Remotely Operated Wellhead Connecting Assembly with Camming Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wellhead connection systems lack a safe and efficient method for remotely securing equipment, particularly in wellbore operations, as they often require manual intervention and fail to maintain a secure lock in case of hydraulic failure.
Innovation Solution
A remotely operated connecting assembly with mechanically actuated locking segments and a hydraulically activated locking ring, which engages and disengages securely without manual presence, utilizing a camming action to maintain the lock even in hydraulic failure scenarios, and includes safety features like a bypass valve and manual override.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual intervention is used for wellhead connections, then operational control is maintained, but personnel safety is compromised due to exposure to the red zone area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with a remotely operated hydraulic system. The connecting assembly uses hydraulic actuators to drive locking segments and locking pins that mechanically engage the bottom sub to the top sub, eliminating the need for personnel to physically manipulate connection components in the red zone while maintaining secure mechanical locking
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a remote operating system as an intermediary between personnel and the wellhead connection process. Hydraulic fluid serves as the intermediary medium, transmitting force from remote actuators to the locking mechanisms, allowing operators to control connections from a safe distance while maintaining precise control over the locking process
2Ease of operation
If hydraulic actuation is used for locking mechanisms, then remote operation is enabled, but connection reliability deteriorates in case of hydraulic failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by designing locking segments with camming surfaces that automatically engage and lock into position on the bottom sub. The mechanical camming action creates a self-locking mechanism that prevents disengagement even if hydraulic pressure is lost, counteracting the potential harmful effect of hydraulic failure before it can compromise connection security
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates mechanical locking pins and camming surfaces as a backup cushioning mechanism against hydraulic failure. These mechanical elements are pre-positioned to engage and maintain the locked state independently of hydraulic pressure, providing a safety cushion that ensures connection reliability even when the primary hydraulic actuation system fails
3Strength
If multiple locking segments are used to ensure secure connection, then connection strength is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the locking mechanism into multiple independent locking segments (typically three or more) that are radially distributed around the connection interface. Each segment independently engages with corresponding features on the bottom sub, distributing the locking load and providing redundant security. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high connection strength while maintaining modular simplicity in each individual segment's 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
Enables quick, safe, and secure connections between wellhead equipment and tools, ensuring operational safety by maintaining engagement even in hydraulic failure conditions, thus enhancing operational efficiency and safety in wellbore operations.
Implementation Method 1
Rotation of the locking ring may be achieved by hydraulic actuation of locking ring actuating means. The locking ring actuating means may comprise a hydraulically activated piston operatively associated with the locking ring.
Implementation Method 2
The configuration provides a camming action whereby the locking pins are positively engaged within the camming portion of the recesses so as to mechanically hold the locking ring in a stationary and activated position in the event hydraulic force is lost or diminished.
Implementation Method 3
The locking segments have a non-activated position and an activated position. The locking segments are mechanically moved via the locking pins from a non-activated to an activated position. In the activated position, the locking pins and the attached locking segments are placed in an engaged arrangement with respect to the bottom sub.
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting assembly for quick and safe securing of equipment or tools to a wellhead or for connection between wellbore equipment such as wireline tools or coiled tubing tools. The connecting assembly has a top sub that includes a latching assembly containing a hydraulically actuated locking ring and a mechanically actuated locking segment that selectively engages within the bottom sub to operatively connect the bottom sub within the top sub in sealing engagement.