Multi-position Sleeve Shifting Tool with Emergency Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for shifting a sleeve between multiple positions defined by travel stops lack reliable feedback to the surface about the sleeve's position and often require complex and costly mechanisms or suffer from uncertainties due to hydraulic fluid volume and thermal effects.
Innovation Solution
A tool with shifting and overpull keys that allow precise movement of the sleeve to an intermediate position, providing a surface signal upon reaching the desired position and featuring an emergency release mechanism to ensure tool removal if keys fail to release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a control line with hydraulic fluid is used to move the piston and sleeve, then the sleeve can be positioned with some precision, but uncertainties arise due to thermal effects, compressible gas bubbles, and drag forces that affect measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is segmented into discrete mechanical steps defined by the j-slot pattern. The sleeve moves through predetermined positions rather than continuous movement, allowing each position to be clearly defined and detected without relying on continuous hydraulic measurement that is susceptible to thermal and compressibility effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the continuous hydraulic measurement system with a mechanical stop system that provides discrete, reliable position feedback. The mechanical stops and j-slot arrangement provide positive location feedback that is immune to thermal expansion, compressibility, and drag forces affecting hydraulic fluid.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a j-slot with pin arrangement is used to move the sleeve through multiple positions, then multiple positions can be defined, but the drift diameter is reduced and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The j-slot serves multiple functions: it defines the travel path, provides mechanical stops for positioning, and acts as a guide for the pin. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and maintains adaptability for multiple positions without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning features (stops, guides, and travel definition) are merged into the j-slot structure itself rather than being separate components. This integration reduces overall device complexity while maintaining the capability for multiple discrete positions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a j-slot with pin arrangement is used to define multiple positions, then the sleeve can move through desired positions, but the drift diameter is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning mechanism transitions from a radial pin-in-slot arrangement to an axial key-in-groove system. This dimensional change allows the positioning features to be located axially rather than radially, preserving the drift diameter while still providing multiple discrete positions through the key's travel along the groove.
4Manufacturing precision
If hydraulic fluid volume is used to control piston displacement, then the sleeve can be moved a specific distance, but uncertainties arise from thermal effects and compressible gas bubbles
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical stops are pre-positioned at the desired locations before the positioning operation. The key simply needs to travel to these predetermined stops rather than relying on precise hydraulic volume control, which is susceptible to thermal expansion and gas bubble compression. The stops are prepared in advance to receive the key at the correct positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic displacement control system is replaced with a mechanical stop-controlled system. Instead of relying on precise hydraulic volume measurement that is affected by thermal and compressibility effects, the system uses rigid mechanical stops that provide reliable, repeatable positioning independent of fluid properties.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for shifting a sleeve into at least one intermediate position between stops has a shifting key that only can move the sleeve a finite amount before it is forced out of contact with the sleeve. An overpull key is released for engagement with the sleeve before the shifting key is forced out. The overpull key resists movement until a noticeable predetermined force is applied at which point the overpull key is freed from the sliding sleeve for a normal release. If any key fails to release, an emergency release is provided that independently displaces the key so that the tool can be removed. The tool can be operated in either an uphole or a downhole direction to shift the sleeve depending on the orientation of the keys. Embodiments using a single key type are contemplated.