Segmented Seat Sleeve Actuation for Continuous Fluid Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole tool actuation mechanisms often disrupt fluid flow, blocking drilling fluid and preventing continuous operation during activation or deactivation, which is undesirable for drilling processes that require uninterrupted fluid flow for cooling, lubrication, and chip removal.
Innovation Solution
A downhole tool design featuring a reciprocating sleeve with a segmented seat and relief mechanism that allows fluid to flow around an obstruction, utilizing a pressure differential to move the sleeve and release the obstruction, enabling continuous fluid flow while activating or deactivating the tool, and incorporating guided sleeves with rotating mechanisms to alternate fluid port communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a ball seat blocks the fluid path to activate the downhole tool, then the tool activation is achieved, but the drilling fluid flow is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The ball seat is divided into multiple segments that can move independently. When a ball is introduced, the segments shift to accommodate it while maintaining fluid flow paths between them, allowing tool activation without complete flow blockage
Solution Approach 2:
A by-pass channel serves as an intermediary fluid path that allows drilling fluid to flow around the ball obstruction. This mediator path ensures continuous fluid circulation while the main path is blocked for tool activation
2Ease of operation
If a sleeve is positioned to block fluid flow for tool actuation, then the tool function is controlled, but the drilling operation efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve is designed with dynamic segments that can shift position based on fluid pressure and ball placement. This dynamic adjustment allows the sleeve to control tool activation while adapting to maintain optimal fluid flow conditions
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the sleeve have different properties - some segments are designed to block flow for activation while others maintain open passages for continuous fluid circulation, allowing localized control without complete flow interruption
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
Enables the selective activation and deactivation of downhole tools like reamers without blocking drilling fluid flow, maintaining continuous operation and ensuring efficient drilling processes by allowing fluid to flow around obstructions and utilizing pressure differentials for actuation.
Implementation Method 1
fluid impinging the obstruction causes the sleeve to move in the direction of flow
Implementation Method 2
fluid by-pass... when the seat is occupied by an obstruction only a portion of the fluid path is obstructed
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole tool actuation system has a fluid path defined by a bore formed within a tubular body of a tool. A reciprocating sleeve is located within the bore and the sleeve has a segmented seat with a fluid by-pass. At least one seat segment is positioned by an outer diameter of the sleeve to complete the seat, and a relief is formed in a wall adjacent the outer diameter of the sleeve. When the seat is occupied by an obstruction, only a portion of the fluid path is obstructed and fluid impinging the obstruction causes the sleeve to move in the direction of flow until the at least one segment is relieved by the relief thereby releasing the obstruction.