Well Tool Anchoring Module for Eccentric Radial Reach
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing well tools face limitations in radial reach and stability during operations like perforation and drilling due to the sensitivity of hydraulic piston-based anchor systems to pipe diameter changes and the need for space-demanding equipment for alternative perforation methods.
Innovation Solution
The use of a non-circular shaped piston and cylinder in a drilling module, along with an oblong displacement device in an anchoring module, prevents relative rotation and allows for increased stroke length and radial reach without the need for space-consuming guides, enhancing power transmission and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If hydraulic piston-based anchor systems are used to hold the well tool fixed in a centred position, then the well tool is stable and concentric with the well, but the radial reach of the tool is limited and the system is sensitive to diametrical changes in the pipe
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of anchoring the well tool in a centred position (conventional approach), the invention inverts the approach by anchoring the tool in an eccentric position against the pipe wall. This allows the drilling module to achieve maximum radial reach while maintaining stability through the anchoring mechanism that presses the tool body against the pipe wall.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a dynamic anchoring system using a movable pressing element that can be positioned at different locations around the well tool circumference. This movable anchoring mechanism allows adaptation to varying pipe conditions and diametrical changes, providing both stability and extended radial reach.
2Device complexity
If conventional circular piston and cylinder are used in the drilling module, then the structure is simple, but relative rotation occurs between piston and cylinder reducing power transmission efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies asymmetry by using a non-circular (oval or elliptical) cross-section for both the piston and cylinder. This asymmetric shape prevents relative rotation between the piston and cylinder during operation, ensuring efficient power transmission from the hydraulic system to the drilling module while maintaining structural integrity.
3Power
If guides are added to prevent relative rotation between piston and cylinder, then power transmission is improved, but the device becomes more complex and occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The invention eliminates the need for separate guides by incorporating the anti-rotation function directly into the asymmetric shape of the piston and cylinder. The non-circular cross-section inherently prevents relative rotation, achieving power transmission efficiency without adding structural complexity or occupying additional space.
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 design enables longer drill reach and increased stability for well tools, allowing for more efficient radial drilling and anchoring, even in constrained spaces, while reducing equipment size and improving power transmission.
Implementation Method 1
a piston for receiving a drill for the radial drilling, and for displacing the drill in a radial direction towards the wall of the well; and a cylinder for receiving and guiding the piston
Implementation Method 2
both the piston and the cylinder being guide-free and of a non-circular shape, at least in a portion, in order to prevent relative rotation between them
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
An anchoring module (6) for use in a well tool (5) is described, the well (2) being defined by a wall (21) and the well having an extent in an axial direction (A). In the position of application, the anchoring module (6) has an extent in the axial direction (A) of the well (2). The anchoring module (6) includes a displacement device (7) arranged to push, in the position of application, against a portion of the wall (21) of the well to press the anchoring module (5) against an opposite portion of the wall (21) of the well, the displacement device (7) being oblong in the axial direction (A) of the anchoring module (6).