Curved-Path Well Access Tool for Plug Torque in Tight Laterals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools for gaining lateral access to wells face challenges in accessing and manipulating plugs due to the shape of lines and limited space, making it difficult to install or remove plugs and apply torque effectively, especially when remedial work is required inside the well.
Innovation Solution
A tool with a head portion configured to axially advance and transmit rotational drive, featuring a shaft assembly with internal and external threads that allow axial movement without rotation, and an elongate transmission member that can follow a curved path to deliver torque and fluid, enabling access and manipulation of plugs in confined spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a telescopic hydraulically operated tool with socket head is used to screw in or unscrew plugs in well side openings, then lateral access to the well can be gained, but the tool cannot effectively access and manipulate plugs due to the shape of lines and limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is divided into multiple functional segments: a telescopic shaft assembly with nested shafts for axial movement, a separate head portion for torque transmission, and an elongate transmission member that can follow curved paths. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling access to plugs in confined spaces while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission member is designed to follow a curved path rather than a straight line, adding a dimensional aspect to the tool's operation. This curved path capability allows the tool to navigate around obstacles and access plugs from angles that would be impossible with a conventional straight-tool approach, effectively adding a spatial dimension to the manipulation capability.
2Force
If the socket head is advanced along the valve passageway to engage the plug, then the plug can be manipulated, but torque cannot be applied effectively due to limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission member is designed with flexibility to follow a curved path, allowing it to wrap around obstacles and deliver torque from a position that would be inaccessible to a rigid tool. This curved approach enables effective torque application in limited spaces by utilizing the available volume rather than requiring a clear linear path.
Solution Approach 2:
The elongate transmission member acts as an intermediary between the head portion and the plug, transmitting torque over a curved path through the confined space. This intermediary component bridges the gap between the limited access point and the plug location, enabling effective force transmission without requiring direct linear access.
3Manufacturing precision
If the second shaft is rotated to advance the head portion, then axial movement is achieved, but the shaft cannot advance without rotation which limits precision control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional threaded advancement mechanism with a direct axial movement system. The second shaft is designed to move axially without rotation, substituting the traditional screw-thread mechanical coupling with a sliding or telescopic arrangement. This substitution provides more precise positioning control while simplifying the operation, as the shaft can be advanced directly along its axis without the complexity of rotational engagement.
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
The tool enables efficient installation and removal of plugs, as well as delivery of sealants, by allowing axial advancement and rotational drive in tight spaces, improving access and maintenance within wells.
Implementation Method 1
the first shaft comprising an internal thread and the shaft assembly comprising an external thread engaging in the internal thread of the first shaft whereby relative rotation of the internal and external threads causes said axial forward movement of the second shaft relative to the first shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for gaining lateral access to a well includes a head portion configured to advance axially forwardly relative to a lateral access passage. The tool includes a first shaft and a shaft assembly including a second shaft. The second shaft is at least partly received in the first shaft so as to be axially forwardly moveable therewith. In use, axial forward movement of the first and second shafts causes forward advancement of the head portion. The second shaft is axially forwardly moveable relative to the first shaft. The first shaft includes an internal thread and the shaft assembly includes an external thread engaging the internal thread of the first shaft so that relative rotation of the internal and external threads causes the axial forward movement of the second shaft relative to the first shaft without rotation of the second shaft relative to the first shaft.