Actuator Sleeve Coupling Mechanism for Well Tool Decoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subterranean well tools face challenges in seamlessly transitioning between remote and mechanical actuation modes, requiring high forces for coupling and low forces for uncoupling, which complicates operation and increases the risk of inadvertent uncoupling during remote actuation.
Innovation Solution
A well tool design featuring a housing with an actuator sleeve and a dog mechanism that couples and uncouples the actuator sleeve from the remote actuator, allowing high force transmission during remote operation and low force uncoupling, enabling efficient mechanical operation with a shifting tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the actuator sleeve is firmly coupled to the actuator for high force transmission during remote actuation, then force transmission capability is improved, but the force required for mechanical uncoupling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a static firm coupling to a dynamic state-based coupling. The dog engages with the actuator sleeve in a first state to provide firm coupling for high force transmission, and disengages in a second state to allow easy uncoupling. This dynamic transition resolves the contradiction by making the coupling strength dependent on the operational state rather than being fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling force parameter is changed based on the state of the actuator. In the first state, the coupling parameter is set to high for force transmission; in the second state, it is reduced to allow easy uncoupling. The dog mechanism implements this parameter change by physically engaging or disengaging based on actuator position, thereby adapting the coupling strength to the operational requirements.
2Reliability
If the actuator sleeve is firmly coupled to the actuator, then reliability of force transmission is improved, but the risk of inadvertent uncoupling during remote actuation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism uses dynamic state-dependent engagement where the dog is positioned to engage with the actuator sleeve only in specific states. This ensures reliable force transmission when needed while preventing inadvertent uncoupling by maintaining engagement during remote actuation phases, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and harm prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The dog acts as an intermediary element between the actuator and actuator sleeve. It mediates the coupling relationship by engaging to provide reliable force transmission and disengaging to allow controlled uncoupling. This intermediary mechanism ensures that force transmission is reliable when required while preventing harmful inadvertent uncoupling through state-dependent engagement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a dog mechanism is added to enable state-dependent coupling and uncoupling, then operational flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dog mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides firm coupling for force transmission, enables controlled uncoupling, and prevents inadvertent disengagement. By making this single component multi-functional, the patent achieves operational flexibility without proportionally increasing complexity, as one element performs several critical roles in the coupling system.
Solution Approach 2:
The dog mechanism is positioned and configured to automatically engage and disengage based on the actuator's state without requiring external control. This self-service capability provides operational flexibility while minimizing complexity by eliminating the need for additional control systems or actuation mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A well tool with a housing has an actuator sleeve in the housing. The actuator sleeve has an internal shifting tool engaging profile. An actuator is in the housing. The actuator is responsive to a remote signal to move the actuator sleeve from a first position to a second position. A dog is in the housing, supported to couple the actuator sleeve to the actuator when the actuator sleeve is in the first position and unsupported to allow the actuator sleeve to uncouple from the actuator when the actuator sleeve is in the second position.