Remotely Actuated Connector for Wireline Wellhead Coupling

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Manual coupling and decoupling of wireline systems at multi-well drilling pads lead to inefficiencies due to high pressure zones, causing downtime and restricting personnel access, which hampers continuous operation across multiple wells.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a remotely actuated connector system that allows wireline systems to be coupled and decoupled from wellheads using hydraulically or electrically actuated mechanisms, enabling operations to be performed from a safe distance outside high pressure zones, thereby reducing downtime and increasing efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual coupling and decoupling of wireline systems is used, then personnel can directly operate the wireline system, but personnel must wait outside high pressure zones causing downtime

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepersonnel safetyVSAvoiddowntime

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical coupling operations with an automated remote coupling system. The system uses a remotely actuated connector that can be operated from a distance, eliminating the need for personnel to physically approach the wellhead during high pressure zones, thus maintaining safety while enabling continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a remote coupling device as an intermediary between personnel and the wireline system. This device allows personnel to couple and decouple wireline systems remotely without directly interacting with the wellhead, serving as a mediator that maintains safety while enabling continuous operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If manual coupling operations are performed, then the wireline system can be connected to the wellhead, but operations must stop when high pressure zones are active

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewireline coupling capabilityVSAvoidcontinuous operation capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual coupling operations with automated remote coupling mechanisms. The remotely actuated connector allows wireline systems to be coupled and decoupled without personnel intervention at the wellhead, maintaining operational simplicity while enabling continuous productivity during high pressure zones.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary remote positioning and preparation of the wireline system before coupling. The system can be positioned and prepared in advance at a safe distance, then quickly coupled when needed, eliminating the need to wait for high pressure zones to clear and maintaining continuous productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If personnel manually handle wireline systems, then direct control is possible, but access to wellheads is restricted during high pressure operations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedirect controlVSAvoidoperation flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a remote coupling device as an intermediary that maintains direct control capabilities while enabling operation during high pressure zones. The device transmits control signals from personnel to the wireline system remotely, preserving direct control authority while adapting to restricted access conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces direct manual handling with remote actuated mechanisms that provide electronic or hydraulic control. This substitution maintains the ability to directly control wireline operations while adapting to the constrained environment of active high pressure zones, enhancing operational versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 continuous operation across multiple wells by allowing remote coupling and decoupling of wireline systems, reducing labor-intensive manual processes and minimizing downtime, thus enhancing operational efficiency and safety.

Implementation Method 1

receives hydraulic pressure to actuate the slip housing

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHydraulic pressure: Hydraulic Press

Implementation Method 2

a wireline system configured to facilitate descent and retrieval of downhole tools within the well

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTension: Tension

Data Source

PatentUS10597967B2System and method for remotely coupling wireline system to well

Publication Date: 2020.03.24 HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES INC

AI summary

The disclosed embodiments include a method for coupling a wireline system to a wellhead. The method includes storing a downhole tool within the wireline system. The method also includes coupling the wireline system to the wellhead via a remotely actuated connector and pressure testing the wireline system. Further, the method includes opening a valve of the wellhead to enable passage of the downhole tool from the wireline system to a well.