Inner Bore Coupling Assembly for HFTO-Resistant Component Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mechanical assemblies used in drilling systems are vulnerable to damage from high frequency torsional oscillations, causing devices within the drill string to become dislodged due to excessive vibrations.
Innovation Solution
A mounting system comprising an outer collar, a stop element, a compression element, and a thrust ring, which utilize conical surfaces and threaded engagements to secure components axially and rotationally within the collar, effectively resisting high frequency torsional oscillations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If clamping and locking devices are used to secure components in drilling systems, then the components can be held in place, but the assemblies become vulnerable to damage from high frequency torsional oscillations and vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful vibrational energy into a beneficial locking mechanism. The compression element utilizes the dynamic forces from high frequency torsional oscillations to drive the finger deeper into the pocket, transforming what would be damaging vibrations into a self-tightening effect that enhances component retention during drilling operations
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from static clamping and locking devices to a dynamic system where the compression element can move axially and rotate. This dynamic capability allows the mechanism to respond to and adapt to the varying vibrational forces during drilling, maintaining effective component retention under changing operational conditions
2Reliability
If conventional clamping and locking devices are used, then components can be secured, but the device complexity increases without sufficient protection against HFTO
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated compression element that simultaneously provides axial compression, rotational locking, and vibration resistance. The finger-pocket interface combines both axial and rotational restraint in one feature, eliminating the need for separate clamping and locking devices and reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining high reliability against HFTO
Solution Approach 2:
The compression element serves multiple functions: it provides axial compression force, enables rotational locking through the finger-pocket interface, and responds dynamically to vibrational forces. This multi-functional design achieves superior HFTO resistance without requiring multiple separate components, thereby reducing device complexity
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 system securely fastens components within the drill string, preventing damage from vibrations and maintaining the integrity of devices during drilling operations.
Implementation Method 1
a compression element between the stop element and the outer collar, the compression element includes at least one of a finger and a pocket on a first axial end and include a first shoulder on a second axial end along the longitudinal axis and opposite the first axial end
Implementation Method 2
The compression element applies a coupling force onto the inner surface of the outer collar
Implementation Method 3
The stop element includes a conical surface on an outer surface along the longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 4
the stop element includes a conical surface on an outer surface along the longitudinal axis, a compression element between the stop element and the outer collar
Implementation Method 5
the first fastening means includes first threads on an inner surface of the tubular housing, and second threads on an outer surface of the stop element
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting system secures a component in a tubular, which includes a compression element and an annular flow guide. The flow guide is attached to the component by a threaded connection. The compression collar and flow guide have complementary profiles on their respective inner and outer surfaces, which when the compression collar is coaxially urged along the outer surface of the flow guide, the compression collar is radially expanded into compressive engagement with an inner surface of the tubular. A thrust ring threads onto the flow guide, and when rotated, abuts an end of the compression collar to urge the compression collar along the flow guide. The compression collar is rotatable with respect to the flow guide, and includes fingers that register with pockets on an outer housing of the component. Registering the fingers and pockets resists loosening of the threaded connection between the flow guide and component.