Multi Plug System Axial Lock Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Setting multiple plugs in a borehole in a single trip is hindered by rigid connections, making it time-consuming and expensive, as once a lower plug is set, the above plugs are prevented from rotating to set themselves.
Innovation Solution
A method and assembly that include a string with a first and second lock axially separated, where a ball dropped through the string activates both locks to allow the plug to rotate into a set configuration, enabling flexibility and independent rotation of plugs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If multiple plugs are connected rigidly in a string, then structural integrity is maintained, but the ability of each plug to rotate independently is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The string is divided into multiple plug assemblies, each with its own lock mechanism. The first lock and second lock are axially separated along the string, allowing each plug assembly to be independently activated and rotated without affecting the structural integrity of the entire string.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanisms transition from a locked state (maintaining structural integrity) to an unlocked state (allowing independent rotation). The dynamic switching between these states enables both structural stability during transport and operational flexibility during setting.
2Reliability
If multiple plugs are set in separate trips, then each plug can be set properly, but time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple plug assemblies are combined into a single string that can be deployed in one trip. The string includes a first plug assembly and a second plug assembly axially separated, allowing both plugs to be set during a single deployment operation, thereby reducing trip time and cost while maintaining reliable setting of each plug.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug assemblies are pre-configured on the string with lock mechanisms in the locked position before deployment. This preliminary configuration allows the entire assembly to be deployed in one trip, with each plug ready to be activated independently at its target location.
3Reliability
If a lower plug is set first, then it provides borehole containment, but plugs above it cannot rotate to set themselves
Solution Approach 1:
Each plug assembly has its own independent lock mechanism (first lock and second lock axially separated), allowing individual activation. This segmentation enables the lower plug to be set and provide containment while the upper plugs remain independent and can still rotate and set themselves subsequently.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanisms act as intermediaries between the ball activation and the plug setting action. The ball can activate the first lock and second lock independently, allowing controlled rotation and setting of each plug in sequence without interference from previously set plugs.
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
Enables the setting of multiple plugs in a single trip, reducing time and cost by allowing each plug to rotate and set independently within the borehole.
Implementation Method 1
activating the first lock and the second lock via the ball dropping through the bore
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly and a method of setting a plug in a borehole. The assembly includes a first lock, a second lock axially separated from the first lock. The plug is located between the first lock and the second lock. A bore of the assembly passes through the first lock, the second lock and the plug. A ball is dropped through the bore and activates the first lock and the second lock to allow the plug to rotate into a set configuration in the borehole.