Integrated Igniter Release Tool for Reliable Downhole Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for efficient techniques to reliably connect, release, and activate downhole tools in harsh and compact downhole environments.
Innovation Solution
A release tool with an integrated igniter is used to detach a downhole tool portion by igniting a propellant, unlocking a locking mechanism, and releasing the downhole portion from the uphole portion using ignition pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If an integrated igniter is incorporated into the release tool, then the release operation can be activated directly downhole without requiring separate igniter deployment, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The igniter is integrated into the release tool assembly, combining the igniter and release tool into a single unified component. This merging eliminates the need for separate igniter deployment operations and allows the release tool to be activated directly downhole, improving operational efficiency while accepting increased structural complexity as a trade-off.
2Reliability
If the release tool uses a locking mechanism secured by ignition pressure, then reliable connection and release can be achieved in harsh downhole environments, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is replaced with an ignition-pressure-activated release system. Instead of complex mechanical locking and unlocking mechanisms, the system uses a propellant-driven ignition pressure to actuate the release, simplifying the mechanical complexity while improving reliability in harsh downhole environments through a more robust activation method.
3Loss of time
If the release tool is designed for quick connection and disconnection, then downtime is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The release tool is pre-assembled with the igniter and locking mechanism integrated before deployment to the wellsite. This preliminary assembly ensures that all components are properly positioned and secured, reducing on-site assembly time and downtime while maintaining high manufacturing precision through controlled pre-assembly processes.
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
Enables quick connection/disconnection of downhole components, reduces downtime, and maintains the integrity of conveyance systems in challenging downhole conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The switch assembly is operatively connected to the internal propellant whereby, upon triggering the switch, the internal propellant is ignited to release an ignition fluid under ignition pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A release tool for releasing a downhole portion a downhole tool, including a release housing, top and bottom subs, a release assembly, and an integrated igniter. The top sub and bottom subs connected to the downhole tool. The release assembly including a release mandrel and a locking mechanism. The release mandrel is operatively connected to the top sub and the bottom sub, and releasably secures the release assembly to the bottom sub. The integrated igniter includes an integrator housing, a switch assembly, and an internal propellant. The switch assembly is operatively connected to the internal propellant whereby, upon triggering the switch, the internal propellant is ignited to release an ignition fluid under ignition pressure to unlock the locking mechanism and release the downhole portion of the downhole tool from the uphole portion of the downhole tool.