Downhole Tool Locking System Partial Setting Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Downhole tools often require positional adjustments after being set, which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, as they need to be partially set multiple times before reaching a final setting location within a wellbore.
Innovation Solution
A locking system that allows for partial setting of downhole tools without fully engaging the body lock ring, enabling unidirectional movement and sequential adjustments, facilitating precise manipulation and final setting through a combination of threaded connections, shear sequences, and no-go features on a mandrel and carrier ring system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a downhole tool is fully set at a specified position, then the tool is securely locked in place, but the tool cannot be repositioned without additional time and effort
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system transitions from a static fully-locked state to a dynamic partially-locked state, allowing the tool to be repositioned. The body lock ring can be disengaged from the mandrel profile while maintaining engagement with the carrier ring, enabling controlled movement before final setting.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent engagement systems: carrier ring engagement with the mandrel (for partial setting) and body lock ring engagement with the mandrel (for final setting). This segmentation allows selective engagement/disengagement of locking functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a downhole tool allows multiple partial settings, then positional flexibility is improved, but the locking system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier ring serves multiple functions: it engages with the mandrel profile to provide partial setting, supports the body lock ring during setting operations, and enables unidirectional movement control. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows partial engagement of the locking mechanism (carrier ring only) rather than requiring full engagement (both carrier and body lock rings). This partial action enables intermediate positioning states without committing to final setting.
3Manufacturing precision
If the body lock ring is fully engaged with the mandrel, then the tool position is fixed, but operational time is increased due to inability to adjust
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier ring provides preliminary positioning and partial locking before final setting is completed. This preliminary action allows the tool to be positioned close to the target location and temporarily secured, reducing the need for multiple full setting and release cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier ring acts as an intermediary between the body lock ring and the mandrel, providing an intermediate locking state. This intermediary mechanism enables temporary positioning without requiring full engagement of the primary body lock ring.
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole tool setting system includes a tubular member that defines a bore therethrough; a downhole tool positioned to ride the tubular member between a partial set position and a final set position; and a locking system coupled to the downhole tool and configured to adjust the downhole tool from the partial set position based on at least a portion of the locking system moveable relative to the tubular member to the final set position based on at least a portion of the locking system affixed to the tubular member.