Downhole Expansion Module Rolling Means Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for installing casing or liner in a well bore face challenges in achieving smooth and continuous transport of the expansion module, leading to abrupt propulsion and difficulty in ensuring satisfactory expansion.
Innovation Solution
A downhole well tool with a tool unit and an expansion module, featuring a piston system for fluid pressure differential operation and rolling means with decreasing diameters along the axial direction, allowing controlled expansion and easy replacement of worn-out components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If rolling means with decreasing diameters are used in the expansion module, then the transport of the expansion module through the casing or liner becomes smooth and continuous, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rolling means are designed with varying diameters along the axial direction of the expansion module, creating local quality differences. Each rolling means has a specific diameter suited for its position, enabling smooth navigation through casings or liners of different diameters while maintaining continuous transport without abrupt stops.
2Ease of repair
If the expansion module is designed with replaceable rolling means, then the ease of repair improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rolling means are designed as separate, replaceable components rather than an integrated structure. This segmentation allows individual rolling means to be removed and replaced independently when worn out, significantly improving ease of repair while the modular design keeps the added complexity manageable.
3Productivity
If differential fluid pressure is used to move the expansion module, then the productivity improves, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses differential fluid pressure (hydraulic principle) to propel the expansion module through the casing or liner. Fluid pressure differences created by pumping fluid into the well annulus space provide the force needed to move the expansion module axially, enabling continuous transport and improving productivity while managing energy requirements through efficient fluid pressure utilization.
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
The solution enables simpler and continuous transport of the expansion module, ensuring homogeneous expansion of the casing or liner with reduced differential pressure requirements and easy maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
The tool unit in accordance with the invention may be operated by the differential fluid pressure brought about over the piston(s) of the tool unit
Implementation Method 2
an expansion module with roller means arranged along the axial direction of the expansion module, wherein each set of rolling means is provided at an outer circumference of the expansion module
Implementation Method 3
The piston may be provided with means for communication of fluid from one well annulus space at one side of the piston through the piston and to the other well annulus space at the other side of the piston
Data Source
AI summary
A down hole well tool for installing a casing or liner in a well bore includes a tool unit and an expansion module for expansion of the casing or liner. The expansion module has at least two sets of rolling means arranged along an axial direction of the expansion module, and each set of rolling means is provided at an outer circumference of the expansion module. The diameter of the rolling means decreases at least between the two sets along the expansion module, providing the expansion module with a decreasing diameter in an axial down hole direction of the well bore.