Downhole Actuation Assembly for Dynamic Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow control devices in wellbores struggle to dynamically adjust fluid flow rates in response to changing reservoir pressures, as they lack efficient mechanisms for identifying and configuring target devices such as inflow control devices to balance pressure throughout the tubing string.
Innovation Solution
An actuation assembly is introduced that includes a body with a potential force-generating mechanism, capable of recognizing target devices via RFID tags, and applying pressure to modify their configuration, such as rupturing discs or moving pistons, to either bypass or restrict fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If flow control devices are deployed to control fluid flow rates, then fluid flow can be regulated, but the ability to dynamically adjust flow rates in response to changing reservoir pressures is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical configuration mechanisms with a wireless actuation system. The actuation assembly includes a radio-frequency identification device that wirelessly identifies target devices and a potential force mechanism that wirelessly applies force to actuate the target device, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages and manual configuration mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow control devices are equipped with RFID tags that enable automatic identification by the actuation assembly. The system automatically detects the presence of target devices and applies the appropriate actuation force without requiring manual intervention or complex configuration procedures, allowing the system to self-configure and adapt to changing conditions.
2Measurement precision
If multiple flow control devices are deployed throughout the wellbore, then pressure balance can be achieved, but identifying and configuring specific target devices becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical identification methods (such as manual tagging or physical markers) with radio-frequency identification technology. The actuation assembly includes an RFID scanner that wirelessly detects and identifies target devices by their unique RFID tags, providing precise identification accuracy without requiring complex mechanical identification systems or manual configuration procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If closure mechanisms are used to increase fluid flow restriction, then flow control is achieved, but the ability to respond to changing reservoir conditions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic flow control by enabling the closure mechanisms to be actuated in real-time based on changing reservoir conditions. The actuation assembly can detect changes in reservoir pressure and automatically apply actuation force to the appropriate target devices, allowing the flow control system to dynamically adjust closure positions and respond to varying operational requirements without manual intervention.
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 actuation assembly effectively adjusts the configuration of target devices in real-time, allowing for precise control of fluid flow rates by identifying and interacting with RFID-tagged inflow control devices, thereby balancing pressure and optimizing production from subterranean formations.
Implementation Method 1
The radio-frequency identification device can identify a target device by scanning a radio-frequency identification tag co-located with the target device
Implementation Method 2
The actuation assembly can include a body with a potential force-generating mechanism, capable of recognizing target devices via RFID tags, and applying pressure to modify their configuration
Data Source
AI summary
Certain aspects and features of the present invention are directed to an actuation assembly that can be disposed in a wellbore through a fluid-producing formation. The actuation assembly can include a body, a potential force in the body, and a device in the body. The device can cause the potential force to be released from the body in response to receiving a signal identifying a target device disposed in the wellbore.