Whipstock Support Member Torque Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wellbore formation techniques using whipstocks face challenges in maintaining connection and transferring torque effectively during the positioning and deployment of whipstock assemblies, leading to premature disconnection and reduced torque capacity, which increases the number of trips required downhole.

Innovation Solution

A well apparatus that includes a bottom hole assembly (BHA) connected to a whipstock assembly via a connector and a support member, which transfers torque between the BHA and the whipstock assembly, preventing premature disconnection and increasing torque capacity by distributing forces through the support member, allowing the BHA to drill deviated wellbores after disconnection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a connector is used to connect the BHA to the whipstock assembly, then the connection can be made, but the torque capacity is reduced and premature disconnection occurs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidtorque capacity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is divided into two separate functional components: a connector for coupling the BHA to the whipstock assembly, and a support member for transferring torque. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, preventing the torque transfer function from compromising the connection reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A support member is introduced as an intermediary element between the connector and the whipstock assembly. This support member specifically handles torque transfer, while the connector focuses on mechanical coupling. The intermediary support member prevents the connector from being overloaded by torque forces, thereby preventing premature disconnection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Strength

If the connector is used for both connection and torque transfer, then device complexity is reduced, but torque capacity is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque capacityVSAvoidconnection structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The dual function of the connector is segmented into two separate components: the connector handles coupling, while the support member handles torque transfer. This segmentation enables each component to be designed with optimal properties for its specific function, achieving higher torque capacity without excessive complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support member is designed to perform multiple functions: it transfers torque from the BHA to the whipstock assembly, provides structural support during positioning, and maintains connection integrity. This multi-functionality achieves high torque capacity while managing device complexity through a single well-designed component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If the shear bolt connection is used to connect BHA to whipstock, then the whipstock can be positioned and secured, but the connection may prematurely disconnect under force and torque

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewhipstock positioningVSAvoidconnection stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is segmented into a connector for positioning and coupling, and a support member for torque transfer. The shear bolt remains part of the connector system, optimized for positioning operations, while the support member independently handles torque transfer, preventing premature disconnection under operational forces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support member acts as an intermediary that protects the shear bolt connection from torque forces. By isolating the connector from torque loads, the shear bolt connection can focus on providing stable positioning without the risk of premature disconnection caused by torque-induced failures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enhances the torque capacity and stability of the connection between the BHA and the whipstock assembly, reducing the risk of premature disconnection and enabling efficient formation of deviated wellbores with increased reliability and reduced operational complexity.

Implementation Method 1

a support member that extends between the BHA and the whipstock assembly and is spaced from the connector. The support member may be used to support the connection between the BHA and the whipstock assembly. For example, while torque may be transferred between the BHA and the whipstock assembly through the connector, the support member may also be used to transfer torque between the BHA and the whipstock assembly

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTorque transfer: Torque

Data Source

PatentUS10871034B2Whipstock assembly with a support member

Publication Date: 2020.12.22 HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES INC

AI summary

A well apparatus includes a bottom hole assembly (BHA) comprising a cutting structure at one end of the BHA, a whipstock assembly for selectively deflecting the BHA to form a deviated wellbore, a whipstock connector releasably connecting the whipstock assembly to the BHA, and a whipstock support member extending between the BHA and the whipstock assembly and spaced from the whipstock connector.