Bidirectional Flow Regulation Tool with Adaptive Pressure Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow regulation tools in the resource recovery industry face challenges in achieving cost-effectiveness and flexibility while maintaining functional efficiency in regulating fluids within and outside a tubing string in a borehole.
Innovation Solution
A flow regulation tool comprising a ported landing nipple with a retrievable choke assembly and sensor gauge, featuring first and second pressure sensing points that adapt to fluid flow direction, allowing for bidirectional fluid flow regulation and real-time pressure monitoring, along with a lock subassembly for secure anchoring and optional memory circuit, communication medium, and power source for data recording and transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a flow regulation tool is designed to regulate fluids flowing into and out of a tubing string in a borehole, then functional efficiency is improved, but cost and flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flow regulation tool is designed with a universal housing that can accommodate different choke assemblies and sensor gauges, allowing the same basic structure to serve multiple functions and applications. This multi-functionality approach enables the tool to regulate fluids while providing flexibility in configuration and retrieval options, thereby improving both functional efficiency and adaptability simultaneously
2Reliability
If a flow regulation tool is designed to regulate fluids flowing into and out of a tubing string in a borehole, then functional efficiency is improved, but cost is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flow regulation tool is divided into separate modular components including a housing, choke assembly, and sensor gauge. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard processes, reducing overall manufacturing cost while maintaining functional efficiency. The modular design enables easier assembly and maintenance, further contributing to cost-effectiveness
Data Source
AI summary
A flow regulation tool including a ported landing nipple having a port therethrough, a retrievable choke assembly disposed within the housing, the choke assembly including a choke member and a pressure port, a fluid flow path within the housing that includes a first direction of flow in a first portion of the flow path and a second direction of flow in a second portion of the flow path, and a sensor gauge having first and second pressure sensing points disposed in the retrievable choke assembly, the first pressure sensing point exposed to pressure upstream or downstream of the choke member depending upon fluid flow direction and the second pressure sensing point exposed to pressure at the other of upstream or downstream of the choke member depending upon fluid flow direction, one of the first and second pressure sensing points exposed to the corresponding pressure through the pressure port.