Downhole tools utilizing electroactive polymers for actuating release mechanisms
US7857066B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 1, 2008 |
| Grant date | Dec 28, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 25, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02A90/30
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
In one aspect, an apparatus for use in a wellbore is provided that may include: a tool configured to be conveyed into the wellbore by a conveying member; and an electro-active polymer device (“EAP device”) configured to connect the tool to the conveying member when the EAP device is in a first mode or position and disconnect the tool from the conveying member when the EAP device is in a second mode or position. In another aspect, a method for releasing a tool in a wellbore is provided which includes: releasably connecting an EAP device to a conveying member and the tool; conveying the tool in the wellbore with the conveying member; and electrically activating the EAP device to release the tool from the conveying member in the wellbore.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.