Downhole Tractor Configuring Tubular String Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the resources exploration and recovery industry, repairing or adding devices to a downhole string requires removing the string from the formation, which is time-consuming and costly, resulting in wells being offline for extended periods.
Innovation Solution
A system with a tubular string featuring a connector system and a tractor deployable into the string, equipped with a cable reel and frangible link components, allowing for configuration and reconfiguration of components like connectors and screens without removing the string, using a control system to manage these operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the downhole string is removed for repairs or additions, then device repair and addition can be completed, but the well is offline for extended periods and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tractor is deployed inside the existing downhole string and navigates through the tubular structure to reach target components. The tractor carries replacement devices and configuration tools within its body, allowing it to perform repairs and additions from the interior without removing the string from the wellbore.
Solution Approach 2:
The tractor serves as an intermediary vehicle that transports devices, tools, and configuration capabilities to remote downhole locations. It interfaces with components through mechanical connections and electrical cables, enabling repairs and modifications without direct human intervention or string removal.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the downhole string is removed for device additions, then new devices can be installed, but the operation becomes time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration of downhole components while the string remains in place. The tractor can navigate to different locations, attach or detach devices, and reconfigure connector systems as needed, providing operational flexibility without the fixed constraint of string removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The downhole string is segmented into manageable sections with individual connector systems that can be independently accessed and reconfigured. The tractor interacts with specific connector components at targeted locations, allowing localized modifications without affecting the entire string assembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If connector systems with frangible link components are used, then component configuration flexibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frangible link component is designed as a separate, removable element within the connector system. It can be extracted or broken by the tractor to release or secure devices as needed, providing configuration flexibility through a simple mechanical feature rather than complex control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A resource exploration and recovery system includes a first system, a second system including a tubular string having an inner surface, a connector system provided at the inner surface, a screen component, and a cable extending between the connector system and the control system. The connector system includes at least one connector component and at least one frangible link component. A tractor is deployable into the tubular string. The tractor includes a cable reel having an amount of cable deployable in the tubular string. The tractor is connected to a control system and is operable to configure at least one component in the tubular string including at least one of the connector component, the frangible link component and the screen component.