| 摘要 |
A support assembly 12 for a deformable sealing element 14 has first and second support devices 34, 36 at each end of the sealing element 14 with each device having 34, 36, elastically deformable support members 38, 40 adapted to be located between the respective ends of the sealing element 14. Additionally guide members 46, 46' with inclined guide surfaces are provided such that the support members 38, 40 travel along the inclined surfaces when a force is exerted by an actuating member to expand the sealing element radially 14 into abutment with a surface downhole. The support members 38, 40 move radially outwards to support the respective ends of the sealing element 14 during deformation and the assembly returns to its original condition once the actuating force is removed. The arrangement can be used in a straddle, a bridge plug or a packer. |
