Downhole Shape-Memory Article Deployment via Degradable Control Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Deploying shape-memory articles downhole requires complex and time-consuming pumping operations, necessitating the development of alternative effective methods for deployment.
Innovation Solution
A downhole assembly comprising a shape-memory article and a deployment control element with a degradable body and seal, containing an activation fluid that degrades the deployment control element, releasing the activation fluid to expand the shape-memory article and conform it to the wellbore or pipe surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If dedicated pumping operations are used to deploy shape-memory articles downhole, then the articles can be deployed, but the operation becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The deployment control element automatically releases the activation fluid using its own internal mechanisms (degradable body, spring, or pH-sensitive materials) without requiring external pumping operations. The system serves itself by utilizing the wellbore environment (fluids, temperature) to trigger the release mechanism, thereby eliminating complex pumping equipment and reducing deployment time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical pumping system with alternative release mechanisms including degradable materials that dissolve in wellbore fluids, pH-sensitive materials that respond to chemical changes, or spring-loaded mechanisms that automatically release. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical pumping operations while achieving the same deployment function
2Ease of operation
If dedicated pumping operations are used to deploy shape-memory articles downhole, then the articles can be deployed, but the operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the pumping equipment from the deployment system by using the wellbore environment itself (fluids, temperature, pressure) to trigger the release mechanism. The deployment control element is designed to automatically release the activation fluid without requiring external pumping devices, thereby simplifying the overall system
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment control element uses its own internal mechanisms (degradable body, spring, pH-sensitive materials) to release the activation fluid autonomously. The system leverages the natural wellbore environment to trigger the release, eliminating the need for complex external pumping equipment and reducing operational complexity
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
This method allows for autonomous activation of shape-memory articles without additional pumping or heating, reducing installation time and complexity while avoiding direct handling of volatile fluids, thus offering environmental benefits.
Implementation Method 1
Shape-memory polymers (SMPs) are polymers that regain their original shape when heated above their glass transition temperature (Tg)
Implementation Method 2
the body, the seal element, or both of the deployment control element is degradable in the presence of the activation fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole assembly includes: a shape-memory article; and a deployment control element adjacent the shape-memory article, the deployment control element having a body and a seal element that forms an enclosure together with the body, the deployment control element further including an activation fluid disposed in the enclosure, wherein the body, the seal element, or both of the deployment control element is degradable in the presence of the activation fluid.