Wellbore Debris Collection Auger for Retention During Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools struggle to retain collected wellbore debris within a collection chamber during retrieval, as the debris tends to escape when the tool is removed from the wellbore.
Innovation Solution
A debris collection tool with an auger shaft that can be rotated in two directions: one direction to convey debris into a collection chamber and the other to retract the auger shaft within the chamber, preventing debris escape by using a selective torque-coupling device or geometric features to create a seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the auger shaft is extended outside the collection chamber to convey debris, then debris collection efficiency is improved, but debris escapes the collection chamber during tool retrieval
Solution Approach 1:
The auger shaft is designed to dynamically change its position between extended and retracted states. During the conveyance phase, the auger shaft is extended to efficiently collect and transport debris. During the retrieval phase, the auger shaft is retracted inside the collection chamber to prevent debris escape, thus adapting the system state to different operational requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the collection chamber from the auger shaft as independent components that can move relative to each other. The collection chamber remains stationary to contain debris, while the auger shaft can be independently extended for conveyance or retracted for retrieval, allowing the debris containment function to be maintained during tool removal
2Reliability
If the auger shaft is retracted within the collection chamber to prevent debris escape, then debris retention is improved, but the auger shaft cannot effectively convey debris
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the auger shaft position based on operational needs. The auger shaft can be extended when debris conveyance is required and retracted when debris retention is the priority, allowing the system to optimize performance for each specific phase of operation
3Reliability
If a seal is created between the collection chamber and auger shaft to prevent debris escape, then debris retention is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the relative positions of the collection chamber and auger shaft. When the auger shaft is retracted, the seal automatically contacts the chamber wall to prevent debris escape. When the auger shaft is extended, the seal automatically disengages to allow auger rotation, eliminating the need for complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
A seal component acts as an intermediary element between the collection chamber and auger shaft. This seal provides the necessary sealing function to prevent debris escape during retraction while allowing the auger shaft to rotate freely during extension, simplifying the overall system design
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
Effectively retains debris within the collection chamber during retrieval by ensuring the auger shaft remains inside, using mechanical or geometric means to prevent escape, thus maintaining collection efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The rotation of the auger shaft conveys debris into the collection chamber, such as by conveying debris-laden fluid through the collection chamber
Implementation Method 2
the collection chamber can create a seal by contacting the auger shaft with sufficient force and in a location that prevents debris from escaping an internal volume of the collection chamber
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed herein for improved debris collection within a wellbore. An example method can include inserting a tool into a wellbore. where the tool includes an input shaft. an auger shaft. and a collection chamber. The input shaft can be rotated in a first direction, causing rotation of the auger shaft. The rotation of the auger shaft conveys debris into the collection chamber. The input shaft can also be rotated in a second direction, which causes the auger shaft to retract within the collection chamber. The retraction of the auger shaft within the collection chamber prevents the debris from escaping the collection chamber. The tool can then be removed from the wellbore while preventing the collected debris from escaping the collection chamber.