Downhole Actuation Mechanism Sleeve Flow Rate Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole actuation mechanisms face challenges in actuating earth-boring tools when components like measuring-while-drilling instrumentation and downhole motors obstruct the flow path, preventing actuation members from passing through, especially at high fluid flow rates which can damage components.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an actuation mechanism with a movable sleeve that changes positions in response to fluid flow rate changes, allowing an actuation member to be released and travel down the drill string at low flow rates, avoiding damage by engaging with an actuating receptacle under controlled conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If actuation is performed by dropping an actuation member through the drill string, then actuation can be achieved, but components like measuring-while-drilling instrumentation and downhole motors block the actuation member's path
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation mechanism is divided into multiple functional segments: a release mechanism segment that holds the actuation member, a transport segment that moves it downward, and an actuation segment that engages with the tool. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function while navigating around obstructions in the drill string.
Solution Approach 2:
A fluid-actuated release mechanism serves as an intermediary between the surface operator and the actuation member. Instead of directly dropping the actuation member through obstructed paths, fluid pressure is used to release and propel it, allowing indirect actuation that bypasses physical blockages from instrumentation and motors.
2Productivity
If high flow rate is used to move the actuation member quickly, then actuation speed is improved, but component damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic control of fluid flow to adjust the release timing and actuation member velocity. By controlling when and how the actuation member is released using fluid pressure, the system optimizes the balance between achieving sufficient actuation speed and minimizing damaging forces on components.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation process uses periodic or controlled fluid flow pulses rather than continuous high-flow conditions. The fluid pressure is applied in a controlled manner to release the actuation member at the optimal moment, providing sufficient velocity for actuation while avoiding sustained high-velocity conditions that would cause damage.
3Loss of information
If measuring-while-drilling instrumentation with pulse telemetry is installed, then information communication is improved, but the valve blocks actuation member passage
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation member is positioned and held in a ready state above the instrumentation before the actual actuation sequence begins. The release mechanism is pre-configured so that when fluid pressure is applied, the actuation member is released and propelled past the instrumentation valve, allowing data transmission setup to be completed first without interfering with subsequent actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces direct mechanical dropping of the actuation member through the instrumentation with a fluid-actuated release mechanism. This substitution allows the actuation member to be released and propelled past the valve-controlled instrumentation, separating the data transmission function from the physical passage requirement.
4Power
If downhole motors with restrictive flow paths are used, then earth-boring tool rotation is improved, but actuation member passage is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the spatial dimension of actuation by using fluid pressure applied radially or axially to the release mechanism, rather than relying on the actuation member traveling linearly through the restrictive flow path of the downhole motor. This dimensional change allows actuation to occur without the member physically passing through the motor's restricted passages.
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 successful actuation of earth-boring tools while minimizing the risk of component damage by releasing the actuation member at low flow rates, ensuring effective engagement with the actuating receptacle and reducing the likelihood of damage to the actuation member and tool components.
Implementation Method 1
A movable sleeve may be located within the internal bore and may be movable between a first position and a second position responsive to changes in flow rate of fluid flowing through the flow path
Data Source
AI summary
Actuation mechanisms for downhole assemblies in earth-boring applications may comprise a housing comprising an internal bore defining a flow path through the housing. An actuation member may be supported within the housing. A movable sleeve may be located within the internal bore and may be movable between a first position and a second position responsive to changes in flow rate of fluid flowing through the flow path. The movable sleeve may be biased toward the first position. The actuation member may be in an initial, pre-actuation position when the movable sleeve is initially located in the first position. The actuation member may be movable to a subsequent, pre-actuation position when the movable sleeve is located in the second position. The actuation member may be released from the actuation mechanism when the movable sleeve is returned to the first position.