Indexing Tool J-Slot Mechanism Prevents Inadvertent Valve Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In emergency situations, such as when a string is cut and falls, existing tools can inadvertently open a barrier valve, potentially magnifying the danger, as they are actuated upon initial contact with the operator, leading to undesirable valve operation.
Innovation Solution
An indexing tool with a j-slot indexing mechanism and travel stops is integrated into the string, preventing initial contact from actuating the tool, allowing subsequent manipulation to safely operate the valve by reconfiguring the tool's position, ensuring the barrier valve remains closed until intended operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operating tool is positioned above the barrier valve operator, then the tool can be easily operated during normal running in, but the barrier valve could potentially open inadvertently upon contact during emergency situations
Solution Approach 1:
The indexing tool incorporates a pin in a short slot that preliminarily prevents the operating tool from reaching the barrier valve operator during initial landing. This preliminary blocking action occurs before any potential inadvertent operation, ensuring the valve remains closed during emergency string cutting while still allowing normal operation after deliberate reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The indexing tool acts as an intermediary device between the operating tool and the barrier valve operator. The pin in the slot mechanism serves as a mediator that controls and regulates the interaction, allowing operation only when deliberately reconfigured through picking up and setting down, thereby preventing direct inadvertent contact during emergencies
2Productivity
If the string is cut with shear rams in an emergency, then the string can be quickly removed, but the operating tool may inadvertently actuate the barrier valve upon contact
Solution Approach 1:
The indexing mechanism with pin in short slot preliminarily blocks the operating tool's path to the valve operator before emergency cutting occurs. This preliminary protective action ensures that even if the string is cut and the tool contacts the valve, the valve cannot open inadvertently, maintaining reliability during high-speed emergency response
Solution Approach 2:
The indexing tool provides beforehand protection by positioning the pin to stop the operating tool's downward movement before it can reach the barrier valve operator. This prior cushioning effect prevents the harmful outcome of inadvertent valve opening during emergency string cutting operations
Data Source
AI summary
An indexing tool is incorporated into a tubular string. The indexing tool is intended to function as a variable travel stop so that on initial landing other tools associated with the string will not extend to an operating position for tools that would otherwise operate on contact with relative movement. The indexing device can prevent a shifting device from engaging a valve operator when the index device initially lands on a support either during normal operation or in an emergency such as when shear rams have cut the string to allow it to fall so that a blowout preventer can be operated to engage opposed rams. In such an emergency the barrier valve operator will not be actuated and the string is later fished with the barrier valve closed. A pickup and set down force then allows the barrier valve to open when desired.