical contact assembly 166 upon rotation of the first insert part 54 as a result of the rotation of the internal element 24 of the tool 22 in relation to the substantially stationary external element 26.

In fig. 3-8, the conductive slip ring 164 may comprise any mechanism, device or construction that allows mounting of the first insert member 54 and which is suitable for electrical contact with a compatible electrical contact assembly 166. Preferably, the slip ring 164 comprises a conductive tube element mounted around the outer surface 62 of the first insert part 54. The drag ring 164 can be mounted to the first insert part 54 in any way and at any place between the first and second ends 64, 66 of the first insert part 54 so that the drag ring 164 can grip the electrical contact assembly 166.

In the preferred embodiment, the slip ring 164 is mounted around the outer surface 62 of the first insert member 54 which includes both the outer sleeve 79 and the inner mounting sleeve 78 at a location between the first and second ends 54, 66. The tubular slip ring 164 has an inner peripheral surface 168 for mounting around the outer surface 62 of the first insert part 54, an outer peripheral surface 170 which grips the electrical contact assembly 166 and opposite first and second ends 172, 174. The outer surface 62 of the first insert part 54 preferably forms an indentation 176 to receive the slip ring 164 therein. Furthermore, one end of the indentation 176 is formed by a mounting shoulder 178 which is formed by the outer sleeve 79 of the first insert part 54 and the other end of the indentation 176 is formed by a mounting shoulder 180 formed by the mounting sleeve 78 of the first insert part 54.

In order to keep the drag ring in the desired position, the drag ring 164 is thus placed in the indentation 176, so that the first end 172 of the drag ring 164 rests against, or grips the mounting shoulder 178 of the outer sleeve 79, and so that the second end 174 of the drag ring 164 rests against or the mounting shoulder 180 grips the mounting sleeve 78. As shown in fig. 5, one or more set screws 182 extend, if desired, between the drag ring 164 and the first insert part 54 to further fix the drag ring 164 in the desired position. The set screw 182 is positioned so that it does not interfere with the contact between the outer surface 170 of the slip ring 164 and the electrical contact assembly 166.

The outer surface 170 of the slip ring 164 is configured to grip the electrical contact assembly 166. Thus, the outer surface 170 may have any shape or configuration compatible with the electrical contact assembly 166. However, in the preferred embodiment, the outer surface 170 includes at least one peripheral contact groove 184. embodiment, the outer surface 170 includes four peripheral contact grooves 184, but more or fewer peripheral contact grooves 184 may be used as desired or as needed to achieve the desired electrical contact. The peripheral contact grooves 184 are preferably provided in a substantially parallel arrangement around the outer surface 170 and engage the electrical contact assembly 166 to transmit the electrical signal therebetween.

Finally, the electrical signal or electricity to be transmitted by slip ring assembly 160 may be provided or transmitted from slip ring 164 in any manner suitable for conducting electricity. In the preferred embodiment, the first insert 54 forms an electrical conduit 186 therethrough to enable the passage of an electrical conduit through the electrical conduit 186 for contact with the slip ring 164 as shown in FIG. 4.

In fig. 4, 7 and 8, the electrical contact assembly 166 may comprise any mechanism, device or construction which can be mounted to the second insert part 56 and which is suitable for providing an electrical contact with the slip ring 164. Preferably, the electrical contact assembly 166 comprises at least one brush block 188 mounted to the second insert part 56 opposite the drag ring 164. As mentioned below, the brush block 188 comprises at least one and preferably several electric contact brushes or brush leads 190. The brush block 188 can be mounted to the second insert part 56 in any way and at any place between the first and second ends 72, 74 of the second insert part 56 so that the brush block 188, and especially the electric brushes 190 can electrically contact or grip the contact grooves 184 in the slip ring 164.

In the preferred embodiment, the first insert part 54 and the second insert part 56 are connected so that the slip ring 164 grips the electrical contact assembly 166. Furthermore, the brush block 188 is especially mounted to the external insert housing 110, so that at least part of the brush block 188 and especially the electrical contact brushes 190 extends or protrudes from the inner surface 68 of the second insert part 56. In the preferred embodiment, the brush block 188 has an inner surface 192 which protrudes or extends from the inner surface 68 of the outer insert housing 110, an outer surface 194 and opposite first and second ends 196, 198 Each of the first and second ends 196, 198 of the brush block 188 form a lip 200 for mounting to the outer insert housing 110 in the manner described below.

The outer insert housing 110 forms at least one opening 202 which extends through it from the outer surface 70 to the inner surface 68 of the second insert part 56 to receive a brush block 188 therein. Thus, the opening 202 has a size and configuration compatible with receiving the brush block 188 therein, so that the inner surface 192 of the brush block 188 and the electrical contact brushes 190 can project or extend from the inner surface 68 of the second insert 56. Although the brush block 188 can further be mounted in the opening 202 in any way, each of a first side 204 and a second, opposite side 206 of the opening 202 preferably form a lip 208 which is compatible with the lip 200 at each end 196,198 of the brush block 188.

Specifically, the brush block 188 is positioned in the opening 202 so that the lips 200 on the first and second ends 196, 198 of the brush block 188 engage the compatible lips 208 of the first and second sides 204, 206 of the opening 200 in the outer insert housing 110. Accordingly, the brush block 188 suspended in the opening 202 opposite the slip ring 164. To ensure that the lips 200, 208 remain engaged, one or more screws 210 may further extend through the lips 200, 208. In the preferred embodiment, four set screws 210 are provided. Two set screws 210 fastens the lips 200, 208 together by the engagement of the first end 196 of the brush block 188 and the first side 204 of the opening 202. Similarly, two set screws 210 fasten the lips 200, 208 together by the engagement of the second end 198 of the brush block 188 and the second side 206 of the opening 202. This way of mounting the brush block 188 provides easy access to and makes it easy to remove the brush block 188 for repair or replacement.

The electrical contact brushes 190 are configured for engagement or electrical contact with the contact grooves 184 of the slip ring 164. Thus, the electrical contact brushes 190 may have any shape or configuration compatible with the contact grooves 184. However, four peripheral contact grooves 184 are provided in the first embodiment. Accordingly, the brush block 188 comprises at least four electrical contact brushes 190 or contact wires which engage the contact tracks 184 to transmit the electrical signal therebetween. However, more or fewer electrical contact brushes 190 may be provided as needed to provide the desired electrical contact.

Each electrical contact brush 190 comprises at least one, and preferably several fine conductive wires with an inner end 212 to grip or contact a single contact track 184 and an opposing outer end 214. Each contact brush 190 extends through, and is mounted or fixed in, an opening or passage in the brush block 188 extending between the outer surface 194 and the inner surface 192 of the brush block 188. The inner end 212 extends from the inner surface 192 of the brush block 188 to engage the contact groove 184. The outer end 214 extends from the outer surface 194 of the brush block 188 to provide an electrical contact point for the brush block 188, as described below.

If desired, the brush block 188 or the contact brushes 190 may be spring-loaded or otherwise forced or biased in the direction of the contact grooves 184 to make it easier to achieve electrical contact with the outer ends 214 of the contact brushes 190 and the contact grooves 184.

Finally, the electrical signal or electricity transmitted by the slip ring assembly 160 may be provided to or transmitted from the electrical contact assembly 166 and especially the brush block 188 in any manner suitable for conducting electricity. In the preferred embodiment, an electrical wire is connected to the outer ends 214 of the electrical contact brushes 190. Furthermore, the second insert part 56 forms an electrical conduit 216 therethrough to provide passage for the electrical conduit through the electrical conduit 216 for connection to the electrical contact brushes 190, as described and shown in fig. 4.

When the instrument 21 comprises the rotation sensor device 162, the first instrument component 136 preferably comprises one of at least one magnet 218 and at least one compatible magnetic sensor 220 and the second instrument component 138 preferably comprises the other of at least one magnet 218 and at least one compatible magnetic sensor 220. In the preferred embodiment the first instrument component 136 comprises at least one magnet 218 and the second instrument component 138 preferably comprises a compatible magnetic sensor 220. Thus, in the preferred embodiment, the magnet 218 rotates in relation to the magnetic sensor 220 upon rotation of the first insert part 54 as a result of the rotation of the inner element 24 of the tool 22 in relation to the preferably substantially stationary outer element 26.

In fig. 6, one or more magnets 218 may be mounted at a distance from each other around the peripheral inner surface 60 of the first insert part 54. In the preferred embodiment, several magnets 218 are mounted around the periphery of the outer surface 62 of the first insert part 54 which includes the mounting sleeve 78 at a position or somewhere in the second insert part 54. In particular, the magnets 218 are mounted to the mounting sleeve 78 to be placed near the other end 74 of the second insert part 56 which includes the outer insert housing 110. Each magnet 218 can be mounted to the mounting sleeve 78 in any way that allows the magnetic sensor 220 to sense the proximity of the magnet 218. Furthermore, any type or configuration of the magnet 218 that enables mounting in the first insert portion 54 and that is compatible with the magnetic sensor 220 may be used.

In the preferred embodiment, the magnet 218 is mounted in an indentation or cavity 222 defined by the outer surface 62 of the mounting sleeve 78 for each of the magnets 218. The indentation 222 is adapted or configured to carefully receive the magnet 218 therein, so that the magnet 218 is retained in the indentation 222 during use of the rotation sensing device 162. As needed, other holding or fastening mechanisms or devices can be used to hold or fasten the magnet 218 in the indentation 218.

The magnetic sensor 220 may comprise any mechanism, device or construction which enables it to be mounted to the second insert part 56 and which is suitable for and which is capable of sensing the proximity of the magnet 218 to the magnetic sensor 220. Preferably, the magnetic sensor 220 comprises a position switch assembly which is used to determine the inner element's 24 revolutions per minute. Any conventional or known magnet type 218 and compatible position switch assembly 220 may comprise the rotation sensing device 162 .

On fig. 3-7, the first insert part 54 and the second insert part 56 in the preferred embodiment are connected so that the magnetic sensor 220 can sense the proximity of the magnet 218 to the magnetic sensor 220. Furthermore, the magnetic sensor 220 is mounted to the external insert housing 110, as that the magnetic sensor 220 gains access to, or communicates with, the inner surface 68 of the second insert part 56. Furthermore, the magnetic sensor 24 is placed at, or close to, the other end 74 of the second insert part 56 which comprises the external insert housing 110. By turning the mounting sleeve 78 in relation to to the outer insert housing 110, the magnet 218, mounted in the mounting sleeve 78, as a result, is moved or rotated in a path that crosses or intersects the location of the magnetic sensor 220, so that the magnet 218 faces the magnetic sensor 220 in order for the magnetic sensor 220 to sense the proximity of the magnet 218 to the magnetic sensor 220.

In the preferred embodiment, the magnetic sensor 220 is mounted in a cavity or opening 224 formed by the outer insert housing 110 to receive the magnetic sensor 220 therein. The cavity 224 may extend through the outer insert housing 110 from the outer surface 70 to the inner surface 68 of the second insert part 56 to receive the magnetic sensor 220. In all cases, the cavity 224 is specially adapted or configured to carefully receive the magnetic sensor 220 therein, so that the magnetic sensor 220 is held in the cavity 224 during use of the rotation sensor device 162. If necessary, other holding or fastening mechanisms or devices can also be used to hold or fasten the magnetic sensor 220 in the cavity 224.

Preferably, the magnetic sensor 220 has an inner end 226 mounted near the inner surface 68 of the second insert part 56 to sense the magnet 218 and an opposite outer end 228. The outer end 228 is preferably mounted near the outer surface 70 of the second insert part 56 to provide an electrical contact point for the magnetic sensor 220. An electrical signal or electricity may be transmitted from or to the magnetic sensor 220 in any manner suitable for the conduction of electricity. However, in the preferred embodiment, an electrical wire connects to the outer end 228 of the magnetic sensor 220. Furthermore, the electrical conduit 216 formed by the second insert portion 56 allows passage of the electrical wire through the electrical conduit 216 for connection to the magnetic sensor 220, as described .

To ensure proper use of the instrument insert 20, the instrument insert 20 or the tool 22 may further comprise one or more seal assemblies (not shown), preferably a rotary seal assembly to contain a lubricant in the instrument insert 20 and, if desired, the enclosing components of the tool 22 where the instrument insert 20 is fitted in. Furthermore, the rotary seal assemblies also prevent the passage of unwanted fluids, e.g. drilling fluid into the tool insert 20 and, if desired, the enclosing components of the tool 22. Any known or conventional seal assembly may be used.

Finally, the invention is further directed to improvements or innovations of the drag ring assembly 160 which is particularly shown in fig. 9-15.1 the preferred embodiment of the instrument insert 20 described above, the slip ring assembly 160 is used as previously described. When it is desirable or necessary to improve the functioning or use of the slip ring assembly 160, the slip ring assembly 160 may further include one or more of the innovations of the slip ring assembly 160 as described below and shown in fig. 9-15. In this case, the slip ring assembly 160 with other features is preferably mounted in the instrument insert 20 in the manner previously described.

As well as using the slip ring assembly 160 in the instrument insert 20, the slip ring assembly 160 can also be used in another area where a slip ring assembly is desirable, or for conventional use for the transmission of electricity or an electrical signal between two components that rotate relative to each other. In other words, the drag ring assembly 160 with one or more of the other properties described here can be used in areas or in tools that do not form part of or are a component of, or that are not in connection with, the instrument insert 20.

In fig. 9-15, as described above, the slip ring assembly 160 is provided to transmit electricity or an electrical signal comprising data communication and/or power between the components of the slip ring assembly 160 which rotate relative to each other. Thus, the slip ring assembly 160 provides opportunities for transmitting or transmitting power or data, e.g. instructions or information between the slip ring 164 and the electrical contact assembly 166.

The drag ring assembly 160 is preferably adapted to compensate or adjust for, or counteract the potential, negative effect of high pressure and high vibrations down the well that may interfere with or prevent the proper functioning or use of the drag ring assembly 160. In particular, the drag ring assembly 160 compensates for, or adjusts or counteracts any separation of the slip ring 164 and the electrical contact assembly 166, or axial or lateral vibration between the slip ring 164 and the electrical contact assembly 166. Thus, the slip ring assembly 166 helps maintain the desired engagement or electrical contact between the slip ring 164 and the electrical contact assembly 166.

In fig. 9-11, as mentioned, the slip ring 164 may comprise any mechanism, device or construction suitable for contact with the compatible electrical contact assembly 166. However, the slip ring 164 preferably comprises a conductive tube element. The outer surface 170 of the slip ring 164 forms the periphery of the slip ring 164 for gripping the electrical contact assembly 166. The outer surfaces 170 of the slip ring 164 are configured to grip the electrical contact assembly 166. In particular, the slip ring 164 forms an electrical contact groove 184 that extends around the periphery of the slip ring 164, or around the outer peripheral surface 170.

Figs. 9-11 show slip ring 164 forming an electrical contact track 184. However, slip ring 164 may form any number of electrical contact tracks 184, if desired, to transmit the desired electricity or one or more electrical signals through a desired number of electrical channels. As described earlier and as shown in fig. 1-8, the drag ring 166 can e.g. forming four electrical contact tracks 184 around the periphery thereof, although more or fewer peripheral electrical contact tracks 184 may be used as desired or needed to effect the desired electrical contact.

Finally, the electrical signal or electricity is preferably delivered to, or transmitted from, the slip ring 164 in the same manner as previously described for the slip ring assembly 160 as shown in fig. 1-8. Specifically, at least one electrical conduit (not shown) is preferably provided to provide passage for one or more electrical conduits (not shown) therethrough for contact with slip ring 164.

9-15, the electrical contact assembly 166 comprises at least one electrical contact 187 which engages the slip ring 164. To improve or facilitate the maintenance of the electrical contact between the slip ring 164 and the electrical contact assembly 166, the electrical contact assembly 166 preferably comprises several electrical contacts 187 which grips the drag ring 164. As shown in fig. 9-11, the electrical contact assembly 166 comprises, in the preferred embodiment, three electrical contacts 187. Furthermore, several electrical contacts 187 are preferably placed at intervals around the periphery of the slip ring 164. More preferably, the electrical contacts 187 are placed at regular intervals around the periphery of the slip ring 164.

Each of the plurality of electrical contacts 187 is provided to engage the electrical contact groove 184 on the slip ring 164, as shown in FIG. 9-11. The multiple electrical contacts 187 engage a single electrical contact track 184 to assist, facilitate or maintain the engagement of at least one electrical contact 187 with the electrical contact track 184 at all times during use. In the event of a possible misalignment of the slip ring 164 and the electrical contact assembly 166, e.g. caused by an axial or lateral, or vibrating movement of the slip ring 164 relative to the electrical contact assembly 166, one or more, and preferably at least two electrical contacts 187 will be held in engagement with the electrical contact track 184.

When the slip ring 164 comprises more than one electrical contact groove 184, at least one electrical contact 187 is provided to engage each electrical contact groove 184. Preferably, multiple electrical contacts 187 are spaced around the slip ring 164 to engage each of the multiple electrical contact grooves 184.

Furthermore, the electrical contact assembly 166 preferably comprises at least one brush block 188 as described above in connection with fig. 1-8, the electrical contact 187 being carried by the brush block 188. More preferably, the electrical contact assembly 166 comprises several brush blocks 188, the electrical contacts 187 being carried by the brush blocks 188.1 the preferred embodiment, as shown in fig. 9-11, comprises the electrical contact assembly 166 three brush blocks 188. In this case, a single electrical contact 187 is carried by each of the brush blocks 188. If desired or if necessary for a particular application, or when the slip ring 164 forms several electrical contact grooves 184, several electrical contacts 187 can be carried by each of the brush blocks 188.

The electrical contact 187 may comprise a part of the brush block 188, or the electrical contact 187 may be mounted, fixed or otherwise supported by the brush block 188. As mentioned above in the preferred embodiment and especially in connection with fig. 15, however, the electrical contact 187 is carried by the brush block 188. The electrical contact 187 may be carried by the brush block 188 in any suitable manner that allows the electrical contact 187 to engage the electrical contact track 184.

The slip ring 164 is adapted to rotate relative to the electrical contact assembly 166. Thus, the slip ring 164 turns relative to the brush blocks 188 comprising the electrical assembly 166 and the electrical contact 187 carried thereby. As a result, each of the electrical contacts 187 comprises a leading or upstream side 230 and a rear or downstream side 232, as shown in FIG. 14-15.

In addition, the electrical contact assembly 166 preferably comprises a forcing mechanism 234 which grips the electrical contact 187 against engagement with the slip ring 164 and especially the electrical contact groove 184. The forcing mechanism 234 may comprise any biasing device or mechanism capable of, and suitable for forcing the electrical contact 187 against the slip ring 164. Preferably, however, the forcing mechanism 234 comprises a spring 236.1 the preferred embodiment where the electrical contact assembly 166 comprises several electrical contacts 187, the forcing mechanism 234 is further connected to each of the electrical contacts 187 to force the electrical contacts 187 against engagement with the electrical contact track 184. In particular, the forcing mechanism 234 preferably comprises several springs 236, so that only one of the springs 236 is connected to each of the electrical contacts 187.

As a result, at least one spring 236 is preferably associated with each brush block 188. If a single electrical contact 187 is carried by the brush block 188, a single spring 236 is preferably provided to urge the electrical contact 187 against the electrical contact port 184. If multiple electrical contacts 187 carried by the brush block 188, however, a single spring 236 may be provided to urge the electrical contacts 187 together as a unit against the electrical contact track 184. Alternatively, multiple springs 236 may be provided to urge the electrical contacts 187 so that at least one spring 236 is associated with each of the electrical contacts 187.

The spring 236 may be placed on or mounted, or attached to the brush block 188 in any manner that enables the spring 236 to force the electrical contact 187 against the slip ring 164. In Figs. 9-15, the brush block 188 comprises an upper or outer surface 238 and an opposite, lower or innermost surface 240. Preferably, the electrical contact 187 is associated with, or extends from, the lower surface 240 of the brush block 188 to grip the adjacent slip ring 164. Thus, e.g. the spring 236 be connected, and act on the upper surface 238 of the brush block 188 to force it against the slip ring 164.

In fig. 15, however, the spring 236 is preferably placed between the brush block 188 and the electrical contact 187, so that the spring 236 forces the electrical contact 187 against engagement with the slip ring 164. In the preferred embodiment, the brush block 188 and especially the lower surface 240 thereof form a cavity 242 or recess to receive the electrical contact 187. Specifically, a portion of the electrical contact 187 is slideably received in the cavity 242 so that the electrical contact 187 extends from the lower surface 240 of the brush block 188 for engagement with the electrical contact groove 184. The spring 236 is preferably contained in or positioned in the cavity 242 between the body of the brush block 188 and the part of the electrical contact 187 which is slidably received in the cavity 242. As can be seen from Fig. 15, the spring 236 thus acts between the brush block 188 and the electrical contact 187 to force it electrical contact out of or away from the lower surface 240 of the brush block 188. The spring 236 provides d therefore a relatively constant, positive contact force between the electrical contact 187 and the electrical contact track 184.

If desired, a retaining mechanism (not shown) may be provided to prevent complete removal of the electrical contact 187 from the cavity 242.

Furthermore, the spring 236 is selected to provide a spring force which can force the electrical contact 187 into engagement with the electrical contact groove 184 and at the same time avoid causing significant or substantial damage to the electrical contact 187 as a result of the engagement. Likewise, the spring force must not significantly disturb or prevent rotation of the slip ring 164 in relation to the brush block 188. As mentioned, the spring 236 preferably comprises a relatively constant, positive contact force between the electrical contact 187 and the electrical contact track 184.

In addition, the drag ring 164 preferably comprises a relatively hard conductive material with anti-tearing properties, e.g. beryl cups. The electrical contact 187 preferably comprises a relatively softer material compared to the slip ring 164. Thus, the electrical contact 187 and the brush block 188 are preferably constructed as wear components of the slip ring assembly 160.

As discussed under fig. 1-8, each of the electrical contacts 187 preferably additionally comprises at least one and preferably several electrical contact brushes or brush leads (not shown in Fig. 9-15). The electrical contact brushes or brush leads extend from the brush block 188 as mentioned above, to engage the electrical contact track 184. The electrical contact brushes are configured to engage, or make electrical contacts with the contact tracks 184 of the slip ring 164. The number of electrical contact brushes can be selected to achieve the desired electrical contact and providing the desired transmission or communication of electricity or electrical signals thereby. The electric contact brushes can be mounted or connected to the brush block 188 in the same way as described earlier in connection with fig. 1-8.

Furthermore, the electrical signal or the electricity to be transmitted by the slip ring assembly 160 may be provided or transmitted from the electrical contact assembly 166 and especially the brush block 188 in a manner suitable for conduction of electricity, as described previously. E.g. the brush block 188 may form one or more conduits (not shown) for the passage of an electrical wire (not shown) therethrough for connection to the electrical contact 187.

Finally, the electrical contact assembly 166 preferably includes a wiper 244 that extends into the electrical contact groove 144 to prevent fluid from passing through the electrical contact groove 184. The wiper 244 is preferably associated with the electrical contact 187. When the electrical contact assembly 166 includes multiple electrical contacts 187, the wiper 244 is thus preferably associated with each of the electrical contacts 187 to extend into the electrical contact groove 184 to prevent fluid from passing through the electrical contact groove 184. When the slip ring 164 also forms multiple electrical contact grooves 184, the wiper 244 extends preferably in at least one electrical contact groove 184 and preferably in each of the several electrical contact grooves 144 to prevent fluid from passing through the electrical contact grooves 184.

The wiper 244 as described here is provided to reduce the flow of fluid between the electrical contact 187 and the electrical contact track 184, the flow may produce a lifting pressure or a hydroplaning effect therebetween. A significant lift pressure or a hydroplaning effect can disrupt or prevent the electrical engagement between the electrical contact 187 and the electrical contact track 184.

As shown in Figs. 9-15, the wiper 244 is preferably located on the brush block 188. When the electrical contact assembly 166 comprises more than one brush block 188, a wiper 244 is preferably located on each brush block 188. Accordingly, each brush block 188 and the wiper 244 are preferably substantially like. Thus, the following description relates to a single electrical contact 187 and the wiper 244 would be essentially the same for possibly several electrical contacts 187 and several associated wipers 244.

In particular, the wiper 244 is preferably placed near the leading or upstream side 230 of the electrical contact 187. In addition, the wiper 244 is preferably placed on the brush block 188. The wiper 244 may comprise a wiper mechanism, a structure or device as described herein and which is attached, or mounted to the brush block 188. However, in the preferred embodiment, the wiper 244 is integrally arranged with the brush block 244, especially the lower surface 240 thereof.

Furthermore, the wiper 244 can comprise any mechanism, structure or device that can prevent fluid from passing through the electrical contact groove 184. However, the wiper 244 preferably comprises an elongated rib 246 that extends parallel to the electrical groove 184. As mentioned, the elongated rib 246 preferably integrally arranged with the lower surface 240 of the brush block 244 near the upstream side 230. Furthermore, the elongate rib 246 is adapted and configured to be compatible with the electrical contact groove 184, so that a desired amount of fluid or fluid flow is prevented from passing therethrough. The size and configuration of the elongate rib 246 and the desired resulting obstruction to fluid flow will be chosen to reduce or prevent any unwanted lift forces or hydroplaning, as described above.

When the drag ring 164 forms more than one electrical contact track 184, the wiper 244 preferably comprises several elongated ribs 246, an elongated rib 256 being provided for each electrical contact track 144 to prevent the passage or flow of fluid therethrough.

Furthermore, the wiper 244 in the preferred embodiment comprises an upstream wiper element 248 placed near the upstream side 230 of the electrical contact 187. However, the wiper 244 can further comprise a downstream wiper element 250 placed near the downstream side 232 of the electrical contact 187.

When the wiper 244 thus comprises the elongated rib 246, the upstream wiper element 248 comprises an upstream elongated rib 252 which extends substantially parallel to the electrical contact track 184 and the downstream wiper element 250 comprises a downstream elongated rib 244 which extends substantially parallel to the electrical the contact track 184. As mentioned above, each of the upstream and downstream elongated ribs 252, 254 is adapted and configured to be compatible with the electrical contact track 184, so that a desired amount of fluid or fluid flow is prevented from passing therethrough.

Finally, the word "comprise" is used in this document in a non-limiting sense to imply that the parts after the word are included, but parts not specifically mentioned are not excluded. Referring to an element with the indefinite article "an" does not exclude the possibility that more than one element is present, unless it is clear from the context that there is only one element.

Claims (22)

1. A slip ring assembly (160) comprising a slip ring (641) and an electrical contact assembly (166), wherein the slip ring (164) and the electrical contact assembly (166) are arranged to rotate relative to each other, the slip ring (164) defining a circumference, where the slip ring (164) defines an electrical contact track (184) which extends around the circumference of the slip ring (164), where the electrical contact assembly (166) comprises an electrical contact (187) for engagement with the electrical contact track (184), characterized in that it the electrical contact assembly (166) further includes a wiper (244) to extend into the electrical contact groove (184) to prevent a fluid from passing through the electrical contact groove (184). 2. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 1, characterized in that the electrical contact (187) comprises an upstream side (230) and downstream side (232) and in which the wiper (244) is positioned adjacent to the upstream side (230) of the electrical contact (187) . 3. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 2, characterized in that the electrical contact assembly (166) further comprises several brush blocks (188), the electrical contacts (187) being carried by the brush blocks (188), and in which the wiper (244) is placed on the brush block (188). 4. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that the wiper (244) comprises an elongated rib (246) which extends substantially parallel to the electrical contact groove (184). 5. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 2, characterized in that the wiper (244) comprises an upstream wiper element (248) which is placed next to the upstream side (230) of the electrical contact (871) and where the wiper (244) further comprises a downstream wiper element (250) placed adjacent to the downstream side (232) of the electrical contact (1 87). 6. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 5, characterized in that the upstream wiper element (248) comprises an upstream, elongated rib (252) which extends substantially parallel to the electrical contact groove (184) and where each of the downstream wiper elements (250) comprises a downstream elongated rib (254) extending substantially parallel to the electrical contact track. 7. Drag ring assembly (160) according to one of claims 1-6, characterized in that the electrical contact assembly (166) comprises several electrical contacts (187) positioned at a distance around the circumference of the drag ring (164). 8. Slip ring assembly (160) according to one of claims 1-6, characterized in that the electrical contact assembly (166) comprises a forcing mechanism (234) to force the electrical contact against engagement with the slip ring (164). 9. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 8, characterized in that the forcing mechanism (234) comprises a spring (236). 10. Slip ring assembly (160) according to claim 9, characterized in that the electrical contact assembly (166) further comprises a brush block (188), the electrical contact (187) being carried by the brush block (188), the spring being placed between the brush block (188) and the electrical contact (187) and where the spring forces the electrical contact against engagement with the slip ring (164). 11. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 8, characterized in that the electrical contact assembly (166) comprises several electrical contacts (187) placed at a distance around the circumference of the drag ring (164). 12. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 11, characterized in that the forcing mechanism (234) is connected to each of the electrical contacts (187) to force the electrical contacts (187) against engagement with the drag ring (164). 13. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 12, characterized in that the forcing mechanism (234) comprises several springs (236) so that one of the springs (236) is connected to each of the electrical contacts (187). 14. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 13, characterized in that the electrical contact assembly (166) further comprises several brush blocks (188), where the electrical contacts (187) are carried by brush blocks (188), the springs (236) being arranged between the brush blocks (188) and the electrical contacts (187), and where the springs (236) force the electrical contacts (187) to engage with the electrical contact groove (184). 15. Drag ring assembly (160) according to one of claims 7, 11, 12, 13 or 14, characterized in that the electrical contacts (187) are placed at regular intervals around the periphery of the drag ring (164). 16. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 15, characterized in that the electrical contact assembly (166) comprises three electrical contacts (187). 17. Slip ring assembly (160) according to one of claims 7, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 or 16, characterized in that it further comprises a wiper (244) connected to each of the electrical contacts (187) to extend inside the electrical contact track (184) to prevent fluid from passing through the electrical contact groove (184). 18. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 17, characterized in that each electrical contact comprises an upstream side (230) and a downstream side (232) and where the wipers (244) are placed close to the upstream side (230) of the electrical contacts (187). 19. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 18, characterized in that the electrical contact assembly (166) further comprises a brush block (188), the electrical contacts (187) being carried by the brush blocks (188) and where the wiper is placed on the brush blocks (188). 20. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 19, characterized in that the wipers (244) each comprise an elongated rib (246) which extends substantially parallel to the electrical contact groove (184). 21. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 18, characterized in that each wiper (244) comprises an upstream wiper element (248) placed near the upstream side (230) of the electrical contacts (187) and where the wiper further comprises a downstream wiper element placed near the downstream side of the electrical contacts (187). 22. Drag ring assembly (160) according to claim 21, characterized in that each upstream wiper element (248) comprises an upstream, elongated rib (252) which extends substantially parallel to the electrical contact track (184) and where the downstream wiper element (250) comprises a downstream, elongated rib (254) which extends substantially parallel to the electrical contact groove (184).