Downhole Impact Generator for Stuck Tool Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retrieval tools are unable to effectively dislodge stuck well tools in deep, deviated, inclined, or horizontal wellbores without overloading the conveyance, and lack the capability to provide sufficient jarring force for retrieval operations.
Innovation Solution
A downhole impact generator with a moveable shaft and jarring tool that can be positioned and energized to deliver a controlled jarring force to stuck well tools, allowing for single or multiple impacts without relying on the conveyance for force generation, and includes a self-contained power unit or surface-controlled operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If prior art retrieval tools are used to dislodge stuck well tools, then the well tool can be retrieved, but the conveyance becomes overloaded and cannot support the required force
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the force generation function into two separate components: the conveyance (wireline/slickline) that only transports the tool, and the downhole impact generator that provides the jarring force. This segmentation allows the conveyance to remain lightweight while the impact generator delivers the necessary force through a separate powered mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The downhole impact generator acts as an intermediary between the conveyance and the stuck well tool. It receives the conveyance's transport function and adds its own force generation capability through the motor-driven impact mechanism, thereby mediating the interaction between the limited-capacity conveyance and the high-force requirement of dislodging stuck tools.
2Force
If the conveyance is used to generate force for dislodging stuck well tools, then the well tool can be moved, but the cumulative weight and friction in deep, deviated, inclined or horizontal wells make this impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The force generation capability is extracted from the conveyance and placed into a separate downhole impact generator. The conveyance is taken out of the force generation function, retaining only its transport role, while the impact generator provides the necessary dislodgment force through its own motor-driven mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The downhole impact generator is self-powered through an electric motor that converts electrical energy to mechanical motion, enabling it to generate impact forces independently of the conveyance's weight or the wellbore configuration. This self-service capability allows the system to overcome the limitations of deep, deviated, inclined, or horizontal wellbores.
3Force
If a downhole impact generator is added to provide sufficient jarring force, then stuck well tools can be dislodged, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The downhole impact generator merges multiple functions into a single integrated tool assembly: the motor-driven impact mechanism, the anchor for positioning, and the coupling to the well tool are combined into one unit. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed compared to using the conveyance for force generation, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The downhole impact generator is designed as a multi-functional device that can: (1) deliver impact forces to dislodge stuck well tools, (2) anchor itself in the wellbore for stable positioning, and (3) couple to various well tool types. This universality reduces the need for multiple specialized tools, thereby simplifying the overall retrieval operation.
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 successful dislodgment and retrieval of stuck well tools from challenging wellbore configurations without overloading the conveyance, providing a reliable method for shifting or actuating well tools from one operational state to another.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring assembly (316) disposed within the housing (252) and operable to generate an impact force when energized by the moveable shaft (66)
Implementation Method 2
a recock compression spring (344) disposed within the housing (252) and operable to return the firing lug assembly (340) to its restrained position when the firing ring (370) is moved into the firing groove (356)
Implementation Method 3
The downhole impact generator of the present invention includes a downhole power unit having a moveable shaft and a jarring tool
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole impact generator (60) is adapted to be moved to a target location within a wellbore (68) for transmitting a jarring force to a well tool (72) positioned in the wellbore (68). The downhole impact generator (60) includes a downhole power unit (62) having a moveable shaft (66) and a jarring tool (64). The jarring tool (64) is operably engageable with the well tool (72) and is operably coupled with the moveable shaft (66) of the downhole power unit (62) such that when the jarring tool (64) is operably engaged with the well tool (72), linear movement of the moveable shaft (66) energizes the jarring tool (64) such that a jarring force can be transmitted by the jarring tool (64) to the well tool (72).