Weatherford International has been granted a patent for a method of connecting fiber optic cables to downhole gauges in wellbores. The method utilizes a series of nested tubes to protect optical fiber splicing, allowing for efficient installation and storage of the cable and gauges on spools or reels. GlobalData’s report on Weatherford International gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Weatherford International, Oil well fracking was a key innovation area identified from patents. Weatherford International's grant share as of July 2024 was 69%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Fiber optic cable connection for downhole gauges in wells
The patent US12071848B2 outlines a method for connecting a fiber optic cable to a downhole gauge, specifically designed for use in wellbores. The method involves a series of steps that include providing multiple tubes—gauge-end, cable-end, inner, and spanning tubes—each with a passage for the optical fiber. The gauge-end tube is affixed to the downhole gauge, while the cable-end tube connects to the fiber optic cable. The inner tubes serve as heat sinks and are installed within the spanning tubes, allowing for the optical fiber to be spliced securely. The process also includes nesting the tubes to facilitate access to the fiber ends, splicing them together, and enclosing the splice by welding the ends of the tubes, ensuring protection for the optical fiber during operation.
Additionally, the patent specifies configurations for the spanning tubes, which may include cable-side, gauge-side, and intermediate tubes, with varying lengths to accommodate different setups. The design allows for flexibility and pressure resistance, enhancing the durability of the connection in challenging downhole environments. The inner tubes not only provide thermal protection but also ensure that the splicing remains secure and well-protected from external conditions. Overall, this innovative method and cable connection aim to improve the reliability and performance of fiber optic systems used in wellbore applications.
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GlobalData’s Patent Analytics tracks patent filings and grants from official offices around the world. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
