Downhole Connector Speed Control via Radial Lug Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
The precision in axial movement and speed of downhole pipe strings in subterranean wellbore environments is lacking, making it difficult to wet mate optical fibers effectively, which is crucial for communication and sensing applications.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that control the connection speed of downhole connectors by using a lock assembly with radially shifting lugs, a resistance assembly with a transfer piston, and a key assembly to ensure precise alignment and controlled axial shifting, enabling reliable communication between optical fibers or other communication media.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If downhole connectors are used for wet mating optical fibers in subterranean wellbores, then communication and sensing capabilities are enabled, but precision in axial movement and speed control is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state and parameters of the connection process by introducing a controlled axial movement mechanism that regulates speed and position parameters. The system transitions from uncontrolled gravitational movement to controlled mechanical advancement, enabling precise alignment of optical fibers during wet mating operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanical system between the downhole connectors that mediates the connection process. This intermediary mechanism provides controlled axial movement and speed regulation, acting as a buffer between the rough wellbore environment and the precision requirements of optical fiber mating.
2Reliability
If downhole connectors are used for wet mating optical fibers, then communication capabilities are enabled, but speed control during connection is variable and imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by regulating the speed parameter during the connection process. The mechanical advancement system controls the velocity at which connectors approach each other, ensuring optimal speed for wet mating operations rather than allowing uncontrolled variable speed movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control through the mechanical advancement system that monitors and adjusts the connection speed in real-time. The system responds to positional and alignment feedback to maintain optimal connection speed, ensuring reliable wet mating of optical fibers despite variations in wellbore conditions.
3Ease of operation
If production tubing string is lowered from surface to connect with completion string, then reconnection is enabled, but precision in axial movement is lost due to friction and gravitational forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary controlled advancement mechanism that mediates between the surface-operated tubing string and the downhole completion string. This intermediary system filters out the effects of friction and gravitational forces, providing precise axial movement control during the reconnection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the direct gravitational mechanical system with a controlled mechanical advancement system. Instead of relying on gravity-driven movement that is subject to friction and speed variability, the system uses controlled mechanical means to achieve precise axial positioning for reconnection.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods for controlling the connection speed of downhole connectors in a subterranean well are disclosed. An apparatus includes a first assembly having a first downhole connector and a first communication medium that is positionable in the well. A second assembly includes a second downhole connector and a second communication medium and has an outer portion and an inner portion that are selectively axially shiftable relative to one another. A lock assembly including at least one lug initially couples the outer and inner portions of the second assembly together such that, upon engagement of the first assembly with the second assembly downhole, the lug is radially shifted releasing the lock assembly to allow axial shifting of the outer portion of the second assembly relative to the inner portion of the second assembly, thereby operatively connecting the first and second downhole connectors to enable communication between the communication media.