Downhole Latch Orientation via Aligning Profile
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Solution Overview
Problem
In deep or extended reach wells, rotationally securing a latch assembly within a latch coupling is challenging due to delayed torque signals caused by torsional flexibility and winding, leading to over-stressing of latch keys and potential release from the latch coupling.
Innovation Solution
A system for circumferentially orienting a downhole latch subsystem, which includes a casing string with a window joint and a latch coupling, featuring an orienting subassembly with an orienting profile that allows the primary latch key to engage and align the latch keys with the latch profile without requiring further rotation, thereby preventing over-stressing and release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the tool string is rotated to align the latch assembly circumferentially in deep or extended reach wells, then the latch assembly can be positioned in the desired orientation, but the delayed torque signal causes over-stressing of the latch keys and potential release from the latch coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing a circumferential alignment indicator on the tool string that can be set before entering the wellbore. This indicator serves as a pre-established reference that guides the rotational alignment process, allowing the latch assembly to be oriented correctly without requiring prolonged rotation during downhole operations, thereby preventing over-stressing of the latch keys.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a circumferential alignment indicator as an intermediary element between the surface control system and the downhole latch assembly. This indicator acts as a mediator that transmits alignment information through the tool string, enabling precise circumferential orientation without direct torque transmission to the latch keys, thus eliminating the over-stressing problem caused by delayed torque signals.
2Ease of operation
If the latch assembly is rotated into position using conventional methods, then the latch keys can engage the latch profile, but the torsional flexibility and wind up of the workstring cause delayed torque signal transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical torque signal transmission system with a visual alignment indicator system. Instead of relying on torque signals that are delayed and attenuated by torsional flexibility, the alignment indicator provides immediate visual feedback at the surface that corresponds to the rotational position of the latch assembly, eliminating the time delay inherent in mechanical torque transmission through the workstring.
3Reliability
If additional rotation is applied to ensure proper engagement of latch keys with the latch profile, then the latch assembly can be securely anchored, but the latch keys become over-stressed and may release from the latch coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing the correct circumferential orientation before the latch assembly is lowered into the wellbore. The alignment indicator is set in advance to indicate the precise rotational position, allowing the latch keys to engage the latch profile smoothly without requiring additional rotation or excessive force, thereby preventing over-stressing while ensuring reliable anchoring.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
An apparatus for circumferentially orienting a downhole latch assembly in a wellbore. The downhole latch assembly has a plurality of latch keys including a primary latch key. The apparatus includes a casing string positionable in the wellbore. A window joint is interconnected in the casing string. A latch coupling having a latch profile is interconnected in the casing string downhole of the window joint. An orienting subassembly interconnected in the casing string has an orienting profile positioned uphole of the latch profile such that, after operable engagement of the primary latch key with the orienting profile, axial alignment of the latch assembly with the latch coupling causes operable engagement of the latch keys with the latch profile.