Adaptive Seal Assembly for Pressure-Rated Logging Tool Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transferring down-hole devices through wells under pressure are time-consuming and complex, requiring large rigs and manual procedures to manage pressure differentials, which can lead to delays and increased costs, especially in offshore applications.
Innovation Solution
An adaptive seal assembly with dynamic sealing elements that can adjust to accommodate varying cross-sections of down-hole devices, allowing for rapid transfer without the need for a rig, by maintaining a pressure barrier through reversible seals and actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional snubbing procedures with ram-type BOPs are used to transfer down-hole devices through wells under pressure, then safety and pressure control are maintained, but the process becomes time-consuming and complex due to manual operations and multiple BOPs required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing static, manually operated ram-type BOPs with a dynamic robotic system that can automatically adjust and manipulate down-hole devices. The robotic system includes movable arms, grippers, and positioning mechanisms that can adapt to different device sizes and shapes, enabling rapid transfer operations while maintaining pressure control through automated seal engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system embodies the self-service principle by performing autonomous operations for device transfer, positioning, and seal engagement without requiring manual intervention. The system includes self-positioning capabilities, automatic gripper actuation, and integrated pressure monitoring that enables the system to service itself during transfer operations, significantly reducing transfer time while maintaining safety.
2Reliability
If manual snubbing procedures are used with multiple BOPs, then pressure barrier is maintained, but device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system applies the universality principle by integrating multiple functions into a single automated platform. The system includes a robotic manipulator with grippers for device handling, positioning mechanisms for precise alignment, integrated pressure sensors for monitoring, and automated seal engagement capabilities. This multi-functional integration replaces multiple separate BOPs and manual operations, reducing system complexity while maintaining pressure barrier integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system serves as an intermediary between the down-hole devices and the wellbore environment. It includes a robotic manipulator that interfaces with devices, positioning mechanisms that mediate between storage and insertion points, and pressure control systems that act as intermediaries between the high-pressure wellbore and ambient environment. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall system by consolidating multiple functions into a single coordinated platform.
3Strength
If tall rigs are constructed for tool string assembly, then lateral support is provided, but on-site time and construction complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the taking out principle by extracting the lateral support function from the traditional tall rig structure and integrating it directly into the robotic system. The robotic manipulator includes built-in support arms and positioning mechanisms that provide lateral stability during device transfer operations. This extraction eliminates the need for separate rig construction, reducing on-site time while maintaining the necessary lateral support for safe operations.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and processes are provided for safely facilitating transfer of down-hole devices through an adaptive seal assembly capping a well under pressure. At least one dynamic seal is provided having a size and shape to accommodate varying cross section of an elongated down-hole device, such as a logging tool. The adaptive seal assembly includes a mating flange for coupling its open end to a reversibly sealable wellhead fixture. A pressure is maintained along a wellbore side of the reversible seal, while the aperture is varied according to the varying cross section of the down-hole device as it is translated along the axis. More than one dynamic seals can be actuated in a controlled sequence to apply axial thrust in a preferred direction to the tool. One or more robotic systems can be provided to further expedite manipulation of at least one of the tool and the vessel.