Intermediate Clamp for Sample Bottle Assembly in Drill Collars
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current downhole evaluation and identification tools face challenges in maintaining connectability and interchangeability, as well as resilience during drilling operations, due to the complexity and size of multiple tools and systems deployed in hydrocarbon well drilling, which complicates assembly and increases the risk of damage.
Innovation Solution
The development of a sample bottle assembly system with intermediate clamps and spacers that securely hold sample bottle assemblies within drill collar sections, reducing vibration and fluid invasion, and using adhesives to enhance retention and protection during drilling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tools and systems are deployed in multiple drill collars to increase functionality, then the evaluation and identification capabilities are improved, but the assembly and disassembly complexity increases and the risk of damage during operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular drill collar sections, each containing specific tools (formation tester, fluid ID device, sampling device, etc.). These sections can be independently assembled and disassembled, reducing overall complexity while maintaining full functionality. Each section can be handled and installed separately rather than as one large complex assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The drill collar sections are designed with universal connection interfaces that allow the same mechanical structure to accommodate different tool types. The quick-connect mechanism provides a standardized interface that works across multiple tool configurations, simplifying assembly procedures while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tools and systems are deployed in multiple drill collars to increase functionality, then the evaluation and identification capabilities are improved, but the risk of damage during operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
Shock-absorbing elements and protective features are built into the drill collar sections before deployment. The quick-connect mechanism includes built-in alignment features and protective barriers that prevent misalignment damage during connection. These preventive measures are incorporated into the design to protect against operational stresses and potential damage.
3Device complexity
If conventional connection mechanisms are used between drill collar sections, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the assembly and disassembly time increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-connect mechanism is pre-configured with alignment features, locating pins, and guide surfaces that automatically guide the connection process. The internal threads and external threads are pre-positioned to ensure proper engagement, eliminating the need for manual alignment and reducing assembly time significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The conventional complex mechanical fastening system is replaced with a simplified quick-connect mechanism that uses a single rotational motion to achieve both alignment and secure connection. This substitutes multiple manual operations with a single streamlined mechanical action, dramatically improving assembly efficiency.
4Device complexity
If conventional connection mechanisms are used between drill collar sections, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the tool resilience and protection during operations decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism combines multiple materials and structural features: hardened steel threads for wear resistance, elastomeric sealing elements for protection, and reinforced housing materials for strength. This composite approach provides superior resilience and protection while maintaining relatively simple overall structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus according to which one or more zones of interest within a hydrocarbon wellbore are tested. In several exemplary embodiments, the apparatus includes a drill collar section including an outer surface, a pocket accessible through an aperture in the outer surface, a bottle assembly disposed within the pocket, and an intermediate clamp coupled to the outer surface and spanning the pocket. In several exemplary embodiments, the intermediate clamp has an axial length less than an axial length of the bottle assembly. The intermediate clamp is adapted to at least partially retain a sample bottle assembly within the pocket when the sample bottle drill collar section is disposed within the hydrocarbon wellbore. In several exemplary embodiments, the drill collar section further includes at least one of: one or more spacers disposed within the pocket and an epoxy disposed within the pocket.