Downhole Control Arrangement with Induction Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current downhole valve systems in hydrocarbon wells lack efficient control and monitoring capabilities, requiring costly and time-consuming modifications to change opening pressures and uncertain status verification, especially in complex well setups with potential damage or leaks.
Innovation Solution
An electrically controlled downhole control arrangement using an induction coil for wireless power transfer and signal transmission, enabling remote control and feedback of downhole valve operations through a control system and actuator, with an electric power storage device for sustained operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If passive self-regulating valves with fixed opening pressures are used, then the valve structure is simple and reliable, but the opening pressures cannot be changed without retrieving and replacing the valves
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system transitions from static fixed-pressure operation to dynamic controllable operation. An electrically controlled valve arrangement is introduced that can be actuated remotely via induction coupling, allowing the opening pressure to be dynamically adjusted or the valve state to be changed without physical retrieval. The system includes a control valve with an actuator that responds to electrical signals transmitted through induction coils.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional mechanical spring-based pressure regulation is supplemented or replaced with an electrically controlled actuation system. Instead of relying solely on mechanical spring force to determine opening pressure, an electrical actuator is introduced that can mechanically actuate the valve in response to electrical signals, enabling remote control and potential electronic pressure regulation.
2Reliability
If comprehensive modifications are made to enable direct monitoring of valve status, then reliable feedback is obtained, but the complexity and cost of the well setup increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback capability through the induction coupling mechanism. The same induction coils used for power transfer and command transmission can also receive feedback signals from the downhole valve arrangement. This allows the control system to verify the actual state of the valve (open/closed position) and confirm whether commands were executed, providing reliable status monitoring without requiring separate comprehensive monitoring infrastructure.
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
This solution provides improved control and monitoring of downhole valves, allowing for remote operation and status verification, reducing complexity and cost, and enabling independent operation of multiple systems within a well.
Implementation Method 1
The induction coil arrangement can supply electric power to the control system by wireless power transfer
Implementation Method 2
By varying the frequency or amplitude of an alternating current that is fed to the induction coils, a digital signal can be superimposed on top of the power signal
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole control arrangement for installation in hydrocarbon well and for controlling the operation of a downhole valve arrangement comprises an electrically controlled control valve, wherein the control arrangement comprises a control system and an electric power supply source configured for supplying electric power to the control system. A downhole valve arrangement for controlling the flow of an injection fluid into a production tubing of a hydrocarbon well comprises a control arrangement, and a side pocket mandrel for installation in a production tubing for use in a hydrocarbon well, wherein the side pocket mandrel comprises an interior pocket space and a valve arrangement.