ACOUSTIC ISOLATOR FOR DOWNHOLE TOOLS

摘要

The disclosure addresses multiple embodiments of an acoustic isolator, and an acoustic logging tool which incorporates the acoustic isolator. The acoustic isolator is configured to minimize acoustic transmissions which could otherwise adversely affect acoustical measurements being made by an acoustic receiver. The described acoustic isolators include a plurality of longitudinally arranged mass members coupled to a central supporting structure, in a configuration to reduce acoustic transmissions in at least selected frequency ranges.

主权项

1. An acoustic isolator for use in a downhole environment, comprising:
a linear central structure defining a non-linear acoustic path along at least a portion of its length; a plurality of mass members coupled to the central structure along at least a portion of its length, each mass member coupled in spaced relation to an adjacent mass member, and physically and acoustically coupled to the central structure; and a plurality of coupling mechanisms, each coupling mechanism coupling a respective mass member to a respective adjacent mass member, wherein each coupling mechanism facilitates relative movement between the respective coupled mass members within a range of motion, and precludes relative movement beyond such range of motion.