Autonomous Inflow Control Using Laminar-Turbulent Flow Modifiers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid conveyance systems struggle to effectively separate fluids with similar viscosities and densities, particularly in situations where conventional viscosity-based and density-based exclusion devices fail to manage fluid flow effectively.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous inflow control system utilizing a combination of laminar and turbulent flow modifiers, coupled with a differential pressure valve, automatically adjusts fluid flow based on changes in viscosity and density to enhance the conveyance of desired fluids while excluding unwanted fluids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If viscosity-based exclusion devices are used to separate fluids, then fluids with different viscosities can be separated, but they fail when fluid viscosities are close
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the separation parameter from viscosity-based to density-based by using a centrifugal separator that utilizes density differences to separate fluids. This allows effective separation of fluids with similar viscosities but different densities, resolving the limitation of viscosity-based devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical viscosity-based exclusion mechanism with a centrifugal field-based separation system. The centrifugal separator uses rotational motion to create density-based separation, substituting the mechanical approach with a field-based approach that overcomes viscosity limitations.
2Manufacturing precision
If density-based exclusion devices are used to separate fluids, then fluids with different densities can be separated, but they fail when fluid densities are also relatively close
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces dynamic elements including a variable speed motor and adjustable centrifugal separator rotation speed. This allows the system to dynamically adjust separation parameters to optimize separation effectiveness for fluids with closely spaced density values, enhancing adaptability while maintaining separation precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates preliminary fluid conditioning through the centrifugal separator that pre-separates fluids based on density before further processing. This preliminary action enhances the overall separation effectiveness even when density differences are minimal by creating initial separation that can be refined in subsequent stages.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional exclusion devices are used, then simple fluid separation can be achieved, but they cannot effectively manage complex fluid mixtures with minimal property differences
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the fluid processing system into distinct functional modules: a centrifugal separator for density-based separation, a flow modifier for viscosity adjustment, and a control system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively, achieving high separation precision for complex mixtures while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs a composite approach combining multiple separation mechanisms (centrifugal separation, viscosity modification) in a single integrated system. This composite strategy enables effective handling of complex fluid mixtures by leveraging the complementary strengths of different separation principles, achieving high precision without excessive complexity.
4Device complexity
If a single flow modifier is used, then the system structure remains simple, but it cannot provide sufficient control over fluid flow characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates a variable speed motor that dynamically adjusts the rotation speed of the centrifugal separator. This dynamic control capability enhances fluid flow control by allowing real-time adjustment of separation parameters, improving ease of operation while maintaining relatively simple system structure through a single adjustable parameter.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively controls fluid flow by autonomously responding to changes in fluid composition, optimizing the conveyance of desired fluids and minimizing the inclusion of undesired fluids, even when viscosity and density differences are minimal.
Implementation Method 1
The first flow modifier includes one of a laminar flow device and a turbulent flow device
Implementation Method 2
The second flow modifier including another of the laminar flow device and the turbulent flow device
Implementation Method 3
a valve responsive to a difference between the first signal and the second signal. The first signal corresponds to the first fluid output and the second signal corresponds to the second fluid output
Data Source
AI summary
An autonomous inflow control system includes an inlet conduit connecting production fluid to an input of a first flow modifier including one of a laminar flow device and a turbulent flow device. An intermediate conduit is connected to a first fluid output of the first flow modifier, and connects the first flow modifier to a second flow modifier configured to provide a second fluid output, the second flow modifier including another of the laminar flow device and the turbulent flow device. The system includes a signal path configured to provide a first signal and a second signal, and a valve responsive to a difference between the first signal and the second signal. The first signal corresponds to the first fluid output and the second signal corresponds to the second fluid output, or the first signal corresponds to the input and the second signal corresponds to the first fluid output.