| 摘要 |
An anchoring module 18 has a series of compliant rings 24 adapted to be expanded radially by an expandable device such as an inner inflatable bladder 26 from a relaxed position to a compliant expanded position to enable it to conform to an inner surface 36 of an asymmetrical bore hole 14. Each compliant ring 24 includes a series of wedge shaped segments 38 with interconnecting portions 40 of slits or notches 42,44. A modular system 10 may comprise the anchoring module 18 together with a sealing element 22, such as an inflatable seal or packer and/or an intermediate support module 20 which may have an expandable disc 58, capable of expanding to the diameter of the interior of the borehole for engagement with the seal 22. A pair of anchoring modules in series can also be utilized in a crawling system to convey tools inside a structure. |
