Downhole Anchor Pad Radial Extension for Variable Tubular Diameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current downhole tools face challenges in anchoring both small and large wellbore tubulars due to limited reach of one anchoring system and insufficient gripping force of another, necessitating a singular mechanism that can effectively anchor in various diameters.
Innovation Solution
The development of an anchoring mechanism with a wedge extension system that can extend past the outer surface to anchor in small diameter tubulars and utilize a telescopic or sliding mechanism to grip large diameter tubulars, ensuring secure anchoring through radial force and friction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a first type of anchoring system with wedges is used to anchor in small wellbore tubulars, then the downhole tool can securely anchor in small diameter tubulars, but the anchoring system has limited reach and cannot anchor in large wellbore tubulars
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring system incorporates a dynamic extension mechanism that allows the anchoring pad to extend radially outward from the tool body. This dynamic extension enables the same anchoring system to reach both small and large diameter tubulars by adjusting the extension distance based on the tubular size, resolving the contradiction between secure anchoring in small tubulars and reach for large tubulars
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring system is designed with universal functionality to anchor in both small and large diameter tubulars using the same device. The system includes both wedge mechanisms for small tubulars and extension capabilities for large tubulars, making it a multi-functional anchoring solution that eliminates the need for different anchoring systems for different tubular sizes
2Adaptability or versatility
If a second type of high expansion anchoring system is used to anchor in large wellbore tubulars, then the downhole tool can anchor in large diameter tubulars, but the anchoring system cannot generate sufficient gripping force in small wellbore tubulars
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring system employs different anchoring mechanisms for different tubular size scenarios: wedge-based mechanisms that generate high gripping force for small tubulars, and expansion pad mechanisms for large tubulars. Each local component is optimized for its specific function, ensuring sufficient gripping force is generated regardless of tubular diameter
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring system is segmented into multiple functional components including wedges for small tubular engagement and extension mechanisms with anchoring pads for large tubular engagement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific size range while working together as an integrated system that provides adequate gripping force across all tubular diameters
3Reliability
If separate anchoring systems are used for small and large wellbore tubulars, then each system can be optimized for its specific tubular size, but the device complexity increases and versatility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the previously separate anchoring systems into a single integrated anchoring device. The combined system includes both wedge mechanisms and extension mechanisms with anchoring pads, all controlled by a single actuation system. This merging maintains the reliability of each anchoring method for its optimal size range while reducing overall device complexity and improving versatility
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 enables the downhole tool to securely anchor in both small and large diameter tubulars, enhancing the versatility and effectiveness of wellbore servicing operations by providing consistent anchoring across different tubular sizes.
Implementation Method 1
The outer surface of the anchor pad can be in contact with the tapered outer surface of the wedge hub to extend the anchor pad radially outward
Implementation Method 2
the extension mechanism is configured in an activated mode in response to a compression loading
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole anchoring mechanism configured to anchor a downhole tool assembly to a target location within an oilfield tubular. The anchoring mechanism comprises an anchor pad, a first arm coupled to a first hub and the anchor pad, and an extension mechanism coupled to a wedge hub and the anchor pad. The anchor pad is configured to extend radially outwards by the tapered surface of the wedge hub to engage an inner surface of a small oilfield tubular in response to the extension mechanism being configured in a deactivated mode. The anchor pad is configured to be extended radially outwards by the first arm and the extension mechanism to engage the inner surface of a large oilfield tubular in response to the extension mechanism being configured in an activated mode. The extension mechanism is a telescopic arm assembly or a sliding axle assembly.