Fluid-Driven Latching Core Barrel for Wireline Drilling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wireline core drilling systems are time-consuming due to drag from spring-loaded latching mechanisms and hydraulic pressure from drilling fluids, which slow the tripping of core sample tubes in and out of the drill string.
Innovation Solution
A high productivity core drilling system with a drill string comprising variable geometry drill rods, an inner core barrel assembly with a fluid-driven latching mechanism and detent mechanism to prevent dragging, and high efficiency fluid porting to reduce resistance and enhance fluid flow, allowing faster tripping of the core sample tube.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring-loaded latching mechanism is used in the core retrieval assembly, then the core sample tube can be securely retained in the drill string, but the latches drag against the interior surface of the drill string and slow the tripping process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the dragging latches from the system by using a retrieval assembly that moves through the drill string without engagement latches contacting the drill string interior. The core sample tube is retained through other means while the latches are removed to eliminate the source of drag.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical spring-loaded latching mechanism with an alternative retention system that does not rely on mechanical latches dragging against the drill string. This substitution eliminates the friction and drag caused by the mechanical latching system while maintaining secure retention.
2Reliability
If drilling fluid is present inside the drill string, then the borehole can be stabilized and cooled, but the fluid creates hydraulic pressure that limits the tripping rate of the core sample tube
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the drill string interior into separate zones by introducing a telescoping core barrel assembly that creates isolated chambers. This segmentation allows drilling fluid to be contained in specific sections, reducing hydraulic pressure resistance on the tripping assembly while maintaining borehole stabilization in the annular space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a telescoping core barrel assembly as an intermediary structure between the drill string and core sample tube. This intermediary component manages fluid dynamics by creating controlled flow paths and pressure zones, reducing hydraulic resistance to tripping while preserving the beneficial effects of drilling fluid for borehole stabilization.
3Reliability
If the entire drill string is removed from the borehole to retrieve a core sample, then the core can be accessed, but the process is time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the drill string into functional sections by introducing a wireline-based core retrieval assembly that operates independently within the drill string. This segmentation allows the core sample tube to be tripped in and out through the drill string without removing the entire drill string, significantly reducing downtime while maintaining reliable core retrieval capability.
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
Significantly reduces the time required for core drilling operations by minimizing resistance and hydraulic pressure, thereby increasing productivity and efficiency in core drilling.
Implementation Method 1
The latching mechanism may include a detent mechanism that retains the latches in either an engaged or a retracted position
Implementation Method 2
the latching mechanism may be fluid-driven
Implementation Method 3
The inner core barrel assembly also comprises high efficiency fluid porting
Data Source
AI summary
High productivity core drilling systems include a drill string, an inner core barrel assembly, an outer core barrel assembly, and a retrieval tool that connects the inner core barrel assembly to a wireline cable and hoist. The drill string comprises multiple variable geometry drill rods. The inner core barrel assembly comprises a non-dragging latching mechanism, such as a fluid-driven latching mechanism that contains a detect mechanism that retains the latches in either an engaged or a retracted position. The inner core barrel assembly also comprised high efficiency fluid porting.