Retrievable Electronics Module for Downhole Tool Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Downhole tools in oilfield wellbores face limitations due to the need for replacing electronic components and batteries, which requires disassembling the tool and can be costly, especially when tools are permanently installed, and battery life reduces tool usability.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a retrievable module system within the downhole tool allows for the replacement of electronic and battery packages without removing the entire tool, using a pocket with a latching mechanism and electrical connection points, and a kick-over tool for easy installation and retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the entire tool is retrieved to replace electronic components or batteries, then the components can be replaced, but the cost and time increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The downhole tool is divided into separate functional modules: a permanently installed tool body and removable electronic/battery modules. The tool body includes a pocket with a latching mechanism that can securely hold and release modules. This segmentation allows individual modules to be replaced without retrieving the entire tool, resolving the contradiction between component replaceability and tool retrieval time.
2Ease of repair
If the entire tool is retrieved to replace batteries, then battery replacement is possible, but production downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery is separated into a removable module that can be independently exchanged. The tool body contains a dedicated pocket with a latching mechanism for secure module retention. This allows battery replacement to be performed quickly at the surface without interrupting downhole production operations, maintaining productivity while enabling easy battery replacement.
3Reliability
If electronics are made permanent in downhole tools, then tool reliability improves, but adaptability for firmware/hardware updates decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic components are designed as dynamic, replaceable modules rather than fixed permanent installations. The latching mechanism provides secure connection during operation (reliability) but allows easy removal and replacement for updates (adaptability). This dynamic design resolves the contradiction between tool reliability and electronics upgradability.
4Use of energy by moving object
If battery powered tools are installed in the internal diameter of the tubing string, then power is provided to electronics, but space in the tubing string is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The battery is segmented into a compact removable module that fits within the tool's internal diameter. This modular design provides the necessary electrical power while minimizing the space occupied in the tubing string. The compact module can be easily retrieved and replaced without significantly reducing the available volume in the tubing string for other operations.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for a downhole tool apparatus, that may include at least one pocket disposed within the downhole tool, which may include a tool electronic connection point; a latching mechanism; and a retrievable module; wherein the retrievable module may include: a module electrical connection point, wherein the tool electrical connection point and the module electrical connection point are electrically connected; a retrieving and running feature, wherein the module electrical connection point and the retrieving and running feature are on substantially opposite ends of the retrievable module; and wherein the latching mechanism engages the retrievable module to hold the retrievable module in the at least one pocket.