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WO2025012881A1 - Système et procédé de déploiement d'élément gonflable dans une formation terrestre - Google Patents

Système et procédé de déploiement d'élément gonflable dans une formation terrestre Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2025012881A1
WO2025012881A1 PCT/IB2024/056851 IB2024056851W WO2025012881A1 WO 2025012881 A1 WO2025012881 A1 WO 2025012881A1 IB 2024056851 W IB2024056851 W IB 2024056851W WO 2025012881 A1 WO2025012881 A1 WO 2025012881A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
pressure chamber
inflatable
inflatable element
sealing
fluid
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
PCT/IB2024/056851
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Omar Mortagy
Shehab Ahmed
Ahmed Galal ABDEL-KADER
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Modus Oilfield International LLC
Original Assignee
Modus Oilfield International LLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Modus Oilfield International LLC filed Critical Modus Oilfield International LLC
Publication of WO2025012881A1 publication Critical patent/WO2025012881A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B23/00—Apparatus for displacing, setting, locking, releasing or removing tools, packers or the like in boreholes or wells
    • E21B23/14—Apparatus for displacing, setting, locking, releasing or removing tools, packers or the like in boreholes or wells for displacing a cable or a cable-operated tool, e.g. for logging or perforating operations in deviated wells
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B19/00—Handling rods, casings, tubes or the like outside the borehole, e.g. in the derrick; Apparatus for feeding the rods or cables
    • E21B19/22—Handling reeled pipe or rod units, e.g. flexible drilling pipes
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B23/00—Apparatus for displacing, setting, locking, releasing or removing tools, packers or the like in boreholes or wells
    • E21B23/08—Introducing or running tools by fluid pressure, e.g. through-the-flow-line tool systems

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to a system for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation. Moreover, the present disclosure relates to a method for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation.
  • the downhole operations encompass a wide range of processes, including drilling, casing, completions, production, intervention, and so forth.
  • processes include activities such as taking downhole measurements, performing logging operations, conveying fluids, and so forth.
  • the downhole operation such as a well intervention operation is performed to provide well diagnostics or manage an efficient production of a well.
  • the well diagnostics include downhole distributed temperature sensing using fiber optics cables.
  • Such well diagnostics provide benefits, such as gas-lift monitoring, well integrity, zonal-inflow profiling, stimulation job evaluation, and so forth.
  • a slick wireline or a coiled tubing is employed for performing the downhole operations such as interventions, measurements, and so forth.
  • the slick wireline or coiled tubing operate under an effect of gravity and by pushing from surface, respectively.
  • a tractor is employed for performing the downhole operation to reach farther distances in horizontal sections of the well.
  • the tractor is used to pull the wireline associated with sensors and tools.
  • the tractor has limitations, such as high power requirements, lower load pulling capacities, and their need to maintain contact with an earth formation to progress forward.
  • the soft robots include soft structures that move and advance with a high degree of flexibility and offer good weight-to-strength ratios. Hence, a washout in the earth formation would not limit the motion of the soft robot.
  • vine robots to date have a limited length which makes them unsuitable to be used in several downhole operations.
  • the aim of the present disclosure is to provide a system and a method to extend the use of the inflatable element to extreme lengths during downhole operations.
  • the aim of the present disclosure is achieved by the system and the method for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation as defined in the appended independent claims to which reference is made to.
  • Advantageous features are set out in the appended dependent claims.
  • FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a system for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure
  • FIG. IB is a cross-sectional view of the system for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 1C is a perspective view of a mandrel arranged within the pressure chamber assembly of the system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of a system for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 2B is a zoomed view of a pressure chamber arrangement of the system for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation, in accordance with a second embodiment of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of a system for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation, in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 3B is a zoomed view of a pressure chamber arrangement of the system for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation, in accordance with a third embodiment of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 4 is an exemplary illustration of at least one sealing element, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 5 is an illustration of an environment depicting a system being used for performing a well-intervention operation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 6 is a flowchart depicting steps of a method for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 7A is an illustration of a system for deploying an inflatable structure in a earth formation, in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 7B is a close-up of an eversion process of an inflatable structure of FIG. 7A, in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 7C is a retraction process of the inflatable structure of FIG. 7A or 7B after it has everted most of the available folded soft material, in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the present disclosure provides a system for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation, the system comprising: a base having a first portion and a second portion, wherein a spool element is arranged at the first portion and a pressure chamber arrangement is arranged at the second portion; the inflatable element, wrapped around the spool element, having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is fixed to the spool element; and the pressure chamber arrangement comprises a first inlet configured to receive the second end of the inflatable element, a pressure chamber having a pressurized space configured to receive a section of the inflatable element, a second inlet arranged at a side wall of the pressurized space, configured to receive a fluid in the pressurized space, wherein the fluid is configured to exert pressure between an outer wall of the inflatable element and an inner wall of the pressure chamber arrangement, and at least one sealing element arranged in the pressurized space near the first inlet, wherein the at least one sealing element is configured to create a sealing surface against the inflatable element.
  • the base housing the spool element and pressure chamber arrangement, establishes a robust foundation for the system.
  • the inflatable element is precisely wrapped around the spool element and secured, forming the initial structure.
  • the system comprises the pressure chamber arrangement, equipped with the first inlet, which facilitates controlled entry of the inflatable element, which is further guided into the pressurized space of the pressure chamber. The introduction of the fluid through the second inlet creates pressure between the inflatable element's outer wall and the inner wall of the pressure chamber, instigating its eversion.
  • the aforementioned fluid-based pressure mechanism in synergy with the sealing elements placed near the first inlet, ensures a sealed environment.
  • the aforementioned components harmonize to enable the deployment of the inflatable element to extreme lengths, mitigating risks and delivering efficient downhole operations.
  • the present disclosure provides a method for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation, the method comprising: arranging a spool element at a first portion of a base and a pressure chamber arrangement at a second portion of the base; wrapping a first end of the inflatable element around the spool element; receiving a second end of the inflatable element in the pressure chamber arrangement via a first inlet of the pressure chamber arrangement; receiving a section of the inflatable element in a pressurized space of a pressure chamber; receiving a fluid in the pressurized space via second inlet arranged at a side wall of the pressurized space; and creating, via the at least one sealing element, a sealing surface against the inflatable element.
  • the arrangement of the spool element and pressure chamber arrangement sets the foundation of the system.
  • the method employs wrapping the inflatable element around the spool element to establish a secure starting point. The method allows guided reception into the pressure chamber to ensure alignment, while the fluid introduced via the second inlet drives controlled inflation of the inflatable medium to extreme lengths.
  • the term "inflatable element” as used herein refers to a flexible structure that could be expanded by introducing a fluid under pressure therein and take on a desired shape.
  • the inflatable element is a critical part used for deploying in the earth formations during various downhole operations.
  • the system enables the use of the inflatable element during oil and gas downhole operations in order to perform measurements or convey fluids in challenging horizontal sections.
  • the inflatable element is fabricated using a material selected from at least one of: a fiber fabric, a polymer, an elastomer, or a flexible material.
  • the inflatable element is fabricated using the fiber fabric which is a material made by weaving or knitting fibers together.
  • the fiber fabric examples include, but are not limited to materials such as nylon, polyester, or fiberglass.
  • the fiber fabrics offer strength, durability, and can be engineered for specific properties.
  • the inflatable element is fabricated using the polymers which are materials made up of long chains of repeating units.
  • the polymers include, but are not limited to plastics, resins, and so forth.
  • the polymers can be engineered to have various properties such as flexibility, strength, and resistance to chemicals.
  • the inflatable element is fabricated using the elastomer which refers to a polymer with properties of both the rubber and the plastic.
  • the elastomers can stretch and return to an original shape, making the elastomers ideal for applications requiring flexibility and resilience.
  • the inflatable element is fabricated using the flexible materials that could be bent, stretched, or deformed without breaking.
  • the selected material is processed and shaped according to the desired design. For example, if the fiber fabric is selected, it could be woven or knitted into the desired shape.
  • the technical effect of fabricating the inflatable element using the aforementioned material is an increase in the inflatable element's ability to withstand pressure, maintain a seal, or navigate challenging terrains, ensuring successful deployment and operation in the earth formations.
  • the term "base” as used herein refers to a structural foundation or support platform that provides stability for arranging various components of the system thereupon.
  • the base comprises the first portion and the second portion.
  • the base could be split into the first portion and the second portion.
  • the base could be kept united with both the first portion and the second portion.
  • a design of the base is dictated by mobility and practicality considerations of the system.
  • the base could be fabricated using metal, wood, plastic, or a combination thereof.
  • spool element refers to a cylindrical object around which the inflatable element is wrapped.
  • the spool element provides a means for storing or carrying the inflatable material and controlling the deployment and retraction thereof.
  • the spool element is arranged on the first portion of the system.
  • the spool element is capable of wrapping the inflatable element having a length, for example, in a range of 300 meters to 10000 meters.
  • the length of the inflatable material and the size of the spool element storing or carrying it may vary as per the desired application of the system.
  • the inflatable element has two distinct ends, referred to as the first end and the second end.
  • the first end of the inflatable element is then affixed or attached to the spool element. It will be appreciated that by fixing the first end of the inflatable element to the spool element, the system ensures that the inflatable element remains in a controlled position during the deployment process. For example, fixing the first end prevents tangling, tangential motion, or irregular deployment, thus contributing to the accurate and efficient deployment of the inflatable element in the earth formation.
  • pressure chamber arrangement refers to a configuration of components designed to create and control a pressurized environment in the system.
  • the pressure chamber arrangement is arranged on the second portion of the base.
  • the second portion is designed as an elevated supporting frame for carrying the pressure chamber arrangement thereupon.
  • the pressure chamber arrangement comprises the first inlet which is an entry point for the second end of the inflatable element.
  • the pressure chamber arrangement is constructed to accommodate the second end of the inflatable element via the first inlet.
  • pressure chamber refers to a confined and sealed container specifically designed to create, maintain, and regulate varying levels of internal pressure, often through the controlled introduction of fluid. Typically, the pressure chamber is engineered to withstand the forces exerted by the contained pressure and is constructed to ensure integrity and safety during pressurization.
  • pressurized space refers to an enclosed area within the pressure chamber where fluid pressure is established.
  • second inlet refers to another entry point or an opening in the pressurized space, through which a fluid is introduced.
  • the second end of the inflatable element is inverted at an outlet of the pressure chamber arrangement and secured thereto using one or more fixing means.
  • the system provides the flexibility to invert the second end of the inflatable element at the outlet of the pressure chamber arrangement. Said inverted end is then secured using the one or more fixing means.
  • the one or more fixing means includes clamps for securing the inflatable element after it exits the pressure chamber.
  • fluid refers to a substance, typically a gas or liquid, used to create pressure inside the inflatable element.
  • the fluid is selected from at least one of: a compressible fluid, an incompressible fluid.
  • compressible fluid refers to a fluid that could be compressed or expanded when subjected to varying pressure levels.
  • the compressible fluid could be nitrogen gas.
  • incompressible fluid refers to a fluid that maintains a nearly constant volume regardless of pressure changes.
  • the incompressible fluid could be a hydraulic oil.
  • the system could tailor the pressure exertion process based on the specific operational requirements of the earth formation.
  • the selection of the compressible fluid or the incompressible fluid is made during the setup of the system and could involve filling the pressure chamber with the selected fluid type.
  • sealing elements refers to components designed to establish a tight seal and prevent fluid leakage from the pressurized space.
  • sealing surface refers to a contact area of the sealing elements that creates a barrier to contain the fluid pressure.
  • the at least one sealing element is selected from at least one of: inflatable seals, O-rings, lip seals, spring-energized seals, O-ring energized seals, and chevron seals.
  • inflatable seals refers to a sealing element made from flexible materials, that can be expanded or contracted using fluid pressure to form the tight seal.
  • the inflatable seals offer adaptability to varying geometries, making them suitable for irregular shapes or changing environments.
  • the term "O-rings” as used herein refers to circular cross-section seals often made of elastomers such as rubber. It will be appreciated that the O-rings provide efficient sealing between two surfaces, preventing fluid leakage through their deformation under compression.
  • the term "lip seals” as used herein refers to radial shaft seals, that use a flexible lip to create a barrier against fluid escape. It will be appreciated that the lip seals are used in rotary applications and are effective at retaining lubricants and excluding contaminants.
  • spring-energized seals refers to a seal that is used for enhancing the sealing performance thereof under different pressures and temperatures. Typically, the spring-energized seal is fabricated using an elastomer along with a spring element that helps maintain the constant sealing force for reliability.
  • O-rng energized seals refers to a seal that utilizes an O-ring as an energizer within the seal structure. It will be appreciated that the 0- ring energized seal design combines the benefits of O-rings sealing efficiency with the energizing properties of an additional element, enhancing sealing effectiveness.
  • chevron seals refers to seals that consist of multiple sealing lips in a V-shaped arrangement. It will be appreciated that the system offers the flexibility to select the aforementioned sealing elements depending on the specific design and operational needs thereof.
  • the second inlet is positioned at the side wall of the pressurized space, enabling the controlled influx of the fluid.
  • the fluid when pressurized, pushes against the inflatable element, causing the inflatable element to evert and deploy in the earth formation.
  • the pressure chamber arrangement comprises the at least one sealing element within the pressurized space near the first inlet.
  • the sealing elements could be positioned strategically to establish the tight seal against the inflatable element, ensuring that the pressure remains contained.
  • the technical effect of employing the combination of the first inlet, the pressurized space, the second inlet, and the at least one sealing element in the pressure chamber arrangement is that the inflatable element is filled with the fluid.
  • the inflatable element is filled with the fluid.
  • the pressure between an outer wall of the inflatable element and an inner wall of the pressure chamber arrangement everts the inflatable element and forms a continuous tip through which the section of the inflatable element is displaced from the pressurized space and deployed in the earth formation.
  • the term “everts” refers to a process of turning the inflatable element inside out.
  • the term “continuous tip” refers to a protruding, seamless extension of the inflatable element formed during the eversion.
  • the continuous tip created by the eversion motion, functions as the leading edge for the section of the inflatable element, facilitating its displacement from the pressurized space.
  • the pressure differential between the inflatable element's outer wall and the inner wall of the pressure chamber arrangement initiates the eversion.
  • the system further comprises a mounting head coupled to the continuous tip, configured for carrying or pushing an intervention tool assembly to the earth formation.
  • mounting head refers to a component that is designed to attach securely to the continuous tip of the inflatable element.
  • the mounting head provides a connection point for various tools, sensors, or assemblies intended for downhole interventions or measurements.
  • intervention tool assembly refers to a collection of tools, sensors, or equipment designed to perform specific tasks or measurements within the earth formation.
  • such tasks include measurements, sampling, data acquisition, and so forth interventions.
  • the deployment of the intervention tool assembly becomes feasible. This allows the system to extend its functionality beyond mere eversion and deployment, enabling it to execute precise and targeted interventions within the earth formation.
  • the continuous tip is configured for displacing the intervention tool assembly into the earth formation.
  • the displacement may include carrying or pushing of the intervention tool assembly.
  • the pressure chamber arrangement further comprises at least one housing that houses a mandrel having the at least one sealing element and a plurality of rollers configured to displace the inflatable element through the pressure chamber, wherein the plurality of rollers is arranged at pre-defined angles circumferentially.
  • mandrel refers to a cylindrical or tapered rod or shaft used as a core around which materials such as the fabric or tubing can be wound or shaped.
  • the mandrel consists of the at least one sealing element and the plurality of rollers.
  • the plurality of rollers is designed to guide and move the inflatable element through the pressure chamber.
  • the plurality of rollers is positioned at specific angles around the mandrel.
  • the technical effect of incorporating the mandrel with the at least one sealing element and the precisely angled plurality of rollers within the at least one housing is that it optimizes the movement of the inflatable element through the pressure chamber.
  • the mandrel is employed to ensure effective sealing between the at least one sealing element and the inflatable element and, hence, maintain as much pressure as possible within the pressure chamber, thus, improving the efficiency of the eversion process.
  • said design minimizes friction and ensures consistent and controlled motion, resulting in the reliable and efficient deployment of the inflatable element in the earth formation.
  • the at least one sealing element is fabricated using a soft material, and wherein one end of a given sealing element is secured to an outer portion of the pressure chamber arrangement with one or more fixing means, and wherein the at least one sealing element comprises an opening to receive the section of the inflatable element into the pressure chamber.
  • the at least one sealing element is operatively coupled to the pressure chamber for receiving the pressure present inside the pressurized space of the pressure chamber.
  • the at least one sealing element could receive pressure from an external pressure source.
  • the at least one sealing element is configured to be inflated by the fluid in the pressure chamber or by any similar means to create a sealing surface against a part of the inflatable element entering into the pressure chamber.
  • the pressure chamber arrangement comprises the at least one sealing element that are constructed from the soft materials with a flexible and pliable nature.
  • soft materials include but are not limited to rubber, elastomers, and the like.
  • fixing means refers to mechanisms that are used to secure or fasten one end of the given sealing element to a particular location. Examples of the fixing means include but are not limited to mechanical clips, clamps, adhesive bonding, and so forth.
  • opening refers to a gap or an aperture strategically positioned within the at least one sealing element. The opening is designed to accommodate the entry of the section of the inflatable element, thereby allowing its controlled movement within the pressure chamber.
  • the technical effect of using the at least one sealing element fabricated using the soft material and arranging thereto with the one or more fixing means and the opening is that it improves the containment of the pressure of the fluid and the controlled movement of the inflatable element, ensuring successful deployment while maintaining a secure sealing in the system.
  • the at least one sealing element is at least one inflatable sealing elements, wherein the at least one inflatable sealing elements is configured to receive an inflation medium through one or more ports thereof to create a sealing surface against a part of the inflatable element entering into the pressure chamber.
  • the at least one sealing element are inflatable in nature and can be expanded or inflated to create the sealing surface.
  • the at least one sealing element could be expanded through the introduction of the inflation medium, such as air or another suitable gas.
  • the at least one sealing element can adjust the shape and size to match the contours of the part of the inflatable element, the at least one sealing element is sealing against.
  • the inflation medium can be introduced through the one or more ports present in the at least one sealing element. The technical effect of using said arrangement is that it leads to improved pressure containment within the pressure chamber, reducing the risk of leakage of the fluid and ensuring the deployment of the inflatable element.
  • the system further comprises a pump, operatively coupled to the pressure chamber arrangement via the second inlet, to pump the fluid into the pressure chamber.
  • pump refers to a mechanical device designed to move fluids (liquids or gases) by physical or mechanical action, generally from a lower pressure area to a higher pressure area.
  • the pump is connected to the pressure chamber arrangement through the second inlet in the system.
  • the pump is used to facilitate the transfer of the fluid into the pressure chamber. The technical effect of employing the pump in the system is to ensure that the fluid is efficiently and precisely introduced into the pressurized space.
  • the pressure chamber arrangement further comprises a pressure relief valve assembly configured to release pressure from the pressurized space when the section of the inflatable element is retracted through the spool element.
  • pressure relief valve assembly refers to a mechanical device or arrangement designed to regulate and control the pressure within a closed system or chamber.
  • the pressure relief valve assembly consists of a valve mechanism that automatically opens when the internal pressure reaches a certain predetermined level. It will be appreciated that the pressure relief valve assembly ensures the safe operation of the system by preventing overpressure situations that could lead to equipment failure or other adverse consequences. In this regard, as the inflatable element is being retracted through the spool element, the pressure might build up within the pressurized space.
  • the pressure relief valve assembly allows controlled pressure release, ensuring that the retraction process proceeds smoothly without any detrimental effects on the inflatable element or the system.
  • the system further comprises an external device configured for facilitating communication or intervention in the earth formation, wherein the external device comprises a cable selected from at least one of: a fiber-optics cable, a wireline, an acid hose.
  • the external device refers to an additional equipment or apparatus that is integrated into the system to enhance its capabilities for communication or intervention in the earth formation.
  • the external device comprises the cable.
  • the term "fiber-optics cable” refers to a specialized cable that contains one or more optical fibers, each capable of transmitting data using light signals.
  • the fiber-optics cables enable the transmission of data, such as real-time measurements or images, from downhole sensors to the earth surface.
  • the term “wireline” refers to a strong, slender cable or wire for various downhole operations.
  • the wireline could be used for power transmission for downhole tools and instruments, data transfer, and mechanical operations such as logging and sampling.
  • the term "acid hose” as used herein refers to a specialized hose designed to convey corrosive fluids, particularly acids, downhole for stimulation operations.
  • the acid hose is used to deliver acidbased chemicals to the earth formation for processes such as acid fracturing or acidizing.
  • the acid hoses are designed to withstand the harsh chemical environment and pressures encountered in the downhole operations.
  • the present disclosure also relates to the method for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation as described above.
  • Various embodiments and variants disclosed above, with respect to the aforementioned system for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation apply mutatis mutandis to the method for deploying an inflatable element in an earth formation.
  • the first end of the inflatable element is fixed to the spool element.
  • the fluid is configured to exert pressure between an outer wall of the inflatable element and an inner wall of the pressure chamber arrangement to evert the inflatable element and form a continuous tip through which the section of the inflatable element is displaced from the pressurized space and deployed in the earth formation.
  • the method further comprises arranging a pump, operatively coupled to the pressure chamber arrangement via the second inlet, to pump the fluid into the pressure chamber.
  • the method further comprises providing the pressure chamber arrangement with at least one housing that houses a mandrel having the at least one sealing element and a plurality of rollers configured to displace the inflatable element through the pressure chamber, wherein the plurality of rollers is arranged at pre-defined angles circumferentially.
  • the method further comprises securing one end of a given sealing element to an outer portion of the pressure chamber arrangement using one or more fixing means and providing the at least one sealing element with an opening configured to receive the section of the inflatable element into the pressure chamber.
  • the sealing element is configured to receive pressurized fluid from the pressure chamber or from other sources to create a sealing surface against the entering inflatable element.
  • the method further comprises at least one sealing element is configured to be inflated by the fluid in the pressure chamber to create a sealing surface against the given section of the inflatable element entering into the pressure chamber.
  • the method further comprises receiving an inflation medium through one or more ports of the at least one inflatable sealing element to create a sealing surface against a part of the inflatable element entering into the pressure chamber, wherein the at least one inflatable sealing element is the at least one sealing element.
  • the method further comprises releasing pressure from the pressurized space via a pressure relief valve assembly when the section of the inflatable element is retracted through the spool element.
  • the system 100 comprises a base 104 having a first portion 104A and a second portion 104B, wherein a spool element 106 is arranged at the first portion 104A and a pressure chamber arrangement 108 is arranged at the second portion 104B.
  • the system 100 comprises the inflatable element 102, wrapped around the spool element 106, having a first end and a second end 102A, wherein the first end is fixed to the spool element 106.
  • the system 100 comprises an on off valve 107.
  • the pressure chamber arrangement 108 comprises a first inlet 108A configured to receive the second end 102A of the inflatable element 102, a pressure chamber 110 having a pressurized space 112 (as shown in FIG. IB) configured to receive a section of the inflatable element 102, a second inlet 114 arranged at a side wall of the pressurized space 112, configured to receive a fluid in the pressurized space 112, wherein the fluid is configured to exert pressure between an outer wall of the inflatable element 102 and an inner wall of the pressure chamber arrangement 108, and at least one sealing element 116 (as shown in FIG.
  • the system 100 comprises a clamp 115 configured to hold or support the pressure chamber arrangement 108.
  • FIG. IB illustrated is a cross-sectional view of the system 100 for deploying an inflatable element 102 in an earth formation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the second end 102A of the inflatable element 102 is inverted at an outlet 118 of the pressure chamber arrangement 108 and secured thereto using one or more fixing means such as 120A and 120B.
  • the pressure between an outer wall of the inflatable element 102 and an inner wall of the pressure chamber arrangement 108 everts the inflatable element 102 and forms a continuous tip 122 through which the section of the inflatable element 102 is displaced from the pressurized space 112 and deployed in the earth formation.
  • the pressure chamber arrangement 108 further comprises a pressure relief valve assembly 124 configured to release pressure from the pressurized space 112 when the section of the inflatable element 102 is retracted through the spool element 106.
  • the pressure chamber arrangement 108 further comprises at least one housing such as 128A and 128B that houses the mandrel 126 having the at least one sealing element 116 (as shown in FIG. IB) and a plurality of rollers such as 130A-D configured to displace the inflatable element 102 through the pressure chamber 110, wherein the plurality of rollers 130A-D is arranged at pre-defined angles circumferentially.
  • the system 100 further comprises one or more ball transfer units such as 130A to reduce friction between the inflatable element 102 and the surface of the mandrel 126.
  • the system 200 comprises a base 204 having a first portion 204A and a second portion 204B, wherein a spool element 206 is arranged at the first portion 204A and a pressure chamber arrangement 208 is arranged at the second portion 204B.
  • the system 200 comprises the inflatable element 202, wrapped around the spool element 206, having a first end and a second end 202A, wherein the first end is fixed to the spool element 206.
  • the pressure chamber arrangement 208 comprises a first inlet 208A configured to receive the second end 202A of the inflatable element 202, a pressure chamber 210 having a pressurized space 212 configured to receive a section of the inflatable element 202, a second inlet arranged at a side wall of the pressurized space 212, configured to receive a fluid in the pressurized space 212, wherein the fluid is configured to exert pressure between an outer wall of the inflatable element 202 and an inner wall of the pressure chamber arrangement 208, and at least one sealing element 216 arranged in the pressurized space 212 near the first inlet, wherein the at least one sealing element 216 is configured to create a sealing surface 217 against the inflatable element 202.
  • the at least one sealing element 216 gets its sealing power from the fluid pressure coming from the pressure chamber 210 or from an external pressure source.
  • the second end 202A of the inflatable element 202 is inverted at an outlet 218 of the pressure chamber arrangement 208 and secured thereto using one or more fixing means such as 220A and 220B.
  • the pressure between an outer wall of the inflatable element 202 and an inner wall of the pressure chamber arrangement 208 everts the inflatable element 202 and forms a continuous tip 222 through which the section of the inflatable element 202 is displaced from the pressurized space 212 and deployed in the earth formation.
  • the pressure chamber arrangement 208 further comprises a pressure relief valve assembly 224 configured to release pressure from the pressurized space 212 when the section of the inflatable element 202 is retracted through the spool element 206.
  • the at least one sealing element 216 is fabricated using a soft material, and wherein one end of a given sealing element is secured to an outer portion 226 of the pressure chamber arrangement 208 with one or more fixing means 228, and wherein the at least one sealing element 216 comprises an opening 230 to receive the section of the inflatable element 202 into the pressure chamber 210.
  • a pressure relief port 232 there is shown a pressure relief port 232.
  • the system 200 comprises a clamp 234 configured to hold or support the pressure chamber arrangement 208.
  • the system 300 comprises a base 304 having a first portion 304A and a second portion 304B, wherein a spool element 306 is arranged at the first portion 304A and a pressure chamber arrangement 308 is arranged at the second portion 304B.
  • the system 300 comprises the inflatable element 302, wrapped around the spool element 306, having a first end and a second end 302A, wherein the first end is fixed to the spool element 306.
  • the pressure chamber arrangement 308 comprises a first inlet 308A (as shown in FIG. 3A) configured to receive the second end 302A (as shown in FIG.
  • a pressure chamber 310 having a pressurized space 312 configured to receive a section of the inflatable element 302, a second inlet arranged at a side wall of the pressurized space 312, configured to receive a fluid in the pressurized space 312, wherein the fluid is configured to exert pressure between an outer wall of the inflatable element 302 and an inner wall of the pressure chamber arrangement 308, and at least one sealing element 316 arranged in the pressurized space 312 near the first inlet, wherein the at least one sealing element 316 is configured to create a sealing surface against the inflatable element 302.
  • the second end 302A of the inflatable element 302 is inverted at an outlet 318 of the pressure chamber arrangement 308 and secured thereto using one or more fixing means such as 320A and 320B.
  • the pressure between an outer wall of the inflatable element 302 and an inner wall of the pressure chamber arrangement 308 everts the inflatable element 302 and forms a continuous tip 322 through which the section of the inflatable element 302 is displaced from the pressurized space 312 and deployed in the earth formation.
  • the pressure chamber arrangement 308 further comprises a pressure relief valve assembly 324 configured to release pressure from the pressurized space 312 when the section of the inflatable element 302 is retracted through the spool element 306.
  • the system 300 comprises an on off valve 326.
  • the at least one sealing element 316 is at least one inflatable sealing element.
  • the at least one inflatable sealing element is configured to receive an inflation medium through one or more ports 325 thereof to create a sealing surface 328 against a part of the inflatable element 302 entering into the pressure chamber 310.
  • the system 300 comprises a clamp 330 configured to hold or support the pressure chamber arrangement 308.
  • the pressure chamber 310 comprises an extremity 332 on entrance side of the inflatable element 302.
  • the at least one sealing element is selected from at least one of: inflatable seals 402, O-rings 404, lip seals 406, spring- energized seals 408, O-ring energized seals 410, and chevron seals 412.
  • the at least one sealing element is selected from at least one of: L-cup 414 and U-cup 416.
  • FIG. 5 illustrated is an illustration of an environment 500 depicting a system 502 being used for performing a well-intervention operation, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • a well 504 drilled in the earth 505.
  • the well 504 comprises a vertical section 506 and a horizontal section 508.
  • the well-intervention operation is a downhole temperature measurement operation.
  • an inflatable element 510 is wrapped around a spool element 512 of the system 502.
  • a second end 510A of the inflatable element 510 pulled through a pressure chamber arrangement 514 of the system 502 and then inverted around an outer portion of the pressure chamber arrangement 514 to form a pressure-tight seal.
  • the system 502 further comprises a pump 516, operatively coupled to the pressure chamber arrangement 514 via a second inlet 518, to pump the fluid into the pressure chamber.
  • the system 502 further comprises a mounting head 520 coupled to a continuous tip 522, configured for carrying an intervention tool assembly 524 to the earth formation.
  • the system 502 further comprises an external device 526 configured for facilitating communication or intervention in the earth formation.
  • the external device 526 comprises a cable 528 selected from at least one of: a fiber-optics cable, a wireline for power and/or data transmission, an acid hose for conveying acids downhole for stimulation operations, and so forth.
  • the intervention tool assembly 524 includes a sensor that is used for taking downhole measurements when the continuous tip 522 pushes the mounting head 520 during the well-intervention operation.
  • the pump 516 is configured to receive the fluid from a tank 530.
  • a spool element is arranged at a first portion of a base and a pressure chamber arrangement is arranged at a second portion of the base.
  • a first end of the inflatable element is wrapped around the spool element.
  • a second end of the inflatable element is received in the pressure chamber arrangement via a first inlet of the pressure chamber arrangement.
  • a section of the inflatable element is received in a pressurized space of a pressure chamber.
  • a fluid is received in the pressurized space via a second inlet arranged at a side wall of the pressurized space.
  • a sealing surface is created against the inflatable element, via the at least one sealing element.
  • FIG. 7A is an illustration of a system for deploying an inflatable structure in a earth formation, in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the fourth embodiment 700 shown in FIG. 7A comprises a coiled tubing reel 702 positioned on rig floor 704 and coiled tubing 706 connected to pump 708.
  • Coiled tubing 706 is responsible for conveying soft inflatable structure 710 across vertical section 712 and horizontal section 714 of drilled hole 716 to the farthest possible point 718 coiled tubing 706 can reach.
  • One end 710B of inflatable structure 710 is folded around end 706A of coiled tubing 706 to form a pressure-tight seal.
  • the soft Inflatable structure 710 is packed inside coiled tubing 706 starting from coiled tubing end 706A, which will be at the farthest reachable point 718 of the well. Packing is done in a compactly folded manner to store as much material length as possible at the extremity of coiled tubing 706.
  • An attachable head 724 is attached to the tip of inflatable structure 101.
  • the attachment is designed to allow attachable head 105 to be pushed with the tip of inflatable structure 710 as new material continuously everts and progresses forward.
  • Attachable head 724 can serve to carry a payload 726, such as a sensor or a camera for example, or can serve as an orienting head to steer the everting inflatable away from obstacles as it is progressing, or can serve as both.
  • pump 708 pumps a fluid into coiled tubing 706 via connection 732.
  • the fluid pumped preferably should be the same as the fluid existing in the annulus of the well. Using different fluids is possible, but pressure calculations will have to take that into consideration.
  • the pressure of the fluid causes the pressurized tip of inflatable 710 to evert and progress in a direction parallel to the axis of horizontal section 714 of the well. A close up of the eversion process can be seen in FIG. 7C. As the tip everts, it pushes attachable head 724 in front of it.
  • FIG. 7B is a close-up of an eversion process of an inflatable structure of FIG. 7A, in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 7B shows the soft inflatable structure 710 after it has everted most of the available folded material.
  • FIG. 7C illustrated is a retraction process of the inflatable structure 710 after it has everted most of the available folded soft material of the inflatable structure 710.
  • a retraction spool 720 is rotated to pull back the continuous tip 710C of the inflatable structure 710.
  • the mounting head spool 730 will rotate at the same speed to maintain the mounting head 724 at the continuous tip 710C of the inflatable structure 710, during retraction.
  • the pressure inside the inflatable structure 710 will increase due to the nature of the incompressible fluid.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Geology (AREA)
  • Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Geochemistry & Mineralogy (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Actuator (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un système de déploiement d'un élément gonflable dans une formation terrestre. Le système comprend une base ayant une première portion et une deuxième portion, l'élément de bobine étant disposé au niveau de la première portion et un agencement de chambre de pression étant disposé au niveau de la deuxième portion ; un élément gonflable, enroulé autour d'un élément de bobine, ayant une première extrémité et une deuxième extrémité, la première extrémité étant fixée à l'élément de bobine ; et un agencement de chambre de pression comprenant une première entrée conçue pour recevoir une deuxième extrémité d'un élément gonflable, une chambre de pression ayant un espace sous pression conçu pour recevoir une section d'élément gonflable, une deuxième entrée disposée au niveau de la paroi latérale de l'espace sous pression, conçue pour recevoir un fluide dans un espace sous pression, le fluide étant conçu pour exercer une pression entre la paroi externe de l'élément gonflable et la paroi interne de l'agencement de chambre de pression, et au moins un élément d'étanchéité disposé dans l'espace sous pression à proximité de la première entrée, au moins un élément d'étanchéité étant conçu pour créer une surface d'étanchéité contre l'élément gonflable.
PCT/IB2024/056851 2023-07-13 2024-07-15 Système et procédé de déploiement d'élément gonflable dans une formation terrestre Pending WO2025012881A1 (fr)

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US202363513410P 2023-07-13 2023-07-13
US63/513,410 2023-07-13

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Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5577560A (en) * 1991-06-14 1996-11-26 Baker Hughes Incorporated Fluid-actuated wellbore tool system
US6454493B1 (en) * 1998-10-29 2002-09-24 Shell Oil Company Method for transporting and installing an expandable steel tubular
US20040245018A1 (en) * 1998-12-18 2004-12-09 Duane Bloom Electrically sequenced tractor
CA2249432C (fr) * 1996-03-19 2005-09-13 Bj Services Company, Usa Procede et appareil utilisant un tube bispirale

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5577560A (en) * 1991-06-14 1996-11-26 Baker Hughes Incorporated Fluid-actuated wellbore tool system
CA2249432C (fr) * 1996-03-19 2005-09-13 Bj Services Company, Usa Procede et appareil utilisant un tube bispirale
US6454493B1 (en) * 1998-10-29 2002-09-24 Shell Oil Company Method for transporting and installing an expandable steel tubular
US20040245018A1 (en) * 1998-12-18 2004-12-09 Duane Bloom Electrically sequenced tractor

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