Pressure Actuated Release Tool for Downhole Disconnect
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole disconnect mechanisms lack efficient and reliable methods for releasing stuck tools and strings, particularly when a work string gets stuck before or after tool delivery, necessitating a means to remotely initiate disconnection without physical intervention.
Innovation Solution
A pressure pulse signal is processed to operate a valve, allowing tubing or annulus fluid pressure to move a piston against an atmospheric or low-pressure chamber, breaking a shear pin and releasing the locking dogs to separate the connected components, with redundant mechanisms for backup and alternative applications like opening or closing tubular wall ports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a work string delivers a tool downhole, then the tool can perform its function, but the string may get stuck before or after tool delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The disconnect mechanism divides the work string and tool into separable components. The male connector and female connector can be disconnected from each other, allowing the tool to remain downhole while the stuck string is pulled out. This segmentation enables independent handling of the tool and string, solving the problem of stuck string removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The disconnect mechanism is pre-installed on the work string before tool delivery. This preliminary setup ensures that if the string gets stuck, the disconnection function is already in place and can be activated remotely to release the tool, eliminating the need for complex fishing operations.
2Reliability
If disconnect mechanisms are designed to release by applied tensile force, then they can be locked against release, but they require physical intervention or complex signaling systems
Solution Approach 1:
The disconnect mechanism uses hydraulic pressure from the well fluid to actuate the release. A pressure-sensitive component detects the predetermined tensile force and triggers a hydraulic system that moves a piston or sleeve to disengage the locking mechanism. This eliminates the need for complex external signaling systems and enables automatic, reliable release based on force detection.
3Ease of operation
If remote release signaling is implemented, then stuck tools can be released, but the system requires sophisticated signal processing and multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The disconnect mechanism is designed to automatically detect the release condition (predetermined tensile force or pressure signal) and execute the release operation without external intervention. The pressure-sensitive component and hydraulic system work together as a self-contained unit that senses the condition and performs the disengagement autonomously, reducing the need for complex external signaling and control systems.
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 reliable and remote disconnection of stuck tools and strings, facilitating safe removal and deployment of fishing or milling tools, while also allowing for versatile applications in drill stem testing and other operations.
Implementation Method 1
allow tubing or annulus pressure to move a piston against an atmospheric or low pressure chamber
Implementation Method 2
Movement of the piston breaks a shear pin
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure pulse signal is processed and a valve is operated to allow tubing or annulus pressure to move a piston against an atmospheric or low pressure chamber. Movement of the piston triggers the release of the dogs that previously held two components together for a separation. Redundant release mechanisms that respond to discrete pressure pulse signals are provided for backup purposes.