Segmented Fluid Conduit Seal with Sequential Lateral Extension

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional sealing and anchoring devices in fluid conduits face challenges such as high axial leakage, extrusion, and failure under high pressure, temperature, and chemical degradation, with limited expansion ratios and inadequate gripping force, especially in harsh oilfield environments.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus comprising a plurality of segments with extendable structures that can laterally extend to define different maximum dimensions, providing sequential initiation of extension to achieve higher expansion ratios without compromising integrity, and featuring mutual support surfaces for enhanced mechanical strength and reliability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional seals are used in high pressure environments, then sealing function is provided, but the seals become saturated with fluid and are susceptible to failure by explosive decompression

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseal reliabilityVSAvoidfluid saturation and explosive decompression

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The seal is divided into multiple independent segments that can expand laterally in sequence. Each segment acts as an independent sealing element, preventing fluid saturation of the entire seal structure and eliminating the risk of explosive decompression failure affecting the whole seal.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The seal segments are designed to dynamically expand laterally from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration, transitioning from a low-profile state suitable for deployment to a expanded state that provides effective sealing against high pressure without fluid saturation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If high expansion ratios are achieved, then the apparatus can engage the fluid conduit wall for sealing or anchoring, but the expanded seal performs poorly against high pressures and is susceptible to axial leakage and extrusion

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesealing and anchoring effectivenessVSAvoidresistance to high pressure, axial leakage and extrusion

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The apparatus is divided into multiple segments that expand sequentially rather than simultaneously. Each segment provides localized sealing and anchoring functions, distributing the mechanical loads and preventing excessive expansion that would compromise structural integrity against high pressure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each segment is designed with specific local properties optimized for its function - the lateral expandability provides sealing contact with the conduit wall, while the segmented structure maintains adequate wall thickness and structural strength to resist high pressure, axial leakage, and extrusion forces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of operation

If the apparatus is configured for minimal outer dimension for passage through fluid conduit restrictions, then deployment is enabled, but the apparatus cannot provide adequate sealing or anchoring engagement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedeployability through restrictionsVSAvoidsealing and anchoring engagement

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The apparatus transitions dynamically between two configurations: a retracted configuration with minimal outer dimension that enables passage through fluid conduit restrictions and deployment, and an extended configuration where segments expand laterally to engage the conduit wall for sealing and anchoring functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The segmented structure allows each segment to independently transition from a compact retracted state suitable for deployment through restrictions to an expanded state that provides adequate engagement for sealing and anchoring, combining deployability with effective function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Strength

If conventional elastomer seals are reinforced using metal such as wire mesh, then extrusion resistance is improved, but the seals remain inadequate for some high pressure applications

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveextrusion resistanceVSAvoidadequacy for high pressure applications

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of reinforcing conventional elastomer seals with metal wire mesh, the invention uses a segmented structure where each segment provides structural support and sealing function. The segments are configured to expand laterally and engage the conduit wall, providing inherent extrusion resistance and high pressure capability without requiring metal reinforcement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10570693B2Apparatus for use in a fluid conduit

Publication Date: 2020.02.25 SCHLUMBERGER TECH CORP

AI summary

An apparatus for use in a fluid conduit comprises a plurality of segments arranged along a longitudinal axis, each segment comprising an extendable structure configured for extension in a lateral direction relative to the longitudinal axis, wherein the apparatus is configured for the sequential initiation of lateral extension of the extendable structures of at least two segments. At least two segments may be configured to define different maximum extended dimensions in the lateral direction and may include adjacent support surfaces which provide mutual support for one another when the at least two segments are laterally extended. The apparatus may be configured to form a seal, an anchor, a supporting structure and/or a flow restriction in a fluid conduit.