Diode Lockout Devices for Sneak Path Elimination in Downhole Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for remotely actuating downhole well tools in subterranean wells require a large number of wires and complex electronics, leading to unreliable operations and undesirable current draw, particularly due to the hostile downhole environment and challenges in sealing and extending lines through wellheads and packers.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a reduced number of conductors to selectively actuate multiple downhole well tools by applying a predetermined voltage potential across conductor pairs, with lockout devices preventing current flow if the voltage is below a minimum, thereby eliminating unnecessary current draw and simplifying the control process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of wires and complex electronics are used to remotely actuate multiple downhole well tools, then the ability to selectively control each tool is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to the hostile downhole environment and challenges in sealing and extending lines
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the control function into discrete control devices, each associated with a specific well tool. Each control device can be independently activated by applying voltage across a specific pair of conductors, allowing selective control of individual tools without requiring complex wiring for each tool. This segmentation enables versatile control while maintaining system simplicity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
A small set of conductors is designed to serve multiple functions by being shared across multiple control devices. The same conductors can be used to control different well tools at different times by selectively applying voltage across different pairs of conductors. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of conductors needed while maintaining the ability to control multiple tools.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex wireless telemetry and downhole power systems are utilized to actuate multiple well tools, then the control capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple control functions are merged into a single, simple control device architecture. Each control device uses the same basic components and operates on the same principle, allowing them to be controlled through a shared set of conductors. This merging eliminates the need for separate wiring and control systems for each tool, significantly reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary components from the control system. By using a simple voltage application mechanism and diode-based control devices, complex wireless telemetry systems and downhole power systems are removed. The system achieves remote control capability through a minimal set of conductors and simple electronic components.
3Ease of operation
If conventional control systems without lockout devices are used, then the ease of operation is improved, but undesirable current draw occurs through unintended control devices
Solution Approach 1:
Diode lockout devices are incorporated into each control device to prevent current from flowing through unintended control devices before the desired control device is activated. The diodes are positioned to block current flow in reverse direction, preventing sneak paths and ensuring that current only flows through the intended control device when voltage is applied across its specific conductor pair. This preliminary protection mechanism eliminates energy waste while maintaining operational simplicity.
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
Enables efficient and reliable remote actuation of multiple downhole well tools with fewer lines and without complex electronics, reducing the risk of improper actuation and enhancing control precision by preventing current flow through unintended devices.
Implementation Method 1
whereby the lockout devices prevent current from flowing through the respective control devices if the voltage potential across the respective predetermined pair of the conductors is less than a predetermined minimum
Implementation Method 2
each of the control devices can be selected by applying a predetermined voltage potential across a respective predetermined pair of the conductors
Data Source
AI summary
A system for selectively actuating multiple load devices, such as well tools, which are selectively actuated by applying a predetermined voltage across a predetermined pair of conductors. At least one lockout device is associated with each load device. The lockout device prevents current from flowing through the respective load device until voltage across the pair of the conductors exceeds a predetermined minimum. A method is provided for selecting well tools for actuation by applying a minimum voltage across a set of conductors and a lockout device. Leak paths are prevented from draining off current by the lockout devices. A system is provided for applying current to bidirectional load devices such as downhole pumps and motors.