Open hole tractor with tracks
US7156192B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 15, 2004 |
| Grant date | Jan 2, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 18, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B23/001
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A downhole tractor is provided that may be used in open or cased wells, and is also designed for use in open holes having a variety of soil/formation consistencies (e.g., soft, firm, rigid, etc.), varying diameters and non-uniform and irregular bore profiles. The tractor may include a track assembly including a plurality of idler wheels and a continuous track rotatably disposed around the idler wheels. A motor may be adapted to rotate the track around the idler wheels. Upper and lower arms may be pivotally connected to opposite ends of the track assembly and pivotally connected to a tractor housing. An actuator arm or link assembly may be provided to impart an outward force to the track assembly to move the track assembly outwardly into an open position and a retracting force to retract the track assembly into a closed position. A rotatable screw may be connected to a second motor, or a rod may be connected to a hydraulic system, to actuate the actuator arm or link assembly.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.