Downhole Pulling Tool Selective Anchor Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wellbore operations with anchoring tools are limited in functionality due to the need for anchor engagement before other tools can operate, requiring separate motorization and multiple trips for cutting and pulling operations.
Innovation Solution
A single-trip cut and pull system with a cutter, power section, and independently actuable anchor, where the anchor is selectively engaged after cutting, allowing for rotation-driven cutting and hydraulic or electromechanical actuation for setting and resetting, reducing complexity and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If anchor is engaged first before cutting operations, then the anchor provides stable support for subsequent operations, but the tool requires separate motorization and multiple trips for cutting and pulling operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cutting function and pulling function into a single integrated tool assembly that can perform both operations in one trip. The cutter and anchor are integrated into the same tool string, allowing the tool to cut casing and then pull the cut section without requiring separate tools or multiple trips. This merging eliminates the need for separate motorization systems and reduces operational complexity while maintaining the reliability of anchor support during operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic actuation of the anchor mechanism that can be selectively engaged or disengaged based on operational requirements. The anchor is not permanently set but can be dynamically activated when needed for pulling operations and deactivated when cutting operations are required. This dynamic control allows flexible sequencing of operations within a single trip, resolving the contradiction between needing stable anchor support and avoiding complex multi-trip procedures.
2Productivity
If anchor is engaged first, then the tool can perform pulling operations, but cutting operations require separate motorization and additional trips
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cutter and pulling tool into a single integrated assembly that can perform both functions during one trip. The cutter is positioned to cut casing before the anchor engages for pulling operations. This integration eliminates the need for separate motorization systems for cutting and pulling, as both functions are achieved through the mechanical action of the single tool assembly being deployed once. The result is improved productivity through single-trip operations without the device complexity of multiple motorized systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If anchor is selectively actuable independently of power section, then operational flexibility is enhanced, but control mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service control mechanism where the anchor actuation is automatically triggered by operational conditions rather than requiring independent complex control systems. For example, the anchor may be automatically actuated when certain depth thresholds are reached or when specific operational parameters are met. This self-service approach provides operational flexibility and adaptability to different well conditions while avoiding the complexity of elaborate independent control mechanisms for the anchor.
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 efficient cutting and pulling of casing in a single run without the need for a downhole motor, with independent actuation of the anchor allowing for rotational cutting and hydraulic or electromechanical setting, enhancing operational flexibility and reducing operational complexity and costs.
Implementation Method 1
hydraulic or electromechanical actuation for setting and resetting
Implementation Method 2
hydraulic or electromechanical actuation for setting and resetting
Data Source
AI summary
A single-trip cut and pull system for a wellbore including a cutter, a power section, and an anchor selectively actuable independently of the power section; a method for cutting and pulling casing in a single run including running a cut and pull system on a string to a target depth, rotating a cutter of the cut and pull system to cut a casing section, and actuating an anchor of the cut and pull system after cutting the casing section; and a method for cutting and pulling casing in a single run including running a cut and pull system on a string to a target depth, rotating a cutter of the cut and pull system by rotating the string to cut a casing section, and pulling the cut casing in the single run.