Modular Downhole Tool Arm Activation Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Downhole tools used in oil and gas wells face challenges due to their complex mechanical designs, which lead to potential leaks and difficulties in assembly and disassembly, especially at great depths, requiring reliable and easy-to-use solutions that minimize the need for special equipment and reduce the number of components.
Innovation Solution
A modular downhole tool design featuring a tool housing with pivotally mounted arm assemblies and a two-part piston housing system, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly without special equipment, with integrated fluid channels and a spring member for reliable hydraulic operation, enabling scalable configurations and centralized positioning within the well.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex mechanical design with multiple functionalities is used, then the tool can perform various operations downhole, but the number of components increases leading to more potential leaks and assembly difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is divided into modular components including a tool housing, multiple arm assemblies, and activation assemblies that can be independently assembled and configured. Each arm assembly can be separately installed into the tool housing, allowing for simplified assembly and disassembly while maintaining multiple functionalities.
Solution Approach 2:
The arm assemblies are designed as universal components that can perform multiple functions depending on their configuration and activation. The same basic arm assembly structure can be used for different operational modes, reducing the total number of unique components needed while maintaining versatility.
2Reliability
If traditional assembly methods are used for downhole tools, then the tool can be assembled with proper sealing and mechanical integrity, but special equipment and tools are required making maintenance difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The tool housing is divided into separable parts with standardized connection interfaces that allow for easy assembly and disassembly without requiring special equipment. The modular design enables field maintenance and repair operations while maintaining proper sealing through designed connection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is designed to be self-assembling through intuitive connection interfaces and alignment features that guide the assembly process without requiring specialized tools or equipment. The modular components can be independently handled and connected by standard procedures.
3Manufacturing precision
If the tool is designed as a single integrated unit, then manufacturing precision can be maintained, but the tool cannot be easily modified or maintained during operations
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is segmented into modular components that can be independently manufactured to high precision and then assembled. This allows each component to be optimized for manufacturing while enabling easy modification and reconfiguration during field operations without compromising the precision of individual parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool design transitions from a static integrated structure to a dynamic modular configuration where components can be added, removed, or repositioned during operations. The standardized interfaces maintain manufacturing precision while enabling adaptability to different operational requirements.
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 modular design simplifies maintenance and operation by reducing the need for special equipment, enhances reliability through robust hydraulic systems, and allows for easy modification of the hydraulic circuit to fit specific operations, while maintaining tool functionality in harsh environments.
Implementation Method 1
a piston member arranged inside the piston housing and connected with the arm assembly, the piston member being movable in the piston housing in the longitudinal direction of the downhole tool
Implementation Method 2
a spring member arranged inside the piston housing
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a downhole tool extending in a longitudinal direction, comprising a tool housing; an arm assembly pivotally mounted about a pivot point fixed in relation to the tool housing and movable between a retracted position and a projecting position in relation to the tool housing; an arm activation assembly for moving the arm assembly between the retracted position and the projecting position, the arm activation assembly being arranged inside the tool housing and having a first end face and a second end face adapted for being connected with the end faces of other arm activation assemblies; wherein the arm activation assembly comprises: a piston housing having a piston chamber extending in the longitudinal direction of the downhole tool and comprising: a first piston housing part, a second piston housing part removably connected to the first piston housing part, a piston member arranged inside the piston housing and connected with the arm assembly, the piston member being movable in the piston housing in the longitudinal direction of the downhole tool.