Dual Bore Packer Cut-to-Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cut to release packers face challenges such as requiring sufficient string tension for release, complexity in seal design, and loss of well control due to string cutting, which compromises packer strength and integrity.
Innovation Solution
A dual bore packer with a cut to release mechanism featuring a sleeve and biasing means to hold tubing in tension, allowing release without needing string tension below, and a simplified design that maintains packer strength and well control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If cut to release mechanism is used, then packer can be retrieved, but string tension is required for release operation
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using tension from the string below the packer to release the packer (conventional approach), the invention inverts the approach by using compression force applied to the string above the packer. The release mechanism is activated by compressing the string above the packer, which transfers force through the packer body to trigger release of the anchoring means, eliminating the need for string tension below the packer.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a release mechanism with a movable element that acts as an intermediary between the compression force applied to the string above the packer and the anchoring means. This intermediary mechanism converts the compression force into the necessary action to release the packer from the wellbore, mediating the force transmission and enabling release without direct string tension below the packer.
2Ease of operation
If string is cut for release, then packer can be unset, but well control is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the release operation from the string integrity. By using a release mechanism that can be activated through compression of the string above the packer, the packer body and anchoring means can be released without cutting the string. This segmentation allows the string to remain intact and continuous, maintaining well control while still enabling packer retrieval through release of the anchoring mechanism.
3Ease of repair
If pull to release or shift to release is used, then packer can be retrieved, but maximum pressure is limited by shear pins or shiftable device
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using tension-based release methods (pull to release or shift to release) that are limited by the strength of shear pins or shiftable devices, the invention inverts to a compression-based release mechanism. By applying compression force to the string above the packer, the release is triggered without relying on tensile strength limits, thereby eliminating the pressure capacity limitation imposed by shear pins or shiftable devices.
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 reliable and efficient release of the packer without string tension, maintaining packer strength and allowing safe well control during retrieval, even in horizontal or deviated well bores.
Implementation Method 1
the biasing means acts to hold the portion of the thin-walled section of tubing in tension with respect to the sleeve
Implementation Method 2
a sealing means E...typically an elastomeric packing element...to provide a pressure tight barrier in an annulus outside tubing to prevent hydrocarbons travelling up the annulus to surface
Implementation Method 3
an anchoring means D...typically toothed slips...to provide anchoring force
Data Source
AI summary
A packer for anchoring and sealing to a tubular in a well, the packer including a packer element, an anchoring arrangement, a setting mechanism and a release mechanism. The release mechanism holds a thin-walled section of tubing in the packer in tension using a biasing mechanism. On severing the tubing, the bias releases an engagement mechanism which allows the anchor arrangement and the packing element to move relative to the body and thereby unset the packer. An embodiment of a dual bore packer is described. A method of well isolation is described, with an assembly including the dual bore packer. The primary bore forms the short string and a secondary bore forms the long string. By severing the short string the integrity of the long string is maintained to pull lower devices on the long string and the short string does not require tension below the packer to release.