Double-Shearing Sleeve for Downhole Packer Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing down hole tools, such as annular casing packers, face challenges in efficient activation and sealing within wellbores, particularly in multi-stage cementing operations, where precise fluid isolation and tool activation are required.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a double-shearing opening sleeve system that includes a first and second shearing resistance mechanism, allowing the sleeve to move from a blocking position to an activated position upon pressurization, exposing ports for tool activation and enabling further down hole operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single-shearing activation mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of fluid isolation and tool activation is insufficient for multi-stage operations
Solution Approach 1:
The activation mechanism is segmented into two independent shearing stages. The first shear pin (224) provides initial activation when landed on, while the second shear pin (228) provides subsequent activation after cementing operations. This segmentation allows each stage to be independently controlled and verified, enhancing overall reliability without requiring a completely complex new mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The first shear pin (224) is designed to fail in advance during the initial landing phase, automatically activating the packer before cementing operations begin. This preliminary action ensures the packer is ready to isolate the annulus before any cementing takes place, preventing premature activation while ensuring readiness.
2Reliability
If the sleeve blocks ports to prevent fluid communication, then fluid isolation is achieved, but the ease of operation for tool activation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical blocking system is replaced with a pressure-activated system. Instead of manually operating valves or switches, the system uses hydraulic pressure transmitted through the work string to automatically fail the shear pins (224, 228) and activate the sleeve (212). This substitution maintains reliable fluid isolation while dramatically improving ease of operation from the surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The activation system is designed to be self-activating based on pressure conditions. When cementing pressure is applied through the work string, the system automatically fails the shear pins and activates the packer without requiring additional manual intervention. The system serves itself by using the cementing pressure as the activation mechanism.
3Productivity
If a double-shearing mechanism is implemented, then the productivity of multi-stage cementing operations is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring activation status increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs visual indicators (such as colored bands or markers on the sleeve and shear pins) that change position or visibility based on activation status. When the first shear pin fails, one indicator becomes visible; when the second shear pin fails, a different indicator becomes visible. This allows operators to detect activation status from the surface without complex instrumentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides mechanical feedback through the work string that indicates activation status. Pressure changes, movement resistance, or audible signals can confirm when shear pins have failed and the packer has activated. This feedback loop allows operators to verify each activation stage without direct downhole observation.
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 solution effectively sets and activates the annular casing packer, ensuring fluid isolation and allowing for successful multi-stage cementing operations by overcoming the shear resistances, enabling efficient down hole tool operation and cementing processes.
Implementation Method 1
the first portion having a first shear resistance for resisting movement of the first portion with respect to the base pipe, and the second portion having a second shear resistance for resisting movement of the second portion with respect to the first portion
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Systems and methods for setting a down hole tool include a base pipe having an interior and defining a port that communicates with a pressure chamber positioned outside of the base pipe. A sleeve is positioned in the interior to substantially block the port and to prevent substantial fluid communication between the interior and the pressure chamber. The sleeve includes a first portion having a first shear resistance for resisting movement of the first portion with respect to the base pipe. The sleeve also includes a second portion having a second shear resistance for resisting movement of the second portion with respect to the first portion. Movement of the first portion with respect to the base pipe in response to overcoming the first shear resistance exposes the port to permit fluid communication between the interior and the pressure chamber for setting the down hole tool.