Force Transferring Member Prevents Inadvertent Actuation in Wellbore Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Controlling the operation of wellbore tools is challenging due to inadvertent actuation caused by different force and pressure levels, leading to confusion and potential failure in performing subsequent functions.
Innovation Solution
A tool design incorporating a collet member, cone member, seal assembly, and a force transferring member that moves from a first state preventing relative movement to a second state allowing movement between the seal assembly and cone member, ensuring precise control and preventing premature actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If large volumes of fluid are pumped to pressurize the tool to obtain a predetermined pressure level, then the tool can be actuated to perform a specific function, but an impact force generated by the sudden release of the pressurized fluid can inadvertently cause the actuation of another function
Solution Approach 1:
A force transferring member is introduced as an intermediary component between the seal assembly and the cone member. This member includes a shear pin that transfers force from the seal assembly to the cone member, but only after a predetermined force threshold is exceeded. The shear pin prevents direct transmission of impact forces below this threshold, thereby blocking the harmful path while allowing the intended force transmission path to function correctly.
Solution Approach 2:
The force transferring member is pre-configured with a shear pin that requires a predetermined force to shear it. This preliminary setup ensures that only forces exceeding the predetermined threshold can activate the cone member, preventing inadvertent actuation by smaller impact forces while maintaining reliable operation when the correct actuation force is applied.
2Reliability
If the force transferring member prevents relative movement between the seal assembly and the cone member, then inadvertent actuation is prevented, but the seal assembly cannot move relative to the cone member when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The force transferring member transitions from a static connection to a dynamic one. The shear pin is configured to remain intact under normal operating forces, maintaining the connection between seal assembly and cone member. When a predetermined force threshold is exceeded, the shear pin shears to allow relative movement. This dynamic behavior enables the system to automatically adapt its mechanical connection state based on the magnitude of the applied force.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical connection state of the force transferring member changes based on the force parameter. Below the predetermined force threshold, the shear pin maintains a rigid connection preventing relative movement. When the force exceeds the threshold, the shear pin changes state by shearing, allowing relative movement between the seal assembly and cone member. This parameter-driven state change enables both prevention of inadvertent actuation and controlled movement when needed.
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
This solution effectively prevents inadvertent actuation, allowing for accurate operation of wellbore tools by ensuring that forces are transmitted correctly, thereby enhancing the reliability and performance of wellbore operations.
Implementation Method 1
The force transferring member includes a shear pin configured to transfer a force from the seal assembly to the cone member
Implementation Method 2
The cone member includes a tapered surface that converts linear motion into radial expansion motion
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for use in a wellbore comprising a seal assembly, a collet member, and a cone member. The seal assembly is coupled to the collet member and in engagement with the cone member. A force transferring member is movable from a first state that prevents relative movement between the seal assembly and the cone member, to a second state where the seal assembly is movable relative to the cone member.