Pressure-Actuated Downhole Trigger Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing down hole tools, such as well packers, often require complex electronics or specialized devices to set, which can malfunction in corrosive environments and add unnecessary complexity and cost to the process.
Innovation Solution
A pressure-sensitive sleeve system that moves when subjected to a predetermined threshold pressure, allowing hydraulic activation of down hole tools without electronics or mechanical means, using a base pipe with a pressure-sensitive trigger and latch mechanism to open fluid communication and activate the tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If complex electronics are used to set well packers, then automation and control are improved, but reliability deteriorates due to malfunction in corrosive environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic control systems with a purely mechanical pressure-actuated trigger mechanism. The trigger is moved by hydraulic pressure differentials generated by the packer itself during the setting process, eliminating electronics entirely. This mechanical substitution resolves the contradiction by removing electronic components that fail in corrosive environments while maintaining automated packer setting through hydraulic actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The packer setting system becomes self-actuating through the trigger mechanism that responds to pressure differentials generated by the packer's own operation. The hydraulic pressure built up during packer deployment automatically moves the trigger to the fired position, eliminating the need for external electronic control systems or specialized setting devices. This self-service approach improves reliability by removing vulnerable electronic components while maintaining automation.
2Reliability
If specialized plugs or devices are sent down the well to set the packer, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the setting function from external specialized devices and integrates it directly into the packer assembly itself. The trigger mechanism and hydraulic actuation system are built into the packer, allowing it to set itself without requiring separate specialized setting plugs or devices to be sent down the well. This extraction reduces device complexity and cost while maintaining reliable packer setting.
Solution Approach 2:
The packer assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides the sealing function, generates the hydraulic pressure for actuation, and executes the setting action through the trigger mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized setting devices, reducing overall system complexity and cost while maintaining reliable operation.
3Reliability
If a pressure-sensitive trigger with latch mechanism is used, then reliability is improved by eliminating electronics, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses hydraulic pressure differentials to actuate the trigger mechanism, replacing electronic control systems. The pressure-sensitive trigger responds to hydraulic pressure generated by the packer during deployment, moving the trigger to the fired position through purely mechanical-hydraulic action. This approach improves reliability by eliminating electronics while the complexity is managed through the use of standard hydraulic principles and simple mechanical components.
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
Simplifies the setting process of down hole tools by relying on pressure differentials to activate the tool, reducing the risk of malfunction and complexity, and effectively isolating the annulus to prevent fluid migration.
Implementation Method 1
Increasing a pressure in the interior can increase a force differential between the first and second end, and when the force differential is substantially equal to the predetermined force, the latch can release and allow the trigger to move from the unactivated position to the activated position
Implementation Method 2
At least one latch member can prevent movement of the trigger from the unactivated position to the activated position until a predetermined force is applied to the trigger
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for activating a down hole tool in a wellbore. A trigger is moveably positioned in the interior of a base pipe and includes a first end and a second, smaller end. The trigger is moveable between an unactivated position where a port in the base pipe is blocked and an activated position where the port is open. At least one latch member prevents movement of the trigger from the unactivated position to the activated position until a predetermined force is applied to the trigger. Increasing pressure in the interior increases a force differential between the first end and the second end. When the force differential is substantially equal to the predetermined force, the latch releases and allows the trigger to move from the unactivated position to the activated position, thereby opening the port to permit activation of the down hole tool.