Articulating Wireline Component Additive Manufacturing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireline connectors in resource exploration and recovery systems, which rely on universal joints for bending flexibility and acoustic attenuation, are costly, complex, and prone to failure under tension and compression, limiting their flexibility and lifespan.
Innovation Solution
An articulating wireline component formed from a few integrally connected members using additive manufacturing techniques, featuring a base, neck, and ball portions with pins to restrict rotation while allowing articulation, providing enhanced flexibility and reduced part count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If universal joints are used to provide bending flexibility and acoustic attenuation, then the wireline connector achieves the required flexibility, but the component count increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (bending flexibility, acoustic attenuation, and structural support) into a single integrated universal joint component. This merging eliminates the need for separate parts, reducing the overall component count while maintaining the required flexibility and acoustic properties, thereby improving reliability by removing potential failure points from additional connectors and parts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If universal joints with multiple parts are used, then bending flexibility is achieved, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The universal joint is designed as a single integrated component that combines the yoke, cross, and bearing assemblies into one piece. This merging reduces the number of separate parts from multiple connectors and components down to a single universal joint assembly, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining the required articulation and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal joint component performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides bending flexibility through its articulating mechanism, acoustic attenuation through its mass and damping properties, and structural support through its rigid construction. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, reducing overall device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If universal joints are used for articulation, then rotational flexibility is provided, but the weakest link in tension and compression is created
Solution Approach 1:
The universal joint is pre-engineered with optimized geometry and material selection to maximize its strength-to-flexibility ratio. The component is designed in advance with reinforced stress zones and appropriate material properties to withstand the expected tension and compression loads, preventing it from becoming the weakest link in the wireline assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
An articulating wireline component includes a first integrally formed member having a base portion, a neck portion and a ball portion having a first diameter, and a second integrally formed member including a base section, a neck portion and a socket portion including an opening having a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter. The ball portion is arranged in the socket portion and the second integrally formed member is formed from a solid material.