Integrated Debris Catcher and Plug System for Single-Trip Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing debris catcher and plug systems in the oil and gas industry require multiple downhole trips for installation and retrieval, increasing time and cost due to the need for separate trips to set the plug and the debris catcher.
Innovation Solution
An integrated debris catcher and plug system that allows for a single downhole trip deployment using a downhole power unit with a debris catching sleeve and running tool, where the debris catcher remains securely closed and in place after setting, utilizing shear features to disengage from the plug during retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate trips are used to set the plug and debris catcher, then each component can be properly installed, but the operational time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the plug and debris catcher into a single integrated assembly that can be deployed together in one trip. The debris catcher is positioned above the plug with mechanical coupling features that allow both components to be installed simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate trips while ensuring proper installation of both components.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated assembly serves multiple functions in a single deployment: the plug provides wellbore isolation while the debris catcher captures debris generated during subsequent operations. This multi-functional design allows both components to be properly installed in one trip, reducing operational time and cost.
2Reliability
If separate trips are used to set the plug and debris catcher, then each component can be properly installed, but the operational cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the plug and debris catcher into a single integrated assembly that can be deployed together in one trip. The debris catcher is positioned above the plug with mechanical coupling features that allow both components to be installed simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate trips while ensuring proper installation of both components.
3Productivity
If the debris catcher is placed above the plug in a single trip, then time and cost are reduced, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: the plug portion for wellbore isolation and the debris catcher portion for debris capture. These segments are connected through standardized mechanical coupling features that simplify the overall system while enabling single-trip deployment. The segmentation allows each component to perform its function independently while being part of a unified assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a debris catcher and a debris catching system are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a debris catching system comprises a plug and a debris catcher, the debris catcher including at least a debris catching sleeve, a running tool coupled to the debris catching sleeve, the running tool including an uphole end and a downhole end, and further wherein the uphole end of the running tool is configured to slide to engage a downhole end of the debris catching sleeve and form a collection base of the debris catcher; and a coupling rod attached to the uphole end of the running tool, the coupling rod configured to engage a downhole setting device; wherein the plug is removably coupled with the downhole end of the running tool during downhole deployment of the debris catching system.