Shape Memory Seal Assembly with Interlock Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole sealing systems face issues with buckling, twisting, and wrinkling of elastomeric seal elements when axially compressed, leading to complex leak paths, particularly when a large axial distance is compressed, which complicates sealing effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A sealing assembly utilizing a shape memory material that reverts to its original shape upon exposure to a transition stimulus, combined with an interlock mechanism to control the sealing process, allowing the seal element to expand radially and securely engage with a downhole structure, while preventing immediate sealing until the interlock is released.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If an elastomeric seal element is axially compressed to reduce radial dimension for run-in, then the seal element can be installed in a smaller space, but the seal element buckles, twists, and wrinkles causing leak paths
Solution Approach 1:
The seal element is divided into multiple independent segments or lobes that can compress individually during run-in. This segmentation prevents the buckling and wrinkling that occurs in monolithic seals, as each segment can deform independently without causing structural instability or leak paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal element transitions from a dynamic compressed state during run-in to a static expanded sealing state after installation. The design allows the seal to be dynamically compressed axially for installation while maintaining structural integrity, then expands radially to form a reliable seal against the borehole wall.
2Length of moving object
If a seal element is compressed over a large axial distance, then the radial expansion capability is increased, but the seal element develops complicated leak paths through buckling and twisting
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the seal element into segments allows for greater axial compression distance without causing the buckling and twisting that would compromise seal geometry. Each segment can compress independently, maintaining overall structural integrity and preventing the formation of leak paths even during large axial deformations.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal element is designed to compress primarily in the axial dimension during installation, then expand in the radial dimension to form the seal. This dimensional transition allows large axial compression distances to be utilized without degrading the radial seal geometry, as the compression and sealing occur in different spatial dimensions.
3Productivity
If the seal element is allowed to revert to original shape immediately upon exposure to transition stimulus, then the sealing action is automatic, but the seal element cannot seal against irregular downhole structures with precise control
Solution Approach 1:
The seal element is pre-positioned in a compressed state during installation, and the transition to the sealing shape is triggered at the precise moment and location needed. This preliminary positioning combined with controlled triggering ensures both automatic sealing action and precise sealing position control against irregular downhole structures.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary triggering mechanism or environmental condition (such as temperature change, pressure differential, or chemical exposure) mediates the transition from compressed to sealing shape. This intermediary allows controlled initiation of the shape memory effect, providing precise sealing position control while maintaining the automatic nature of the sealing action.
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 sealing against irregular downhole structures by maintaining the seal element in a deformed position until the interlock is released, allowing for precise sealing and increased pressure rating, even in harsh conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a seal element at least partially formed from a shape memory material, the shape memory material urging the seal element to revert to an original shape upon exposure to a transition stimulus
Data Source
AI summary
A sealing assembly including a seal element at least partially formed from a shape memory material. The shape memory material urges the seal element to revert to an original shape upon exposure to a transition stimulus. The seal element is operatively arranged for sealing against a downhole structure when in the original shape. An interlock mechanism is included for holding the seal element in a deformed position in which the seal element is not able to seal against the downhole structure even after exposure to the transition stimulus. A method of setting a downhole sealing assembly is also included.