Well Tool Assembly Ratchet-Free Plugging Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing well tool assemblies for pressure testing are cumbersome and inefficient, often requiring disassembly of ratchet mechanisms and multiple runs to set and reset plugging tools, which can damage setting tools under high pressure, and lack the ability to repeatedly transition between run and set states without drill pipe or coiled tubing.
Innovation Solution
A well tool assembly with a ratchet-less design featuring axially displaceable components, including an inner and outer actuator system that allows the plugging tool to move between radially retracted and expanded states without a ratchet mechanism, enabling multiple cycles between run and set states while connected, and utilizing fluid pressure to maintain sealing and centralization without risking the setting tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a ratchet mechanism is used to lock the plugging tool in its set state, then the plugging tool can withstand high differential pressure, but the setting tool may be destroyed under high pressure and the mechanism becomes cumbersome to reset
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the ratchet mechanism entirely from the plugging tool assembly. Instead of using a mechanical locking mechanism, the system relies on the setting tool's ability to repeatedly set and reset the plugging tool through axial motion between inner and outer actuators, eliminating the need for disassembly and complex resetting procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a static locked state (ratchet mechanism) to a dynamic system where the plugging tool can be repeatedly set and reset through controlled axial motion. The setting tool provides relative axial motion between inner and outer actuators, enabling the plugging tool to transition between radially retracted and expanded states multiple times without destruction
2Reliability
If the setting tool is used to set the plugging tool under high differential pressure, then the plugging tool can be secured, but the setting tool may be destroyed by the high pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces an outer actuator as an intermediary element between the setting tool and the plugging tool. The outer actuator absorbs and transmits the forces involved in setting the plugging tool, protecting the setting tool from direct exposure to high differential pressures while still enabling effective setting
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic axial motion between multiple actuators (inner and outer) to set the plugging tool. This dynamic approach allows the setting tool to control the setting process without bearing the full brunt of high differential pressure, enabling repeated setting operations without destruction
3Adaptability or versatility
If the plugging tool is retrieved to surface and reconfigured before each setting operation, then the tool can be reused, but the operation becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the setting tool and plugging tool into a single integrated assembly that remains connected throughout multiple operations. The setting tool with its inner and outer actuators stays attached to the plugging tool, eliminating the need for separate retrieval and reconfiguration steps while maintaining full functionality for repeated setting operations
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables continuous operation by keeping the setting tool and plugging tool connected throughout multiple setting and resetting cycles. The assembly can be run by wireline, e-line or similar without drill pipe or coiled tubing, allowing uninterrupted repeated operations at different well locations without time-consuming retrieval and reconfiguration
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 solution enables efficient and fast pressure testing of well zones with reduced operational complexity, allowing multiple cycles between run and set states without damaging the setting tool, and allows for pressure testing without the need for drill pipe or coiled tubing, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
the slips device is provided axially between the upper and lower sealing devices
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a well tool assembly (1) comprising a setting tool (10) and a plugging tool (20). The plugging tool (20) comprises: - an inner mandrel device (21) and an outer housing device (26), an upper sealing device (30), a slips device (40), a lower sealing device (50) and a centralizing device (60) connected to each other in an axial direction outside of the mandrel device 21. The slips device (40) is provided axially between the upper and lower sealing devices (30, 50). The centralizing device (60) is provided below the lower sealing device (50) or above the upper sealing device (30). When the centralizing device (60) is provided below the lower sealing device (50), the upper sealing device (30), the slips device (40), the lower sealing device (50) and the upper section (61) of the centralizing device (60) are axially displaceable downwardly and upwardly in relation to the mandrel device (21) and the upper section (31) of the upper sealing device (30) is connected to the outer housing device (26) and the lower section (62) of the centralizing device (60) is fixed to the inner mandrel device (21). When the centralizing device (60) is provided above the upper sealing device (30), the centralizing device (60), the upper sealing device (30), the slips device (40) and the upper section (51) of the lower sealing device (50) are axially displaceable downwardly and upwardly in relation to the mandrel device (21) and the upper section (61) of the centralizing device (60) is connected to the outer housing device (26) and the lower section (52) of the lower sealing device (50) is fixed to the inner mandrel device (21).