A ball throwing sleeve
By designing a ball seat with multiple split structures and a ball-throwing slide that works in conjunction with limiting components, the problem of only being able to activate once in existing technologies has been solved, achieving multiple activations and stability, simplifying the operation process, and improving operation efficiency.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- CHINA NAT PETROLEUM CORP
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-28
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-29
AI Technical Summary
The existing throwing slide can only be activated once and cannot be reused, which increases the operating cost and complexity. In addition, it will block the central water inlet after the ball is thrown, affecting subsequent operating procedures.
A ball-throwing slide is designed, which sets up multiple ball seats with split structures and uses a limiting component to limit and cooperate with the multiple split structures, so that the multiple split structures move radially along the flow channel between the first position and the second position under the compression of the sealing component, thereby achieving multiple activations.
This technology enables multiple activations of the throwing slide, ensuring the reliability and stability of each activation, simplifying the workflow, and improving operational efficiency.
Smart Images

Figure CN122106479A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of drilling and well workover tools, and in particular to a ball-throwing sliding sleeve. Background Technology
[0002] In oil drilling and well workover operations, the activation and control of downhole tools are crucial for ensuring the smooth progress of these operations. A ball-dropping sleeve is a common downhole tool activation device. It activates the tool by dropping a specially designed ball into the well, which then slides into a designated position under the influence of high-pressure fluid.
[0003] Existing ball-drop sleeves require a specially designed ball to be dropped from the surface into the well. Propelled by high-pressure fluid, the ball moves downwards along the wellbore until it reaches the ball seat on the downhole tool. When the ball seat is subjected to sufficient pressure, it triggers the sleeve to move downwards, thereby shearing off the pin inside and activating the downhole tool.
[0004] However, the existing throwing slide can only be activated once and cannot be reused. In scenarios requiring multiple activations, a new slide needs to be replaced, increasing operational costs and complexity. Furthermore, it clogs the central water inlet after the ball is thrown, affecting subsequent operational processes. Summary of the Invention
[0005] This application provides a pitching slide that can be activated multiple times, simplifying the operation process and improving operation efficiency.
[0006] This application provides a pitching slide, comprising:
[0007] A ball seat defines a flow channel, within which a sealing element is adapted to be disposed. The ball seat includes a plurality of split structures surrounding the flow channel. The split structures are configured to move radially along the flow channel between a first position and a second position under the compression of the sealing element. In the first position, the plurality of split structures are spliced together circumferentially along the flow channel, and the sealing element blocks the flow channel. In the second position, the plurality of split structures are separated from each other, and the sealing element is adapted to pass through the flow channel.
[0008] A limiting component is connected to a plurality of the split structures respectively, and the limiting component cooperates with the plurality of split structures to limit and determine the first position and the second position.
[0009] In one possible implementation, the limiting component includes:
[0010] The ball seat bracket is connected to multiple of the aforementioned split structures;
[0011] An elastic fastener is fitted around the periphery of the plurality of said split structures, the elastic fastener being configured to have a preload force on the plurality of said split structures toward the center of the flow channel.
[0012] In one possible implementation, each of the split structures is provided with a connecting hole extending axially along the flow channel, the ball seat bracket is provided with a plurality of connecting posts, the connecting posts correspond one-to-one with the connecting holes, the ball seat and the ball seat bracket are connected by inserting the connecting posts into the connecting holes, and the connecting holes and the connecting posts slide in a radial fit along the flow channel.
[0013] In one possible implementation, the connecting hole includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall that are radially opposed to each other along the flow channel, and the connecting post is configured such that when the plug passes through the flow channel, the connecting post contacts the second sidewall, and when the plug is engaged in the flow channel, the connecting post contacts the first sidewall.
[0014] In one possible implementation, the flow channel is divided into a first segment and a second segment, the aperture of the first segment gradually increases or decreases along the axial direction of the flow channel, and the minimum aperture of the first segment is connected to the second segment.
[0015] In one possible implementation, the inner surface of the first segment is conical, the sealing element is a sphere, and the minimum aperture of the first segment is smaller than the diameter of the sealing element.
[0016] In one possible implementation, the outer peripheral wall of the split structure is provided with multiple annular grooves, and the elastic fastener is sleeved in the multiple annular grooves.
[0017] In one possible implementation, the elastic fastener includes a plurality of elastic retaining rings, each of which is fitted within the annular groove.
[0018] In one possible implementation, the pitching slide also includes:
[0019] The outer shell is fitted over the ball seat and the ball seat support. The ball seat support has threads on its periphery, and the outer shell is threadedly connected to the ball seat support.
[0020] In one possible implementation, the ball seat bracket defines a clearance channel that is opposite to and communicates with the flow channel, the aperture of the clearance channel being greater than or equal to the maximum cross-sectional dimension of the sealing element.
[0021] The ball-throwing slide provided in this embodiment features multiple split-structure ball seats. A limiting component engages with these split structures, allowing them to move radially between a first and a second position under the pressure of a sealing element, achieving multiple activations. In the first position, the split structures are circumferentially connected, and the sealing element blocks the flow channel. When the sealing element is pushed by high-pressure fluid, the split structures separate and are positioned in the second position. The sealing element then activates the ball-throwing slide through the flow channel of the ball seat. The limiting component's engagement with the split structures ensures accurate switching between the first and second positions, guaranteeing the reliability and stability of each activation. This avoids the problem of existing ball-throwing slides only being activated once, simplifying the workflow and improving efficiency.
[0022] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description
[0023] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:
[0024] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the pitching slide provided in this application Figure 1 ;
[0025] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the pitching slide provided in this application Figure 2 ;
[0026] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the ball seat support in the pitching slide provided in this application;
[0027] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the split structure in the pitching slide provided in this application;
[0028] Figure 5 A partial structural diagram of the pitching slide provided in this application;
[0029] Figure 6 One of the working state diagrams of the pitching slide in the first position provided in this application;
[0030] Figure 7 The second diagram showing the working state of the pitching slide provided in this application in the first position;
[0031] Figure 8 One of the working state diagrams of the pitching slide in the second position provided in this application;
[0032] Figure 9 The second diagram shows the working state of the pitching slide provided in this application in the second position.
[0033] Figure label:
[0034] 100-Spherical seat; 100a-Split structure; 110-Flow channel; 111-First segment; 112-Second segment; 120-Connecting hole; 121-First sidewall; 122-Second sidewall; 130-Annular groove;
[0035] 200 - Ball seat bracket; 210 - Clearance channel; 220 - Connecting post; 230 - Thread;
[0036] 300 - Sealing component;
[0037] 400 - Flexible fastener;
[0038] 500 - Outer shell.
[0039] The accompanying drawings illustrate specific embodiments of this application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of this application to those skilled in the art through reference to particular embodiments. Detailed Implementation
[0040] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.
[0041] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0042] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0043] Existing ball-drop sleeves require a specially designed ball to be dropped from the surface into the well. Driven by high-pressure fluid, the ball moves downwards along the wellbore until it reaches the ball seat on the downhole tool. When the ball seat receives sufficient pressure, it triggers the sleeve to descend, shearing off its internal pin and activating the downhole tool. However, existing ball-drop sleeves can only be activated once and cannot be reused. In scenarios requiring multiple activations, new sleeves must be replaced, increasing operational costs and complexity. Furthermore, dropping the ball can clog the central water inlet, affecting subsequent operational procedures.
[0044] In view of this, this application provides a throwing slide sleeve. By setting multiple split-structure ball seats and using a limiting component to limit the multiple split structures, the multiple split structures can move radially between a first position and a second position under the pressure of a sealing component, achieving a multiple activation effect. When the multiple split structures are in the first position, they are spliced together circumferentially along the flow channel, and the sealing component blocks the flow channel. When the sealing component is pushed by high-pressure fluid to compress the ball seats, the multiple split structures separate and are located in the second position. The sealing component passes through the flow channel of the ball seats, activating the throwing slide sleeve. By limiting the multiple split structures with the limiting component, it is ensured that the multiple split structures can accurately switch between the first and second positions, ensuring the reliability and stability of each activation. This avoids the problem of throwing slide sleeves in the prior art being able to only be activated once, thereby simplifying the operation process and improving operation efficiency.
[0045] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 This application provides a ball-throwing slide, including a ball seat 100, which defines a flow channel 110, and a sealing element 300 is adapted to be disposed in the flow channel 110.
[0046] The ball seat 100 includes a plurality of split structures 100a surrounding the flow channel 110. The split structures 100a are configured to move radially along the flow channel 110 between a first position and a second position under the compression of the sealing member 300. In the first position, the plurality of split structures 100a are spliced together circumferentially along the flow channel 110 and the sealing member 300 blocks the flow channel 110. In the second position, the plurality of split structures 100a are separated from each other and the sealing member 300 is adapted to pass through the flow channel 110.
[0047] When the sealing element 300 enters the flow channel 110 under the pressure of high-pressure fluid, it begins to compress multiple split structures 100a. Under the compression of the sealing element 300, the split structures 100a expand radially outward along the flow channel 110, gradually moving from a first position to a second position. When the split structures 100a are completely separated to the second position, the sealing element 300 can activate the ball-throwing slide through the flow channel 110.
[0048] Understandably, in the first position, multiple split structures 100a are spliced together circumferentially along the flow channel 110 to form a complete circular cross-section, and the sealing element 300 completely blocks the flow channel 110, ensuring that fluid cannot pass through. At this time, the sides and inner surfaces of each split structure 100a are in contact with each other and fit tightly, forming a seamless sealing structure. When the sealing element 300 continues to apply pressure, the multiple split structures 100a expand radially outward along the flow channel 110 under the compression of the sealing element 300, gradually moving from the first position to the second position. In the second position, the multiple split structures 100a separate from each other and no longer form a complete circular cross-section, allowing the sealing element 300 to pass through the flow channel 110 and activate the ball-throwing sleeve. At this time, gaps appear between the sidewalls and inner surfaces of adjacent split structures 100a, no longer fitting completely, allowing the sealing element 300 to pass through smoothly.
[0049] In one possible design, refer to Figure 4 Each split structure 100a has a fan-shaped cross-section. The inner surface of each split structure 100a is arc-shaped and fits against the inner wall of the flow channel 110 to ensure sealing. Alternatively, the inner surface of each split structure 100a can be constructed as the inner wall of the flow channel 110. The outer surface of each split structure 100a is also arc-shaped, and can be constructed as the outer surface of the ball seat 100. The sides of each split structure 100a are flat, so that the sides of adjacent split structures 100a can be in close contact. The shape of each split structure 100a can be determined according to actual needs, and this application does not impose any limitations.
[0050] In one possible design, the number of split structures 100a can be 4, 6, or 8. For example, in scenarios where the diameter of the flow channel 110 is small, the number of split structures 100a can be 4. This reduces the size of each split structure 100a, ensuring they can be tightly joined in the first position and cooperate with the sealing component 300 to seal the flow channel 110. In scenarios where the diameter of the flow channel 110 is large, the number of split structures 100a can be 6 or 8. This ensures that the size of each split structure 100a is moderate, avoiding loose joints or inflexible movement caused by an excessively large single split structure 100a. In scenarios where the sealing performance of the ball seat 100 is required to be high, the number of split structures 100a can be 6 or 8. This ensures that in the first position, multiple split structures 100a can form a tighter seal, preventing the sealing component 300 from passing through. In scenarios where high mobility of the split structure 100a is required, the number of split structures 100a can be 6 or 8. This reduces the size of each split structure 100a, making it easier to move radially under the compression of the sealing member 300. The number of split structures 100a is determined according to actual needs, and this application does not impose any restrictions.
[0051] The pitching slide also includes a limiting component, which is connected to multiple split structures 100a respectively. The limiting component and the multiple split structures 100a limit each other to determine the first position and the second position.
[0052] In order to enable the split structure 100a to move accurately from the first position to the second position under the compression of the sealing member 300, and to return to the first position when the sealing member 300 is not in use, the limiting component can be a spring limiting component, a magnetic limiting component, etc.
[0053] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 The limiting component includes a ball seat bracket 200, which is connected to multiple split structures 100a.
[0054] Furthermore, the ball seat support 200 can be connected to the ball seat 100 in the axial direction of the flow channel 110 to limit the displacement of the ball seat 100 in the axial direction of the flow channel 110. When the sealing member 300 enters the flow channel 110 under the push of the high-pressure fluid, the split structure 100a can expand radially outward under the compression of the sealing member 300, while the ball seat support 200 can limit the movement of the split structure 100a in the axial direction, ensuring that the split structure 100a only displaces in the radial direction and does not slide in the axial direction.
[0055] The limiting assembly also includes an elastic fastener 400 sleeved on the outer periphery of the plurality of split structures 100a, the elastic fastener 400 being configured to have a preload force on the plurality of split structures 100a toward the center of the flow channel 110.
[0056] Understandably, the elastic fastener 400 can be an annular elastic band or spring coil, fitted around the outer periphery of the multiple split structures 100a. When the sealing member 300 enters the flow channel 110 under the push of high-pressure fluid, the split structure 100a expands radially outward under the compression of the sealing member 300. The pre-tightening force applied by the elastic fastener 400 to the split structure 100a resists this expansion, ensuring that the split structure 100a can quickly return to the first position when there is no compression from the sealing member 300. The pre-tightening force of the elastic fastener 400 not only helps to maintain the tight splicing of the split structure 100a in the first position and prevent fluid leakage, but also quickly returns the split structure 100a to the first position after the sealing member 300 passes, ensuring the multiple activation function of the pitching slide. In this way, the elastic fastener 400 can work together with the ball seat support 200 to ensure accurate switching of the split structure 100a between the first and second positions, improving the stability and reliability of the pitching slide.
[0057] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 4 , Figure 7 The outer peripheral wall of the split structure 100a is provided with multiple annular grooves 130, and the elastic fastener 400 is sleeved in the multiple annular grooves 130.
[0058] In one possible design, multiple annular grooves 130 can be continuously distributed on the outer peripheral wall of one side of the split structure 100a. Alternatively, the multiple annular grooves 130 can also be non-continuous grooves composed of several segments. The annular grooves 130 can be set on the outer peripheral wall of the split structure 100a, and their positions can be adjusted according to actual needs. For example, the annular grooves 130 can be located in the middle of the split structure 100a, or the annular grooves 130 can be concentrated on one side of the split structure 100a. The positions of the annular grooves 130 can be adjusted according to actual needs, and this application does not impose any limitations on this.
[0059] Understandably, the annular groove 130 provides a stable mounting position for the elastic fastener 400, ensuring that it will not easily slip or shift during operation, thereby guaranteeing the accuracy and reliability of the split structure 100a when switching between the first and second positions. By placing the elastic fastener 400 within the annular groove 130, the preload can be distributed more evenly, preventing excessive local pressure from damaging the split structure 100a. It also helps reduce friction, allowing the split structure 100a to expand radially outward more smoothly when compressed by the sealing component 300.
[0060] In one possible implementation, the elastic fastener 400 includes a plurality of elastic retaining rings, each of which is fitted within an annular groove 130.
[0061] In one possible design, the elastic retainer can be an elastic metal ring with an opening.
[0062] Understandably, the elastic retaining ring provides a centripetal preload, tightly pressing the multiple split structures 100a together to ensure that the split structures 100a form a complete sealing surface in the first position, preventing fluid leakage. When the sealing element 300 passes through the flow channel 110, the preload of the elastic retaining ring causes the split structures 100a to quickly return to the first position, ensuring that the pitching sleeve can be activated multiple times. Furthermore, the elastic retaining ring limits the maximum radial displacement of the split structures 100a, preventing excessive expansion of the split structures 100a when compressed by the sealing element 300, thereby maintaining the stability and reliability of the pitching sleeve.
[0063] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 Each split structure 100a is provided with a connecting hole 120 extending axially along the flow channel 110. The ball seat bracket 200 is provided with multiple connecting posts 220, and the connecting posts 220 correspond one-to-one with the connecting holes 120. The ball seat 100 and the ball seat bracket 200 are connected by inserting the connecting posts 220 into the connecting holes 120. Furthermore, the connecting holes 120 and the connecting posts 220 slide in a radial fit along the flow channel 110.
[0064] It is understood that each split structure 100a is provided with a connecting hole 120 extending axially along the flow channel 110, and a connecting post 220 is provided at the corresponding position on the ball seat bracket 200. The size of the connecting post 220 is smaller than the size of the connecting hole 120 to ensure that the connecting post 220 can slide radially within the connecting hole 120.
[0065] In one possible implementation, the connecting hole 120 includes a first sidewall 121 and a second sidewall 122 that are radially opposite to each other along the flow channel 110, and the connecting post 220 is configured such that when the plug 300 passes through the flow channel 110, the connecting post 220 contacts the second sidewall 122, and when the plug 300 is engaged in the flow channel 110, the connecting post 220 contacts the first sidewall 121.
[0066] In one possible design, the connecting hole 120 can be a circular hole or an elliptical hole. The first sidewall 121 and the second sidewall 122 can correspond to the upper and lower sidewalls of the connecting hole 120, respectively. Furthermore, the connecting hole 120 can be a blind hole, meaning one side of the connecting hole 120 is closed and does not penetrate the split structure 100a. Therefore, after the connecting post 220 is inserted into the connecting hole 120, the connecting post 220 only slides within the radial range of the connecting hole 120 and will not penetrate the split structure 100a, thereby improving the structural strength of the split structure 100a and avoiding the structural weakening problem that might occur with through holes.
[0067] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 1 The flow channel 110 is divided into a first segment 111 and a second segment 112. The aperture of the first segment 111 gradually increases or decreases along the axial direction of the flow channel 110. The minimum aperture of the first segment 111 is connected to the second segment 112.
[0068] In one possible design, the aperture of the first segment 111 can gradually decrease along the moving direction of the sealing element 300.
[0069] Understandably, the first segment 111, whose aperture gradually increases or decreases along the axial direction of the flow channel 110, can form a conical structure. The minimum aperture of the first segment 111 connects to the second segment 112, allowing the first segment 111 to receive and hold the sealing member 300 when the split structure 100a is in its first position. When the sealing member 300 enters the flow channel 110, it is first guided to the minimum aperture by the gradually changing aperture portion of the first segment 111, and then held at the opening of the second segment 112, ensuring that the sealing member 300 firmly seals the flow channel 110 when the split structure 100a is in its first position. As the sealing member 300 continues to advance under the impetus of the high-pressure fluid, the split structure 100a expands radially outward, and the sealing member 300 can pass through the second segment 112, activating the ball-throwing sleeve. In this way, the design of the first segment 111 and the second segment 112 ensures the accurate positioning of the sealing element 300, and also ensures that the sealing element 300 can firmly seal the flow channel 110 when the split structure 100a is in the first position.
[0070] In one possible implementation, the inner surface of the first segment 111 is conical, the sealing element 300 is spherical, and the minimum aperture of the first segment 111 is smaller than the diameter of the sealing element 300.
[0071] In the specific implementation process, in the initial state, refer to Figure 6 , Figure 7Multiple separate structures 100a are spliced together circumferentially along the flow channel 110 to form a complete circular cross-section, and the sealing element 300 completely seals the flow channel 110. When the sealing element 300 enters the flow channel 110, it first passes through the conical portion of the first segment 111 and is gradually guided to the minimum aperture of the first segment 111. Since the minimum aperture of the first segment 111 is smaller than the diameter of the sealing element 300, the sealing element 300 is stuck at the minimum aperture of the first segment 111, ensuring that the sealing element 300 can seal the flow channel 110 when the separate structure 100a is in the first position. When the sealing element 300 is pushed by the high-pressure fluid, refer to... Figure 8 , Figure 9 The sealing element 300 begins to compress the split structure 100a. As the pressure gradually increases, the force exerted by the sealing element 300 on the split structure 100a also gradually increases. When the force exerted by the sealing element 300 on the split structure 100a exceeds the pre-tightening force applied by the elastic fixing element 400, the split structure 100a expands radially outward along the flow channel 110, thereby moving from the first position to the second position. At this time, the connecting post 220 slides within the connecting hole 120 and contacts the second sidewall 122 of the connecting hole 120. Simultaneously, the contact between the connecting post 220 and the second sidewall 122 also restricts the further expansion of the split structure 100a. When the split structure 100a is in the second position, the diameter of the flow channel 110 is larger than the diameter of the sealing element 300, allowing the sealing element 300 to pass through the second segment 112 and activate the ball-throwing slide.
[0072] To ensure that the sealing element 300 can pass smoothly through the ball seat 100 and the ball seat support 200, in one possible implementation, refer to... Figure 1 , Figure 3 The ball seat bracket 200 defines a clearance channel 210 that is opposite to and connected to the flow channel 110. The diameter of the clearance channel 210 is greater than or equal to the maximum cross-sectional dimension of the sealing member 300.
[0073] In one possible design, the aperture of the clearance channel 210 is larger than the aperture of the flow channel 110.
[0074] Understandably, the aperture of the clearance channel 210 is greater than or equal to the maximum cross-sectional dimension of the blocking component 300, providing sufficient clearance space for the blocking component 300 to ensure that it is not obstructed when passing through the ball seat bracket 200. The design of the clearance channel 210 reduces the resistance of the blocking component 300 when passing through, avoiding the risk of the blocking component 300 being stuck or blocked when passing through the ball seat bracket 200.
[0075] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 3The pitching slide also includes a housing 500 that is fitted over the ball seat 100 and the ball seat support 200. The ball seat support 200 has threads 230 on its periphery, and the housing 500 is threadedly connected to the ball seat support 200.
[0076] In one possible design, the outer casing 500 can be a hollow cylindrical structure to house the ball seat 100 and the ball seat support 200. The length and diameter of the outer casing 500 can be designed according to the actual dimensions of the ball seat 100 and the ball seat support 200 to ensure sufficient space and proper fit; this application does not impose any limitations on this. Furthermore, the inner wall of the outer casing 500 is provided with threads that match the threads 230 on the periphery of the ball seat support 200. Through the threaded connection, the outer casing 500 can be firmly fixed to the ball seat support 200, and the axial displacement of the ball seat 100 and the ball seat support 200 can be effectively limited, ensuring the stability and reliability of the entire pitching slide.
[0077] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "upper part", "lower part", "upper end", "lower end", "lower surface", "upper surface", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention.
[0078] In the description of this invention, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.
[0079] In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means multiple, such as two, three, four, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.
[0080] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the term "connection" and other such terms should be interpreted broadly. For example, it can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between the components; it can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can refer to the internal communication between two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.
[0081] In the specification of this invention, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the term "on" the second feature may include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features not in direct contact but through another feature between them.
[0082] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.
[0083] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. A pitching slide, characterized in that, include: A ball seat (100) defines a flow channel (110) within which a sealing element (300) is adapted to be disposed. The ball seat (100) includes a plurality of split structures (100a) surrounding the flow channel (110). The split structures (100a) are configured to move radially along the flow channel (110) between a first position and a second position under the compression of the sealing element (300). In the first position, the plurality of split structures (100a) are spliced together circumferentially along the flow channel (110), and the sealing element (300) blocks the flow channel (110). In the second position, the plurality of split structures (100a) are separated from each other, and the sealing element (300) is adapted to pass through the flow channel (110). A limiting component is connected to a plurality of the split structures (100a) respectively, and the limiting component cooperates with the plurality of split structures (100a) to limit and determine the first position and the second position.
2. The pitching slide according to claim 1, characterized in that, The limiting component includes: The ball seat support (200) is connected to each of the multiple split structures (100a); An elastic fastener (400) is sleeved on the outer periphery of the plurality of said split structures (100a), the elastic fastener (400) being configured to have a preload force on the plurality of said split structures (100a) toward the center of the flow channel (110).
3. The pitching slide according to claim 2, characterized in that, Each of the split structures (100a) is provided with a connecting hole (120) extending axially along the flow channel (110). The ball seat bracket (200) is provided with a plurality of connecting posts (220). The connecting posts (220) correspond one-to-one with the connecting holes (120). The ball seat (100) and the ball seat bracket (200) are connected by inserting the connecting posts (220) into the connecting holes (120). Furthermore, the connecting holes (120) and the connecting posts (220) slide in a radial fit along the flow channel (110).
4. The pitching slide according to claim 3, characterized in that, The connecting hole (120) includes a first sidewall (121) and a second sidewall (122) that are radially opposite to each other along the flow channel (110). The connecting post (220) is configured such that when the plug (300) passes through the flow channel (110), the connecting post (220) contacts the second sidewall (122), and when the plug (300) is engaged in the flow channel (110), the connecting post (220) contacts the first sidewall (121).
5. The pitching slide according to claim 2, characterized in that, The flow channel (110) is divided into a first segment (111) and a second segment (112). The aperture of the first segment (111) gradually increases or decreases along the axial direction of the flow channel (110). The minimum aperture of the first segment (111) is connected to the second segment (112).
6. The pitching slide according to claim 5, characterized in that, The inner surface of the first segment (111) is conical, the sealing element (300) is a sphere, and the minimum aperture of the first segment (111) is smaller than the diameter of the sealing element (300).
7. The pitching slide according to any one of claims 2-6, characterized in that, The outer peripheral wall of the split structure (100a) is provided with a plurality of annular grooves (130), and the elastic fastener (400) is sleeved in the plurality of annular grooves (130).
8. The pitching slide according to claim 7, characterized in that, The elastic fastener (400) includes a plurality of elastic retaining rings, and each of the annular grooves (130) is fitted with an elastic retaining ring.
9. The pitching slide according to any one of claims 2-6, characterized in that, Also includes: The outer shell (500) is sleeved on the ball seat (100) and the ball seat support (200). The ball seat support (200) is provided with threads (230) on its periphery. The outer shell (500) is threadedly connected to the ball seat support (200).
10. The pitching slide according to any one of claims 2-6, characterized in that, The ball seat bracket (200) defines a clearance channel (210) that is opposite to and connected to the flow channel (110), the aperture of the clearance channel (210) being greater than or equal to the maximum cross-sectional dimension of the sealing member (300).