Adjustable Cable Protector Assembly for Fast Wellbore Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cables used with power electric submersible pumps are prone to damage and displacement when installed in wellbores due to the changing outer diameter of tubing strings, requiring costly and complex protection methods that often result in lost parts.
Innovation Solution
A cable protector assembly featuring an adjustable latch with a protective frame and pivotable collar segment, allowing for easy installation and secure cable protection by pivoting between disengaged, engaged, and biased positions, utilizing arcuate shapes and stamped steel components for enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional cable protection methods are used, then cable protection reliability is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The protective collar is divided into multiple segments that can be independently positioned and secured. Each segment can be independently adjusted to fit different cable configurations, allowing for modular installation without requiring complex specialized tools or procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar segments are designed with pivotable joints that allow dynamic adjustment during installation. The segments can pivot into place and be secured in various positions, transforming a static rigid structure into a dynamic adaptable system that simplifies installation while maintaining protection reliability.
2Reliability
If traditional cable protection methods are used, then cable protection reliability is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented collar design allows installers to work with smaller, more manageable sections rather than a single large component. This segmentation enables parallel installation operations and reduces the time required to position and secure the protective structure around the cable.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable collar segments enable quick adjustment and positioning during installation. The dynamic mechanism allows the segments to be rapidly deployed and secured without requiring time-consuming fastening operations, significantly reducing overall installation time while maintaining reliable cable protection.
3Reliability
If traditional cable protection methods are used, then cable protection reliability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented collar can be manufactured using standard fabrication processes for each segment, avoiding the need for expensive specialized tools or custom manufacturing. The modular segments can be produced independently using conventional equipment, reducing overall manufacturing and installation costs while maintaining protection reliability.
4Force
If a secure latch mechanism is added to the protective collar, then cable holding force is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage and secure the collar segments to the tubing when the collar is installed. The self-latching feature eliminates the need for separate fastening operations or complex locking mechanisms, providing increased cable holding force without significantly increasing device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to cable protector assemblies, and related methods and systems. In one or more implementations, a cable protector assembly includes an adjustable latch. In one embodiment, which can be combined with other embodiments, a cable protector assembly includes a protective frame at least partially defining a channel. The channel is configured to at least partially receive a cable. The protective frame includes a frame flange having a section of a frame sheet formed into a first arcuate shape to define a frame opening. The cable protector assembly includes a collar segment pivotably coupled to the protective frame. The collar segment is pivotable between a disengaged position, an engaged position, and a biased position. The collar segment includes a collar flange having a section of a collar sheet formed into a second arcuate shape to define a collar opening.