Downhole Pump Quick-Coupling Assembly for Threadless Rod Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole pump systems for hydrocarbon production require complex threaded connections that are time-consuming and prone to failure, necessitating the use of one-time safety shear pins and limiting the ability to convert well conditions efficiently.
Innovation Solution
Implementing quick-coupling connector assemblies that allow for axial movement to couple and decouple sucker rod pumps and COROD systems, enabling multiple connections and safer operation without shear pins, facilitating conversion between well conditions using slickline or wireline.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If threaded connections are used to connect downhole pumps, then the connection strength is improved, but the installation time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate coupling elements (e.g., a male connector and a female connector) that can be independently installed and then quickly coupled together through axial movement, eliminating the need for complex threaded assembly operations while maintaining connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism transitions from static threaded fastening to dynamic axial coupling, allowing the connectors to be engaged and disengaged through simple linear movements rather than rotational threading, significantly reducing installation and maintenance time
2Strength
If threaded connections are used to connect downhole pumps, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex threaded connection system is segmented into separate coupling components with simplified interfaces, where each component has a dedicated function (e.g., one component provides threading while the other provides axial coupling), reducing the overall complexity of the connection system
Solution Approach 2:
The problematic threaded connection elements are extracted and replaced with a pure axial coupling mechanism, removing the complexity of thread engagement and disengagement while maintaining the necessary connection strength through dedicated coupling features
3Reliability
If one-time safety shear pins are used, then the safety reliability is improved, but the operational versatility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using disposable shear pins that must be replaced after each use, the connector design allows for recovery and reuse of the coupling components through simple axial disengagement, eliminating waste while maintaining safety through controlled connection and disconnection mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The static, one-time connection provided by shear pins is replaced with a dynamic, reusable coupling system that can be engaged and disengaged multiple times through axial movement, providing both safety and operational flexibility for well condition conversions
Data Source
AI summary
A well completion includes a downhole pump, a continuous rod string (COROD) and a first quick-coupling connector assembly. The downhole pump can be disposed at a downhole location within a wellbore. The downhole pump can lift hydrocarbons from the downhole location to a surface of the wellbore. The COROD can couple to the downhole pump. The COROD can axially reciprocate about a longitudinal axis of the wellbore. The first quick-coupling connector assembly includes a first connector coupled to an end of the COROD. The first quick-coupling connector assembly includes a second connector coupled to an end of the downhole pump. The first connector and the second connector can be coupled by an axial force toward each other and be de-coupled by an opposing axial force away from each other.