Radially Expandable Hang-Off Tool for Logging String
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing logging string systems in hydrocarbon drilling operations are limited by the need for a shoulder inside the drill string, which reduces the inner diameter and restricts the size of the logging tool, limiting its capabilities and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A radially expandable hang-off tool that can engage a radially increased profile of the tubular member's inner surface, allowing for increased diameter without the need for a shoulder, coupled with a computing system for data communication and a drop-off tool with a release latch for tool disengagement and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a shoulder inside the drill string is used to support the logging tool, then the logging tool can be suspended and prevented from downward movement, but the inner diameter of the drill string is reduced, which limits the maximum allowed diameter of the logging string system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a radially expandable member that can dynamically change its radial dimension. In the retracted position, it allows maximum inner diameter for tool passage. In the expanded position, it engages the radially increased profile to provide suspension support, eliminating the need for a fixed shoulder structure that would permanently reduce the inner diameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The radially expandable member changes its radial parameter (dimension) based on operational requirements. When suspension is needed, the member expands radially to engage the radially increased profile of the tubular member. When not needed, it retracts to maintain a larger inner diameter, thus adapting the structural parameter to functional requirements.
2Reliability
If the inner diameter of the drill string is reduced to accommodate a shoulder, then the logging tool can be supported, but the flexibility and size selection of the logging string system is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The radially expandable member provides dynamic support capability, allowing the same drill string to accommodate different logging tool sizes and configurations. The member expands only when needed to engage the radially increased profile, enabling versatile tool selection without permanently compromising the inner diameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The radially expandable member serves multiple functions: it acts as a suspension support mechanism, enables engagement with the radially increased profile for tool retention, and maintains a larger inner diameter when retracted to allow various tool configurations. This multi-functionality replaces the need for a fixed shoulder design that would limit versatility.
3Volume of moving object
If a radially expandable member is used to engage the radially increased profile, then the inner diameter can be increased and a shoulder is eliminated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radially expandable member is a dynamic component that transitions between retracted and expanded states. This dynamic capability allows the system to achieve a larger inner diameter when needed while providing suspension support when required, effectively eliminating the need for a permanent shoulder structure despite the added component complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A hang-off tool for supporting a tool inside a tubular member includes a logging string configured to generate logging data, a computing system coupled to the logging string and configured to communicate the logging data to another tool, and a radially expandable member having a retracted position and an expanded position. The radially expandable member is configured to engage a radially-increased profile of an inner surface of the tubular member in the expanded position to support the hang-off tool. The radially expandable member is also configured not to engage the radially-increased profile in the retracted position.