Running String Window Finder Extension Sub Release Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing well construction methods face challenges in selectively disengaging a running string from a lateral tube assembly, particularly in ensuring precise alignment and mechanical release of components downhole, which can be inefficient and prone to mechanical failures.

Innovation Solution

A system and methodology that include a running string with a window finder and an extension sub, allowing for selective disengagement of the window finder from the main bore casing prior to mechanical release from the lateral tube assembly, utilizing a redundant mechanical release mechanism to ensure secure disengagement and retrieval of the running string.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the running string is mechanically released from the lateral tube assembly, then the running string can be retrieved, but the window finder may become disengaged from the main bore casing causing misalignment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverunning string retrievalVSAvoidwindow alignment precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The extension sub is extended before the mechanical release of the running string to ensure the window finder remains engaged with the main bore casing. This preliminary action prevents misalignment during the release operation by maintaining the window finder's position against the casing wall throughout the disengagement process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides a redundant mechanical release mechanism that ensures secure disengagement. By having the extension sub ready and the window finder already positioned against the casing, the system cushions against potential misalignment or failure during the release operation, ensuring precise alignment is maintained.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

2Reliability

If a redundant mechanical release mechanism is added, then reliability of disengagement is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedisengagement reliabilityVSAvoidrunning string structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The running string is divided into functional segments: the window finder component that engages with the main bore casing, the extension sub that provides the redundant release mechanism, and the running string body. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, improving reliability while keeping the overall structure manageable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The extension sub acts as an intermediary mechanism between the running string and the window finder. It provides the redundant mechanical release function by extending to engage with the main bore casing, ensuring reliable disengagement without requiring complex integration of all components into a single unit.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3033469B1System and methodology for mechanically releasing a running string

Publication Date: 2018.03.21 SERVICES PETROLIERS SCHLUMBERGER SA

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AI summary

A technique facilitates selectively disengaging a running string from a lateral tube assembly. The running string comprises a running sub which is engageable with the lateral tube assembly. The running string further comprises a window finder which is positioned to extend into a main bore casing window when the running string is deployed downhole with the lateral tube assembly. Additionally, the running string comprises an extension sub which is coupled to the window finder. The extension sub is selectively extensible to disengage the window finder from the main bore casing prior to release of the running sub from the lateral tube assembly via a release force applied through the running string.