Segmented Plug Seat for Multi-Size Actuating Plugs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wellbore tools with plug capture and release mechanisms face challenges in accommodating plugs of different sizes and maintaining stable fluid flow, leading to premature shifting between operating positions.
Innovation Solution
A radially expandable plug seat with separate arcuate segments of varying diameters allows for the capture and release of different-sized plugs, incorporating a follower and spring mechanism for stability, and an expansion chamber with multiple diameters to adapt to varying enclosures, enabling selective operation and fluid flow control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional plug seat is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate plugs of different sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The plug seat is divided into multiple separate arcuate segments that can radially expand and contract. These segments include different sized interior diameters, allowing the seat to accommodate plugs of varying sizes. The segmentation enables the seat to adapt its configuration based on the plug size while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug seat incorporates radial expandability through the interaction between the seat segments and the expansion chamber. The seat can dynamically adjust its radial dimension to match different plug sizes, transitioning from a contracted state for smaller plugs to an expanded state for larger plugs, thereby achieving versatility without permanent structural complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the seat segments are made rigid, then the manufacturing is easier, but the seat cannot adapt to varying enclosure diameters
Solution Approach 1:
The seat is constructed from multiple arcuate segments that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows each segment to be manufactured separately and then assembled, with the ability to adjust their radial positions to accommodate different enclosure diameters. The segments are retained in their positions by a follower mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat utilizes changes in radial dimension to adapt to different enclosure diameters. When the enclosure diameter changes, the seat segments can radially expand or contract, changing their radial position while maintaining their functional integrity. This parameter change enables the seat to fit various enclosure sizes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the seat segments can move freely, then the adaptability is improved, but the stability and prevention of premature dislodgement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A follower mechanism acts as an intermediary between the seat segments and the expansion chamber walls. The follower guides the radial movement of the segments, allowing them to expand and contract as needed while preventing excessive movement that could cause dislodgement. This intermediary element provides controlled adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat segments utilize the radial forces from fluid pressure and spring loading to self-adjust their positions. The segments are designed to move radially in response to pressure differentials and spring forces, providing automatic adaptation to different operating conditions without requiring external control mechanisms.
4Quantity of substance
If the gaps between segments are large, then the fluid flow is improved, but the plug capture capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The gaps between seat segments are dynamically adjusted based on the operating conditions. When a plug is present, the segments contract to minimize gaps and ensure reliable capture. When no plug is present, the segments can expand to increase gaps and allow higher fluid flow rates. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between flow and capture reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat segments change their radial positions to adjust the gap dimensions. By varying the radial dimension of the segments, the system can optimize the gap size for either fluid flow or plug capture, depending on the operational requirement. This parameter change enables the system to switch between flow-optimized and capture-optimized configurations.
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
The solution enables the tool to reliably capture and release plugs of varying sizes, maintaining stable fluid flow and preventing premature shifting between operating positions, allowing for efficient operation and fluid management in wellbore applications.
Implementation Method 1
A compression spring applies an axial load to urge the seat toward this contracted position
Data Source
AI summary
A wellbore tool which includes a housing having an axial flowbore and a piston sleeve movably disposed within the flowbore. The tool is moveable between first and second operating positions by an actuation mechanism having a piston with a seat having a plurality of separate arcuate segments. The tool can be moved between first and second operating positions with the use of actuating plugs of different sizes that can be landed upon the seat.