Cranked Rod Pumping with Pneumatic Counterbalance for Remote Wells
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional walking beam pumping apparatuses are large, complex, and difficult to control for maximum efficiency, especially in remote locations without access to power grids or maintenance roads, making them impractical for pumping fluids from subterranean formations.
Innovation Solution
A cranked rod pumping apparatus with a motor-driven cranked mechanical actuator arrangement that imparts reciprocating vertical motion to a sucker-rod pump, utilizing a pneumatic counterbalance and solar energy as a power source, allowing for compact and efficient operation without the need for batteries or backup power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional walking beam pumping apparatus is used, then pumping function is achieved, but device size becomes large and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The walking beam mechanism is segmented into a cranked rod mechanism with separate functional components: a motor, a cranked rod actuator with crank element and articulating link element, and a vertically moveable member. This segmentation simplifies the overall structure while maintaining the pumping function.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex walking beam mechanism with massive counter-weights is extracted and replaced by a simplified cranked rod mechanism. The essential function of converting rotational motion to vertical reciprocating motion is retained while removing unnecessary complexity.
2Reliability
If conventional walking beam apparatus with counter-weights and complex drive mechanisms is used, then pumping is achieved, but ease of operation for maximum efficiency control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a controller that dynamically adjusts motor operation based on real-time monitoring of pump performance parameters. This dynamic control enables optimization of pumping efficiency without complex mechanical adjustments, improving ease of operation while maintaining reliable pumping performance.
Solution Approach 2:
A feedback control system monitors pump performance and adjusts motor operation accordingly. This feedback mechanism enables automatic optimization of pumping efficiency, eliminating the need for complex manual adjustments of mechanical parts while ensuring reliable pumping performance.
3Reliability
If conventional walking beam apparatus is deployed in remote locations without power grid access, then pumping function is limited, but adaptability to remote environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to be self-sufficient in remote locations by incorporating a motor controller that can operate with limited or intermittent power supply. The controller monitors system conditions and adjusts operation to maintain pumping capability without requiring external power grid infrastructure or complex backup systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adapts to remote environments by dynamically changing operational parameters based on available power and well conditions. The controller adjusts motor speed, stroke rate, and other parameters to maintain effective pumping across varying conditions, enhancing adaptability to remote locations while ensuring reliable pumping capability.
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 cranked rod pumping apparatus provides a compact, efficient, and reliable solution for pumping fluids in remote locations, reducing size and complexity while utilizing solar energy as a sole power source, enhancing pumping efficiency and extending the life of hydrocarbon wells.
Implementation Method 1
U.S. Patent Application No. 12/251,789, published as US 2009/0097994, discloses a cranked rod pumping (CRP) apparatus according to the preamble of claim 1.
Implementation Method 2
The cranked mechanical actuator arrangement further includes a pneumatic counterbalance arrangement operatively connected between the frame and the vertically moveable member.
Data Source
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AI summary
An improved apparatus and method are provided, for pumping fluids, such as water and/or hydrocarbons, from a subterranean formation or reservoir, through use of a cranked rod pumping (CRP) apparatus for imparting reciprocating substantially vertical motion to a rod of a sucker-rod pump having a pump stroke. The CRP apparatus includes a motor driven cranked mechanical actuator arrangement. The cranked mechanical actuator arrangement includes a substantially vertically moveable member attached to the rod of the sucker-rod pump for imparting and controlling vertical motion of the rod of the sucker-rod pump. The actuator arrangement may include pneumatic counterbalancing