Adjustable flex system for directional drilling
US11643883B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 6, 2022 |
| Grant date | May 9, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 6, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B7/067
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A system for an adjustably flexible downhole tool includes first and second connector ends each configured to connect to adjacent downhole tools and a shaft extending between the first and second connector ends. The shaft is configured to bend in response to passing through curved portions of a wellbore. The adjustably flexible downhole tool also includes an outer sleeve disposed around at least a portion of the shaft and extending from the first connector end in a direction toward the second connector end and at least one adjustable member configured to move axially, with respect to the shaft, from a first position to a second position to increase bending stiffness and/or torsional stiffness of the adjustably flexible downhole tool. The at least one adjustable member at least partially restrains bending of the shaft in the second position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.