Elastic Retaining Ring Release for Low-Force Collet Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools require higher forces to change positions due to their stiffness, making multiple functions with a single movement direction challenging.
Innovation Solution
A retaining ring design with a body and ends that temporarily change diameter upon threshold energy input, allowing for lower force actuation by deflecting a collet and releasing the ring to actuate tools effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If tools are made stiffer to enable multiple functions with single movement direction, then functional capability is improved, but force requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining ring transitions from a static rigid component to a dynamic component that can deform elastically. When force is applied to the collet, the ring deforms to allow movement, then automatically returns to its original shape to maintain engagement. This dynamic behavior enables the tool to achieve multiple functions with lower force requirements compared to purely rigid designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining ring's physical state changes between engaged and released configurations through elastic deformation. By controlling the deformation parameter (temporary diameter change), the system transitions between different functional states, enabling versatile operation with reduced force requirements while maintaining structural integrity.
2Ease of operation
If higher forces are applied to actuate tools, then movement capability is improved, but tool deformation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining ring acts as an intermediary element between the applied force and the tool movement. It absorbs and manages the force through controlled elastic deformation, preventing excessive forces from directly deforming the tool while still enabling the necessary movement. The ring mediates the interaction, protecting the tool from damage while allowing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining ring is designed to deform elastically in advance to accommodate the actuation force, then returns to its original shape to maintain tool integrity. This pre-designed deformation capability cushions the impact of applied forces, preventing permanent deformation of the tool while still enabling movement when needed.
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 tools to be actuated with lower force requirements while ensuring full function, reducing tool deformation and enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A retaining ring design with a body and ends that temporarily change diameter upon threshold energy input
Data Source
AI summary
A retaining ring, including a body, a first end extending from the body, and a second end extending from the body, the second end engageable with the first end and releasable from the first end at a threshold energy input. A collet release configuration including a collet having a shoulder thereon, a ring disposed radially adjacent the collet, a sleeve actuable by movement of the collet only with the ring unreleased. A method for actuating a tool, including deflecting a collet, loading a ring, with the collet against a structure of the tool, actuating the tool with the ring, releasing the ring, and deflecting the collet. A borehole system, including a borehole in a subsurface formation, a string in the borehole, and a retaining ring, disposed within or as a part of the string.