Shape Memory Nozzle Assemblies for Earth-Boring Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
In subterranean drilling operations, inadequate fluid flow to the drill bit leads to formation cuttings accumulation, isolating cutting elements and reducing the drill bit's rate of penetration and increasing wear, due to the lack of effective retention mechanisms for nozzle assemblies and fluid inlet tubes on earth-boring tools.
Innovation Solution
The use of shape memory materials to create a threadless connection for retaining nozzle assemblies and fluid inlet tubes on earth-boring tools, where the shape memory materials transform from a first phase to a second phase upon stimulus, providing mechanical interference to secure the components in place without the need for threading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional threaded connections are used to secure nozzle assemblies, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the device complexity increases and the ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical threaded connections with a shape memory material-based retention system. The shape memory material undergoes phase transformation in response to thermal or other stimuli, changing its mechanical properties to secure or release nozzle assemblies without requiring threads or complex mechanical fastening structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory material's physical parameters (such as shape, size, or mechanical strength) are changed through phase transformation induced by external stimuli like temperature changes. This allows the material to transition between a compliant state for installation and a rigid state for secure retention, eliminating the need for threaded structures.
2Reliability
If threaded connections are used for nozzle assemblies, then the retention reliability is high, but the ease of operation and maintenance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The shape memory material enables periodic transformation between retained and released states through application and removal of external stimuli (such as heating or cooling cycles). This allows the nozzle assembly to be securely held during operation and easily released for maintenance or replacement by applying the appropriate stimulus.
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory material autonomously changes its properties in response to external stimuli without requiring manual intervention for fastening or unfastening. The material itself performs the retention and release functions, eliminating the need for tools or complex procedures associated with threaded connections.
3Device complexity
If shape memory materials are used for threadless connection, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture increases, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shape memory material is strategically placed at specific locations on the nozzle assembly or tool body where it can most effectively provide retention force. This localized placement optimizes the functional performance while minimizing the amount of material required and reducing the complexity of the overall connection structure.
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
This solution ensures reliable retention of nozzle assemblies and fluid inlet tubes, maintaining adequate fluid flow and reducing wear by eliminating the need for threaded connections, thus enhancing the drill bit's performance and extending its lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
at least one shape memory material disposed adjacent a surface of at least one component of the nozzle or nozzle assembly and retaining the at least one component in position on the earth-boring tool
Implementation Method 2
The at least one shape memory material is transformed from a first phase to a second phase by a stimulus
Data Source
AI summary
An earth-boring tool includes a tool body having an aperture therein defining a nozzle port, a nozzle or nozzle assembly disposed in the nozzle port, and a shape memory material disposed adjacent a surface of at least one component of the nozzle or nozzle assembly. The shape memory material retains at least one component of the nozzle or nozzle assembly by a threadless connection. The threadless connection includes mechanical interference between the shape memory material, the at least one component of the nozzle or nozzle assembly, and the tool body or another component of the nozzle or nozzle assembly. The shape memory material is formulated and configured to transform from a first phase and a first shape upon heating and to transform from a second phase and a second shape upon cooling.