Intelligent pitching device and method of operating the same

Abstract

The application discloses an intelligent ball throwing device and an operating method thereof, which comprises a flowing liquid pipeline arranged in a device shell and a rotating disc type ball throwing device installed on the flowing liquid pipeline, wherein the rotating disc type ball throwing device is provided with a ball feeding mechanism and an oil return mechanism; the oil return mechanism collects oil liquid inside the rotating disc type ball throwing device; when the wax removing ball is pushed by the pushing assembly and fixed in the ball feeding opening, the oil return mechanism fills the gap between the wax removing ball and the ball feeding opening with the collected oil liquid, and the rotation of the rotating disc transports the wax removing ball and the oil liquid to the other side to jointly enter the flowing liquid pipeline. The application relates to the technical field of oil production operation, adopts the rotating disc type ball throwing mode, and can automatically perform the ball throwing operation in the oil liquid transportation process. The front-end pipeline will not be broken due to continuous pressure holding, and the situations of wellhead pressure holding and pump holding are avoided. The stability of the flowing liquid pipeline and the continuity of the oil liquid transportation are ensured.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of oil production, in particular to an intelligent ball throwing device and an operating method thereof. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the field of oil production, in order to remove the condensed wax and scale in the gathering pipeline, a rubber wax removal ball is often thrown into the gathering pipeline, and the pressure and flow of the oil liquid are used to push the rubber ball to roll along the pipeline to achieve the purpose of cleaning the pipeline.

[0003] In order to simply and effectively throw the wax removal ball into the pipeline, a series of ball throwing devices have emerged. These ball throwing devices are classified into mechanical manual ball throwing and program-controlled automatic ball throwing according to the operation mode, and are mainly classified into plunger pushing type, ball valve rotating type and wheel pushing type according to the main structure.

[0004] With the popularization of the big data concept in recent years and the introduction of the 'big monitoring' concept of the oil production plant, the trend of equipment intelligence and automation is increasingly prominent. The mechanical manual ball throwing has been gradually replaced by the automatic ball throwing due to its heavy and tedious operation process. For the automatic ball throwing device, whether it is the plunger pushing type, the ball valve rotating type or the wheel pushing type structure, there are problems such as easy wear and leakage of the sealing ring, carrying of a part of the oil liquid to the outside of the device during the running process of the ball throwing, causing certain accidents and environmental pollution of the well site, low automation degree, and many abnormal situations such as no wax removal ball in the ball storage pipe, device leakage resulting in a large amount of oil leakage, device locked-rotor resulting in pressure and pump blocking of the front pipeline, etc., which can be found by the well inspection personnel only when they are on-site inspection, and often cause irreparable loss and accidents due to late abnormality discovery.

[0005] In addition, the wax removal ball will be transported slowly or even adhered due to the oil liquid remaining on the inner wall of the pipeline during each ball throwing operation, which causes the wax removal ball to not accurately enter the predetermined position and the situation of not being able to continue to throw the ball. At the same time, a certain amount of gas will be carried into the flow liquid pipeline during the ball throwing, which, combined with other equipment in the steps, causes a large amount of gas to be stored in the flow liquid pipeline, resulting in unstable pipeline during the oil liquid transportation. SUMMARY

[0006] In view of the deficiencies of the prior art, the present application provides an intelligent ball throwing device and an operating method thereof, which solves the problems of poor sealing, unstable ball throwing and carrying of gas into the flow liquid pipeline during ball throwing of the existing ball throwing device.

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the present application is realized by the following technical scheme: a kind of intelligent pitching device, including base and the device shell being set on base, explosion-proof control box is provided on the device shell, the explosion-proof control box is wirelessly connected with central control platform and operation terminal;

[0008] The device further includes the flow liquid pipeline being arranged in the device shell and the carousel pitching device being installed on the flow liquid pipeline, the carousel pitching device is provided with ball feeding mechanism and oil return mechanism;The oil return mechanism collects the oil liquid in the carousel pitching device;

[0009] The carousel pitching device includes a housing, the flow liquid pipeline is communicated at one side of the housing, and the ball feeding mechanism and the oil return mechanism are oppositely arranged in an upper and lower manner and are communicated at the other side of the housing;

[0010] The rotating disc is rotatably connected in the housing, and at least two ball feeding holes are symmetrically formed in the rotating disc;The housing is provided with a power mechanism for driving the rotating disc to rotate, and the power mechanism is electrically connected with the explosion-proof control box;

[0011] The ball feeding mechanism includes a ball feeding cylinder connected to the housing, and a propelling assembly is arranged in the ball feeding cylinder;One side of the ball feeding cylinder is obliquely communicated with a ball storage cylinder, and a wax removal ball is pre-placed in the ball storage cylinder;The end of the ball storage cylinder is provided with a height detection sensor electrically connected with the explosion-proof control box;

[0012] When the wax removal ball is pushed by the propelling assembly and fixed in the ball feeding hole, the oil liquid collected by the oil return mechanism fills the gap between the wax removal ball and the ball feeding hole, and the rotating disc rotates to deliver the wax removal ball and the oil liquid to the other side and then into the flow liquid pipeline.

[0013] Preferably, the flow liquid pipeline includes:

[0014] A total liquid inlet pipe is communicated at one side of the top of the housing, and a first electromagnetic valve is arranged on the total liquid inlet pipe;

[0015] A total liquid outlet pipe is communicated at one side of the bottom of the housing and is oppositely arranged with the total liquid inlet pipe, and a second electromagnetic valve is arranged on the total liquid outlet pipe;The total liquid inlet pipe, the ball feeding hole and the total liquid outlet pipe form an oil liquid passage, and the total liquid outlet pipe receives the wax removal ball and the oil liquid;

[0016] A bypass pipe is communicated between the total liquid inlet pipe and the total liquid outlet pipe, and a third electromagnetic valve is arranged on the bypass pipe;The first electromagnetic valve, the second electromagnetic valve and the third electromagnetic valve are electrically connected with the explosion-proof control box.

[0017] Preferably, a pressure transmitter is arranged on the total liquid inlet pipe, and the pressure transmitter is electrically connected with the explosion-proof control box.

[0018] Preferably, the shell is provided with a through hole communicated with the oil return mechanism;

[0019] The oil return mechanism comprises a connecting pipeline communicated with the shell, the connecting pipeline is respectively connected with a liquid return pipeline and a liquid discharge pipeline through a tee joint, the liquid return pipeline and the liquid discharge pipeline are both communicated with a liquid storage tank, the liquid storage tank is provided with a liquid level gauge, the liquid return pipeline is provided with a fourth electromagnetic valve and a booster pump, the liquid discharge pipeline is provided with a fifth electromagnetic valve, and the fourth electromagnetic valve, the booster pump and the fifth electromagnetic valve are electrically connected with the explosion-proof control box.

[0020] Preferably, the oil return mechanism further comprises a plunger pump electrically connected with the explosion-proof control box, one end of the plunger pump is communicated with the liquid storage tank through a pump inlet pipeline, and the other end of the plunger pump is communicated with a total liquid outlet pipeline through a pump outlet pipeline.

[0021] Preferably, the rotary disc type ball throwing device further comprises a detection positioning mechanism, the detection positioning mechanism comprises:

[0022] A plurality of plate members are fixed to the outer side wall of the rotary disc and are arranged correspondingly to the ball feeding hole;

[0023] A cavity is arranged on the shell and is arranged close to the liquid flow pipeline;

[0024] A first propulsion mechanism is fixed to the shell and is electrically connected with the explosion-proof control box, an output end of the first propulsion mechanism penetrates through the shell and extends into the cavity, a detection element is arranged on the output end of the first propulsion mechanism, and the detection element is electrically connected with the explosion-proof control box.

[0025] Preferably, the propulsion assembly comprises a second propulsion mechanism, an output end of the second propulsion mechanism penetrates into the inner cavity of the ball feeding cylinder through the ball feeding cylinder, the output end of the second propulsion mechanism is fixedly connected with a cylindrical member, and a sealing ring is arranged on the bottom of the cylindrical member in a circumferential direction;

[0026] A liquid level sensor electrically connected with the explosion-proof control box is arranged at the communication position between the bottom of the ball feeding cylinder and the shell;

[0027] The bottom of the cylindrical member is provided with a pressing member, a limit sensor electrically connected with the explosion-proof control box is arranged on the lower side wall surface of the ball feeding cylinder, the second propulsion mechanism stops the propulsion work when the cylindrical member contacts with the limit sensor, and a gap cavity is formed between the pressing member and the ball feeding cylinder.

[0028] Preferably, the pressing member comprises a base portion and a curved portion, the base portion is fixed to the cylindrical member, and the curved portion is formed on the bottom of the base portion;

[0029] An elastic member is arranged in the inner cavity of the curved portion, and a contact portion is fixed to the bottom of the curved portion.

[0030] Preferably, the inner wall surface of the shell is provided with a sealing element close to the total liquid inlet pipeline and the total liquid outlet pipeline, the sealing element is fixed to the inner side of a pressing block, and the pressing block is connected with the shell through a first pressing spring;

[0031] The sealing element comprises an annular sealing ring, the top of the sealing ring extends outward to form a connecting portion, the middle part of the sealing ring extends outward to form a bending portion, the outer side of the bending portion is sleeved with a second pressing spring, the inner edge of the bottom of the sealing ring is provided with a protruding portion, and the bottom surface of the sealing ring is provided with a wear-resistant ring.

[0032] The application also provides an operation method of the intelligent ball throwing device, and the method comprises the following steps:

[0033] S1, the wax removal balls in the ball storage cylinder roll down to the ball feeding opening along the inclined surface of the ball storage cylinder, the second pushing mechanism drives the downward movement of the cylindrical part and the pressing part to press on the wax removal balls, the booster pump sucks the oil in the liquid storage tank to supply the oil to the ball feeding opening through the liquid return pipeline and the connecting pipeline, the oil fills the gap between the wax removal balls and the ball feeding opening, the gas is squeezed into the ball storage cylinder through the gap cavity, the booster pump stops working when the oil is injected into the liquid level sensor, and the fourth electromagnetic valve is closed.

[0034] S2, the second pushing mechanism continues to work to limit the wax removal balls in the ball feeding opening;

[0035] S3, the power mechanism drives the rotation of the rotating disc to convey the ball feeding opening containing the wax removal balls and the oil to the other side, and the ball feeding opening on the other side carries part of the oil to rotate to the bottom of the ball feeding mechanism;

[0036] S4, when the plate on the outer side wall of the rotating disc touches the detection unit, the power mechanism stops working, at this time, the ball feeding opening forms an oil passage with the total liquid inlet pipeline and the total liquid outlet pipeline, and the oil and the wax removal balls are thrown into the total liquid outlet pipeline;

[0037] S5, the first pushing mechanism retracts to cancel the limitation of the plate, and the first pushing mechanism works to limit again when the rotating disc rotates again;

[0038] S6, when the ball feeding opening on the other side carries part of the oil to rotate to the bottom of the ball feeding mechanism in S3, the oil flows into the connecting pipeline through the through hole and is gathered in the liquid storage tank through the liquid discharge pipeline;

[0039] S7, when the oil in the liquid storage tank is excessive, the plunger pump sucks through the pump inlet pipeline and injects the oil into the total liquid outlet pipeline through the pump outlet pipeline.

[0040] The beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: By using the intelligent ball-throwing device and its operating method provided by the present invention, the following advantages are achieved compared with the prior art:

[0041] 1. The rotary ball-throwing system enables automatic ball-throwing during oil transportation. This automated operation reduces manual intervention, improves work efficiency, and also reduces the workload and safety risks for operators.

[0042] 2. By installing a bypass pipeline, the device ensures that the upstream pipeline will not rupture due to continuous pressure buildup during ball-dropping operations. This also avoids wellhead pressure buildup and pump stalling, which often lead to more serious equipment damage and production losses.

[0043] 3. The device is wirelessly connected to the central control platform and operating terminals, meaning that the system will immediately notify maintenance personnel once abnormal pressure is detected. This design allows problems to be identified and addressed in their early stages, avoiding potential large-scale failures and production interruptions.

[0044] 4. During the ball-throwing process, traditional methods can introduce a certain amount of gas into the fluid delivery pipeline. When combined with other equipment, this can lead to a large accumulation of gas inside the pipeline, affecting the stability of oil delivery. This intelligent ball-throwing device completely avoids the introduction of gas by optimizing the throwing process, thus ensuring the stability of the fluid delivery pipeline and the continuity of oil delivery. Furthermore, it ensures that the dewaxing balls are fully immersed in the oil, preventing the surface of the balls from drying out and allowing for smooth movement and placement into the main outlet pipeline.

[0045] 5. The dewaxing balls may experience slow delivery or sticking in the residual oil on the inner wall of the pipe, preventing them from accurately reaching the intended position. The intelligent ball-feeding device ensures that the dewaxing balls effectively reach the target position through its ball-feeding mechanism, thereby improving the success rate and efficiency of the dewaxing operation.

[0046] 6. Because intelligent ball-throwing devices reduce paraffin deposits and impurities clogging pipes, this directly reduces wear and tear on pipes and related equipment, extending their service life. It also reduces equipment failures and maintenance frequency, thereby lowering long-term operating costs.

[0047] 7. By preventing pipeline ruptures and wellhead pressure buildup, the intelligent ball-dropping device significantly improves safety at the production site. It reduces accidents, protects the safety of workers and equipment, and also reduces the risk of environmental pollution.

[0048] In summary, the intelligent ball-throwing device, through its automated and intelligent functions, not only improves the efficiency of oil extraction and transportation but also enhances the safety and environmental friendliness of the production process. Its application has brought significant economic and social benefits to the oil industry and represents a significant innovation in modern oil extraction technology. With continuous technological advancements and improvements, this intelligent ball-throwing device for wax removal will be applied in more oil fields in the future, driving the sustainable development and progress of the entire industry. Attached Figure Description

[0049] Figure 1 This is a front view of the ball-throwing device of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 2 This is a left view of the ball-throwing device of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 3 This is a front view of the rotary ball-throwing device of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 4 For the present invention Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the cross section at point aa;

[0053] Figure 5 For the present invention Figure 3 Enlarged view of the structure at point A in the middle;

[0054] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the ball feeding mechanism of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the oil return mechanism of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 8 For the present invention Figure 7 Enlarged view of the structure at point B in the middle;

[0057] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the sealing structure of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit connection of the present invention.

[0059] Explanation of reference numerals in the figure

[0060] 1. Pressure transmitter; 2. Device housing; 3. Main inlet pipe; 4. Main outlet pipe; 5. Bypass pipe; 6. First solenoid valve; 7. Second solenoid valve; 8. Third solenoid valve; 9. Rotary ball-feeding device; 91. Housing; 92. Rotary plate; 93. Through hole; 94. Power mechanism; 95. Ball-feeding opening; 96. Detection element; 97. Plate; 98. Cavity; 99. First propulsion mechanism; 10. Ball-feeding mechanism; 101. Second propulsion mechanism; 102. Ball-feeding cylinder; 103. Cylindrical component; 104. Ball storage cylinder; 105. Pressing component; 106. Liquid level sensor; 107. Limit sensor; 08. Sealing ring; 109. Elastic element; 1010. Contact part; 1011. Gap cavity; 1012. Height detection sensor; 11. Explosion-proof control box; 12. Liquid storage tank; 13. Return pipe; 14. Drain pipe; 15. Liquid level gauge; 16. Plunger pump; 17. Pump inlet pipe; 18. Pump outlet pipe; 19. Connecting pipe; 20. Fourth solenoid valve; 21. Fifth solenoid valve; 22. First clamping spring; 23. Clamping block; 24. Sealing element; 241. Connecting part; 242. Bending part; 243. Second clamping spring; 244. Protrusion; 245. Wear-resistant ring; 25. Booster pump. Detailed Implementation

[0061] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Various changes can be made to the implementation schemes as long as the effects of the present invention can be achieved.

[0062] Those skilled in the art can connect the components in this case sequentially. The specific connection and operation sequence should refer to the working principle described below. The detailed connection methods are well-known technologies in the field. The working principle and process are mainly described below.

[0063] Reference Figures 1-10 This embodiment describes one type of intelligent ball-throwing device.

[0064] like Figure 1 As shown, the device includes a base and a housing 2 mounted on the base. An explosion-proof control box 11 is mounted on the housing 2, and the explosion-proof control box 11 is wirelessly connected to the central control platform and the operating terminal. The explosion-proof control box 11 is the main control module of this device. Through PLC system programming, it receives and analyzes various signals uploaded during device operation, thereby controlling the overall precise and automated operation of the device. It also reserves interfaces for signals such as RS-485, allowing it to interface with the control platform at the application site, uploading the device's operating status and alarm information to the control platform, and enabling remote control via the operating terminal (mobile phone) and the central control platform (computer).

[0065] likeFigure 1 As shown, the device also includes a fluid flow pipeline disposed inside the housing 2 and a rotary ball-throwing device 9 installed on the fluid flow pipeline. The rotary ball-throwing device 9 is provided with a ball-feeding mechanism 10 and an oil return mechanism; the oil return mechanism collects the oil inside the rotary ball-throwing device 9.

[0066] like Figure 1 As shown, the fluid flow pipeline includes a main inlet pipe 3, a main outlet pipe 4, and a bypass pipe 5. One end of the main inlet pipe 3 and one end of the main outlet pipe 4 extend out of the outer casing 2 and are equipped with flanges for connection to the crude oil pipeline on site. The fluid flow pipeline, rotary ball-feeding device 9, ball-feeding mechanism 10, and oil return mechanism are all housed within the outer casing 2, and the fluid flow pipeline and oil return mechanism are fixed to the base, making the device a skid-mounted unit for easy transportation and installation.

[0067] like Figure 1 As shown, the outer casing 2 is used to protect the fluid flow pipeline, the rotary ball-throwing device 9, the ball-feeding mechanism 10, and the oil return mechanism, making the device waterproof and dustproof, while also optimizing the product appearance.

[0068] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the rotary ball-throwing device 9 includes a housing 91, with a liquid flow pipeline connected to one side of the housing 91. The ball-feeding mechanism 10 and the oil return mechanism are arranged vertically opposite each other and connected to the other side of the housing 91; the two are arranged opposite each other on both sides of the housing 91. In this embodiment, the housing 91 mainly includes an annular shell-shaped component, a lower cover plate, a positioning pin, connecting bolts, an upper cover plate, a sealing ring, a liquid inlet pipeline mounting seat, a power mechanism mounting seat, a bearing, an oil seal, a connecting key, a ball storage pipe mounting seat, a sealing plug, a drain port mounting seat, and a liquid outlet pipeline mounting seat. The upper cover plate and the lower cover plate are fixed to the annular shell-shaped component by positioning pins and connecting bolts, forming a cavity that can accommodate the rotary table 92, and are sealed by the sealing ring. The liquid inlet pipeline mounting seat and the liquid outlet pipeline mounting seat are used to connect the main liquid inlet pipe 3 and the main liquid outlet pipe 4. The power mechanism mounting seat is used to install the power mechanism 94. The bearing connects the output spindle of the power mechanism 94 to the upper cover plate, and the connecting key is installed between the output spindle and the turntable 92. The ball storage tube mounting seat and the drain port mounting seat are used to install the ball feeding cylinder 102 and the connecting pipe 19.

[0069] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, a turntable 92 is rotatably connected inside the housing 91. The turntable 92 has at least two symmetrical ball-feeding holes 95. A power mechanism 94, which drives the turntable 92 to rotate, is installed on the housing 91. The power mechanism 94 is electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box 11 and is either a stepper motor or a servo motor. For example, when there are two ball-feeding holes 95, the power mechanism 94 drives the turntable 92 to rotate 180°, causing the positions of the two ball-feeding holes 95 to alternate, thus achieving the ball-feeding operation. As another example, when there are four ball-feeding holes 95, the power mechanism 94 drives the turntable 92 to rotate 90°, causing the positions of the four ball-feeding holes 95 to alternate, thus achieving the ball-feeding operation.

[0070] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the rotary ball-throwing device 9 also includes a detection and positioning mechanism, which comprises several plates 97 and a first propulsion mechanism 99. The first propulsion mechanism 99 is a hydraulic cylinder or a pneumatic cylinder. The plates 97 are fixed to the outer wall of the rotary table 92, and the number of plates 97 is the same as the number of ball-feeding openings 95, and they are arranged corresponding to the ball-feeding openings 95. A cavity 98 is provided on the annular side wall of the housing 91, and the cavity 98 is arranged close to the fluid flow pipeline. The first propulsion mechanism 99 is fixed on the housing 91 and electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box 11. The output end of the first propulsion mechanism 99 passes through the housing 91 and extends into the cavity 98. A detection element 96 is provided on the output end of the first propulsion mechanism 99. The detection element 96 is a contact sensor. The detection element 96 is electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box 11. During implementation, as the turntable 92 rotates, the outer wall plate 97 contacts the detection element 96. At this time, the power mechanism 94 stops working, positioning the turntable 92. Simultaneously, the ball feed opening 95 forms an oil passage with the main inlet pipe 3 and the main outlet pipe 4. At the same time, the first propulsion mechanism 99 retracts, causing the detection element 96 to retract away from the plate 97. It should be noted that after the turntable 92 continues to rotate, the first propulsion mechanism 99 propels the detection element 96 to the front end, allowing the next plate 97 to contact the detection element 96. This process is repeated to achieve a fixed-point stop for the turntable 92, ensuring that each ball feed opening 95 forms an oil passage with the main inlet pipe 3 and the main outlet pipe 4.

[0071] like Figure 3 and Figure 6As shown, the ball feeding mechanism 10 includes a ball feeding cylinder 102 connected to the housing 91, and a propulsion assembly is provided inside the ball feeding cylinder 102; the propulsion assembly includes a second propulsion mechanism 101, which is an electric push rod. The output end of the second propulsion mechanism 101 passes through the ball feeding cylinder 102 and extends into the inner cavity of the ball feeding cylinder 102; a ball storage cylinder 104 is obliquely connected to one side of the ball feeding cylinder 102, and a dewaxing ball is pre-placed inside the ball storage cylinder 104; a cylindrical component 103 is fixedly connected to the output end of the second propulsion mechanism 101, and a sealing ring 108 is provided circumferentially at the bottom of the cylindrical component 103.

[0072] One embodiment of the ball feeding mechanism 10 is as follows: the second propulsion mechanism 101 rises, and the dewax-removing balls enter the ball feeding cylinder 102 from the ball storage cylinder 104 and automatically fall into the ball feeding opening 95. The propulsion operation of the second propulsion mechanism 101 pushes the bottom dewax-removing balls into the ball feeding opening 95, preventing them from sticking to any part of the ball feeding cylinder 102 and from being affected by residual oil in the ball feeding opening 95, thus ensuring that the dewax-removing balls are completely within the ball feeding opening 95 when the turntable 92 rotates.

[0073] A liquid level sensor 106, which is electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box 11, is installed at the connection between the bottom of the ball cylinder 102 and the housing 91.

[0074] The bottom of the cylindrical part 103 is provided with a pressing member 105. The pressing member 105 includes a base part and a curved part. The base part is fixed on the cylindrical part 103, and the curved part is integrally formed at the bottom of the base part. The inner cavity of the curved part is provided with an elastic member 109, which is a spring. The bottom of the curved part is fixed with a contact part 1010.

[0075] A limit sensor 107 electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box 11 is provided on the lower side wall of the ball feeding cylinder 102. When the cylindrical part 103 contacts the limit sensor 107, the second propulsion mechanism 101 stops propulsion, so that a gap cavity 1011 is formed between the pressing part 105 and the ball feeding cylinder 102.

[0076] During the descent of the second propulsion mechanism 101, the cylindrical part 103 stops moving when it moves to the limit sensor 107. At this time, the pressing part 105 contacts the wax cleaning ball. At this time, the elastic pushing force of the elastic part 109 pushes the contact part 1010 to press down the wax cleaning ball, without forcibly squeezing the wax cleaning ball.

[0077] The end of the ball storage cylinder 104 is threaded with a sealing plug, and a sealing ring is provided at the connection. After removing the plug, dewax-removing balls can be filled into the ball storage cylinder 104. The sealing plug is equipped with a height detection sensor 1012 that is electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box 11. The ball storage cylinder 104 is mainly used to store dewax-removing balls. The number stored depends on the length of the ball storage cylinder 104 and is theoretically not limited. However, based on experience, storing 10 dewax-removing balls is optimal in actual work.

[0078] The height detection sensor 1012 is a radar level gauge that can measure the height of the wax removal ball in real time. As the turntable 92 puts the wax removal ball into the fluid pipeline, the number of wax removal balls stored in the ball storage cylinder 104 gradually decreases, and the height of the wax removal ball also gradually decreases. When the height detection sensor 1012 detects that the height of the wax removal ball has dropped to the preset low alarm height, the alarm signal will be transmitted by the explosion-proof control box 11 to the oilfield central control platform and the operation terminal. At the same time, the device automatically stops running to prevent power consumption and other losses caused by the device running dry. The device will automatically start running again until the wax removal ball is loaded again.

[0079] As the wax-removing ball is pushed and fixed within the ball-feeding opening 95 by the propulsion assembly, the oil return mechanism fills the gap between the wax-removing ball and the ball-feeding opening 95 with collected oil. After the gas inside the ball-feeding opening 95 is expelled, the turntable 92 rotates, transporting the wax-removing ball and oil to the other side and into the flow pipeline. This effectively prevents air from being injected into the flow pipeline during ball throwing. Furthermore, the addition of oil prevents friction between the wax-removing ball and the turntable 92, protecting the surface of the wax-removing ball and improving the smoothness of operation.

[0080] A pressure transmitter 1 is installed on the main inlet pipeline 3, and the pressure transmitter 1 is electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box 11. The pressure transmitter 1 monitors and displays the pressure in the main inlet pipeline 3 in real time and transmits this pressure value as a signal. When the pressure value monitored by the pressure transmitter 1 exceeds the set rated working pressure value, it indicates that there is an abnormality in the operation of the device, such as the rotary table 92 shifting position, causing the oil to be unable to be delivered; or the first solenoid valve 6 and the second solenoid valve 7 closing abnormally. At this time, under the control of the PLC system, the power mechanism 94 stops operating; the third solenoid valve 8 automatically opens, and the first solenoid valve 6 and the second solenoid valve 7 automatically close; so that the oil is completely poured into the bypass pipeline 5, completely avoiding the continuous pressure buildup and rupture of the pipeline at the front end of the device, as well as the greater losses caused by pressure buildup and pump blockage at the wellhead; at the same time, the overpressure situation will be remotely alarmed, which will facilitate timely maintenance by maintenance personnel.

[0081] The main inlet pipe 3 is connected to the top side of the housing 91, and a first solenoid valve 6 is installed on the main inlet pipe 3; the main outlet pipe 4 is connected to the bottom side of the housing 91, and the main outlet pipe 4 and the main inlet pipe 3 are arranged vertically opposite each other on the housing 91, and a second solenoid valve 7 is installed on the main outlet pipe 4; wherein, the main inlet pipe 3, the ball feeding hole 95 and the main outlet pipe 4 form an oil passage, and the main outlet pipe 4 receives the dewaxing ball and oil falling from the ball feeding hole 95; the bypass pipe 5 is connected between the main inlet pipe 3 and the main outlet pipe 4, and a third solenoid valve 8 is installed on the bypass pipe 5; the first solenoid valve 6, the second solenoid valve 7 and the third solenoid valve 8 are all electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box 11.

[0082] like Figure 7 As shown, the housing 91 has a through hole 93 communicating with the oil return mechanism; the oil return mechanism includes a connecting pipe 19 connected to the housing 91, the connecting pipe 19 is connected to a return pipe 13 and a drain pipe 14 via a tee, the return pipe 13 and the drain pipe 14 are both connected to a storage tank 12, the storage tank 12 is a square atmospheric pressure tank made of stainless steel, the storage tank 12 is equipped with a level gauge 15, the level gauge 15 is electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box 11; the return pipe 13 is equipped with a fourth solenoid valve 20 and a booster pump 25, the drain pipe 14 is equipped with a fifth solenoid valve 21; the fourth solenoid valve 20, the booster pump 25 and the fifth solenoid valve 21 are all electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box 11.

[0083] When the turntable 92 rotates, the ball feeding opening 95 at the oil passage carries some oil to the bottom of the ball feeding mechanism 10. The oil carried flows through the through hole 93 into the connecting pipe 19 and collects in the storage tank 12 through the drain pipe 19. When the dewaxing ball enters the ball feeding opening 95, the booster pump 25 draws oil from the storage tank 12 and supplies it to the ball feeding opening 95 through the return pipe 13 and the connecting pipe 19, so that the oil fills the gap between the dewaxing ball and the ball feeding opening 95, and forces the gas through the gap cavity 1011 into the ball storage cylinder 104. When the oil is injected into the level sensor 106, the booster pump 25 stops working and the fourth solenoid valve 20 closes.

[0084] like Figure 2As shown, the oil return mechanism also includes a plunger pump 16 electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box 11. One end of the plunger pump 16 is connected to the storage tank 12 via the inlet pipe 17, and the other end is connected to the main outlet pipe 4 via the outlet pipe 18. When the oil level in the storage tank 12 exceeds the predetermined limit of the level gauge 15, the plunger pump 16 operates to draw the oil from the storage tank 12 into the main outlet pipe 4. A filter is installed on the inlet pipe 17 to filter out impurities in the oil, preventing impurities from entering the pump and damaging the plunger pump. This ensures that there is no oil leakage during the operation of the device, completely avoiding resource waste and protecting the environment. At the same time, an outlet check valve can also be installed on the outlet pipe 18 to prevent backflow of crude oil, further ensuring the safe operation of the equipment.

[0085] The liquid level gauge 15 displays and uploads the liquid level in the storage tank 12 in real time. When the liquid level exceeds the predetermined amount of the liquid level gauge 15, the plunger pump 16 is automatically started through the system control in the explosion-proof control box 11. Through the operation of the plunger pump 16, the liquid in the storage tank 12 is re-injected into the main outlet pipeline of the system, thereby achieving the purpose of circulating the oil in the device without external discharge, thus avoiding waste of resources and pollution to the environment.

[0086] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, a sealing element 24 is provided on the inner wall of the housing 91 near the main inlet pipe 3 and the main outlet pipe 4. The sealing element 24 is fixed to the inner side of a clamping block 23, which is connected to the housing 91 via a first clamping spring 22. The first clamping spring 22 pushes the sealing element 24 on the inner side of the clamping block 23 to press against the turntable 92.

[0087] The sealing element 24 includes an annular sealing ring, with a connecting portion 241 extending outward from the top of the sealing ring, and a bending portion 242 extending outward from the middle of the sealing ring. A second tightening spring 243 is sleeved on the outer side of the bending portion 242. A protrusion 244 is provided on the inner edge of the bottom of the sealing ring, and a wear-resistant ring 245 is provided on the bottom surface of the sealing ring.

[0088] The connecting part 241 is fixed to the tightening block 23 by the connecting positioning member, realizing the connection and fixation between the sealing member 24 and the tightening block 23. When the second tightening spring 243 deforms, it stretches the bending part 242, so that the wear-resistant ring 245 contacts the turntable 92.

[0089] The seal 24 enhances the sealing effect at the ball opening 95 and the main inlet pipe 3 and the main outlet pipe 4, ensuring the formation of the oil passage.

[0090] In the operation method of the intelligent ball-throwing device in this embodiment, the above-mentioned intelligent ball-throwing device is required, and the method includes the following steps:

[0091] S1. The dewaxing ball in the ball storage cylinder 104 rolls down the inclined surface of the ball storage cylinder 104 into the ball feeding opening 95. The second propulsion mechanism 101 propels the cylindrical part 103 and the pressing part 105 downward to press them onto the dewaxing ball. The booster pump 25 draws oil from the liquid storage tank 12 and supplies it to the ball feeding opening 95 through the return pipe 13 and the connecting pipe 19, so that the oil fills the gap between the dewaxing ball and the ball feeding opening 95, and forces the gas into the ball storage cylinder 104 through the gap cavity 1011. When the oil is injected to the liquid level sensor 106, the booster pump 25 stops working and the fourth solenoid valve 20 closes.

[0092] S2. The second propulsion mechanism 101 continues to advance, causing the elastic element 109 inside the pressing part 105 to deform and limit the wax removal ball within the ball feeding hole 95.

[0093] S3, the power mechanism 94 drives the turntable 92 to rotate and deliver the ball feeding hole 95 containing the wax cleaning ball and oil to the other side. The ball feeding hole 95 on the other side carries some oil and rotates to the bottom of the ball feeding mechanism 10.

[0094] S4. When the plate 97 on the outer side wall of the turntable 92 touches the detection unit 96, the power mechanism 94 stops working. At this time, the ball feeding hole 95 forms an oil passage with the main liquid inlet pipe 3 and the main liquid outlet pipe 4, and the oil and the dewaxing ball are put into the main liquid outlet pipe 4.

[0095] S5. The first propulsion mechanism 99 retracts to cancel the limit on the plate 97. When the turntable 92 rotates again, the first propulsion mechanism 99 propels the work to reset the detection unit 96 and perform the next limit operation.

[0096] S6. When the ball feeding opening 95 on the other side of S3 rotates to the bottom of the ball feeding mechanism 10 with some oil, the oil flows into the connecting pipe 19 through the through hole 93 and gathers in the storage tank 12 through the drain pipe 14.

[0097] S7. When there is excess oil in the storage tank 12, the plunger pump 16 draws in the oil through the inlet pipe 17 and injects the oil into the main outlet pipe 4 through the outlet pipe 18.

[0098] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A smart ball-throwing device, characterized in that, Includes a base and a device housing (2) mounted on the base. An explosion-proof control box (11) is mounted on the device housing (2). The explosion-proof control box (11) is wirelessly connected to the central control platform and the operating terminal. The device also includes a liquid flow pipeline disposed inside the device housing (2) and a rotary ball-throwing device (9) installed on the liquid flow pipeline. The rotary ball-throwing device (9) is provided with a ball-feeding mechanism (10) and an oil return mechanism. The oil return mechanism collects the oil inside the rotary ball-throwing device (9). The rotary ball-throwing device (9) includes a housing (91), the fluid pipeline is connected to one side of the housing (91), and the ball-feeding mechanism (10) and the oil return mechanism are arranged opposite each other and connected to the other side of the housing (91). A turntable (92) is rotatably connected inside the housing (91), and at least two ball-feeding holes (95) are symmetrically opened on the turntable (92); a power mechanism (94) for driving the turntable (92) to rotate is provided on the housing (91), and the power mechanism (94) is electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box (11). The rotary ball-throwing device (9) further includes a detection and positioning mechanism, which includes: Several plates (97) are fixed to the outer side wall of the turntable (92) and are arranged corresponding to the ball feeding hole (95); The cavity (98) is formed on the housing (91) and is disposed close to the fluid flow line; The first propulsion mechanism (99) is fixed on the housing (91) and electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box (11). The output end of the first propulsion mechanism (99) extends into the cavity (98) after passing through the housing (91). A detection element (96) is provided on the output end of the first propulsion mechanism (99). The detection element (96) is electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box (11). The ball feeding mechanism (10) includes a ball feeding cylinder (102) connected to the housing (91), and a propulsion assembly is provided inside the ball feeding cylinder (102); a ball storage cylinder (104) is obliquely connected to one side of the ball feeding cylinder (102), and a dewaxing ball is pre-placed inside the ball storage cylinder (104); a height detection sensor (1012) electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box (11) is provided at the end of the ball storage cylinder (104). The propulsion assembly includes a second propulsion mechanism (101), the output end of which passes through the ball feeding cylinder (102) and extends into the inner cavity of the ball feeding cylinder (102); a cylindrical component (103) is fixedly connected to the output end of the second propulsion mechanism (101), and a sealing ring (108) is provided circumferentially at the bottom of the cylindrical component (103). A liquid level sensor (106) electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box (11) is provided at the bottom of the ball feeding cylinder (102) where it communicates with the shell (91). The bottom of the cylindrical component (103) is provided with a pressing component (105), and the lower side wall of the ball feeding cylinder (102) is provided with a limit sensor (107) electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box (11). When the cylindrical component (103) contacts the limit sensor (107), the second propulsion mechanism (101) stops propulsion, so that a gap cavity (1011) is formed between the pressing component (105) and the ball feeding cylinder (102). When the wax removal ball is pushed and fixed in the ball feeding hole (95) by the pusher assembly, the oil return mechanism fills the gap between the wax removal ball and the ball feeding hole (95) with the collected oil, and the turntable (92) rotates to transport the wax removal ball and oil to the other side and enter the flow pipeline together.

2. The intelligent ball-throwing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fluid flow pipeline includes: A main liquid inlet pipe (3) is connected to the top side of the housing (91), and a first solenoid valve (6) is provided on the main liquid inlet pipe (3). The main liquid outlet pipe (4) is connected to the bottom side of the housing (91) and is opposite to the main liquid inlet pipe (3). A second solenoid valve (7) is provided on the main liquid outlet pipe (4). The main liquid inlet pipe (3), the ball feeding hole (95) and the main liquid outlet pipe (4) form an oil passage. The main liquid outlet pipe (4) receives the dewaxing ball and the oil. A bypass pipe (5) is connected between the main inlet pipe (3) and the main outlet pipe (4), and a third solenoid valve (8) is provided on the bypass pipe (5); the first solenoid valve (6), the second solenoid valve (7) and the third solenoid valve (8) are all electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box (11).

3. The intelligent ball-throwing device according to claim 2, characterized in that: A pressure transmitter (1) is installed on the main liquid inlet pipe (3), and the pressure transmitter (1) is electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box (11).

4. The intelligent ball-throwing device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The housing (91) has a through hole (93) that communicates with the oil return mechanism. The oil return mechanism includes a connecting pipe (19) connected to the housing (91). The connecting pipe (19) is connected to a return pipe (13) and a drain pipe (14) via a tee. The return pipe (13) and the drain pipe (14) are both connected to a storage tank (12). A level gauge (15) is installed on the storage tank (12). A fourth solenoid valve (20) and a booster pump (25) are installed on the return pipe (13). A fifth solenoid valve (21) is installed on the drain pipe (14). The fourth solenoid valve (20), the booster pump (25), and the fifth solenoid valve (21) are all electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box (11).

5. The intelligent ball-throwing device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The oil return mechanism also includes a plunger pump (16) electrically connected to the explosion-proof control box (11). One end of the plunger pump (16) is connected to the liquid storage tank (12) through the pump inlet pipe (17), and the other end is connected to the main liquid outlet pipe (4) through the pump outlet pipe (18).

6. The intelligent ball-throwing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The pressing member (105) includes a base portion and a curved portion, the base portion being fixed on the cylindrical member (103), and the curved portion being formed at the bottom of the base portion; The inner cavity of the curved portion is provided with an elastic element (109), and the bottom of the curved portion is fixed with a contact portion (1010).

7. The intelligent ball-throwing device according to claim 2, characterized in that: A sealing element (24) is provided on the inner wall of the housing (91) close to the main liquid inlet pipe (3) and the main liquid outlet pipe (4). The sealing element (24) is fixed to the inner side of a clamping block (23). The clamping block (23) is connected to the housing (91) through a first clamping spring (22). The sealing element (24) includes an annular sealing ring, with a connecting portion (241) extending outward from the top of the sealing ring, and a bending portion (242) extending outward from the middle of the sealing ring. A second tightening spring (243) is sleeved on the outer side of the bending portion (242). A protrusion (244) is provided on the inner edge of the bottom of the sealing ring, and a wear-resistant ring (245) is provided on the bottom surface of the sealing ring.

8. A method for operating an intelligent ball-throwing device, characterized in that: The method using the intelligent ball-throwing device as described in claim 5 includes the following steps: S1. The dewaxing ball in the ball storage cylinder (104) rolls down the inclined surface of the ball storage cylinder (104) into the ball feeding opening (95). The second propulsion mechanism (101) propels the cylindrical part (103) and the pressing part (105) downward to press them onto the dewaxing ball. The booster pump (25) draws oil from the liquid storage tank (12) and supplies it to the ball feeding opening (95) through the return pipe (13) and the connecting pipe (19), so that the oil fills the gap between the dewaxing ball and the ball feeding opening (95), and squeezes the gas into the ball storage cylinder (104) through the gap cavity (1011). When the oil is injected into the liquid level sensor (106), the booster pump (25) stops working and the fourth solenoid valve (20) closes. S2, the second propulsion mechanism (101) continues to propel the wax removal ball into the ball feeding hole (95); S3. The power mechanism (94) drives the turntable (92) to rotate and deliver the ball feeding hole (95) containing the wax cleaning ball and oil to the other side. The ball feeding hole (95) on the other side carries some oil and rotates to the bottom of the ball feeding mechanism (10). S4. When the plate (97) on the outer side wall of the turntable (92) touches the detection element (96), the power mechanism (94) stops working. At this time, the ball feeding hole (95) forms an oil passage with the main liquid inlet pipe (3) and the main liquid outlet pipe (4), and the oil and the wax cleaning ball are put into the main liquid outlet pipe (4). S5. The first propulsion mechanism (99) retracts to cancel the limit on the plate (97). When the turntable (92) rotates again, the first propulsion mechanism (99) will perform the next limit operation. S6. When the ball feeding opening (95) on the other side of S3 rotates to the bottom of the ball feeding mechanism (10) with some oil, the oil flows into the connecting pipe (19) through the through hole (93) and gathers in the storage tank (12) through the drain pipe (14). S7. When there is an excess of oil in the storage tank (12), the plunger pump (16) draws through the pump inlet pipe (17) and injects the oil into the main outlet pipe (4) through the pump outlet pipe (18).

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