A method of recovering data acquired and stored down a well, by an acoustic path, and apparatus for implementing the method

摘要

In a well (10) in production or undergoing tests, the recovery of data acquired and stored in a downhole unit (16) located in the lower part of a drillpipe string (12) below a test valve (20) is effected directly in the form of acoustic signals between the downhole unit (16) and an interface tool (24). To this end, acoustic coupling is established between the tool (24) and the drillpipe string (12), and electro-acoustic transducers are provided in the tool and in the downhole unit (16). Commands are transmitted in the opposite direction, also in the form of acoustic signals, in particular to initiate data recovery. The transmission of data and commands between the tool (24) and the surface unit (22) is effected by any known means, for example in the form of electrical signals carried by a cable (26). <IMAGE>