Segmented Pump Down Assist Device for Non-Vertical Wells
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional pump down operations in non-vertical wells face challenges in deploying and retrieving tools due to the need for large cross-section connection mechanisms, which result in high energy consumption and slow processes, while small cross-section tools lack sufficient force for deployment.
Innovation Solution
An assist device with a swab element that seals the pipe, allowing fluid to push the assist device down and automatically opens to bypass fluid when retrieved, reducing resistance and energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a large cross-section connection mechanism is used to deliver the tool, then the tool can be delivered to the desired position, but the wireline retrieval process requires large energy and is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is segmented into a tool engagement portion and a wireline engagement portion with different cross-sectional areas. The tool engagement portion has a larger cross-section to provide sufficient delivery force, while the wireline engagement portion has a smaller cross-section to reduce retrieval energy requirements and allow faster wireline retrieval.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the connection mechanism have different cross-sectional areas optimized for different functions. The proximal portion (tool engagement) has a larger cross-section for force generation during delivery, while the distal portion (wireline engagement) has a smaller cross-section for efficient retrieval, creating local quality variations that resolve the contradiction.
2Productivity
If a small cross-section connection mechanism is used, then the wireline retrieval is faster and requires less energy, but the tool cannot be delivered to the desired location
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is divided into segments with different cross-sectional areas: a larger proximal portion for tool engagement and force generation during delivery, and a smaller distal portion for wireline engagement and retrieval operations, enabling both high delivery force and fast retrieval.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism exhibits local quality variation with a larger cross-section at the tool engagement end for sufficient delivery force and a smaller cross-section at the wireline engagement end for faster retrieval, resolving the contradiction between delivery force and retrieval speed.
3Force
If a large cross-section connection mechanism is used, then the tool can be delivered, but the fluid above the connection mechanism is pushed back to the surface requiring large energy
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is segmented with a larger proximal portion for tool engagement and a smaller distal portion for fluid interaction during retrieval. This segmentation reduces the cross-sectional area that displaces fluid during wireline retrieval, minimizing energy loss while maintaining sufficient delivery force through the larger proximal portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism has local quality variation in cross-sectional area, with the distal portion having a smaller cross-section that reduces fluid displacement and energy loss during retrieval, while the proximal portion maintains a larger cross-section for adequate delivery force.
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 assist device effectively propels tools to desired locations in non-vertical wells with reduced fluid resistance during retrieval, enhancing efficiency and ease of operation.
Implementation Method 1
a swab element that seals a pipe in which the assist device is deployed, so that a fluid above the assist device pushes the swab element down the pipe
Implementation Method 2
a spring positioned inside the upstream housing and configured to return the movable downstream housing to its initial position
Data Source
AI summary
An assist device for propelling a tool through a conduit, the assist device including an upstream housing having a first port; a downstream housing movably attached to the upstream housing and the downstream housing having a second port; and a swab element attached to the downstream housing. The first port is closed when there is no gap between the upstream housing and the downstream housing, and the first port is open when there is a gap between the upstream housing and the downstream housing.