Latch Collet Torque Buttons for One-Trip Multilateral Junctions
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Solution Overview
Problem
The construction of multilateral wells is costly due to the time-consuming number of trips required to drill and complete the well, particularly in forming multilateral junctions.
Innovation Solution
A new multilateral system incorporating a latch collet design with anti-preset features and a running tool that automatically releases upon correct engagement, allowing for a combined milling/running tool and reducing the number of trips needed to construct a multilateral junction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional deflector assemblies are used to form lateral wellbores, then the wellbore can be constructed, but the number of trips required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the deflector assembly and anchor assembly into a single integrated running tool that can be installed in one trip. The running tool includes both the deflector for forming the lateral wellbore and the anchor for securing the assembly to the wellbore wall, eliminating the need for separate installation trips.
Solution Approach 2:
The running tool is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both a deflector to divert the wellbore and an anchor to secure the assembly. The universal design allows the same tool to complete both tasks that previously required separate operations, reducing the number of trips needed.
2Productivity
If multiple separate assemblies are used for lateral wellbore formation, then each component can be optimized, but the overall construction time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the deflector assembly and anchor assembly into a single integrated running tool. This combination allows both components to be installed simultaneously in one trip, reducing construction time while maintaining the functional optimization of each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated running tool is designed with segmented functional sections: the deflector portion for wellbore diversion and the anchor portion for securing. This segmentation allows each function to be optimized independently while being installed as a unified assembly, reducing overall construction time.
3Force
If conventional anchoring methods are used, then the deflector assembly can be secured, but the torque transmission capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor assembly features asymmetric engagement surfaces and torque buttons designed to transmit rotational forces in specific directions. The asymmetric geometry provides enhanced torque transmission capability while maintaining reliable securing of the deflector assembly through controlled engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque buttons and engagement surfaces utilize curved and spherical geometries that distribute rotational loads more effectively. This curvature allows for better torque transmission while maintaining secure anchoring, improving both force transmission and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a latch collet, a well system, and a method for forming a well system. The latch collet, in one aspect, includes a collet body, the collet body having a plurality of collet fingers. The latch collet, according to this aspect, further includes a torque button located on a radial exterior of each of the plurality of collet fingers, wherein a width (WTB) of each of the torque buttons is within 10% of each other.