Nested Articulated Split Rings for Tubular Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tubulars face limitations in expansion without compromising structural integrity, necessitating a method to enhance reach without internal expansion, particularly for applications requiring significant expansions in casing and sealing engagements.
Innovation Solution
The use of nested articulated split rings on the exterior of a tubular, which can be expanded by relative movement initiated from within or by manipulation, to securely grip a surrounding tubular without exceeding the tubular's expansion limits, utilizing serrated components and optional surface roughening to resist spring-back and enhance diameter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If internal expansion of the tubular is used to increase reach, then the tubular can engage surrounding structures, but the structural integrity is compromised when expansion exceeds limits
Solution Approach 1:
An intermediary expansion device is introduced between the tubular and the surrounding structure. This device expands within the tubular's safe limits while its articulated arms extend outward to achieve the required reach, thus mediating between the constraint of tubular strength and the need for extended engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The expansion mechanism transitions from purely radial expansion to a combination of radial expansion and axial extension through articulated arms. By adding this dimensional component, the system achieves greater reach without requiring excessive radial expansion that would compromise tubular integrity.
2Length of moving object
If the tubular is expanded beyond its natural limits, then greater reach is achieved, but the risk of structural failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion function is segmented between the tubular itself and the separate expansion device with articulated arms. The tubular undergoes only moderate, safe expansion while the articulated mechanism provides the additional circumferential reach, dividing the functional requirements to maintain reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated arms provide dynamic extension capability, allowing the system to adapt its reach independently of the tubular's expansion state. This dynamic mechanism enables the structure to achieve greater circumference without subjecting the tubular to excessive stresses.
3Strength
If an exterior articulated device is used to enhance reach, then the tubular's expansion limits are not exceeded, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion device with articulated arms is nested within or attached to the tubular structure. This nesting approach consolidates multiple components into a compact arrangement that, while functionally complex, occupies minimal space and integrates with the existing tubular geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated expansion device serves multiple functions: it provides structural reinforcement, enables extended reach, and can potentially serve as a mounting platform for additional equipment. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering multiple benefits from a single integrated system.
Data Source
AI summary
Nested articulated split rings move relatively to each other to enlarge their outer dimension for a grip on a surrounding tubular or the wellbore. The rings can be articulated to enlarge their outside dimension with relative movement that can be initiated by dimensional expansion from within the tubular or manipulation of the tubular that creates the desired relative movement. The relative movement can be locked in after it is made to secure the grip. Different shape profiles that magnify the radial outer dimension in excess of the percentage dimensional change in the underlying tubular are contemplated.