Core Drilling Valve System for Automated Inner Tube Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The retrieval of core samples in core drilling systems is time-consuming, especially as drilling depth increases, due to limitations in the deployment and retrieval processes of inner tube assemblies.
Innovation Solution
A valve system configurable in three states (first closed, open, and second closed) within the head assembly of the inner tube assembly, allowing fluid pressure to deploy and retrieve the inner tube assembly efficiently by changing fluid flow direction within the drill string.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual deployment and retrieval methods are used, then the process is simple to operate, but the retrieval time increases significantly as drilling depth increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a valve system controlled by fluid pressure to automate the deployment and retrieval of the inner tube assembly. Fluid pumped through the drill string actuates the valve, which in turn deploys or retrieves the inner tube assembly automatically, eliminating manual handling and significantly reducing retrieval time, especially at greater drilling depths.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner tube assembly is designed to deploy and retrieve itself through fluid pressure actuation of the valve system. The system uses the drilling fluid already circulating in the wellbore to power the deployment and retrieval operations, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for additional manual intervention or complex external equipment.
2Extent of automation
If a valve system with multiple configurations is implemented, then automation and efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system is designed with multi-functionality, serving both deployment and retrieval operations through a single integrated mechanism. The valve can assume different configurations (first closed, open, second closed) to perform multiple functions, reducing the need for separate systems and minimizing overall device complexity while achieving high automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve system is designed to be dynamic, transitioning between different configurations based on operational requirements. The valve member can move between sealed and open positions, and the system adapts its state based on fluid pressure conditions, enabling automated control without requiring complex mechanical linkages or additional control mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If fluid pressure is used to deploy and retrieve the inner tube assembly, then manual handling is reduced and safety is improved, but the system requires precise pressure control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with fluid pressure actuation. The valve system uses hydraulic pressure from the drilling fluid to automatically deploy and retrieve the inner tube assembly, eliminating the need for manual operations and improving safety. The pressure control is achieved through the inherent properties of the drilling fluid circulation system, avoiding the need for additional complex pressure control mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances the efficiency of core sample retrieval by automating the deployment and retrieval processes, reducing manual handling and increasing safety through controlled fluid pressure management.
Implementation Method 1
when in the first closed configuration, a pressure of the fluid increases to facilitate deploying the inner tube assembly towards a second end of the drill string
Implementation Method 2
when in the open configuration, fluid can flow to a drill bit located at or near the second end of the drill string
Implementation Method 3
when in the second closed configuration, the pressure of the fluid increases to facilitate retrieving the inner tube assembly from the vicinity of the second end of the drill string
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A valve system for an inner tube assembly is described. The inner tube assembly is arranged to be used in a drilling system to retrieve a core sample, and is arranged to be insertable into a drill string of the drilling system at a first end of the drill string. The valve system is arranged to be configurable in a first closed configuration, an open configuration, and a second closed configuration. The valve system moves to the first closed configuration when fluid is pumped along an interior region of the drill string towards the inner tube assembly in a direction from the first end of the drill string to the inner tube assembly. The valve system is arranged such that, when in the first closed configuration, a pressure of the fluid increases to facilitate deploying the inner tube assembly towards a second end of the drill string. The valve system moves to the open configuration in response to the inner tube assembly reaching a vicinity of the second end of the drill string and being prevented from moving further towards the second end of the drill string. The valve system is arranged such that, when in the open configuration, fluid can flow to a drill bit located at or near the second end of the drill string. The valve system moves to the second closed configuration when fluid is pumped along the interior region of the drill string towards the inner tube assembly in a direction from the second end of the drill string to the inner tube assembly. The valve system is arranged such that, when in the second closed configuration, the pressure of the fluid increases to facilitate retrieving the inner tube assembly from the vicinity of the second end of the drill string.