Downhole separation system and method

Abstract

A downhole separation system for use upstream of any tool through which a medium flows. The separation system filters at least a portion of any solids from the medium flowing through the filtration flow path. The separation system flushes at least a portion of the filtered solids through the flushing flow path, through flushing outlets on the outer surface of the housing and into the space around the housing. The screen and the activation mechanism are arranged in the inner hole of the shell. The filtration flow path extends through a plurality of openings in the screen. The activation mechanism is configured to move between a default position, in which the activation mechanism directs fluid through the filtration flow path, and an activation position, in which the activation mechanism directs fluid through the flushing flow path. Optionally, a spring within the housing bore is configured to bias the activation mechanism toward a default position.

Description

background

[0001] During the process of drilling and maintaining a wellbore, drilling fluid is pumped through a drilling motor (e.g., a positive displacement motor) and other drilling and completion equipment (e.g., friction reduction tools, hammers, and turbines). Most drilling fluids contain solid particles (e.g., weighting materials such as barite and hematite; low-gravity solids such as bentonite, crushed rock, and drill cuttings). Certain parts of the drilling and completion equipment are sensitive to solid particles within the drilling fluid. For example, some drilling motors include only metal components that do not flex when drilling fluid containing solid particles flows between the components. Instead, solid particles often become wedged between two metal components, which causes the drilling motor to wear prematurely or stop rotating, resulting in the failure of the metal-to-metal drilling motor. The power section of a standard drilling motor includes a nitrile-based elastomeric material that will flex to allow the solid particles to flow through the drilling motor. However, these elastomeric materials may begin to degrade or fail when the drilling motor is exposed to high temperatures within the wellbore or to oil-based drilling fluids with a low aniline point.

[0002] In both cases, a filter is sometimes located upstream of the drilling motor to reduce the amount of solid particles in the drilling fluid before it enters the drilling motor. However, the filter has a limited capacity for collecting solid particles and fills up over time. Once the filter reaches capacity, some conventional filters direct the drilling fluid through a path within the filter, bypassing the solid particle capture section of the filter, thereby retaining any solid particles contained therein while allowing unfiltered drilling fluid to reach the downstream drilling motor.

[0003] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An example of a conventional filter 2 is shown. Fluid flowing through the filter 2 is directed across the filtering surface 4 to collect solid particles within the filter sleeve 6. When a predetermined amount of solid particles remains within the filter sleeve 6, the associated pressure drop causes the shear pin 8 to break and release the filter sleeve 6, which moves downstream to open the bypass port 10, as shown. Figure 2 In this position, when the filter sleeve 6 is filled with solid particles, fluid is allowed to continue to flow through the filter 2. However, the fluid flowing through the bypass port 10 is unfiltered, which increases the possibility of solid particles damaging the downstream drilling motor.

[0004] To remove the collected solid particles from the filter, a conventional filter is typically pulled out of the drill string for cleaning. Figure 1 and Figure 2The filter 2 in the wellbore is pulled out of the drill string to remove the collected solid particles before the fluid can be filtered again. Removing the filter from the wellbore requires the user to stop drilling operations and results in wasted drilling time and increased drilling costs. Alternatively, the collected solid particles can be cleared from the filter by opening the solid particle collection section of the filter to flush the collected solid particles downstream through the central fluid path to the drilling motor with the flow of drilling fluid. Flushing the collected solid particles downstream with the drilling fluid causes an increase in the amount of solid particles flowing through the drilling motor, which increases the likelihood that the solid particles will become wedged between two metal components in the metal-to-metal drilling motor, thereby increasing the likelihood that some drilling motors will wear out prematurely or stop working altogether.

[0005] There is a need for a downhole separation system that filters solid particles from drilling fluid and removes the collected solid particles from the filter without removing the system or the filter from the wellbore and without releasing the collected solid particles downstream. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a prior art filter device in a filtering position.

[0007] Figure 2 It is in bypass position Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a prior art filter arrangement is shown.

[0008] Figure 3 is a front view of the separation system of the present disclosure in a default position.

[0009] Figure 4 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the separation system in the default position.

[0010] Figure 5 is another detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the separation system in the default position.

[0011] Figure 6 is another detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the separation system in the default position.

[0012] Figure 7 It is a front view of the outer valve sleeve of the separation system.

[0013] Figure 8 It is a perspective view of the outer valve sleeve.

[0014] Figure 9 is a front view of the mandrel of the separation system.

[0015] Figure 10 It is a perspective view of the mandrel.

[0016] Figure 11It is a cross-sectional view of the inner valve sleeve of the separation system.

[0017] Figure 12 It is a front view of the piston of the separation system.

[0018] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the separator in a partially activated position.

[0019] Figure 14 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of a separation system in a partially activated position.

[0020] Figure 15 is another detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the separation system in a partially activated position.

[0021] Figure 16 is another detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the separation system in a partially activated position.

[0022] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the separating device in the activated position.

[0023] Figure 18 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the separation system in the activated position.

[0024] Figure 19 is another detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the separation system in the activated position.

[0025] Figure 20 is another detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the separation system in the activated position.

[0026] Figure 21 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a downhole separation system positioned in a subterranean wellbore by a coiled tubing string.

[0027] Figure 22 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a downhole separation system positioned in a subterranean wellbore by a tubing string.

[0028] Figure 23 is a schematic diagram of an upstream separation system and a downstream separation system positioned within the same tubing string in a subterranean wellbore. Detailed Description of Selected Embodiments

[0029] Disclosed herein is a separation system that automatically or in response to a signal from the wellbore surface flushes collected solids into an annular space around the outer surface of the wellbore. Figures 3 to 23 While embodiments of the separation system disclosed herein are shown, numerous other embodiments within the scope of the claims will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of this disclosure.

[0030] Figure 3 An embodiment of a downhole separation system is shown in a default filtering position. Downhole separation system 20 may include a housing 22, which may include two or more sections, such as housing sections 22a, 22b, and 22c. Each housing section 22a, 22b, and 22c may have a generally cylindrical shape with a housing bore 24 extending therethrough. The upper and lower ends of housing 22 may be configured to connect to a tubular member in a drill string. Housing 22 may include one or more flushing outlets 26 extending radially from housing bore 24 to an outer surface 28 of housing 22.

[0031] The screen 30 and the sliding assembly 32 can be fixed in the housing inner hole 24. The sliding assembly 32 can be configured to slide in the housing inner hole 24. A portion of the sliding assembly 32 can be configured to slide in the center hole of the screen 30. The sliding assembly is configured to be in a default position ( Figure 3 ) and the active position ( Figure 17 ) between the filter assembly 32 and the flush outlet 26. In the default position, the filter flow path is open and the flush outlet 26 is closed. The filter flow path extends through the opening in the screen 30. In the activated position, the flush flow path to the flush outlet 26 is open. In certain embodiments, the filter flow path is partially or completely closed in the activated position. In this manner, the slide assembly 32 is the activation mechanism for the downhole separation system 20.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the slide assembly 32 may include a core shaft 36, an inner valve sleeve 38, and a piston 40. A spring 42 disposed within the housing bore 24 biases the slide assembly 32 toward a default position, which in the illustrated embodiment is in the upstream direction. The spring 42 may be disposed around a portion of the piston 40, such that when the piston 40 compresses the spring 42, the portion of the piston 40 may slide within the central region of the spring 42. A first flow divider 44 and a second flow divider 46 may secure the screen 30 within the housing bore 24. The core shaft 36 may be configured to slide through central apertures in the first and second flow dividers 44, 46. An outer valve sleeve 48 may also be secured within the housing bore 24. The inner valve sleeve 38 is slidably disposed within the outer valve sleeve 48. In some embodiments, the outer valve sleeve 48 defines upstream and downstream limits of the sliding path of the inner valve sleeve 38. In certain embodiments, the outer valve sleeve 48 is aligned with the flushing outlet 26 of the housing 22. The outer valve sleeve 48 may include one or more sleeve ports 50.

[0033] refer to Figures 3 to 5, first flow splitter 44 may include a central bore 62, a plurality of first flow splitter channels 64 extending in an axial direction and positioned between central bore 62 and an outer surface of first flow splitter 44, and a screen receiver 66. The plurality of first flow splitter channels 64 extend in an axial direction and are positioned between central bore 62 and an outer surface of first flow splitter 44. Central bore 62 of first flow splitter 44 may include a shoulder 68 that provides a larger diameter central bore upstream of shoulder 68 and a smaller diameter central bore downstream of shoulder 68. Similarly, second flow splitter 46 may include a central bore 70, a plurality of second flow splitter channels 72 extending in an axial direction and positioned between central bore 70 and an outer surface of second flow splitter 46. Central bore 70 of second flow splitter 46 may include a shoulder 76 that provides a smaller diameter central bore upstream of shoulder 76 and a larger diameter central bore downstream of shoulder 68. Screen 30 may include a plurality of openings 78 extending radially from central bore 80 to outer surface 82. Screen 30 is configured to filter a portion of any solids contained in a medium (e.g., a liquid or gas, which may be a drilling medium) flowing through plurality of openings 78. An upstream end 84 of screen 30 may be secured within screen receiving portion 66 of first flow splitter 44, and a downstream end 86 of screen 30 may be secured within screen receiving portion 74 of second flow splitter 46.

[0034] In some embodiments, the screen assembly formed by the screen 30 between the first flow divider 44 and the second flow divider 46 can be secured within the housing bore 24 in a stationary configuration. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the screen assembly is secured within the housing segment 22b by means of a shoulder 88 of the housing segment 22b and the lower end of the housing segment 22a. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the downstream surface of the second flow divider 46 engages the shoulder 88 of the housing segment 22b without obstructing the second flow divider passage 72, and the upstream surface of the first flow divider 44 engages the lower end of the housing segment 22a without obstructing the first flow divider passage 64.

[0035] refer to Figure 3 and Figures 6 to 8The outer valve sleeve 48 may include a central bore 89 configured to allow the inner valve sleeve 38 to slide therein. The outer valve sleeve 48 may be fixed within the housing bore 24 in a stationary configuration. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, an upstream end 90 of the outer valve sleeve 48 engages a spacer 92 that engages the lower end of the housing segment 22 b, and a downstream end 94 of the outer valve sleeve 48 engages a valve stop 96 that engages a shoulder 98 of the housing segment 22 c. The valve stop 96 may include a recess for receiving a sealing member 99 that may provide a sliding fluid seal between the valve stop 96 and the piston 40. The housing 22 and the outer valve sleeve 48 may be configured to provide a flush outlet cavity 100 between the outer valve sleeve 48 and the housing 22. The flush outlet cavity 100 may be in fluid communication with the sleeve port 50 of the outer valve sleeve 48 and the flush outlet 26 of the housing 22. In some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment, the flush outlet cavity 100 can be defined by a recess 101 in the outer surface of the outer valve sleeve 48 and a recess in the housing inner bore 24. Alternatively, the flush outlet cavity 100 can be defined solely by the recess in the outer surface of the outer valve sleeve 48, or solely by the recess in the housing inner bore 24. In certain embodiments, the sleeve port 50 of the outer valve sleeve 48 can be offset from the flush outlet 26 of the housing 22. This offset arrangement can reduce wear by reducing the rate at which fluid or other media flows through the flush outlet 26 and the sleeve port 50. In other embodiments, the sleeve port 50 can be aligned with the flush outlet 26. The outer valve sleeve 48 can also include one or more recesses 102 for receiving a sealing member 104, which can provide a fluid seal between the outer surface of the outer valve sleeve 48 and the housing inner bore 24.

[0036] Now refer to Figures 3 to 6 and Figures 9 and 10 , the mandrel 36 may include a primary ring 110, a secondary ring 112 extending from a shoulder 113 to a shoulder 114, and an outer surface 115 extending from the shoulder 114 to a downstream end 116. The mandrel 36 may also include an upstream central bore 118 and a downstream central bore 120 separated by a mandrel core 122. One or more mandrel filter ports 124 may extend radially from the upstream central bore 118 to the outer surface of the secondary ring 112. One or more mandrel flush ports 126 may extend radially from the upstream central bore 118 to the outer surface 115. The upstream central bore 118 may include a tapered surface 127 between the mandrel filter port 124 and the mandrel flush port 126. One or more mandrel lower ports 128 may extend radially from the downstream central bore 120 to the outer surface 115.

[0037] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5, the outer surface of the main shaft ring 110 of the core shaft 36 can engage the inner hole 24 of the housing. Portions of the core shaft 36 can slide within the central hole 62 of the first diverter 44, the central hole 80 of the screen 30, and the central hole 70 of the second diverter 46. Figures 3 to 6 In the default position shown, the mandrel 36 can be positioned such that the mandrel filter port 124 is open to a filter port cavity 130 defined by the housing inner bore 24, the shoulder 113 of the mandrel 36, and the upper surface of the first diverter 44. In this position, the mandrel flush port 126 can be positioned within the smaller diameter portion of the central bore 62 of the first diverter 44. Also in this position, the mandrel lower port 128 can be open to a screen cavity 132 defined between the central bore 80 of the screen 30 and the outer surface 115 of the mandrel 36, and between the first and second diverters 44, 46. Thus, in the default position, the mandrel filter port 124 and the mandrel lower port 128 are open, while the mandrel flush port 126 is closed. The mandrel cavity 134 can extend between the central bore 62 of the first diverter 44 and the outer surface 115 of the mandrel 36, from the shoulder 114 of the mandrel 36 to the shoulder 68 of the first diverter 44. The collection chamber 136 may extend between the housing inner bore 24 and the outer surface 82 of the screen 30 from the first flow diverter 44 to the second flow diverter 46 .

[0038] Now refer to Figure 6 and Figure 11 , the inner valve sleeve 38 is slidably disposed in the center hole 89 of the outer valve sleeve 48. Figure 6 In the default position shown, the upstream end of the inner valve sleeve 38 can engage the lower end of the spacer 92. The central bore of the inner valve sleeve 38 can include an upstream bore 140 extending from the upstream end of the inner valve sleeve 38 to a shoulder 142, and a downstream bore 144 extending from a shoulder 146 to the downstream end of the inner valve sleeve 38. A protrusion 148 can be formed between the shoulders 142 and 146. The central bore of the inner valve sleeve 38 can also include an expanded diameter section 150 near its downstream end. The downstream end 116 of the core shaft 36 is positioned within the upstream bore 140 of the inner valve sleeve 38, with the downstream end 116 engaging the shoulder 142. The upstream end of the piston 40 is positioned within the downstream bore 144 of the inner valve sleeve 38. In some embodiments, a ring 151 can also be disposed between the upstream end of the piston 40 and the shoulder 146. In other embodiments, the upstream end of the piston 40 engages the shoulder 146. The inner valve sleeve 38 may also include one or more recesses 152 in the upstream bore 140, the downstream bore 144, and on an outer surface of the inner valve sleeve 38 for receiving sealing members 153. Sealing member 153a may provide a fluid seal between the upstream bore 140 and the outer surface of the core shaft 36. Sealing member 153b may provide a fluid seal between the downstream bore 144 and the outer surface of the piston 40. Sealing member 153c may provide a fluid seal between the outer surface of the inner valve sleeve 38 and the outer valve sleeve 48.

[0039] refer to Figure 3 、 Figure 6 and Figure 12 The piston 40 may include a central bore 154, an upstream outer surface 156 extending from an upstream end to a shoulder 158, and a downstream outer surface 160 extending from a shoulder 162 to a downstream end. A sealing block 164 may form an enlarged diameter portion between the shoulder 158 and the shoulder 162. Figure 6 and Figure 12 As shown, the sealing block 164 may include a recess 166 configured to receive the sealing member 155, which may include an O-ring or other sealing element. A portion of the outer surface of the sealing block 164 may engage the housing inner bore 24 to provide a fluid seal separating the first damping chamber 167 and the second damping chamber 168 (e.g., Figure 3 One or more fluid passages may extend through the body of the sealing block 164 and interconnect the first damping chamber 167 and the second damping chamber 168. For example, one or more first nozzles 169 above the sealing recess 166 and one or more second nozzles 170 below the sealing recess 166 may extend inwardly from the outer surface of the sealing block 164 (as shown). Figure 12 (shown in FIG. 1 ). In some embodiments, each first nozzle 169 is fluidly connected to one of the second nozzles 170, such that a nozzle path is formed from the first damping chamber 167 through the sealing block 164 to the second damping chamber 168. The nozzle path may include a flow path diameter restriction. In other embodiments, the fluid passage connecting the first damping chamber 167 and the second damping chamber 168 may include an annular space between the sealing block 164 and the housing inner bore 24.

[0040] The piston 40 may also include an orifice 172 extending from the central bore 154 to the upstream outer surface 156. The position of the piston 40 within the downstream bore 144 of the inner valve sleeve 38 may align the orifice 172 with the enlarged diameter portion 150 of the inner valve sleeve 38. Figure 6 In the default position shown, the valve cavity 174 can extend from the downstream end of the inner valve sleeve 38 to the valve stop 96, which is between the central bore 89 of the outer valve sleeve 48 and the upstream outer surface 156 of the piston 40. The valve cavity 174 can be fluidly connected to the central bore 154 of the piston 40 through the orifice 172 and the expanded diameter section 150. In the default position, the shoulder 158 of the piston 40 can engage the lower surface of the valve stop 96.

[0041] Reference again Figure 3 and Figure 6, spring 42 can be positioned in a spring cavity 176 defined between the housing bore 24 and the downstream outer surface 160 of the piston 40. Spring 42 can be positioned between a first spring block 180 and a second spring block 182. First spring block 180 can be positioned within the housing bore 24 between spring 42 and the shoulder 162 of the piston 40. A flow passage 183 between the housing bore 24 and the first spring block 180 fluidly connects the second damping cavity 168 with the spring cavity 176, effectively forming a combined downstream damping cavity 168 / 176. Second spring block 182 can be positioned within the housing bore 24 between spring 42 and a shoulder 184 of the housing segment 22c. Portions of the piston 40 can be disposed through the central apertures in spring block 180 and spring block 182. The spring 42 can exert a force on the first spring block 180 in the upstream direction, which generates an upstream force applied to the shoulder 162 of the piston 40, the shoulder 146 of the inner valve sleeve 38, and the downstream end 116 of the core shaft 36. In this way, the spring 42 pulls the first spring block 180, the sealing block 164 of the piston 40, the inner valve sleeve 38, and the core shaft 36 in the upstream direction. Figure 3 Default position offset shown.

[0042] Figures 3 to 6 1 and 2. The downhole separation system 20 is shown in a default position in which media flowing into the housing bore 24 at the upper end of the housing 22 is directed through a filter flow path within the housing 22. The filter flow path extends through the plurality of openings 78 of the screen 30 to filter at least a portion of any solids from the media. In certain embodiments, the filter flow path extends through the collection cavity 136 before the plurality of openings 78 of the screen 30. For example, the filter flow path can extend from the upper end of the housing bore 24 into the upstream central bore 118, through one or more mandrel filter ports 124, through the filter port cavity 130, through the plurality of first diverter passages 64, through the collection cavity 136, through the plurality of openings 78 of the screen 30, through the screen cavity 132, through the mandrel lower port 128 into the downstream central bore 120 of the mandrel 36, and through the central bore 154 of the piston 40. As the media flows through the filtration flow path, at least a portion of any solids contained in the media are retained within the collection cavity 136 as the media flows through the plurality of openings 78 of the screen 30. The filtered media continues to flow through the screen cavity 132, through the remainder of the filtration flow path, and further downstream, while the collected solids remain in the collection cavity 136. In this manner, the downhole separation system 20 in the default position filters out at least a portion of any solids contained in the media flowing through the system, retains the collected solids, and allows the filtered media to continue to flow downstream.

[0043] In the default position, a fluid or other medium may be contained in the mandrel cavity 134 between the mandrel 36 and the first diverter 44 (e.g., Figure 4 ), contained in the valve chamber 174 between the outer valve sleeve 48 and the piston 40 (as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown), contained in the first damping chamber 167 and the second damping chamber 168 between the housing inner hole 24 and the sealing block 164 of the piston 40 (as shown Figure 6 ), and contained in the spring chamber 176 between the housing inner bore 24 and the piston 40 (as shown Figure 6 and Figure 3 (as shown). In some embodiments, media can enter some of these cavities during use. For example, a small amount of media flowing through the housing inner bore 24 will penetrate through the connection between the core shaft 36 and the first flow diverter 44 to enter the core shaft cavity 134. A small amount of media flowing through the central bore 154 of the piston 40 can flow through the orifice 172 and the expanded diameter section 150 of the inner valve sleeve 38 to enter the valve cavity 174, which can be fluidly sealed upstream by the sealing members 153b and 153c and downstream by the sealing member 99 and the compression seal formed by the contact between the valve stop 96 and the shoulder 98.

[0044] In some embodiments, certain fluid cavities of separation system 20 can be filled with a medium prior to use. For example, damping cavities 167 and 168 / 176 can be filled with a fluid during assembly of separation system 20. The damping cavities can be filled with a fluid that has a constant viscosity over a wide temperature range, such as ethylene glycol. In some embodiments, when looser seals are used, damping cavities 167 and 168 / 176 can be filled during use.

[0045] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 The damping chambers 167 and 168 / 176 together with the nozzles 169 and 170 can form an independently sealed damping mechanism for the separation system 20. The independent sealing unit can be formed by the upstream fluid seal provided by the sealing member 99 and the compression seal formed at the interface between the valve stop 96 and the shoulder 98, as well as the sealing member 199 (such as Figure 3 184). Sealing member 199 provides a fluid seal at the sliding interface between the lower outer surface of piston 40 and housing bore 24 downstream of shoulder 184. In these embodiments, a fixed amount of fluid initially charged into cavities 167, 168, and 176 can be retained in these cavities during use.

[0046] The sealing member 155 fluidly seals the interface between the housing bore 24 and the seal block 164 of the piston 40. The fluid communication between the first damping chamber 167 and the combined downstream damping chamber 168 / 176 is only through one or more first nozzles 169 and one or more second nozzles 170 (such as Figure 6 and Figure 12 A first nozzle 169 and a second nozzle 170 are provided to control or limit the flow rate of fluid between the damping chambers 167 and 168 / 176. As the slide assembly 32 moves upstream or downstream, the volumes of the first damping chamber 167 and the combined downstream damping chambers 168 / 176 change. The axial downstream movement of the piston 40 forces a volume of fluid from the combined downstream damping chambers 168 / 176 into the first damping chamber 167 through the nozzles 170 and 169. The size and number of nozzles 169 and 170 determine the flow rate at which fluid can move between the damping chambers 167 and 168 / 176, which in turn controls and reduces the sliding speed or rate of axial movement or sliding of the slide assembly 32 (including the piston 40 and the spindle 36) in each direction. In this way, the damping mechanism prevents instantaneous opening and closing of the bypass port 26. The damping mechanism also prevents breakage of components of the separation system 20 that could be caused by rapid axial movement of the slide assembly 32. The degree to which the damping mechanism attenuates or slows the axial movement of the slide assembly 32 can be adjusted by varying the number and size of the nozzles 169 and 170. In one embodiment, the first nozzle 169 and the second nozzle 170 each include a reduced diameter portion to restrict fluid flow based on the sum of the force from the spring 42 acting on the valve assembly 32 and the pressure differential created by the fluid flowing through the valve assembly 32.

[0047] refer to Figures 3 to 6 In the default position, the medium flowing through the separation system 20 exerts a downstream force on the effective area of ​​the sliding assembly 32, which can include the core shaft effective area on the core shaft 36 and the valve effective area on the inner valve sleeve 38. The core shaft effective area can be composed of the cross-sectional area of ​​the surface provided by the upstream surface 185 of the main shaft ring 110 of the core shaft 36, the tapered surface 127 in the upstream central hole 118, and the end surface 186 of the upstream central hole 118 (e.g., Figure 4The valve effective area can be defined by the cross-sectional area of ​​the portion of the upstream surface 188 of the inner valve sleeve 38 that is exposed to the pressure and downstream forces exerted by the media flowing through the housing bore 24. The slide assembly 32 moves axially relative to the outer valve sleeve 48 and the sealing member 99, both of which are fixed relative to the housing 22 at the shoulder 98. In the default position, the cumulative upstream-facing effective area is approximately equal to the cumulative downstream-facing effective area of ​​the slide assembly 32, making the slide assembly 32 a balanced (or unbiased) piston assembly. Changes in hydrostatic pressure do not force the slide assembly 32 to move axially in either direction from the default position. For this reason, the separation system 20 is flow-rate controlled in the default position. As used herein, "flow-rate controlled" means that changes in the flow rate of the media flowing through the separation system 20 cause a pressure differential across the slide assembly 32, which generates a downstream force acting on the effective area to move the slide assembly 32 from the default position to the partially activated position.

[0048] The increase in the flow rate of the medium flowing through the separation system 20 in the default position exerts an increasing downstream force on the effective area of ​​the slide assembly 32. When the downward force reaches a threshold force value that overcomes the upstream spring force on the slide assembly 32, the downstream force causes the slide assembly 32 to move in a downstream direction within the housing bore 24 and compress the spring 42. Specifically, the core shaft 36 slides in a downstream direction within the first and second flow diverters 44, 46, within the screen 30, and within the outer valve sleeve 48; the inner valve sleeve 38 slides in a downstream direction within the outer valve sleeve 48; and the piston 40 slides in a downstream direction within the outer valve sleeve 48, the valve stop 96, the second spring block 182, and the housing bore 24.

[0049] In order for the slide assembly 32 to slide downstream, a portion of the medium contained in certain cavities of the separation system 20 must be discharged from those cavities. For example, in order for the core shaft 36 to move downstream, a portion of the fluid in the core shaft cavity 134 must be returned to the housing bore 24 and / or the upstream central bore 118 of the core shaft 36. Similarly, in order for the inner valve sleeve 38 to slide downstream, a portion of the fluid in the valve cavity 174 must be returned to the central bore 154 of the piston 40. Furthermore, in order for the piston 40 to slide downstream, a portion of the fluid in the combined downstream damping chamber 168 / 176 must flow into the first damping chamber 167 through the first nozzle 169 and the second nozzle 170. The restricted diameters of the nozzles 169 and 170 delay the movement of the slide assembly 32 in response to changes in the medium flow rate. In this way, the damping chamber provides a damping effect on the movement of the slide assembly 32. The slide assembly 32 slides in response to the average flow rate that varies over time, rather than in response to short-term changes or faster fluctuations.

[0050] Now refer to Figures 13 to 16, the slide assembly 32 slides in the downstream direction in response to the increasing fluid flow rate until it reaches the partially activated position shown. In certain embodiments, fluid in the second damping chamber 168 must flow into the first damping chamber 167 to provide a damping effect, allowing the slide assembly 32 to slide in response to an average pressure value that varies over time, rather than in response to short-term changes or faster fluctuations. In this position, the lower spindle port 128 is disposed within the central bore 70 of the second flow diverter 46, effectively closing the lower spindle port 128. Also in this position, the spindle filter ports 124 are partially positioned within the central bore 62 of the first flow diverter, leaving only gaps 190 of the spindle filter ports 124 open to the filter port cavity 130; a portion of each spindle filter port 126 opens to the screen cavity 132, forming gaps 192; and the upstream surface 188 of the inner valve sleeve 38 aligns with the sleeve port 50 of the outer valve sleeve 48 to open gaps 194. In the partially activated position, the flushing flow path is open. A flushing flow path can extend through the screen cavity 132 before the plurality of openings 78 in the screen 30 and the collection cavity 136 to flush the collected solids contained within the collection cavity 136 from the separation system 20 through the flush outlet 26 into the space surrounding the outer surface 28 of the housing 22. For example, the flushing flow path can extend from the upper end of the housing inner bore 24 into the upstream central bore 118, through the flushing spindle port 126, through the screen cavity 132, through the plurality of openings 78 in the screen 30, through the collection cavity 136, through the plurality of second diverter passages 72, through the housing inner bore 24 below the second diverter 46, through the spacer 92, through the upstream end of the outer valve sleeve 48, through the gap 194, through the sleeve port 50, through the flush outlet cavity 100, through the flush outlet 26, and to the exterior of the outer surface 28 of the housing 22. As the media flows through the flush flow path, the media may transport collected solids held within the collection cavity 136 through the sleeve port 50 and the flush outlet 26 into the space surrounding the exterior surface 28 of the housing 22. In some embodiments, the filtration flow path is closed in the partially activated position.

[0051] When the separation system 20 is in the partially activated position, the pressure differential between the housing bore 24 and the space surrounding the outer surface 28 of the housing 22 can force the medium flowing therethrough through the flushing flow path. In this position, the downstream force on the slide assembly 32 is generated by the pressure differential between the housing bore 24 and the space surrounding the outer surface 28 of the housing 22, across the sleeve port 50 and the flushing outlet 26. Specifically, the effective area in the partially activated position includes the spindle effective area and the valve effective area, which, due to the spacing of the spacer 92, can include the total surface area of ​​the upstream surface 188 of the inner valve sleeve 38. In the partially activated position, the effective area can act as a downstream biasing piston, moving in response to the pressure differential between the housing bore 24 and the annular space surrounding the outer surface 28 of the housing 22. Because the slide assembly 32 is biased in the downstream direction, if the flow rate through the housing bore 24 decreases, the total downstream force acting on the slide assembly 32 against the upstream spring force can be equal to or greater than the previous downstream force exerted by the flow rate alone. For this reason, even if the fluid flow rate decreases, the slide assembly 32 does not move in the upstream direction to the default position when the flushing flow path is opened.

[0052] In the wellbore, due to the pressure drop across the bottom hole assembly, the pressure in the annular space surrounding the housing 22 is lower than the pressure within the housing bore 24. In the partially activated position, the pressure within the housing bore 24 is greater than the pressure within the annular space. Therefore, the separation system 20 is pressure-controlled in the partially activated position. "Pressure-controlled" means that an upward or downward change in the pressure differential between the fluid pressure in the housing bore 24 of the separation system 20 and the pressure in the annular space surrounding the housing 22 causes the slide assembly 32 to slide from the partially activated position to the fully activated position or default position, respectively. In other words, when partially activated or fully activated, the system 20 is controlled by the pressure differential between the pressure in the housing bore 24 and the annular space surrounding the housing 22. If fluid flow slows while the pressure differential across the separation system 20 and the annular space remains low, the slide assembly 32 will not return to the default position even if the fluid flow decreases. When fluid flow ceases, the internal fluid pressure can be released through the flushing flow path until the force acting on the active area is less than the upstream force from the spring 42, which biases the slide assembly 32 in the upstream direction.

[0053] refer to Figures 17 to 20, the pressure differential between the housing inner bore 24 and the annular space surrounding the housing 22 increases, causing the slide assembly 32 to continue sliding in the downstream direction until it reaches the fully activated position shown. In this position, shoulders 113 and 114 of the core shaft 36 engage the upper end and shoulder 68 of the first diverter 44, respectively. The filter core shaft port 124 can be fully disposed within the central bore of the first diverter 44, and the core lower port 128 can remain fully disposed within the central bore of the second diverter 46, thereby closing the filter core shaft port 124 and maintaining the core lower port 128 in the closed position. In the fully activated position, the flushing core shaft port 126 can be fully disposed within the screen cavity 132 to fully open the flushing flow path. In the fully activated position, media flowing through the system 20 can flush collected solids from the collection cavity 136 and discharge through the sleeve port 50 and the flushing outlet 26.

[0054] The separation system 20 is pressure controlled in the fully activated position. If the fluid flow slows down and the pressure differential between the housing bore 24 and the annular space decreases slightly, the slide assembly 32 will not slide in the upstream direction toward the default position. In order for the slide assembly 32 to slide in the upstream direction and return to Figures 3 to 6 The default position shown in FIG. 1 can reduce the pressure differential between the housing bore 24 and the annular space. This can be achieved by reducing the pressure in the housing bore 24, by increasing the pressure in the annular space, or by turning off the fluid pump and allowing the pressure to equalize in the flushing fluid path. Once the slide assembly 32 slides in the upstream direction past the partially activated position, the activated area reverts to a flow-controlled valve. In the absence of sufficient flow rate, the slide assembly 32 continues to move to the partially activated position. Figures 3 to 6 The default location is shown.

[0055] Because the separator system 20 is flow-rate controlled in the default position, it is automatically activated when the fluid flow rate exceeds a predetermined force threshold. The separator system 20 is pressure-controlled in both the partially activated and fully activated positions. Thus, after the separation system 20 begins flushing the media and any collected solids into the annular space, it cannot be accidentally shut down by a change in flow rate. The separator system 20 rotates to the default position only in response to a predetermined pressure change generated at the surface of the wellbore. In addition, the damping effect provided by the nozzles 169 and 170 and the damping chambers 167 and 168 prevents the separator system 20 from being inadvertently activated or deactivated due to pressure pulses, vibrations, a blocked drill bit, or a motor stall. In one embodiment, the damping effect can be effective to require that a change in flow rate or pressure be maintained for a specified time (e.g., 30 to 45 seconds) before the separator system 20 changes position.

[0056] The separation system 20 is configured to reach a partially activated position (at a predetermined flow rate) at Figures 13 to 16 in) and reaches the fully activated position (in the Figures 17 to 20 In another embodiment, the predetermined flow rate and the predetermined pressure difference can be adjusted, for example, by replacing the spring 42 with a spring having a different compression strength or a different length or by replacing the ring 151 with a different inner diameter.

[0057] Now refer to Figure 21 The downstream separation system 20 can be secured to a coiled tubing connector 200 at the distal end of a coiled tubing string 202 extending through a subsurface formation 208 below the surface 206 for drilling a wellbore 204. In some embodiments, an MWD tool 210 can be positioned between the coiled tubing connector 200 and the separation system 20, with a drive mechanism 212 (e.g., a drilling motor) and a drill bit or milling cutter 214 located downstream. Drilling medium can be pumped through the coiled tubing string 202 and the coiled tubing connector 200. When the drilling medium flows through the separation system 20 in the default position (i.e., filtering mode), all or a portion of the solid particles within the drilling medium can be removed and collected within the collection chamber 136. The filtered or cleaned drilling medium (i.e., the remaining liquid or gaseous components) flows downstream through the drive mechanism 212 and drill bit 214. In some embodiments, the separation system 22 can be activated in response to an increase in the flow rate of the drilling medium. When the separation system 22 reaches a predetermined threshold flow rate value, the slide assembly 32 of the separation system 22 can be placed in a fully activated position or a partially activated position. In this partially activated or fully activated position (i.e., flushing mode), the separation system 22 uses the flow of drilling medium to flush collected solid particles out of the separation system through the flushing outlet 26 and into the annular space 216 between the separation system 22 and the formation 208. Once the upstream fluid pressure drops below a predetermined deactivation value, the separation system 20 can automatically move back to the default position, allowing solid particles to be collected from the drilling medium flowing through the separation system 20 again, and the clean drilling medium then flows through the drive mechanism. The separation system 20 can also be placed in the filter mode or the flushing mode in response to a signal received from the surface 206 of the wellbore 204. Such a signal can be, but is not limited to, a sequence of pressure pulses (changes in mud weight), a change in flow rate, a change in drill pipe rotation, or the use of RFID (radio frequency identification) technology.

[0058] refer to Figure 22 , the separation system 20 can be fixed to the distal end of a drill string 220 used to drill the wellbore 204. In this embodiment, the MWD tool 210 can be positioned upstream of the separation system 20, with the drive mechanism 212 and the drill bit 214 positioned downstream. The drive mechanism 212 can include a curved housing drilling motor. The drilling medium flowing through the drill string 220 can flow through the separation system 20 before reaching the drive mechanism 212 and the drill bit 214. The separation system 20 in the default position (i.e., the filtering mode) can remove some or all of the solid particles in the drilling medium. Figure 21Similarly, when solid particles collected in the separation system 20 cause the upstream fluid pressure to reach a predetermined activation value, the separation system 20 is activated and placed in the fully activated position (i.e., flushing mode). When activated, fluid flowing through the separation system 20 flushes the collected solids through the flushing outlet 26 and into the annular space 216 between the separation system 20 and the formation 208. After deactivation, the fluid flowing through the separation system 20 in the default position is cleaned again before flowing into the drive mechanism 212.

[0059] Alternatively, as Figure 21 and Figure 22 The separation system 22 used as shown can be activated and switched to flushing mode in response to a signal from the surface. For example, the signal can be a pressure pulse, an electrical signal, a magnetic signal, a mechanical signal (a change in rotational speed, a change in weight-on-bit (WOB)), an axial movement of the drill pipe, etc.), or any other type of signal that can be detected within the wellbore 204.

[0060] like Figure 23 As shown, when drilling a wellbore 204, two or more separation systems 20 may be used in a drill string 220. An upstream separation system 20A may be secured to the downstream end of the drill string 220 in conjunction with an upstream tool 230. A tubing string 232 may be secured between the upstream tool 230 and the downstream separation system 20B. A drive mechanism 212 and a drill bit 214 may be secured beneath the downstream separation system 20B. The drive mechanism 212 may be configured to drive the drill bit 214, while the upstream tool 230 may be configured to generate vibrations, activate a valve or any actuating device, or power a generator. For example, the drive mechanism 212 may include a positive displacement motor (e.g., a vane motor or a Moyno motor), a turbine, a percussion motor, or a hammer, while the upstream tool 230 may include a turbine, a friction reducing tool, a vibration generating tool, or any other tool that benefits from the use of clean drilling fluid. The upstream separation system 20A may remove solid particles from the drilling fluid pumped through the drill string 220, allowing clean or filtered drilling fluid to flow into the upstream tool 230. Downstream separation system 20B can remove solid particles from the drilling fluid, allowing clean or filtered drilling fluid to flow into drive mechanism 212. When one or both of separation systems 20A and / or 20B are activated (automatically or in response to a signal from the surface), the collected solid particles are flushed through flush outlets 26A and / or 26B, respectively. Upstream separation system 20A can be configured to filter out particles of a certain size from the drilling fluid, while downstream separation system 20B can be configured to filter out particles of a smaller size from the drilling fluid than upstream separation system 20A.

[0061] As used herein, "medium" means any liquid or compressible gas, which may include solid particles.

[0062] As used herein, "fluid" means any liquid or gas, which may include solid particles.

[0063] As used herein, "open" with respect to an outlet, port, or other opening means that fluid communication is open at the outlet, port, or other opening.

[0064] As used herein, "closed" with respect to an outlet, port, or other opening means that fluid communication does not exist at the outlet, port, or other opening.

[0065] Unless otherwise described or illustrated, each component in the apparatus has a generally cylindrical shape and may be formed from steel, another metal, or any other durable material. Portions of the separation system 20 may be formed from a wear-resistant material such as tungsten carbide, ceramic, or ceramic-coated steel.

[0066] Each device described in this disclosure may include any combination of the described components, features, and / or functions of each embodiment of the various device embodiments. Each method described in this disclosure may include any combination of the steps described in any order, including steps that lack certain descriptions and combinations of steps used in separate embodiments. Any numerical range disclosed herein includes any subrange within that range. "Plurality" means two or more. "Above" and "below" should each be understood to mean upstream and downstream, so that the directional orientation of the device is not limited to a vertical arrangement.

[0067] While preferred embodiments have been described, it should be understood that these embodiments are illustrative only and that the scope of the invention will be limited only by the appended claims (when given the full scope of equivalents and the numerous variations and modifications that would naturally occur to those skilled in the art upon review of the invention).

Claims

1. A downhole separation system comprising: a housing comprising a housing inner bore and one or more flushing outlets extending radially from the housing inner bore to an outer surface of the housing; a screen, the screen being disposed in the inner hole of the housing and comprising a plurality of openings; wherein a filtration flow path within the housing extends through the plurality of openings in the screen for filtering at least a portion of any solids contained in the media flowing through the filtration flow path; wherein a flushing flow path within the housing extends to the one or more flushing outlets for flushing at least a portion of filtered solids away from an exterior surface of the housing through the one or more flushing outlets when the media flows through the flushing flow path; and an activation mechanism configured to move within the housing inner bore between a default position and an activation position; wherein the activation mechanism is configured to close the one or more flush outlets in the default position and to open the one or more flush outlets in the activation position; wherein the activation mechanism is flow rate controlled in the default position and pressure controlled in the activation position.

2. The downhole separation system according to claim 1, wherein: In the default position, the activation mechanism is configured to direct the medium flowing into the shell inner bore through the filtration flow path; wherein the filtration flow path extends from the upstream end of the shell inner bore through a collection chamber, the collection chamber leads to the multiple openings of the screen, and enters the downstream end of the shell inner bore; wherein, in the activation position, the activation mechanism is configured to direct the medium through the flushing flow path; wherein the flushing flow path extends from the upstream end of the shell inner bore through the collection chamber, the collection chamber leads to the one or more flushing outlets.

3. The downhole separation system according to claim 2, wherein: The flushing flow path extends through the plurality of openings of the screen before the collection chamber.

4. The downhole separation system according to claim 2 further includes a damping mechanism, which includes a fluid channel connecting two damping chambers, wherein the fluid flow through the fluid channel slows down the rate at which the activation mechanism moves between the default position and the activation position.

5. The downhole separation system according to claim 4, wherein: The fluid channel includes one or more nozzles.

6. The downhole separation system according to claim 4, wherein: The fluid passage includes an annular space. 7 . The downhole separation system of claim 1 , further comprising a spring disposed within the inner bore of the housing, wherein the spring is configured to bias the activation mechanism toward the default position.

8. The downhole separation system according to claim 7, wherein: The core shaft of the activation mechanism includes: an upstream central bore and a downstream central bore separated by a mandrel core; one or more mandrel filter ports, each mandrel filter port extending radially from the upstream central aperture to an outer surface of the mandrel; wherein the filtered flow path extends through the mandrel filter port; wherein the mandrel filter port is open in the default position and closed in the activated position; one or more mandrel flush ports, each mandrel flush port extending radially from an upstream central bore to the outer surface of the mandrel; wherein the mandrel flush port is disposed an axial distance from the mandrel filter port; wherein the flush flow path extends through the mandrel flush port; wherein the mandrel flush port is closed in the default position and open in the activated position; One or more mandrel lower ports, each mandrel lower port extending radially from the downstream central bore to the outer surface of the mandrel; wherein the filtration flow path extends through the mandrel lower ports; wherein the mandrel lower ports are open in the default position and closed in the activated position.

9. The downhole separation system according to claim 8, wherein: A portion of the mandrel is slidably disposed through the center hole of the screen; wherein the mandrel lower port is disposed within the center hole of the screen in the default position; wherein the mandrel flush port is disposed within the center hole of the screen in the activated position.

10. The downhole separation system according to claim 9, further comprising: a screen cavity defined between the outer surface of the mandrel and the inner surface of the screen; and a collection chamber defined between an outer surface of the screen and an inner bore of the housing; wherein the filtered flow path extends from the collection chamber through the opening of the screen to the screen chamber; wherein the flushing flow path extends from the screen cavity through the opening of the screen to the collection cavity.

11. The downhole separation system according to claim 10, further comprising: a first diverter comprising a central bore and one or more first diverter channels, each first diverter channel extending axially between the central bore and an outer surface of the first diverter; wherein the filtered flow path extends through the first diverter channels; wherein a portion of the mandrel is slidably disposed through the central bore of the first diverter such that the mandrel flush port is disposed within the central bore in the default position and the mandrel filter port is disposed within the central bore in the activated position; and A second diverter comprising a central hole and one or more second diverter channels, each second diverter channel extending axially between the central hole and an outer surface of the second diverter; wherein the flushing flow path extends through the second diverter channel; wherein a portion of the core shaft is slidably disposed through the central hole of the second diverter so that the core shaft lower port is disposed within the central hole in the activated position; and wherein the screen extends between the first diverter and the second diverter.

12. The downhole separation system of claim 8 , further comprising an outer valve sleeve fixedly disposed within the inner bore of the housing, the outer valve sleeve comprising a central bore and one or more sleeve ports extending radially from the central bore to an outer surface of the outer valve sleeve; wherein a flushing outlet cavity is formed between the outer surface of the outer valve sleeve and the inner bore of the housing; and wherein the flushing outlet cavity fluidly connects the one or more sleeve ports to the one or more flushing outlets of the housing.

13. The downhole separation system according to claim 12, wherein: The one or more sleeve ports and the one or more irrigation outlets are spaced apart an axial distance.

14. The downhole separation system according to claim 12, wherein: The activation mechanism further comprises an inner valve sleeve connected to the downstream end of the core shaft; wherein the inner valve sleeve is slidably disposed within the central hole of the outer valve sleeve; wherein, in the default position, the inner valve sleeve closes the one or more sleeve ports; wherein, in the activation position, the inner valve sleeve opens the one or more sleeve ports.

15. The downhole separation system according to claim 14, wherein: The activation mechanism further includes a piston connected to a downstream end of the inner valve sleeve; wherein the spring is disposed around a portion of the piston.

16. The downhole separation system according to claim 15, wherein: The piston includes a sealing block having an enlarged outer diameter, the sealing block engaging the housing inner bore to create a first damping chamber and a second damping chamber; wherein the piston further includes one or more nozzles extending from a first shoulder to a second shoulder of the sealing block; wherein each of the one or more nozzles fluidly connects the first damping chamber and the second damping chamber.

17. A downhole separation system comprising: a housing comprising a housing inner bore and one or more flushing outlets extending radially from the housing inner bore to an outer surface of the housing; a screen, the screen being disposed in the inner hole of the housing and comprising a plurality of openings; wherein a filtration flow path within the housing extends through a collection cavity, the collection cavity leading to the plurality of openings of the screen for filtering at least a portion of any solids contained in the media flowing through the filtration flow path; wherein a flushing flow path within the housing extends through the collection cavity and to the one or more flushing outlets for flushing at least a portion of filtered solids away from the exterior surface of the housing through the one or more flushing outlets when the media flows through the flushing flow path; and an activation mechanism configured to move within the housing bore between a default position and an activated position; a spring disposed within the housing inner bore, the spring configured to bias the activation mechanism toward the default position; wherein, in the default position, the activation mechanism is configured to close the one or more flushing outlets and direct the medium flowing into the housing bore through the filtered flow path; and Wherein, in the activated position, the activation mechanism is configured to open the one or more flushing outlets and guide the medium flowing into the housing inner bore through the flushing flow path.

18. The downhole separation system according to claim 17, further comprising a damping mechanism, wherein the damping mechanism comprises a fluid channel connecting two damping chambers, wherein: The activation mechanism is configured to force a volume of fluid from one damping chamber to flow through the fluid channel and into the other damping chamber when the activation mechanism moves between the default position and the activated position, and wherein the fluid flow through the fluid channel slows the rate at which the activation mechanism moves between the default position and the activated position.

19. The downhole separation system according to claim 18, wherein: The fluid channel includes one or more nozzles.

20. The downhole separation system of claim 18, wherein: The fluid passage includes an annular space.

21. The downhole separation system of claim 17 , further comprising an outer valve sleeve fixedly disposed within the inner bore of the housing, the outer valve sleeve comprising a central hole and one or more sleeve ports extending radially from the central hole to an outer surface of the outer valve sleeve; wherein a flushing outlet cavity is formed between the outer surface of the outer valve sleeve and the inner bore of the housing; and wherein the flushing outlet cavity fluidly connects the one or more sleeve ports to the one or more flushing outlets of the housing.

22. The downhole separation system of claim 21, wherein: The one or more sleeve ports and the one or more irrigation outlets are spaced apart an axial distance.

23. The downhole separation system of claim 21, wherein: The activation mechanism includes an inner valve sleeve slidably disposed within the central hole of the outer valve sleeve; wherein, in the default position, the inner valve sleeve closes the one or more sleeve ports; wherein, in the activated position, the inner valve sleeve opens the one or more sleeve ports.

24. A method of filtering a medium flowing in a wellbore, comprising the steps of: a) providing a first separation system, the first separation system comprising: a housing, the housing comprising a housing inner bore and one or more flushing outlets extending radially from the housing inner bore to an outer surface of the housing; a screen disposed within the housing inner bore, the screen comprising a plurality of openings; wherein the filtered flow path within the housing extends through the plurality of openings of the screen; wherein the flushing flow path within the housing extends to the one or more flushing outlets; and an activation mechanism configured to move within the housing inner bore between a default position and an activation position; wherein the activation mechanism is configured to close the one or more flushing outlets in the default position and to open the one or more flushing outlets in the activation position; b) positioning the first separation system in a drill string or coiled tubing string within a wellbore; c) allowing the medium to flow through the drill string or the coiled tubing string and into the inner hole of the shell of the first separation system; d) filtering at least a portion of any solids contained in the media by directing the media through the filter flow path within the housing when the activation mechanism is in the default position; wherein the filtered solids are retained in a collection chamber; e) activating the first separation system to move the activation mechanism to the activated position to direct the media through the flushing flow path for flushing at least a portion of the filtered solids from the collection chamber through the one or more flushing outlets out of the outer surface of the housing and into an annular space surrounding the housing.

25. The method according to claim 24, wherein In step e), the first separation system is activated in response to a signal from the surface of the wellbore.

26. The method according to claim 24, wherein In step e), the first separation system is automatically activated in response to an automatic trigger.

27. The method according to claim 24, further comprising the steps of: f) deactivating the first separation system to slideably return the activation mechanism to the default position to filter the medium flowing through the housing inner bore; wherein steps b) to f) are performed without removing the first separation system from the wellbore.

28. The method according to claim 27, wherein In step e), the first separation system is activated by adjusting the flow rate of the medium passing through the first separation system; wherein in step f), the first separation system is deactivated by adjusting the pressure difference between the housing inner bore and the annular space.

29. The method according to claim 24, wherein In step a), the first separation system further comprises a damping mechanism comprising a fluid channel connecting two damping chambers, and wherein in step e), fluid flow through the fluid channel slows down the rate at which the activation mechanism moves to the activation position.

30. The method of claim 24, wherein: Step a) further comprises providing a second separation system, the second separation system comprising: a housing comprising a housing inner bore and one or more flushing outlets extending radially from the housing inner bore to an outer surface of the housing; a screen disposed within the housing inner bore, the screen comprising a plurality of openings, wherein the plurality of openings of the second separation system are configured to filter particles of a smaller size than the plurality of openings of the first separation system; wherein a filtration flow path within the housing extends through the plurality of openings of the screen; wherein a flushing flow path within the housing extends to the one or more flushing outlets; and an activation mechanism configured to be in a default position within the housing inner bore. and an activated position; wherein the activation mechanism is configured to close the one or more flushing outlets in the default position and to open the one or more flushing outlets in the activated position; wherein step b) further comprises positioning the second separation system in the drill string or the coiled tubing string within the wellbore downstream of the first separation system; wherein step c) further comprises flowing the medium through the housing inner bore of the second separation system; and wherein step d) further comprises filtering at least a portion of any solids contained in the medium when the second activation mechanism is in the default position, wherein the solids filtered by the second activation mechanism are less than the solids filtered by the first activation mechanism.

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