Collet Prop Contingency Release via Right-Hand Torque

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing contingency release devices for collet props in oil and gas operations require additional steps or specific torque sequences, posing risks of accidental activation and force limitations, particularly when trying to release tools before completion of operations.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising a torsion lock sleeve with crenellated ends and a release nut that can be disengaged via a piston movement, allowing the release nut to be moved by applying a right-hand torque, enabling the collet prop to drop without force restrictions or left-hand torque requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing contingency release devices are used, then tool release function is provided, but additional steps or specific torque sequences are required which pose risks of accidental activation and force limitations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverisk of accidental activationVSAvoidtorque sequence complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into distinct functional segments: a release mechanism with crenellated ends that can be selectively engaged or disengaged, and a collet prop mechanism. This segmentation allows the release function to be independently controlled without requiring complex torque sequences, reducing the risk of accidental activation while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring a specific torque sequence to activate release (conventional approach), the invention inverts the mechanism by using a disengagement system where the release nut and torsion lock sleeve can be separated. This allows the collet prop to be released by simply moving the piston to disengage the crenellated ends, eliminating the need for complex torque sequences and reducing accidental activation risks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Ease of operation

If existing release devices require left-hand torque, then release function is achieved, but force restrictions are imposed on the system

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque applicationVSAvoidforce restrictions

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The invention eliminates the need for left-hand torque by inverting the release mechanism. The release nut with crenellated first end engages with the torsion lock sleeve's crenellated second end, and release is achieved by moving the piston to disengage these crenellated interfaces. This allows the collet prop to drop freely under its own weight without requiring any torque application, completely removing force restrictions from the system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces the torque-based mechanical release system with a piston-driven disengagement system. Instead of applying torque to unscrew or rotate components for release, a piston moves to separate the crenellated ends of the release nut and torsion lock sleeve. This substitution eliminates the need for torque application entirely, removing force restrictions while improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Stability of the object's composition

If collet prop is held in position, then tool operation stability is maintained, but release before operation completion is prevented

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecollet prop position stabilityVSAvoidrelease timing flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The device transitions from a static held position to a dynamic release state through piston movement. The release mechanism allows the collet prop to be held stable during normal operation via the engaged crenellated ends, but can be quickly released by moving the piston to disengage these ends. This dynamic capability provides both position stability during operation and flexibility for early release when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The piston acts as an intermediary between the control system and the collet prop release mechanism. By moving the piston, the crenellated ends of the release nut and torsion lock sleeve are disengaged, which then allows the collet prop to be released. This intermediary mechanism provides controlled stability during operation while enabling flexible release timing when operational conditions require it.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8490692B2Contingency release device that uses right-hand torque to allow movement of a collet prop

Publication Date: 2013.07.23 HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES INC

AI summary

A device comprises: a torsion lock sleeve, wherein the torsion lock sleeve comprises a crenellated second end, wherein the torsion lock sleeve is tubular in shape, and wherein at least a portion of the inner circumference of the torsion lock sleeve engages at least one ridge, wherein the ridge inhibits or prohibits rotational movement of the torsion lock sleeve; and a release nut, wherein the release nut comprises a crenellated first end, and wherein the first end of the release nut is capable of engaging the second end of the torsion lock sleeve.