Multi-stage setting tool with controlled force-time profile

摘要

A multi-stage setting tool actuated by hydrostatic pressure downhole is provided with a selectable force-time profile during setting. A first port opens a first piston chamber to hydrostatic pressure which drives a first piston. A force-transmitting member, attached to the piston, is driven in response to the fluid pressure increase in the chamber. The process is repeated with sequential ports and piston chambers. A settable tool is set in response to the driving of the force-transmitting member by the pistons. The combined stroke distances and forces of the pistons are selected to set the tool. Opening of the ports can occur in response to electrical signal and can be conditional on occurrence of a selected event or condition. Speed of setting can be regulated.

主权项

1. A setting tool assembly for providing setting force to a settable downhole tool positioned in a subterranean wellbore, the setting tool assembly comprising:
a housing defining a first pressure chamber and second pressure chamber, the pressure chambers fluidly isolated from one another within the housing; a first piston member slidingly mounted in the first pressure chamber and a second piston member slidingly mounted in the second pressure chamber; a first selectively openable port positioned between the first pressure chamber and a hydrostatic fluid, wherein the first piston member is movable in response to the hydrostatic fluid upon opening of the first selectively openable port; a second selectively openable port positioned between the second pressure chamber and a hydrostatic fluid, wherein the second piston member is movable in response to the hydrostatic fluid upon opening of the second selectively openable port; a first force-transmitting member attached to the first piston member, attachable to the settable downhole tool, and operable to exert a first force on the settable downhole tool upon opening of the first selectively openable port; and a second force-transmitting member attached to the second piston member and operable to exert a second force on the first force-transmitting member upon opening of the second selectively openable port, and wherein the combined first and second forces are operable to fully set the settable downhole tool.