Modular Downhole Tool Cartridge Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current downhole tools for formation evaluation in wellbores lack flexibility and modularity, making it difficult to customize and reconfigure tools for specific drilling operations and customer requirements, which can lead to inefficiencies and tool failures in harsh environments.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of modular cartridge assemblies and collar assemblies that can be coupled in various configurations, allowing for the creation of customizable downhole tools with standardized connectors for fluid and electrical communication, enabling flexible tool configurations and easy reconfiguration for different drilling tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If downhole tools are designed as integrated fixed configurations, then structural integrity and reliability are improved, but flexibility and adaptability for different drilling operations deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The downhole tool is divided into multiple modular collar assemblies that can be independently selected and combined. Each collar assembly performs a specific function (e.g., sampling, pressure measurement, fluid analysis) and can be configured in different sequences to meet specific operational requirements while maintaining overall tool integrity
Solution Approach 2:
Standardized connectors and interfaces are implemented across all collar assemblies, enabling a universal configuration system. The same connector design allows different collar assemblies to be interchangeably coupled in various sequences, providing multi-functionality and adaptability for different drilling operations without compromising structural reliability
2Adaptability or versatility
If downhole tools are designed with modular cartridge assemblies, then adaptability and ease of reconfiguration are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each collar assembly is further segmented into interchangeable cartridge modules that can be independently replaced or upgraded. This segmentation allows complex functionality to be broken down into manageable, standardized units that simplify the overall assembly process despite the modular complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The modular cartridge design allows for parameter standardization (connector types, interface protocols, mounting mechanisms) that reduces the perceived complexity. By establishing fixed parameters for interfaces and connections, the system manages complexity through standardization rather than eliminating modular flexibility
3Ease of manufacture
If standardized connectors are used for fluid and electrical communication, then ease of manufacture and assembly are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Tolerances and dimensional parameters for the standardized connectors are established and controlled during manufacturing. By defining precise parameter ranges for connector features (hole positions, thread specifications, sealing surfaces), the system achieves both ease of assembly and required manufacturing precision through standardized specifications
Solution Approach 2:
Uniform connector designs are used across all collar assemblies, creating homogeneous interface standards. This homogeneity allows for simplified manufacturing processes and quality control while maintaining precise alignment through consistent, repeatable connector geometries across the entire tool string
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a downhole tool for conveyance in a wellbore extending into a subterranean formation. The downhole tool includes a modular cartridge assembly that includes a chassis assembly within a housing and that includes a flow line and an electrical pathway. The modular cartridge assembly includes a first connector at a first end and a second connector at a second end. The first connector and the second connector are in fluid communication with the flow line and are further in electrical communication with the electrical pathway.