Multilateral Junction Non-Threaded Coupling for Lateral Wellbore Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing borehole operations, such as horizontal multistage hydraulic stimulation and multistage hydraulic fracturing, face challenges in efficiently accessing and selectively engaging multiple lateral wellbores in multilateral wells.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a multilateral junction that includes a housing with a bore and a bore coupling profile, a multilateral bore leg with a tubular and a tubular coupling profile, and an arced or toothed coupling that axially fixes the housing and the bore leg relative to each other, allowing for efficient engagement and access to multiple lateral wellbores.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If threaded connections are used to connect housing and tubular, then secure engagement is achieved, but the device cannot be used where threaded connections are not feasible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a non-threaded coupling mechanism as an intermediary between the housing and tubular components. This coupling includes a coupling body with engagement features that interface with corresponding features on both the housing and tubular, providing secure connection without requiring threaded interfaces. This mediator enables the system to achieve reliable engagement in environments where threading is not feasible.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional threaded mechanical connection system with an alternative coupling mechanism. Instead of using threads to create secure engagement, the system employs a non-threaded coupling with complementary engagement features (such as protrusions fitting into recesses or bayonet-style connections) that provide equivalent or superior security without the limitations of threaded interfaces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If non-threaded coupling is implemented, then adaptability to different wellbore configurations is improved, but connection security may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates curved or arced engagement surfaces in the non-threaded coupling design. The coupling body features arced profiles that mate with corresponding arced features on the housing and tubular components. This curvature provides mechanical advantage during engagement, allowing for secure locking through rotational or sliding motion along the curved surfaces, thereby achieving strong connections without threading.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite coupling mechanisms that combine multiple materials or structural elements to achieve both adaptability and strength. The coupling may integrate different material properties (such as combining rigid engagement features with flexible sealing elements) or multiple structural components working together to provide both the versatility needed for different wellbore configurations and the connection strength required for reliable operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a multilateral junction and a well system. The multilateral junction, in one aspect, includes a housing, the housing including a first housing end and a second housing end, a bore extending through the housing from the first housing end to the second housing end, and a bore coupling profile located along an inside surface of the bore proximate the second housing end. The multilateral junction, according to this aspect, further includes a multilateral bore leg extending into the bore, the multilateral bore leg including a tubular having a first tubular end and a second tubular end, and a tubular coupling profile located along an outside surface of the tubular proximate the first tubular end. The multilateral junction, according to this aspect, further includes an arced coupling located between the bore and the tubular and engaged with the bore coupling profile and the tubular coupling profile.