Downhole Fish-Grabbing Tool for Single-Run Wellbore Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in efficiently retrieving and removing objects, such as tools or debris, from subterranean wells, as they can vary in size and location, and current methods are inefficient and often require multiple runs to complete the retrieval process.
Innovation Solution
A downhole fishing tool equipped with an imaging sub-system, movable claw, and sling hub that allows for single-run diagnosis, engagement, and retrieval of debris by using a movable claw that transitions between open and closed positions, assisted by a sling hub and optionally powered magnets, along with fluid ports for cleaning and optical lenses for enhanced visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional fishing methods are used to retrieve objects from wellbores, then the retrieval process can be completed, but multiple runs are required which increases time and operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (imaging/diagnosis, engagement/capture, and retrieval) into a single integrated fishing tool. The imaging sub-system identifies the fish, the claw engages it, and the sling hub retrieves it all in one run, eliminating the need for multiple separate operations required by traditional methods
Solution Approach 2:
The fishing tool is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform diagnosis through imaging, engagement through the movable claw, and retrieval through the sling hub. This universal tool can handle various fish sizes and locations without requiring different specialized tools or multiple runs
2Productivity
If traditional fishing methods are used, then object retrieval is possible, but operational complexity increases due to multiple runs and varying fish characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the imaging sub-system, movable claw, and sling hub into a single integrated device. This combination allows all functions to be performed in one run while the modular design keeps the complexity manageable through coordinated subsystems rather than a monolithic complex structure
3Illumination intensity
If cleaning fluid is discharged through multiple fluid ports, then visibility and camera protection are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system is segmented into multiple fluid ports distributed around the barrel, each connected to the fluid line through port conduits. This segmentation allows cleaning fluid to be discharged at multiple locations simultaneously, improving overall visibility and camera protection while distributing the complexity across manageable components
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
Enables the efficient and single-run retrieval of debris from wellbores by providing clear visibility, mechanical engagement, and magnetic attraction, thereby reducing operational complexity and time.
Implementation Method 1
The transparent, protective shell encloses the camera and fluidically isolates the camera
Implementation Method 2
An optical lens of the camera is centered on the axis and faces away from the first end of the main body
Implementation Method 3
Some clamping fingers include a magnet section between the connection end and the tipped end
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole fishing tool includes a main body, a hollow cover, an imaging sub-system, a movable claw, and a sling hub. The main body also includes a barrel in which multiple fluid ports are defined. The hollow cover is arranged on the axis and has an inner surface forming an annular space between the barrel of the main body and the inner surface of the cover. The fluid ports are aligned with the cover. The imaging sub-system includes a camera arranged in a compartment defined in the main body. The movable claw and sling hub are mounted on a second end of the main body. The movable claw includes at least two arms bendable at an elbow joint and having s a magnet section for engaging a fish. The sling hub is arranged between the at least two arms and moves the movable claw between an open and closed position.