Laser Powder Welding Fishing Tool for Downhole Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
The retrieval of objects that have fallen or become stuck in subterranean wells is often difficult, expensive, and time-consuming due to the challenges of accessing and removing these objects from the wellbore.
Innovation Solution
A downhole fishing tool equipped with nozzles to dispense a cladding powder and lenses to direct a laser beam at the powder, effectively welding the tool to the object, allowing for the object to be pulled uphole along with the tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional fishing tools are used to retrieve objects from wellbores, then the retrieval process becomes difficult and time-consuming, but the tool structure remains simple
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (cladding powder dispensing, laser beam delivery, and welding) into a single integrated fishing tool assembly. The tool merges the nozzle system for powder delivery, the optical fiber or waveguide for laser transmission, and the welding mechanism into one unified device that can be lowered into the wellbore, thereby improving retrieval efficiency while managing complexity through functional integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection methods (such as threaded connections or mechanical grippers) with laser powder welding technology. Instead of using mechanical fastening mechanisms to attach the tool to the fish, the system uses a laser beam to melt and fuse cladding powder with the object surface, creating a strong metallurgical bond that simplifies the mechanical structure while enhancing retrieval capability
2Strength
If traditional mechanical connection methods are used to attach the tool to the object, then the tool structure remains simple, but the connection strength is insufficient for heavier objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection methods (such as threaded connections, grippers, or clamps) with laser powder welding technology. The system delivers a laser beam through an optical fiber or waveguide to melt and fuse cladding powder with the object surface, creating a strong metallurgical bond that can withstand the forces of retrieving heavier objects, thereby increasing connection strength while reducing mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the connection process by using laser heating to melt the cladding powder and object surface, transitioning from a mechanical attachment process to a thermal metallurgical bonding process. This parameter change (from mechanical force to thermal energy) enables stronger connections for heavier objects while simplifying the overall connection mechanism
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 solution enables the efficient retrieval of objects from wellbores by forming a strong weld between the fishing tool and the object, facilitating safe and effective uphole pulling, even for heavier and larger objects.
Implementation Method 1
one or more lenses configured to direct a laser beam at the cladding powder disposed on the object, thereby welding the fishing tool to the object
Implementation Method 2
The heat generated by the beam melts and welds the cladding powder to a first surface and a second surface
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole fishing tool for retrieving an object from a wellbore includes a main body assembly, one or more nozzles configured to dispose a cladding powder on the object when the object is proximate to the tool, and one or more lenses configured to direct a laser beam at the cladding powder disposed on the object, thereby welding the fishing tool to the object such that pulling the tool in an uphole direction pulls the object along with the fishing tool.