Telemetry Operated Setting Tool for Tubular Strings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current setting tools for hanging tubular strings in wellbore operations lack operational flexibility due to pressure surges that can unintentionally activate the tool before the liner string reaches the desired depth, limiting precise control and deployment accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A telemetry-operated setting tool with a mandrel, housing, bonnet, actuator, electronics package, and latch system that allows for remote command signal operation, enabling controlled deployment and setting of the tubular string, including a method to raise the setting tool and apply weight to set a packer, ensuring precise placement and avoiding premature activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional setting tool is operated by pumping a ball through the workstring to a seat, then the setting tool can be activated, but pressure surges may unintentionally operate the setting tool before the liner string reaches the desired depth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical ball-and-seat activation system with a telemetry-based electronic control system. The setting tool incorporates an electronics package with a microcontroller that receives command signals wirelessly via an antenna, eliminating the need for mechanical pressure activation through a ball. This substitution allows for precise, intentional activation at the desired depth without unintended triggering from pressure surges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces telemetry communication as an intermediary between the surface control system and the downhole setting tool. Command signals are transmitted through the drilling fluid using telemetry technology, serving as a mediator that enables reliable, intentional activation of the setting tool without direct mechanical connection or pressure-based triggering.
2Manufacturing precision
If the setting tool is activated immediately upon ball seating, then the liner string can be set, but the placement precision is reduced due to potential premature activation
Solution Approach 1:
The setting tool performs preliminary actions by continuously monitoring its depth and readiness status before actual activation. The electronics package prepares the actuator and latch mechanisms in advance, and the tool can receive and acknowledge command signals before the optimal activation moment, ensuring precise placement without premature operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the setting tool transmits status information and depth data back to the surface via telemetry. This feedback loop allows the surface operator to determine the optimal moment to send the activation command, ensuring activation occurs at the precise desired depth rather than based on timing estimates alone.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a telemetry operated setting tool is used to prevent premature activation, then operational flexibility and precision are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The setting tool incorporates a multi-functional electronics package that handles multiple tasks: receiving telemetry command signals, processing activation commands, controlling the actuator, managing the latch mechanism, and communicating status information back to the surface. This universal electronic control system replaces multiple separate mechanical systems, reducing overall complexity despite the addition of electronic components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the control functions of the actuator, latch, and communication systems into a single integrated electronics package with a microcontroller. This consolidation combines multiple previously separate systems into one unified control unit, managing the complexity through integration rather than proliferation of separate components.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~1C
Figure 1D~1E
AI summary
A setting tool for hanging a tubular string includes: a mandrel having an upper portion and a lower portion for extending into the tubular string; a housing connected to the mandrel upper portion; and a bonnet. The bonnet is: for receiving an upper end of the tubular string, disposed along the mandrel, and linked to the housing. The setting tool further includes: an actuator for stroking the bonnet relative to the mandrel and the housing, thereby setting a hanger of the tubular string; an electronics package in communication with the actuator for operating the actuator in response to receiving a command signal; and a latch. The latch is: connected to the mandrel lower portion, operable between an extended position and a retracted position, for being restrained in the retracted position by being disposed in the tubular string, and extendable by being removed from the tubular string.