Downhole radial force tool assembly

Abstract

The present invention relates to a radial force tool assembly for providing a radial force in a well perpendicular to an axial extension of the radial force tool assembly for anchoring, centering or rolling a downhole intervention tool in a well having a wellbore, the radial force tool assembly having a central axis, a front end and a rear end, and comprising: a tool body, a tool body including a cavity extending through the tool body, the cavity including a first cavity face facing the second cavity face; a first actuator that moves the first force transmission member relative to the tool body in an axial extension direction, where the first force transmission member has a first end with a first face and a second face; and a first rear arm member and a second rear arm member, the first rear arm member having a second end surface and a first end surface abutting the first surface, the second rear arm member having a second end surface and a first end surface abutting the second surface, and wherein each of the first end surfaces has a curved surface such that when the first force transmission member moves forward, the first force transmission member moves forward. The first end face of the first rear arm member rolls on the first face such that the first rear arm member projects radially outward in a first radial direction, and the first end face of the second rear arm member rolls on the second face such that the second rear arm member projects radially outward in a second radial direction with the first and second rear wall members projecting simultaneously. And the first part extends outwards in the radial direction in the second radial direction opposite to the first direction. The invention also relates to a downhole intervention tool including the radial force tool assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a radial force tool assembly for providing radial force in a well perpendicular to the axial extension direction of the radial force tool assembly for anchoring, centering, or rolling downhole intervention tools in a well having a borehole. The radial force tool assembly has a central axis, a front end, and a rear end. The invention also relates to a downhole intervention tool including the radial force tool assembly. Background Technology

[0002] Radial force generators are known in the hydrocarbon industry for anchoring downhole tools in the well, such as for pulling or sitting plugs, to convert axial forces into tensile or thrust forces along the axial extension of the metal well casing structure. Radial force generators can also be used to center tools in the well to perform specific operations requiring centering, such as logging or imaging.

[0003] Some wells have narrow confinement sections, and thus the anchoring tool needs to be positioned further downhole from the confinement section. Therefore, the radial force generator must have sufficient radial extension range while still delivering adequate force. Known radial force generators cannot provide an extension range exceeding twice the tool's outer diameter, which is not always sufficient. Therefore, attempts have been made to enhance the design to provide a longer radial extension range, but the radial force generator provides a very limited amount of force when the generator protrudes only at a small angle relative to the axial extension direction of the tool. A radial force generator with a very complex design is known from US 6,920,936, in which rollers on the arm are arranged to support the extended arm when it is only slightly extended, to overcome the problem of very limited force at small angles. However, this complex design has many components that can get stuck or wear, and the known radial force generator still has a very limited radial extension range. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One object of the present invention is to overcome, in whole or in part, the aforementioned disadvantages and deficiencies of the prior art. More particularly, one object is to provide an improved radial force tool assembly that can be used for a variety of well sizes and preferably has a longer radial extension range than known tools.

[0005] Furthermore, one object of the present invention is to provide an improved radial force tool assembly that can enter narrow confines within a well and expand below the confines in a well section with an inner diameter at least three times that of the confines, while still providing sufficient force to anchor the intervention tool.

[0006] The foregoing objectives, as well as numerous other objectives, advantages, and features, which will become apparent from the following description, are achieved by means of a radial force tool assembly for providing a radial force in a well perpendicular to the axial extension direction of the radial force tool assembly for anchoring, centering, or rolling downhole intervention tools in a well having a borehole. The radial force tool assembly has a central axis, a front end, and a rear end, and includes:

[0007] - A tool body including a cavity extending across / through the tool body, the cavity including a first cavity surface and a second cavity surface facing the first cavity.

[0008] - A first actuator for moving a first force-transmitting member relative to the tool body along an axially extending direction, wherein the first force-transmitting member has a first end having a first surface and a second surface, and

[0009] - A first rear arm member having a second end face and a first end face abutting against a first end face, and a second rear arm member having a second end face and a first end face abutting against a second end face.

[0010] Furthermore, each of the first end faces has a curved surface such that when the first force transmission member moves forward, the first end face of the first rear arm member rolls on the first surface, thereby causing the first rear arm member to extend radially outward in the first radial direction, and the first end face of the second rear arm member rolls on the second surface, thereby causing the second rear arm member to extend radially outward in the second radial direction opposite to the first direction when the first and second rear arm members extend simultaneously.

[0011] Furthermore, the first and second surfaces of the first end of the force transmission component can be a single surface.

[0012] Furthermore, the first surface can be a first inclined surface, and / or the second surface can be a second inclined surface.

[0013] In addition, the first rear arm member can extend radially outward in a first direction, and the second rear arm member can extend outward in a second radial direction opposite to the first direction.

[0014] Furthermore, each of the second end faces of the first and second rear arm members may have a curved surface.

[0015] Furthermore, the shape of the surface may resemble the profile of half a tooth of an involute gear, a hypocycloidal gear, or a cycloidal gear.

[0016] Furthermore, curved surfaces can follow the involute of a circle.

[0017] Furthermore, since the curved surface can follow the involute of a circle, the first end face of the first rear arm member can roll rather than slide on the first surface because the first rear arm member extends radially outward in the first radial direction.

[0018] In existing tools, components are hinged or "linked" connections, which generate high friction and lead to wear in the connection. Furthermore, forces are transferred and transmitted almost entirely from the first force-transmitting component to the first and second subsequent components in an optimal manner.

[0019] Furthermore, each of the first end faces may have a curved surface that follows an involute curve, such that each of the first end faces is shaped into the profile of half a tooth of an involute gear.

[0020] Furthermore, each of the first end faces may have a curved surface formed by a circle rolling along a line, such that the shape of each of the first end faces is similar to the profile of half a tooth of a hypocycloidal gear.

[0021] Furthermore, each of the first end faces may have a curved surface, such that each of the first end faces is shaped into the profile of half a tooth of an involute gear, a hypocycloidal gear, or a cycloidal gear.

[0022] The present invention also relates to a radial force tool assembly for providing radial force in a well perpendicular to the axial extension direction of the radial force tool assembly for anchoring, centering, or rolling downhole intervention tools in a well having a borehole. The radial force tool assembly has a central axis, a front end, and a rear end, and includes:

[0023] - Tool body, which includes a cavity extending across the tool body, the cavity including a first cavity surface and a second cavity surface facing each other;

[0024] - A first actuator that moves a first force-transmitting member relative to the tool body along its axial extension direction.

[0025] The first force-transmitting member has a first end, the first end having a first surface and a second surface, the first surface and the second surface being inclined in opposite directions; and

[0026] - A first rear arm component and a second rear arm component, the first rear arm component having a second end face and a first end face abutting against a first surface, the second rear arm component having a second end face and a first end face abutting against a second surface.

[0027] Furthermore, each of the first end faces has a curved surface such that when the first force transmission member moves forward, the first end face of the first rear arm member rolls on the first surface, thereby causing the first rear arm member to extend radially outward in the first radial direction, and the first end face of the second rear arm member rolls on the second surface, thereby causing the second rear arm member to extend radially outward in the second radial direction opposite to the first direction when the first and second rear wall members extend simultaneously, wherein each of the first end faces having a curved surface is shaped into the profile of half a tooth of an involute gear, a hypocycloidal gear, or a cycloidal gear.

[0028] Furthermore, the first rear arm member or the first cavity surface may include a protrusion that engages a guide in the other of the first rear arm member and the first cavity surface, and the second rear arm member or the second cavity surface may include a protrusion that engages a guide in the other of the second rear arm member and the second cavity surface, wherein the radially outward extension of the first rear arm member in a first direction and the radially outward extension of the second rear arm member in a second direction opposite to the first direction can be performed while the protrusion slides in the guide.

[0029] In addition, the radial force tool assembly may also include a first forearm member having a first end face and a second end face, and a second forearm member having a first end face and a second end face, the first end face abutting against a first surface in the tool body, such as the first surface of a force transmission member.

[0030] In addition, the force transmission member may have a protrusion or a circular slot or a similar slot shape, which engages with the other of the protrusion and circular slot of the first rear arm member and the second rear arm member.

[0031] In addition, the first forearm member or the first cavity surface may include a protrusion that engages a guide portion in the other of the first forearm member and the first cavity surface, and the second forearm member or the second cavity surface may include a protrusion that engages a guide portion in the other of the second forearm member and the second cavity surface.

[0032] Furthermore, the first and second end faces of the first forearm member and the first and second arm members may have curved surfaces.

[0033] Furthermore, the curved surface can be shaped into the profile of half a tooth of an involute gear, a hypocycloidal gear, or a cycloidal gear.

[0034] Furthermore, curved surfaces can follow the involute of a circle.

[0035] Therefore, the connection between the arm component and the tool body is different from the main force conversion / force transmission area because it occurs at the curved surface of the arm component.

[0036] Furthermore, by making the curved surfaces on all the second end faces of the arm member follow the involute of a circle, the transmission of force can be analogous to that of a gear, in which the same amount of force is transmitted at each position. In other words, the radial force tool assembly can transmit an equal amount of force at each position, that is, the same amount of force is transmitted at both the fully extended and nearly retracted positions.

[0037] In addition, the first forearm member can extend radially outward in a first direction, and the second forearm member can extend outward in a second radial direction opposite to the first direction.

[0038] Furthermore, when extended, the first rear arm member can extend in a first diagonal direction between the first radial direction and the axial extension direction and at a first angle to the axial extension direction.

[0039] Furthermore, when extended, the second rear arm member can extend in a second diagonal direction between the second radial direction and the axial extension direction and at a second angle to the axial extension direction.

[0040] Furthermore, when extended, the first front member can extend in a third diagonal direction between the first radial direction and the axial extension direction and at a third angle to the axial extension direction.

[0041] Furthermore, when extended, the second front member can extend in a fourth diagonal direction between the second radial direction and the axial extension direction and at a fourth angle to the axial extension direction.

[0042] Furthermore, the directions of the first diagonal and the third diagonal can be parallel.

[0043] Furthermore, the second diagonal direction and the fourth diagonal direction can be parallel.

[0044] Furthermore, the first angle, the second angle, the third angle, and the fourth angle can be of equal size.

[0045] Furthermore, the first angle, the second angle, the third angle and / or the fourth angle can be in the range of 0-60°, preferably in the range of 0-45°.

[0046] In addition, the cavity can extend along the axial direction.

[0047] Furthermore, the first rear arm member can be slidably arranged in the cavity and can have a first arm central axis that extends in an axial direction at a first distance from the central axis of the radial force tool assembly.

[0048] Furthermore, the second rear arm member can be slidably arranged in the cavity and can have a second arm central axis that extends along an axial direction at a second distance from the central axis of the radial force tool assembly, and the first distance can be equal to the second distance.

[0049] Furthermore, the first forearm component can be slidably arranged in the cavity and can have a first arm central axis.

[0050] Furthermore, the second forearm component can be slidably arranged in the cavity and can have a central axis of the second arm.

[0051] In addition, the radial force tool assembly may also include a first contact element and a second contact element, the first contact element being connected to the second end face of the first rear arm member and the first forearm member, and the second contact element being connected to the second end face of the second rear arm member and the second forearm member.

[0052] Therefore, the arm components do not contact the borehole or the surrounding wall of the metal well casing structure. The contact elements contact the borehole or the surrounding wall of the metal well casing structure.

[0053] Furthermore, the first contact element can connect the first rear arm component and the first forearm component, and the second contact element can connect the second rear arm component and the second forearm component. Therefore, the first rear arm component and the first forearm component are not directly connected, and the second rear arm component and the second forearm component are not directly connected.

[0054] The first and second rear arm components and the first and second forearm components may have equal lengths.

[0055] Furthermore, by having four arm members connected to two contact elements, where force is converted / transmitted between a surface and an involute curve following a circle, the conversion and transmission of force can occur in a rolling motion similar to the rolling motion of an involute gear.

[0056] Therefore, by having four arm members connected to two contact elements, where force is converted and transmitted between surfaces and curved surfaces, the conversion of force can occur in rolling motions similar to those of involute gears, hypocycloidal gears, or cycloidal gears.

[0057] Furthermore, the first contact element can be connected to the second end face of the first rear arm member and the first forearm member via another protrusion of the engagement guide, and the second contact element can be connected to the second end face of the second rear arm member and the second forearm member via another protrusion of the engagement guide.

[0058] In addition, each of the first contact element and the second contact element may include a first surface and a second surface, the first surface of the first contact element abutting against the second end surface of the first rear arm member, the second surface of the first contact element abutting against the second end surface of the first forearm member, the first surface of the second contact element abutting against the second end surface of the second rear arm member, and the second surface of the second contact element abutting against the second end surface of the second forearm member.

[0059] Furthermore, by connecting the four arm members to two contact elements, force is converted between surfaces such as inclined or curved surfaces and curved surfaces following an involute curve. Force conversion and transmission can occur in a rolling motion, much like an involute gear. The first half of the involute tooth can be arranged as the first end face of the first rear arm member, and the second half as the second end face. The first face of the first force-transmitting member and the first face of the first contact element act as meshing teeth, thus squeezing the first rear arm member between these two first faces. Other arm members can be arranged in a similar manner, so that the radial force exerted by the contact elements against the wall of the pipe or well is the same, regardless of the angle of the arm members. This is significantly different from known solutions, which have varying force transmission capabilities at different angles and are therefore designed to transmit force only within a very limited range, either close to the tool body or fully extended.

[0060] Furthermore, the first and second surfaces can be tilted relative to the axial extension direction.

[0061] Furthermore, the first and second surfaces can be curved surfaces.

[0062] Furthermore, each of the second end faces of the first and second rear arm members and the first and second forearm members may have an involute surface following a circle, such that the second end face rolls on the first and second surfaces, and the first end faces of the first and second rear arm members roll on the first and second surfaces of the first force transmission member, such that the arm members extend radially outward while the protrusion slides in the guide.

[0063] By connecting four arm members to two contact elements (where force is converted between a surface and a curved surface following an involute curve), force conversion and transmission can occur in a rolling motion, similar to an involute gear. The first half of the involute tooth can be arranged as the first end face of the first rear arm member, and the second half as the second end face. The first face of the first force-transmitting member and the first face of the first contact element act as meshing teeth, thereby pressing the first rear arm member between the first faces. Other arm members can be arranged similarly, so that the radial force exerted by the contact elements against the wall of the pipe or well is the same, regardless of the angle of the first rear arm member. This is significantly different from known schemes that employ hinged connections and partially include support roller structures.

[0064] In addition, the radial force tool assembly may also include a second actuator that moves a second force transmission member relative to the tool body along an axially extending direction. The second force transmission member has a first end with a first face and a second face, the first face and the second face being inclined in opposite directions, wherein a first end face of a first forearm member abuts against the first face, and a first end face of a second forearm member abuts against the second face of the second force transmission member.

[0065] In this way, the arm components can be forced to move from both sides.

[0066] In addition, the first contact element may have a first contact surface radially outward toward the wall of the pipe or well, and the second contact element may have a first contact surface radially outward toward the wall of the well.

[0067] In addition, the first contact surfaces of the first contact element and the second contact element may be equipped with protrusions, such as spikes or similar protrusions, to increase the friction between the first contact surface and the wall.

[0068] In addition, the radial force tool assembly can be an anchoring tool assembly, wherein the first contact element and the second contact element are equipped with protrusions, such as spikes or similar protrusions, to increase friction between the first surface and the wall.

[0069] In addition, the first contact surfaces of the first contact element and the second contact element may be equipped with rollers.

[0070] Furthermore, each of the first end faces may have a curved surface, such that each first end face is shaped into the profile of half a tooth of an involute gear, a hypocycloidal gear, or a cycloidal gear.

[0071] Furthermore, each of the second end faces of the first and second rear arm members and the first and second forearm members may have a curved surface, such that each second end face is shaped into the profile of half a tooth of an involute gear, a subcycloidal gear, or a cycloidal gear.

[0072] Furthermore, the first and second surfaces of the first end of the force transmission component can be a single surface.

[0073] In addition, the first contact element may be equipped with a first engagement element, each first engagement element correspondingly engaging a second engagement element of the first rear arm member and the first forearm member, and the second contact element may be equipped with a first engagement element, each first engagement element correspondingly engaging a second engagement element of the second rear arm member and the second forearm member.

[0074] In addition, the cavity can be formed by cuts in the tool body and the cover plate.

[0075] Furthermore, the first rear arm member may include a first wing profile portion having a wing surface, the second rear arm member may include a first wing profile portion having a wing surface, and when the arm member extends from the tool body, the wing surface of the first rear arm member may roll on the wing surface of the second rear arm member.

[0076] Furthermore, each first wing profile portion of the first rear arm member may have the wing surface, and the first wing profile portion of the second rear arm member may have the wing surface, such that the shape of each wing profile portion is similar to the profile of half a tooth of an involute gear, a hypocycloidal gear, or a cycloidal gear.

[0077] In addition, the wing surface may have a center point located outside the radial force tool assembly.

[0078] Furthermore, the first rear arm member and the second rear arm member can slide side by side in the cavity, allowing the first wing profile and the second wing profile to slide relative to each other.

[0079] Furthermore, the first forearm member may include a first wing profile portion having a wing surface, the second forearm member may include a first wing profile portion having a wing surface, and when the forearm member extends from the tool body, the wing surface of the first forearm member may roll on the wing surface of the second forearm member.

[0080] In addition, the actuator can be an electric actuator with an electric motor that provides linear movement of the shaft along the axial extension direction via a gear unit, or the actuator can be a hydraulic actuator that may include a piston that moves in a chamber in the tool body along the axial extension direction.

[0081] Furthermore, when the piston moves to extend the arm assembly, the spring element in the chamber can be compressed.

[0082] In addition, the arm member may have a retracted position in which the arm member is arranged in the cavity, and the arm member may have an extended position in which the arm member extends out of the tool body.

[0083] In addition, the force transmission component may have a protrusion that slides in a slot extending along the axial extension direction of the tool body.

[0084] In addition, the tool body may have an outer diameter, and at the extended position of the arm member, the first surface of the first contact element may have a distance from the first surface of the second contact element, which may be at least 4 times the outer diameter.

[0085] Finally, the present invention also relates to a downhole intervention tool comprising a radial force tool assembly and a stroke tool, and the downhole intervention tool may further comprise an electric motor powered by a cable and driving a pump that supplies hydraulic fluid to the stroke tool for providing axial force on the element via a hydraulic cylinder. Attached Figure Description

[0086] The invention and its many advantages will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying schematic diagrams, which are for illustrative purposes only and show some non-limiting embodiments, wherein:

[0087] Figure 1 The diagram shows a radial force tool assembly in an extended position within a metal well casing structure in a wellbore, used to anchor intervention tools in the well prior to performing operations within the well.

[0088] Figure 2 Another radial force tool assembly is shown in the extended position, serving as a centerer for intervention.

[0089] Figure 3 This shows another radial force tool assembly in its extended state, used as a roller;

[0090] Figure 4 A partial cross-sectional view of another radial force tool assembly is shown;

[0091] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 Another partial cross-sectional view of the radial force tool assembly;

[0092] Figure 6 It shows Figure 4 Another partial sectional view of the radial force tool assembly;

[0093] Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional view of another radial force tool assembly is shown;

[0094] Figure 8 A partial cross-sectional view of a portion of another radial force tool assembly is shown;

[0095] Figure 9 A side view of a portion of yet another radial force tool assembly is shown, with the arm member retracted into the cavity;

[0096] Figure 10 One side of a downhole intervention tool with a radial force tool assembly and a stroke tool is shown;

[0097] Figure 11 A side view is shown of another radial force tool assembly in an extended position within a metal well casing structure in the wellbore, used to anchor the intervention tool in the well prior to performing in-well operations; and

[0098] Figure 12 A partial cross-sectional view of another radial force tool assembly is shown, in which the arm member extends from the tool body.

[0099] All the accompanying drawings are highly schematic and not necessarily drawn to scale, and they only show those parts necessary to illustrate the invention, while other parts are omitted or only implied. Detailed Implementation

[0100] Figure 1 A radial force tool assembly 1 is shown, which provides a radial force F in a well 3 perpendicular to its axial extension direction 2, for anchoring the radial force tool assembly 1 and at least preventing axial movement along the axial extension direction 2. The radial force tool assembly 1 thus also centers the radial force tool assembly 1 within a metal well casing structure 3a in the wellbore 3b. The radial force tool assembly 1 has a central axis L, a front end 4, and a rear end 5, and includes a tool body 6 comprising a cavity 7 having a longitudinal extension direction along the axial extension direction 2 of the tool assembly 1 and extending across the tool body 6. The cavity 7 includes a first cavity surface 7a opposite a second cavity surface 7b, such that the cavity 7 has two sides, namely the first cavity surface 7a and the second cavity surface 7b. The radial force tool assembly 1 also includes first actuators 8, 8a that move first force transmission members 9, 9a relative to the tool body 6 along the axial extension direction 2. Figure 4 As shown, the first force transmission components 9, 9a have a first end 10, which has a first surface 11 and a second surface 12. The first and second surfaces 11, 12 are inclined in opposite directions, therefore the first and second surfaces 11, 12 are first and second inclined surfaces 11, 12. Figure 7 and 12 In the first force transmission member 9, 9a, there is a first surface 11 and a second surface 12, which extend radially relative to the axial extension direction 2. Figure 12 In the middle, the first and second surfaces 11 and 12 are a common surface. The radial force tool assembly 1 also includes a first rear arm member 14, such as Figure 4 As shown, the first rear arm member 14 has a second end face 16 and a first end face 15 abutting against a first surface 11. The radial force tool assembly 1 also includes a second rear arm member 17 having a second end face 19 and a first end face 18 abutting against a second surface 12. Each of the first end faces 18 has a bend 23 following an involute curve, such that when the first force transmission members 9, 9a move from their initial position toward the front end 4, the first end face 15 of the first rear arm member 14 rolls on the first surface 11, causing the first rear arm member 14 to extend radially outward in a first radial direction D1, and the first end face 18 of the second rear arm member 17 rolls on the second surface 12, causing the second rear arm member 17 to extend radially outward in a second radial direction D2 opposite to the first radial direction D1, while the first and second rear arm members 14, 17 move from a retracted position to an extended position, as... Figure 1-7 As shown in Figure 10.

[0101] Figure 4 The bend 23 shown follows an involute curve, which causes the first end face 15 of the first rear arm member 14 to roll rather than slide on the first surface 11 as the first rear arm member 14 extends radially outward in the first radial direction D1. Similarly, the first end face 15 of the second rear arm member 17 is able to roll rather than slide on the second surface 12 as the first force transmission members 9, 9a move from their initial position toward the front end 4. Each of the first end faces 15 has a bend 23 following an involute curve, such that each first end face 15 is shaped like the profile of half a tooth of an involute gear. In another embodiment, the first end face 15 has a bend 23 such that each first end face 15 is shaped like the profile of half a tooth of an involute gear, a hypocycloidal gear, or a cycloidal gear.

[0102] In existing tools, components are hinged or "linked" together, and this connection generates high friction, leading to wear at the joint. Furthermore, in this radial force tool assembly 1, force is almost entirely converted and transmitted from the first force transmission components 9, 9a to the first and second rear arm components 14, 17 in an optimal manner without significant force loss.

[0103] The radial force tool assembly 1 also includes a first forearm member 24 and a second forearm member 27, such as Figure 1 As shown. Figure 4 As shown, the first forearm member 24 has a first end face 25 and a second end face 26, and the second forearm member 27 has a first end face 28 and a second end face 29. It can be seen that the second end faces 16, 19, 26, and 29 of all forearm members have curved portions 23 and 23b. Figure 1 and 4 As shown, the radial force tool assembly 1 also includes a first contact element 30 and a second contact element 31. The first contact element 30 is connected to the second end faces 16, 26 of the first rear arm member 14 and the first forearm member 24, and the second contact element 31 is connected to the second end faces 19, 29 of the second rear arm member 17 and the second forearm member 27. Through the four arm members 14, 17, 24, 27 having connections to the two contact elements 30, 31, the force is transferred between the curved portions 23, 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d following an involute and the surfaces 11, 12, 64, 65, 33, 34, for example, by tilting between two gear components or having matching curved surfaces, as in racks and pinions, and the transmission and transfer of force occurs in a rolling motion like that of an involute gear. A similar effect occurs when the rolling motion is similar to that of a subcycloidal or cycloidal gear.

[0104] By making the bends on all the second end faces 16, 19, 26, 29 of the arm component follow the involute of a circle, the force conversion is similar to that of a gear, where the same amount of force is converted at each position. In other words, the radial force tool assembly transmits the same amount of force at each position, i.e., the same amount of force is converted when fully extended and almost retracted.

[0105] exist Figure 4 In the first rear arm member 14 or the first cavity surface 7a, protrusions 21, 21a engage with guides 22, 22a in the other of the first rear arm member 14 and the first cavity surface 7a, and protrusions 21, 21b engage with guides 22, 22b in the other of the second rear arm member 17 and the second cavity surface 7b. In the extended position as shown, the first rear arm member 14 extends radially outward in a first radial direction D1, and the second rear arm member 17 extends radially outward in a second direction D2 opposite to the first radial direction D1. These radial extensions are performed while the protrusions 21, 21a, 21b slide within the guides 22, 22a, 22b. By having protrusions and guides, the movement of the arm members 14, 17 is controlled because the pivot point / center P of the arm members 14, 17 is arranged outside the tool body 6, such as... Figure 7 As shown. The force from actuator 8 is transmitted from the first and second faces 11, 12 to the bends 23 of the first and second rear arm members 14, 17. This force is then transmitted again through the second end faces 16, 19 to the wall of the metal well casing structure 3a or the wellbore 3b.

[0106] Therefore, the connection between the arm component and the tool body differs from the main force conversion area because it occurs at the bend of the arm component.

[0107] like Figure 6 As shown, the first rear arm member 14 includes a first wing profile 71 having a wing surface 81, and the second rear arm member 17 includes a wing profile 71 having a wing surface 82 (as shown). Figure 5 The first wing outline 72 (as shown) Figure 5As shown, when the arm members 14 and 17 extend from the tool body 6, the wing surface 81 of the first rear arm member 14 rolls on the wing surface 82 of the second rear arm member 17. Thus, the first and second rear arm members 14 and 17 provide mutual support, such that the resultant force R (i.e., thrust) from the wall is transmitted from the first rear arm member 14 to the second rear arm member 17 via the wing profiles 71 and 72, which are part of the arm members 14 and 17, respectively. The first and second rear arm members 14 and 17 are retracted by engagement between the first force transmission members 9 and 9a and each of the first and second rear arm members 14 and 17, such that when the first force transmission members 9 and 9a are retracted by the actuator 8, the first force transmission members 9 and 9a engage the first and second rear arm members 14 and 17. Therefore, the wing profiles 71 and 72 provide a rolling radius surface along which the arm members 14 and 17 roll and support each other without any significant loss of force. Thus, the first and second rear arm members 14, 17 extend from the tool body 6 and provide a radial force F to the wall of the metal well casing structure 3a, wherein the force from the actuator 8 is transmitted almost directly to the wall, and this force is transmitted to the first and second rear arm members 14, 17 in the same manner. Figure 7 As shown, Figure 5 The wing surfaces 81 and 82 shown have a center point P located outside the radial force tool assembly 1.

[0108] like Figure 1 As shown, the radial force tool assembly 1 also includes a first forearm member 24 and a second forearm member 27. (As...) Figure 4 As shown, the first forearm member 24 has a first end face 25 and a second end face 26, and the second forearm member 27 has a first end face 28 and a second end face 29. The first forearm member 24 or the first cavity surface 7a includes protrusions 21, 21c that engage guide portions 22, 22c in the first forearm member and the first cavity surface 7a, and the second forearm member 27 or the second cavity surface 7, 7b includes protrusions 21, 21d that engage guide portions 22, 22d in the second forearm member 27 and the second cavity surface 7b.

[0109] When Figure 1In the projection shown, the first rear arm member 14 extends along the first diagonal direction DD1 between the first radial direction D1 and the axial extension direction 2, forming a first angle α1 with the axial extension direction 2. The second rear arm member 17 extends along the second diagonal direction DD2 between the second radial direction D2 and the axial extension direction 2, forming a second angle α2 with the axial extension direction 2. The first forearm member 24 extends along the third diagonal direction DD3 between the first radial direction D1 and the axial extension direction 2, forming a third angle α3 with the axial extension direction 2. The second forearm member 27 extends along the fourth diagonal direction DD4 between the second radial direction D2 and the axial extension direction 2, forming a fourth angle α4 with the axial extension direction 2. The first diagonal direction DD1 and the third diagonal direction DD3 are parallel, and the second diagonal direction DD2 and the fourth diagonal direction DD4 are parallel. The first angle α1, the second angle α2, the third angle α3, and the fourth angle α4 are all equal in magnitude. The first angle α1, the second angle α2, the third angle α3 and the fourth angle α4 can be in the range of 0-60°, preferably in the range of 0-45°.

[0110] exist Figure 9 In the cavity 7, the cavity extends along the axial extension direction 2. A first rear arm member 14 is slidably disposed within the cavity 7 and has a first arm central axis A1, which extends along the axial extension direction 2 at a first distance d1 from the central axis L of the radial force tool assembly 1. A second rear arm member 17 is slidably disposed within the cavity 7 and has a second arm central axis A2, which extends along the axial extension direction 2 at a second distance d2 from the central axis L of the radial force tool assembly 1, the first distance being equal to the second distance. A first forearm member 24 is slidably disposed within the cavity 7 and has a first arm central axis A1.

[0111] The second forearm member 27 is slidably arranged in the cavity 7 and has a second arm central axis A2. The cavity 7 is formed by a cutout 60 in the tool body 6 providing a second cavity surface 7b and a cover plate 61 providing a first cavity surface 7a. The first rear arm member 14 and the second rear arm member 17 slide side by side in the cavity 7, such that the first wing profile 71 and the second wing profile 72 slide relative to each other.

[0112] exist Figure 2 In the first contact element 30, the first contact element 30 is connected to the second end faces 16 and 26 of the first rear arm member 14 and the first forearm member 24 by engaging the guide portions 22 and 22c via another protrusion 21 and 21c, and the second contact element 31 is connected to the second end faces 19 and 29 of the second rear arm member 17 and the second forearm member 27 by engaging the guide portions 22 and 22d via another protrusion 21 and 21d.

[0113] In such Figure 4 In another embodiment shown, each of the first contact element 30 and the second contact element 31 includes a first surface 64 and a second surface 65. The first surface 64 of the first contact element 30 abuts against the second end surface 16 of the first rear arm member 14, and the second surface 65 of the first contact element 30 abuts against the second end surface 26 of the first forearm member 24. Furthermore, the first surface 64 of the second contact element 31 abuts against the second end surface 19 of the second rear arm member 17, and the second surface 65 of the second contact element 31 abuts against the second end surface 29 of the second forearm member 27. Figure 4 In the first embodiment, the first surface 64 and the second surface 65 are inclined relative to the axial extension direction 2, but in another embodiment not shown, the first surface 64 and the second surface 65 may be curved. Each of the second end faces 16, 19, 26, 29 of the first and second rear arm members 14, 17 and the first and second forearm members 24, 27 has a curved portion 23b following an involute of a circle, such that the second end faces 16, 19, 26, 29 roll on the first and second surfaces, and the first end faces 15, 18 of the first and second rear arm members 14, 17 roll on surfaces 11, 12, thereby extending the rear arm members 14, 17 radially outward while the protrusion slides in the guide portion.

[0114] Force conversion and transmission occur in a rolling motion similar to that of an involute gear, through four arm members 14, 17, 24, 27 connected to two contact elements 30, 31 (where force is converted between, for example, inclined or curved surfaces 11, 12, 64, 65 and curved portions 23, 23b following an involute curve). The first half of the involute tooth is arranged as the first end face 15 of the first rear arm member 14, the second half of the involute tooth is arranged as the second end face 16 of the first rear arm member 14, and the first surface 11 of the first force transmission members 9, 9a and the first surface 64 of the first contact element 30 serve as engagement teeth, such that the first rear arm member 14 is pressed between the first surface 64 and the first surface 11. The other arm members 17, 24, 27 are arranged in a similar manner, and in this way, the radial force exerted by the contact elements 30, 31 against the wall of the pipe or well 3b is the same, regardless of the angle of the arm members 14, 17, 24, 27. This is quite different from known schemes that use hinged connections, some of which also have support roller structures. A similar effect occurs when the rolling motion is similar to a subcycloidal or cycloidal gear.

[0115] The radial force tool assembly 1 also includes second actuators 8, 8b, which move the second force transmission members 9, 9b relative to the tool body 6 in the axial extension direction 2 in the opposite direction to the second force transmission members 9, 9b. The first and second actuators 8, 8a, 8b are linked so as to be moved by the same fluid or the same motor, and if moved by two motors, the motors are synchronized to move synchronously. The second force transmission members 9, 9b have a first end 32 having a first surface 33 and a second surface 34, and the first surface 33 and the second surface 34 are inclined in opposite directions. The first end face 25 of the first forearm member 24 abuts against the first inclined surface 33, and the first end face 28 of the second forearm member 27 abuts against the second inclined surface 34 of the second force transmission members 9, 9b. Thus, by moving the first force transmission members 9, 9a and the second force transmission members 9, 9b toward each other, the arm members are forced to move from both sides. The surfaces 11, 12, 33, and 34 of the force transmission components 9, 9a, and 9b transmit the force to the second end surfaces 16, 26, 19, and 26 of the arm components via the first end surfaces 15, 18, 25, and 28, and further transmit it to the first and second surfaces 64 and 65 of the contact elements 30 and 31.

[0116] exist Figure 1 In this assembly, the first contact element 30 has first contact surfaces 45, 45a radially outward toward the wall 44 of the pipe / metal well structure 3a or wellbore 3b, and the second contact element 31 has first contact surfaces 45, 45b radially outward toward the wall 44 of the wellbore 3b. The first contact surfaces 45, 45a of the first contact element 30 and the second contact element 31 are equipped with protrusions 46, such as spikes or similar protrusions, to increase friction between the first contact surfaces 45, 45a and the wall 44. The radial force tool assembly 1 is therefore an anchoring tool assembly.

[0117] exist Figure 3 In this configuration, the radial force tool assembly 1 is used to roll the downhole intervention tool 50 in the well 3. Therefore, the first contact surfaces 45, 45a, 45b of the first contact element 30 and the second contact element 31 are equipped with rollers 47, so that the downhole intervention tool is supported in a rolling manner as it moves in the well.

[0118] To ensure that neither the first rear arm member 14 nor the first forearm member 24 protrudes more than the other, the first contact element 30 is equipped with first engagement elements 48, 48a, 48b, such as Figure 5As shown, each of the first engaging elements 48, 48a, 48b engages with the second engaging elements 49, 49a, 49b of the first rear arm member 14 and the first forearm member 24, respectively. Similarly, the second contact element 31 is equipped with first engaging elements 52, 52a, 52b, each engaging element engaging with the second engaging elements 53, 53a, 53b of the second rear arm member 17 and the second forearm member 27, as shown. Figure 3 As shown. In Figure 11 In this configuration, the first rear arm member 14 has guides 22, 22c, and the first contact element 30 has protrusions 21, 21c, and vice versa, wherein the guides and protrusions engage with each other to connect the first rear arm member 14 to the first contact element 30. The second rear arm member 17 has guides 22, 22d, and the second contact element 31 has protrusions 21, 21d, and vice versa, wherein the guides and protrusions engage with each other to connect the second rear arm member 14 to the second contact element 31. The first and second forearm members 24, 27 are connected to the first and second contact elements 30, 31, respectively, in the same manner as the first and second rear arm members 14, 17. The first contact element 30 has two flanges 67, each flange having a protrusion 21c, and the arm member terminates at two end flanges 68, each end flange having a guide and extending on each side of the flange 67. After the two end flanges 68 have been arranged on each side of the flange 67, the protrusions are formed by pins extending into the guides. The guide section is designed in the shape of an "eye" so that the arm component can be extended and retracted when the protrusion is arranged in the guide section.

[0119] The first forearm member 24 includes a first wing profile 73 having a wing surface 83, and the second forearm member 27 includes a first wing profile 74 having a wing surface 84. When the forearm members extend from the tool body 6, the wing surface 83 of the first forearm member 24 rolls on the wing surface 84 of the second forearm member 27. In this way, the first and second forearm members 24 and 27 provide support for each other, such that the resultant force R from the wall, i.e., the thrust, is transmitted from the first forearm member 24 to the second forearm member 27 via the wing profiles 73 and 74, which are part of the forearm members 24 and 27, and vice versa. The first and second rear arm members 14, 17 and the first and second forearm members 24, 27 are retracted via engagement between the first and second force transmission members 9, 9a, 9b and each of the first and second forearm members 24, 27, such that when the first and second force transmission members 9, 9a, 9b are retracted by actuators 8, 8a, 8b, the first and second force transmission members 9, 9a, 9b engage the arm members 14, 17, 24, 27. Therefore, the wing profiles 71, 72, 73, 74 provide a rolling radius surface along which the arm members 14, 17, 24, 27 roll and support each other without any significant loss of force. Thus, in the same manner as the rear arm members 14, 17, the first and second forearm members 24, 27 extend from the tool body 6 and provide a radial force F to the wall of the metal well casing structure 3a, where the force from the second actuators 8, 8b is transmitted almost directly to the wall, and this force is transmitted in the same manner as the first and second forearm members 24, 27. Figure 7 As shown, airfoil surfaces 81, 82, 83, and 84 (as shown) Figure 5 (As shown) has a center point P located outside the radial force tool assembly 1. Similarly, the wing surfaces 83 and 84 of the first and second forearm members 24 and 27 also have a center point P located outside the radial force tool assembly 1. Return Figure 9 The first forearm member 24 and the second forearm member 27 slide side by side in the cavity 7, such that the first wing profile 73 and the second wing profile 74 (as shown in the image) slide side by side in the cavity 7. Figure 5 (As shown) they slide relative to each other.

[0120] exist Figure 12 In this design, the wing-shaped profiles of arm components 14, 17, 24, and 27 are replaced by guides / guide portions 20 fixedly arranged in the tool body 6, allowing arm components 14, 17, 24, and 27 to slide along the dotted line 20a during extension or retraction. Therefore, the arm components lack wing-shaped profiles. This simplifies the design of each arm component. The arm component bends along line 20a, with its first end matching the inner curved surface 20b of the guide portion 20 to stabilize the extension and retraction of the arm component. The guide portion has an arm curved surface 69 (as shown in the image) that corresponds to the arm component's curved surface 69. Figure 11 The matching outer curved surface 20c (as shown) allows the arm component to retract completely into the tool body 6.

[0121] exist Figure 7 In this configuration, actuator 8 is an electric actuator 35 with an electric motor 36, which provides linear motion of shaft 37 along the axial extension direction 2 via gear unit 38. Figure 6 In this embodiment, actuator 8 is a hydraulic actuator 39, which includes a piston 40 that moves within a chamber 41 in the tool body 6 along an axial extension direction 2. When piston 40 moves to extend arm members 14, 17, 24, 27, a spring element 43 in the chamber 41 is compressed. The first force transmission members 9, 9a and / or the second force transmission members 9, 9b are connected to shaft 37, and fluid can flow at least partially from a pump to the chamber 41 and the hydraulic actuator 39 via fluid passages. A portion of the fluid passages may be arranged in the tool body 6 with an outlet facing the chamber 41. The radial force tool assembly 1 has a first fluid passage for pumping fluid onto a first side of piston 40 into the chamber 41 to move the piston and thus the force transmission members 9, 9a, 9b, thereby extending arm members 14, 17, 24, 27, and a second fluid passage for returning fluid from the chamber to a second, additional side of the piston.

[0122] As in Figure 9 As shown, arm members 14, 17, 24, and 27 have a retracted position in which the arm members are arranged in the cavity 7, and as... Figure 1-7 As shown in Figure 10, the arm member has an extended position in which the arm member extends from the tool body 6.

[0123] like Figure 8 As shown, the force transmission member 9 has a protrusion 62 that slides in a slot 63 extending along the axial extension direction 2 of the tool body 6. The protrusion 21 is shown as engaging the guide 22, and both the guide 22 and the protrusion 21 have surfaces that follow an involute curve, the center / pivot point P of which is located outside the radial force tool assembly 1. Figure 12 In the middle, the force transmission member 9 has a protrusion 62 that slides in the circular slot 63. Arm members 14, 17, 24, and 27 slide along the guide portion 20, replacing... Figure 8 The protrusion 21 shown engages with the guide portion 22.

[0124] Therefore, the connection between the arm component and the contact element differs from the main force conversion area because it occurs at the curved surface of the arm component.

[0125] like Figure 10As shown, the tool body 6 has an outer diameter OD, and at the extended positions of the arm members 14, 17, 24, and 27, the first contact surface 45 of the first contact element 30 and the first contact surface 45 of the second contact element 31 are at a distance D, which is at least four times the outer diameter OD. The radial force tool assembly 1 can therefore extend from the outer diameter OD to a distance D, which is at least three times, preferably at least four times, the outer diameter of the tool body 6. Viewed along the axial extension direction, the first contact surfaces 45 may have a circular outer shape to better fit the inner wall of the metal well casing structure they abut against.

[0126] Figure 10 A downhole intervention tool 50 is shown, which includes a radial force tool assembly 1 and a stroke tool 94. The downhole intervention tool 50 also includes an electric motor 92 powered by a cable 91 and driving a pump 93, which supplies hydraulic fluid to the stroke tool 94 for providing axial force on an element 95 via a hydraulic cylinder 96.

[0127] A stroke tool is a tool used to provide axial force. The stroke tool includes an electric motor for driving a pump. The pump pumps fluid into a piston housing to actuate the piston within the housing. The piston is positioned on a stroke rod. The pump can pump fluid out of the piston housing on one side and simultaneously draw fluid in on the other side of the piston.

[0128] Fluids or wellbore fluids refer to any type of fluid present downhole in oil or gas wells, such as natural gas, petroleum, oil-based mud, crude oil, and water. Gas refers to any type of gaseous component present in a well, completion well, or open well, and oil refers to any type of oil component, such as crude oil or oil-bearing fluids. Therefore, gas, oil, and water fluids may each include other elements or substances besides gas, oil, and / or water.

[0129] Pipelines, casing, and metal well pipe structures refer to any type of pipe, conduit, pipe structure, liner, tubing, etc. used downhole in connection with oil or gas production.

[0130] When the tool is not fully submerged in the casing, a downhole tractor can be used to push the tool to a position fully submerged in the well. The downhole tractor may have a wheeled, extendable arm, with the wheels contacting the inner surface of the casing for propulsion of the tractor and the tool within the casing. A downhole tractor is any type of drive tool capable of pushing or pulling tools downhole, such as Well Tractor®.

[0131] Although the invention has been described above in conjunction with preferred embodiments thereof, several variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A radial force tool assembly (1) for providing a radial force (F) in a well perpendicular to an axial extension direction (2) of the radial force tool assembly for anchoring, centering or rolling a downhole intervention tool (50) in a well (3) having a borehole (3b), the radial force tool assembly having a central axis (L), a front end (4) and a rear end (5), and comprising: - a tool body (6) comprising a cavity (7) extending through the tool body, the cavity comprising a first cavity face (7a) and a second cavity face (7b) opposite the first cavity face; - a first actuator (8, 8a) for moving a first force transmission member (9, 9a) relative to the tool body along the axial extension direction, wherein the first force transmission member has a first end (10) having a first face (11) and a second face (12); and - a first rear arm member (14) having a second end face (16) and a first end face (15) abutting against the first face, and a second rear arm member (17) having a second end face (19) and a first end face (18) abutting against the second face, wherein each of the first end faces has a curved face (23) such that when the first force transmission member is moved forward, the first end face (15) of the first rear arm member rolls over the first face (11) thereby causing the first rear arm member to radially extend out in a first radial direction (D1), and the first end face (18) of the second rear arm member rolls over the second face (12) thereby causing the second rear arm member to radially extend out in a second radial direction (D2) opposite the first direction in case the first and second rear arm members extend out simultaneously.

2. The radial force tool assembly of claim 1, wherein, Each of the second end faces (16, 19) of the first and second rear arm members has a curved face (23b) shaped like half a tooth of an involute gear, a hypocycloid gear or a cycloid gear.

3. The radial force tool assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first rear arm member or the first cavity face comprises a protrusion (21, 21a) engaging a guide (22, 22a) in the other of the first rear arm member and the first cavity face, and the second rear arm member or the second cavity face comprises a protrusion (21, 21b) engaging a guide (22, 22b) in the other of the second rear arm member and the second cavity face, wherein the first rear arm member radially extending out in the first direction (D1) and the second rear arm member radially extending out in the second radial direction (D2) opposite the first direction are performed while the two protrusions slide in the guides.

4. The radial force tool assembly according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a first front arm member (24) having a first end face (25) and a second end face (26), and a second front arm member (27) having a first end face (28) and a second end face (29), the first end faces (25, 28) abutting against a first face (33) in the tool body.

5. The radial force tool assembly of claim 1, wherein, The force transmitting member (9) has a protrusion (62) or a circular slot (63) that engages the other one of the protrusions (62) and the circular slots (63) of the first and second rear arm members.

6. The radial force tool assembly of claim 4 or 5, wherein, The first and second end faces (25, 26, 28, 29) of the first and second arm members have curved surfaces, the shape of the curved surfaces (23b) resembling half a tooth profile of an involute gear, a hypocycloid gear or a cycloid gear.

7. The radial force tool assembly of any of claims 4-6, wherein, The radial force tool assembly further comprises a first contact element (30) connected to the second end face of the first rear arm member and the first front arm member and a second contact element (31) connected to the second end face of the second rear arm member and the second front arm member.

8. The radial force tool assembly of claim 7, wherein, The first contact element is connected to the second end face of the first rear arm member and the first front arm member by a further protrusion (21, 21c) engaging a guide portion (22, 22c) and the second contact element is connected to the second end face of the second rear arm member and the second front arm member by a further protrusion (21, 21d) engaging a guide portion (22, 22d).

9. The radial force tool assembly of claim 8, wherein, Each of the first contact element (30) and the second contact element (31) comprises a first face (64) abutting the second end face of the first rear arm member and a second face (65) abutting the second end face of the first front arm member, and the second face of the second contact element abutting the second end face of the second front arm member.

10. The radial force tool assembly of claim 4, wherein, Each of the second end faces of the first and second rear arm members and the first and second front arm members has a curved surface (23b) such that the second end faces roll on the first and second faces and the first end faces of the first and second rear arm members roll on the first and second faces of the first force transmitting member, thereby causing the arm members to extend radially outwards while the protrusions slide in the guide portions.

11. The radial force tool assembly according to any one of claims 3-10, further comprising a second actuator (8, 8b) moving the second force transmitting member (9, 9b) relative to the tool body along an axial extension direction, the second force transmitting member having a first end (32) with a first face (33) and a second face (34) inclined in opposite directions, wherein the first end face (25) of the first front arm member abuts the first face (33) and the first end face (28) of the second front arm member abuts the second face (34) of the second force transmitting member.

12. The radial force tool assembly of claim 8 or 9, wherein, The first contact element (30) has a first contact face (45, 45a) facing radially outwards towards a wall (44) of the pipe (3a) or the borehole (3b) and the second contact element (31) has a first contact face (45, 45b) facing radially outwards towards a wall (44) of the borehole (3b).

13. The radial force tool assembly of any of the preceding claims, wherein, The first face (11) and the second face (12) of the first end of the force transmitting member can be one common face.

14. The radial force tool assembly of any of the preceding claims, wherein, The tool body has an outer diameter (OD) and in the extended position of the arm member the first contact face of the first contact element has a distance (D) to the first contact face of the second contact element which is at least 4 times the outer diameter.

15. A downhole intervention tool (50) comprising a stroke tool (94) and a radial force tool assembly according to any of the preceding claims, the downhole intervention tool further comprising an electric motor (92) powered by a cable (91) and driving a pump (93) which supplies hydraulic fluid to the stroke tool for providing an axial force on an element (95) by means of a hydraulic cylinder (96).

Images