Time-Controlled Release Device for Wireline Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mechanical devices used in wells often become stuck due to solids accumulation or malfunctions, making it difficult to retrieve tools, and existing release mechanisms lack effective time-controlled and secure disconnection methods.
Innovation Solution
A time-controlled release device with a locking mechanism that disconnects a tool from a well line after a predetermined force is applied for a set time, featuring a release collet mechanism and balancing pistons to manage pressure differentials, and provides an indication of impending separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a release mechanism is provided to disconnect a tool from a well line, then the tool can be retrieved when stuck, but the tool may be released prematurely or inadvertently before the desired time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a time delay mechanism that is activated in advance but executes the release action only after a predetermined time interval has elapsed. This preliminary activation followed by delayed execution ensures that the release occurs only at the intended time, preventing premature or inadvertent disconnection of the tool from the well line.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a time delay mechanism as an intermediary between the activation signal and the actual release action. This intermediary component controls the timing of the release, ensuring that even though the mechanism is activated, the actual disconnection occurs only after the predetermined time interval, thus preventing premature release.
2Reliability
If a release mechanism is provided to disconnect a tool from a well line, then the tool can be retrieved when stuck, but the disconnection cannot be aborted once initiated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamically controllable release mechanism where the time delay can be interrupted or aborted before the predetermined time interval elapses. The system transitions from a static, predetermined release schedule to a dynamic system that can respond to changing conditions, allowing the release to be aborted if needed while still providing controlled release when conditions are appropriate.
3Device complexity
If a simple release mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the mechanism cannot provide time-controlled or secure disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a time delay mechanism that is activated in advance but executes the release action only after a predetermined time interval has elapsed. This preliminary activation followed by delayed execution ensures that the release occurs only at the intended time, preventing premature or inadvertent disconnection of the tool from the well line.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a time delay mechanism as an intermediary between the activation signal and the actual release action. This intermediary component controls the timing of the release, ensuring that even though the mechanism is activated, the actual disconnection occurs only after the predetermined time interval, thus preventing premature release.
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 secure and controlled disengagement of tools from well lines, preventing premature release and accommodating varying pressure conditions, ensuring reliable tool retrieval.
Implementation Method 1
A balance piston is provided which acts to compensate for pressure differentials due to variances in temperature and compressive pressure along the length of the release device by moving along the mandrel
Implementation Method 2
A spring is provided which is initially held in compression between an annular surface on the distal end of seal housing and the pressure piston
Data Source
AI summary
A time controlled release device for down line tools includes an outer housing, a disconnect housing releasably coupled to the outer housing, and a mandrel extending longitudinally within the outer housing and the disconnect housing. In addition, the device includes a locking collet and a trigger sleeve disposed about the mandrel. Further, the device includes a first biasing spring disposed within the outer housing between the locking collet and a first shoulder of the outer housing. Still further, the device includes a release collet forming a portion of the outer housing at the distal end and a disconnect release sleeve mounted on the mandrel. Moreover, the device includes a second spring disposed within the outer housing between a second shoulder of the outer housing and a pressure piston mounted on the mandrel between the second spring and a shoulder of the mandrel. The pressure piston has a metering orifice therethrough.