Deformable Barrier Member for Downhole String Sealing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for sealing in downhole petroleum extraction, such as using a fracturable dome, result in debris interfering with tool operation due to fragmented components, necessitating additional complexity like debris traps.
Innovation Solution
A deformable barrier member with a weakened path is integrated into a downhole string, which ruptures under predetermined pressure, allowing passage and utilizing a slidable sleeve to capture and retain the deformed segments, preventing debris from interfering with tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fracturable dome is used to seal and provide buoyancy, then the seal and buoyancy functions are achieved, but the dome fragments interfere with tool operation
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful fragments are extracted from the flow path by the slidable sleeve, which captures and retains them in a debris retention position, separating the harmful byproduct from the functional flow path
Solution Approach 2:
The rupture of the barrier member, which initially creates harmful fragments, is converted into a beneficial event by the slidable sleeve mechanism that automatically captures and contains the fragments, preventing them from interfering with tool operation
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a debris trap is added to catch fragments, then debris interference is prevented, but the string length and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The debris retention function is merged with the existing barrier member and slidable sleeve assembly, eliminating the need for a separate debris trap component and reducing overall string complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The slidable sleeve serves multiple functions: it acts as a rupture initiation tool, a debris retention mechanism, and a flow control element, consolidating what would otherwise require separate components
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a slidable sleeve is used to capture fragments, then debris interference is prevented without additional complexity, but the mechanism requires precise positioning and activation
Solution Approach 1:
The slidable sleeve is activated automatically by the pressure differential that occurs during normal operation, moving from the retracted position to the debris retention position without requiring external intervention or complex control systems
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 effectively seals and provides buoyancy without the need for additional length or complexity, ensuring smooth operation by containing the ruptured segments within the string.
Implementation Method 1
The barrier member may be ruptured by exceeding a predetermined pressure within the elongate body at a location above the barrier member
Implementation Method 2
The bridging portion may include at least one weakened path defining at least one leaf portion operable to be separated from the remainder of the barrier member along the weakened path
Implementation Method 3
The slidable sleeve may be biased towards the dome by a pressure within the bore
Implementation Method 4
A further purpose of providing a seal in a completion string is to seal a quantity of air below the seal so as to provide buoyancy to the completion string when it is passed through or along a horizontal section of the well bore
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for selectably sealing an interior bore of a completion string comprises an elongate body and has connectors for connecting the body in line with a completion string. An interior wall of the apparatus forms a bore through the elongate body. A rupturable barrier member fastened to and bridging the bore is deformable so as to permit passage therepast after being ruptured. The barrier member includes at a weakened path defining a leaf extending from a hinge portion narrower than the widest portion of the leaf.