Downhole Tool Load Diverting System for Wellbore Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole tools face challenges in securely isolating wellbore portions due to inadequate gripping mechanisms and load distribution, leading to inefficient sealing and potential movement during wellbore operations.
Innovation Solution
A downhole tool featuring an elongated mandrel with radially expandable slip assemblies and a sealing element, allowing for directional load bypassing and secure engagement with the wellbore casing, enabling effective sealing and reduced movement during load reversals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sealing element is used to isolate wellbore portions, then sealing effectiveness is improved, but stress concentration and potential failure occur under bidirectional loading
Solution Approach 1:
The tool divides the load-bearing function into separate components: the sealing element maintains the seal while the slip assemblies bear the mechanical loads. This segmentation allows the sealing element to focus on sealing effectiveness without being subjected to bidirectional loading stresses that would cause failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The slip assemblies act as intermediary load-bearing structures between the mandrel and the wellbore casing. They transfer axial loads around the sealing element, preventing direct stress concentration on the seal while maintaining isolation effectiveness.
2Force
If slips are designed to grip the wellbore wall, then holding capability is improved, but load transmission in desired direction is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The slip assemblies are designed with asymmetric engagement features that provide strong gripping force in one direction while allowing controlled movement in the opposite direction. This asymmetry enables the slips to hold the tool securely during setting while still permitting load transmission along the mandrel.
Solution Approach 2:
The slip assemblies transition from a static gripping state to a dynamic load-transmitting state. During setting, the slips engage the wellbore wall to provide holding capability, then transition to transmit axial loads through the mandrel while bypassing the sealing element, adapting their function based on operational requirements.
3Reliability
If the sealing element bears the full setting load, then sealing engagement is improved, but stress concentration leads to potential failure
Solution Approach 1:
The slip assemblies serve as intermediary structures that bear the setting load and transfer it to the wellbore casing through alternative load paths. This prevents the sealing element from bearing the full setting load, reducing stress concentration while maintaining reliable sealing engagement through controlled radial expansion.
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
The tool provides reliable sealing and reduced stress on the sealing element, enhancing durability and resistance to wellbore casing burst and collapse, while allowing for efficient load transmission and movement in desired directions.
Implementation Method 1
a first radially expandable engagement member adapted to grip the wall of the wellbore
Implementation Method 2
a first wedge adapted to expand the first radially expandable engagement member
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole tool for providing a seal downhole within a wellbore for reducing loading experienced by a sealing member of the downhole tool is disclosed. The downhole tool may include a pair of directional locking members, at least one of which is operable to transfer a loading experienced by the downhole tool through rigid components of the downhole tool, thereby bypassing the sealing member.