Downhole Jarring Tool Reduced Wear Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Drilling operations in harsh environments face challenges with tools getting stuck in well bores, leading to equipment damage and operational disruptions, as existing tools are not wear-resistant enough to function reliably in complex and deep well conditions.
Innovation Solution
A jarring tool with an extensible joint featuring a latched mechanism that generates an impact force under tensile stress, utilizing a collet device and spring washers to separate sub-ends and reset for repeated use, ensuring reliable operation and minimizing wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing latched mechanisms are used in jarring tools, then the tool can generate impact force to free stuck equipment, but the latch components experience excessive wear and fail after limited use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the latch components, specifically designing the inner latch piece with a curved surface that complements the outer latch piece geometry. This parameter optimization reduces stress concentration and distributes wear more evenly, allowing the latch mechanism to withstand repeated impact cycles without failure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different material properties to different components of the latch mechanism. The inner latch piece is designed with wear-resistant properties while the outer latch piece provides structural strength. This composite approach allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall durability and resistance to wear
2Strength
If the latch mechanism is designed for strength and reliability, then it can withstand high tensile forces, but the structure becomes more complex and harder to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: the inner latch piece with curved surface, the outer latch piece with corresponding geometry, and the restraining collar. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall structural integrity and simplifying manufacturing of individual parts
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of designing the latch to prevent movement in all directions, the patent allows controlled movement along the curved surface during latching, then restrains movement in that direction after engagement. This inversion of the constraint approach simplifies the mechanism by allowing natural guidance during engagement while providing restraint only when needed
3Ease of operation
If the restraining collar is made loose to allow easy latching and unlatching, then operation is simpler, but the latch pieces experience more wear from unrestricted movement
Solution Approach 1:
The restraining collar is designed with specific dimensional parameters that provide just enough clearance to allow easy passage of the latch pieces during latching and unlatching operations. The collar's inner diameter and length are optimized to minimize friction and wear while maintaining operational simplicity, creating a balance between ease of use and wear reduction
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 tool effectively frees stuck tools and equipment by generating a significant impact force, reducing the risk of damage and allowing for repeated use, thus enhancing operational efficiency and reducing downtime in drilling operations.
Implementation Method 1
The outer latch piece may be biased toward the inner latch piece by a coil spring
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a collet device and spring washers to separate sub-ends and reset for repeated use
Implementation Method 3
An impact force is generated from the tensile force when the joint unlatches and reaches a maximum extension
Data Source
AI summary
A jarring tool having an extensible joint connecting first and second sub ends. A first inner latch piece connects to the upper sub end, and a second outer latch piece connects to the lower sub end. The joint, in a latched position, has the outer latch piece latched to the inner latch piece and the inner and outer latch pieces restrained from unlatching by a stationary restraining collar. Under tensile force the joint unlatches into an unlatched position by the outer latch piece pulling the inner latch piece through the restraining collar into a position where the inner and outer latch pieces are free to separate. An impact force is generated from the tensile force when the joint unlatches and reaches a maximum extension.