Adjustable Actuator Shoulder for Wellhead Tool Passage
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Solution Overview
Problem
The stepped diameter bore in high pressure wellhead housings restricts the size of drilling tools, requiring the removal and reinstallation of the nominal seat to accommodate larger tools, complicating the process of running tools through the housing.
Innovation Solution
An activation ring within a recess in the housing can be moved between retracted and extended positions to define a shoulder, allowing larger tools to be used without altering the housing's internal diameter, and can be actuated by pin assemblies and actuators to control its position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a stepped diameter bore is used in the wellhead housing to support the load shoulder, then the housing can support drilling and production operations, but the inner diameter is reduced below the load shoulder, restricting the size of drilling tools that can be run through the housing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the load shoulder movable rather than fixed. The actuator moves the load shoulder between a retracted position (allowing larger tools to pass through) and an extended position (providing full load support). This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between maintaining a large inner diameter and providing sufficient load support capability.
2Length of moving object
If the nominal seat is removed to accommodate larger drilling tools, then larger tools can be run through the housing, but the process becomes complicated requiring removal and reinstallation of the seat
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of permanently removing the load shoulder to accommodate larger tools, the patent implements a movable load shoulder controlled by an actuator. This allows the inner diameter to be dynamically adjusted based on operational needs, eliminating the need for complex removal and reinstallation procedures while maintaining the ability to support full load when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service by automatically adjusting the load shoulder position through the actuator mechanism. The housing itself contains the means to adjust its internal configuration without requiring external intervention to remove or reinstall components, thereby simplifying the operational process.
3Strength
If a fixed load shoulder is used to support drilling operations, then the housing provides structural support, but it prevents the use of tools larger than the minimum inner diameter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by implementing a movable load shoulder that can be positioned dynamically. When structural support is needed, the load shoulder extends to its full position. When larger tools need to pass through, the load shoulder retracts, temporarily increasing the effective inner diameter. This dynamic capability provides both structural support and adaptability to different tool sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable load shoulder mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides structural load support during drilling operations, allows passage of larger tools when retracted, and can be controlled through the actuator system. This multi-functionality increases the versatility of the housing design, allowing it to accommodate different operational requirements without compromising structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus to define a shoulder within equipment includes a pin assembly and an actuator. The pin assembly includes a pin assembly housing with a passage formed therethrough, a pin movably positionable, at least partially, within the passage of the pin assembly housing, an outer stop to limit outward movement of the pin within the passage of the pin assembly housing, and an inner stop to limit inward movement of the pin within the passage of the pin assembly housing. The actuator is operably coupled to the pin assembly such that the actuator is capable of moving the pin within the pin assembly housing of the pin assembly.