Wellbore Disconnect Tool Using Low-Power Electric Motor Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intermediate disconnecting tools for fluid exploitation wells are not fully satisfactory, particularly in inclined wells, as they may damage sensitive tools and require significant electrical power or explosive loads, which can be risky and inefficient, especially when using slicklines.
Innovation Solution
A disconnecting tool with a movement mechanism that includes an elastic stressing member and a retaining member, actuated by an electric motor with a low-power battery, allowing controlled disconnection without the need for explosive loads or high electrical power, using a pressure equalization system and a rotary cam mechanism for safe and reliable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If explosive loads are used to actuate the disconnecting tool, then sufficient energy is provided to move the piston and release the cable working line, but the explosive load can damage the tool and requires significant electrical power transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the explosive mechanical system with an electrical motor system. The motor (184) drives a rotary cam (204) that actuates the release mechanism through controlled mechanical motion, eliminating the need for explosive charges while providing sufficient power to move the piston and release the immobilization members.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the energy delivery parameter from high-power explosive impulse to low-power continuous electrical energy. The motor consumes minimal electrical power (less than 5 watts) delivered through the cable working line, transforming the energy characteristics from destructive high-power impulse to controlled low-power continuous delivery.
2Force
If significant tractive force is exerted on the lower assembly to unblock it, then the lower assembly may be freed from blocking, but the cable working line may break
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the lower assembly into two separable parts: the upper portion (64) that can be raised to the surface and the lower portion (62) that remains in the well. The disconnecting tool enables controlled separation between these segments, allowing the upper portion containing sensitive tools to be retrieved without applying excessive force to the entire assembly, thereby preventing cable breakage.
Solution Approach 2:
The disconnecting tool acts as an intermediary mechanism between the cable working line and the lower assembly. It provides a controlled release interface that allows separation of the upper and lower portions without transmitting high impact forces through the cable, thus protecting the cable from breaking while still enabling unblocking.
3Force
If jarring is performed to unjam the lower assembly, then the lower assembly may be freed, but the impacts can damage sensitive measuring tools including sensors
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the lower assembly into separable upper and lower portions, the patent allows the sensitive measuring tools in the upper portion to be retrieved separately from the lower portion that may require unjamming. This eliminates the need to apply impact forces to the entire assembly, protecting sensitive instruments from damage while still enabling unjamming of the lower portion if needed.
4Extent of automation
If electrical power is transmitted from the surface to actuate the disconnecting tool, then the tool can be controlled remotely, but significant electrical power is required which is not possible when using slicklines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical power parameter from high-power requirements to ultra-low-power consumption (less than 5 watts). This transformation enables remote actuation of the disconnecting tool through slicklines, which cannot transmit significant electrical power, while still providing sufficient energy to drive the motor and actuate the release mechanism.
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 a safe and controlled disconnection of the lower assembly from the cable working line, reducing the risk of tool damage and cable breakage, while allowing for independent retrieval of sensitive tools without requiring significant surface force or electrical power transmission.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator (184) including an energy source, and a receptor (186) receiving a control signal capable of powering the actuator (184) via the energy source when the control signal is received
Implementation Method 2
The actuator (184) comprises an electric motor (200), a battery (202) for powering the electric motor (200)
Implementation Method 3
a cam (204) for actuating the release member (142), driven in rotation by the motor (200)
Implementation Method 4
at least one member (180) for elastic stressing of the release member (142) towards its release position
Data Source
AI summary
This tool comprises an upper portion and a lower portion able to move relative to each other between a connected position and a completely disconnected position. The tool comprises an immobilization member that can be freed from the upper portion relative to the lower portion, a member for releasing the immobilization member, and a mechanism for moving the release member housed in the tool. The movement mechanism comprises an actuator and a receptor for receiving a control signal.