DOCKING STATION ASSEMBLY AND METHODS FOR ITS USE IN A WELLBORE

摘要

The present invention provides apparatus and methods for controlling and/or powering downhole components without the need for control and/or power lines 130 extending from the components to the surface of the well and without the need for power or control lines to be inserted into the wellbore along with the components. In one aspect of the invention, a borehole is lined with a casing 110, the casing having at least one aperture 125 disposed. Adjacent the aperture, on the outer surface of the casing, is a docking station 105, which is permanently attached to the casing and includes a socket 135. After the casing is installed in the borehole, a downhole component can be lowered into the wellbore. The downhole component is equipped with a connector 120 extending from an outer surface thereof. The connector assembly is disposable through the aperture 125 in the casing 110 and, the connector assembly can be connected to the socket 135 of docking station.