Multi-Finger Caliper Segmented Finger Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing oil/gas well corrosion during the production phase inadequately characterize small localized faults, estimate the operating envelope, and identify reductions in casing wall thickness, and are not operable in all conditions, particularly with gas or live production fluids.
Innovation Solution
A multi-finger caliper module with independently rotatable measuring fingers and complementary linking portions in a tool body, equipped with linear displacement sensors, allows for accurate measurement of casing diameters and fault detection by enabling easy maintenance and precise finger replacement without invasive procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional MFC tools are used to measure casing corrosion, then corrosion assessment is performed, but maintenance complexity increases and measurement accuracy deteriorates over time
Solution Approach 1:
The MFC tool is divided into modular components: a tool body with multiple independent slots, each containing a measuring finger assembly. Each finger can be independently replaced or maintained without affecting other fingers, simplifying maintenance while preserving measurement accuracy across all measurement points.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring fingers are designed with rotational freedom within their slots, allowing dynamic adjustment to accommodate varying casing diameters and corrosion patterns. This dynamic capability maintains measurement accuracy while reducing the complexity of fixed-geometry tool designs.
2Ease of repair
If measuring fingers are firmly fixed in the tool body, then measurement stability is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Each measuring finger is a separate, replaceable module within its own slot. The finger assemblies can be independently removed and replaced without disturbing other measurement components, enabling easy repair while maintaining the stability of the overall measurement system through consistent tool body geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between measuring fingers and tool body utilizes elastic deformation of linking portions. By controlling the elasticity parameter, the design achieves a balance between firm fixation for stable measurements and sufficient flexibility for easy assembly and disassembly during maintenance.
3Device complexity
If measuring fingers are tightly secured in slots, then measurement precision is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool body contains multiple independent slots, each with its own receptacle and measuring finger assembly. This segmentation allows simple, repeatable slot geometries to be used throughout, reducing manufacturing complexity while ensuring consistent finger positioning accuracy in each slot through standardized designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The linking portions between measuring fingers and receptacles utilize spherical or curved geometries that provide natural pivot points. This curved design simplifies the slot structure compared to rigid mechanical connections while maintaining precise finger positioning through the geometric constraints of the spherical joints.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure introduces an MFC module for use in a tubular extending into a subterranean formation. The MFC module includes a tool body having slots that each include a receptacle. The MFC module also includes measuring fingers each independently rotatable within a corresponding one of the slots via a corresponding pivot formed by complementary linking portions of the measuring finger and the receptacle of the corresponding slot. The linking portions of the receptacle are situated on opposing side walls of the receptacle. The MFC modules also includes linear displacement sensors each operable for sensing an orientation of a corresponding one of the measuring fingers relative to the tool body.