Radially Deformable Anchoring Device for Tubular Structures
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current tubular anchoring devices require annular space for slips and cones, limiting their functionality and strength, and are prone to buckling under high loads.
Innovation Solution
An anchoring device with a radially deformable member that compresses slips against the tubular wall, providing frictional engagement and using buckling to stabilize the anchor, and incorporating features like T-shaped bars and conical spring washers to enhance load distribution and prevent fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional slips and cones are used for anchoring, then the anchoring function is achieved, but annular space is consumed that could be used for other purposes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the anchoring function from the traditional cone-and-slip configuration and relocates it to a member that deforms radially outward from the slip. This separation allows the slip to be positioned closer to the tubular wall, minimizing the annular space consumed by the anchoring mechanism while maintaining effective anchoring through the deforming member's radial expansion.
2Reliability
If traditional cone and slip configuration is used, then anchoring is achieved, but the wall thickness must be increased to compensate for space loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conical geometry that consumes radial and axial space to a member that primarily deforms in the radial dimension. By confining the anchoring action to radial deformation rather than requiring thick walls, the system achieves effective anchoring without increasing tubular wall thickness, thereby preserving the dimensional integrity of the tubular structure.
3Reliability
If conventional anchoring devices are used, then they provide basic anchoring function, but they are prone to buckling under high loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a member that dynamically deforms radially outward in response to compressive loads applied to the slip. This dynamic radial expansion creates a stabilizing effect that prevents buckling under high loads, as the deforming member actively resists compressive forces through its radial expansion rather than passing them through the slip in a rigid, buckling-prone configuration.
4Ease of operation
If slips are positioned away from the tubular wall, then installation is easier, but the anchoring effectiveness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the anchoring system into distinct functional components: the slip positioned for easy installation, and the separate member that deforms to create the actual anchoring force. This segmentation allows the slip to be installed in accessible positions while the deforming member generates the necessary anchoring effectiveness through radial expansion, decoupling installation ease from anchoring effectiveness.
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
The solution achieves secure anchoring with reduced space requirements and increased strength, maintaining engagement under high radial and longitudinal forces while preventing fluid flow and buckling, thus overcoming the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
compresses slips against the tubular wall, providing frictional engagement
Implementation Method 2
using buckling to stabilize the anchor
Data Source
AI summary
An anchoring device includes at least one slip configured to fixedly engage the anchoring device to a structure when urged against the structure, and a member separate from the at least one slip positioned radially of the at least one slip having a portion that is radially deformable in response to longitudinal compression, the portion being configured to urge the at least one slip against the structure when deformed.


