Downhole Tool Configuration Device Torque Tension Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for delivering torque and tension to downhole tools in subterranean formations are either time-consuming and expensive when using a single pipe string or pose safety concerns when using multiple pipe strings, particularly in the context of Blow Out Preventer operations.
Innovation Solution
The Downhole Tool Configuration Device (DTCD) employs a hydrostatic fluid bearing to rotationally isolate torque transfer between an upper stem and an outer sleeve, allowing for simultaneous tension application to the outer sleeve and torque transfer to an inner sleeve using a single pipe string, enabling selective operation modes for manipulating downhole tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single pipe string is used to deliver both torque and tension to downhole tools, then operational efficiency and safety are improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for selective mode switching mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic switching mechanisms that allow the single pipe string to selectively deliver torque or tension based on operational requirements. The configuration device includes movable components that change the mechanical connection state between the pipe string and downhole tools, enabling mode switching without requiring multiple separate pipe strings.
Solution Approach 2:
The single pipe string is designed with multi-functionality to perform both torque delivery and tension application operations. The configuration device enables the same pipe string to serve multiple purposes by changing its mechanical configuration, eliminating the need for separate dedicated pipe strings for different functions.
2Ease of operation
If multiple pipe strings are used to deliver torque and tension separately, then the ease of operation is improved, but safety concerns and operational complexity increase due to multiple components in the Blow Out Preventer cavity
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the functions of multiple pipe strings into a single pipe string by using a configuration device that can selectively connect to different downhole tools. This consolidation reduces the number of components in the Blow Out Preventer cavity while maintaining the ability to perform both torque and tension operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the single pipe string and multiple downhole tools. It provides selective connection and disconnection capabilities, allowing the pipe string to be routed to different tools as needed without requiring multiple permanent pipe string connections in the BOP cavity.
3Device complexity
If a single pipe string is retrieved and reconfigured to switch between torque and tension delivery, then device complexity is reduced, but the loss of time increases due to the time-consuming retrieval and reconfiguration process
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration device is pre-installed and configured in the wellhead assembly, with all necessary connection mechanisms and routing paths already in place. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid switching between torque and tension modes without requiring time-consuming retrieval and reconfiguration operations, as the system is designed to accommodate both functions simultaneously.
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 and safe delivery of torque and tension to downhole tools using a single pipe string, reducing operational complexity and safety risks while accommodating various downhole tool configurations and operations.
Implementation Method 1
The DTCD includes an upper stem coupled to an outer sleeve through a hydrostatic fluid bearing. The upper stem is movable between an up position and a down position. When the upper stem is in the up position, it is coupled to the inner sleeve through a first coupling mechanism. When the upper stem is in the down position, it is coupled to the outer sleeve through a second coupling mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods for operating a downhole tool are disclosed. A downhole tool configuration device includes an upper stem movable between an up position and a down position. The upper stem comprises an extended portion. An outer sleeve is selectively coupleable to the upper stem at the up position and the down position and an inner sleeve is selectively coupleable to the upper stem at the up position and the down position. In the up position, the upper stem is operable to transfer tension to the outer sleeve and torque to the inner sleeve. In the down position, the upper stem is operable to transfer torque to the outer sleeve.