Nobuyoshi Niina

Title: Nobuyoshi Niina: Innovator in Drilling Technology

Introduction

Nobuyoshi Niina is a notable inventor based in Yokohama, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of drilling technology, holding 2 patents that showcase his innovative approach to engineering solutions for oil and gas applications.

Latest Patents

One of his latest inventions is the "Drilling fluid through-flow axial flux turbine generator." This generator is designed specifically for drilling equipment, allowing for efficient energy generation in oil and gas applications. The turbine drives a permanent-magnet, synchronous generator, utilizing an axial flux topology for both the stator and rotor. This design permits a wide airgap, enabling fluid and debris from drilling operations to flow through the generator with minimal obstruction. The fluid flow serves as a power source to rotate the turbine, which is coupled to the rotor, generating electrical power. Additionally, the airgap can accommodate non-magnetic sealing plates, providing extra protection to the generator components. The rotor features a Halbach magnet array of permanent magnets, producing high-intensity magnetic flux in an axial direction, eliminating the need for conventional rotor back-iron.

Another significant patent is the "Compliant bearing for oilfield applications." This design addresses the challenges of misalignment in a rotatable shaft within the bearing, making it particularly suitable for use in particulate-laden fluids. The bearing is shaped with a curved surface along its longitudinal axis, allowing for point contact rather than line contact, which is typical in conventional plain bearings. This innovative design enables the bearing to adjust for misalignment, facilitating easier assembly and disassembly of the rotating shaft. By compensating for misalignment, the bearing surfaces can maintain closer tolerances, resulting in improved performance.

Career Highlights

Nobuyoshi Niina is currently associated with Ms Directional, LLC, where he continues to develop cutting-edge technologies in the drilling sector. His work has significantly impacted the efficiency and effectiveness of drilling operations.

Collaborations

He has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Libo Yang and Arnold Fenocchi, contributing to advancements in their respective fields.

Conclusion

Nobuyoshi Niina's innovative patents and contributions to drilling technology highlight his role as a leading inventor in the industry. His work not only enhances operational efficiency but also paves the way for future advancements in drilling equipment.