Radially Deformable Anchoring Device for Tubular Structures

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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

VSEngineering 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

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanchoring functionVSAvoidannular space
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanchoring capabilityVSAvoidtubular wall thickness
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If conventional anchoring devices are used, then they provide basic anchoring function, but they are prone to buckling under high loads

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebasic anchoring functionVSAvoidresistance to buckling
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStability of the object's composition

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Ease of operation

If slips are positioned away from the tubular wall, then installation is easier, but the anchoring effectiveness is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidanchoring effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

using buckling to stabilize the anchor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBuckling:

Data Source

PatentUS10208550B2Anchoring device, system and method of attaching an anchor to a tubular
Publication Date: 2019.02.19 BAKER HUGHES CO
  • US10208550B2 patent drawing
  • US10208550B2 patent drawing
  • US10208550B2 patent drawing

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.