Downhole Control Lines Step-Advance Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for remote actuation of downhole flow control devices in hydrocarbon exploration require multiple hydraulic control lines, leading to space constraints and inefficiencies due to the large number of lines needed to reach the wellbore, which is costly and prone to malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
A control system utilizing a step-advance mechanism with a reduced number of hydraulic control lines, where each device has a distinct mechanism and alternating pressurization to achieve all possible configurations with fewer lines, allowing for remote control of multiple devices using a configuration where the number of control lines equals the number of groups plus one.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple hydraulic control lines are used to control multiple flow control devices, then each device can be independently controlled, but the number of control lines increases excessively, consuming valuable space in the wellbore
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions of multiple flow control devices into a shared control system. Multiple devices are controlled by a common hydraulic control line that alternates pressurization between different groups of devices, eliminating the need for separate control lines for each device and significantly reducing the total number of control lines required in the wellbore
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic control mechanism where the control system alternates pressurization between different groups of flow control devices. This dynamic allocation allows a single control line to serve multiple devices sequentially, enabling independent control of each device at different time intervals without requiring permanent dedicated control lines for all devices simultaneously
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of control lines are extended through the wellbore, then each device can be controlled, but the wellbore space is consumed and the system becomes more complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal control line that serves multiple functions by alternating pressurization between different groups of flow control devices. This single control line performs the control function for multiple devices sequentially, making it a multi-functional component that reduces overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to control all devices independently
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the flow control devices into multiple groups that can be controlled alternately by a single control line. This segmentation allows the control system to manage multiple devices through time-division rather than requiring separate physical control lines for each device, thereby reducing system complexity and the number of components needed
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 effectively reduces the number of control lines required, allowing for the remote control of multiple devices with increased simplicity and cost efficiency, while maintaining the ability to achieve all necessary device configurations, thereby addressing the space and efficiency issues in wellbore operations.
Implementation Method 1
a pair of hydraulic control lines. One of the lines is employed to force the flow control device to an open position while the other is employed to force the device to a closed position
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for a plurality of devices including a plurality of devices in at least one group. A first control line is in operable communication with the plurality of devices. A second control line in operable communication with the at least one group. A step-advance mechanism is in operable communication with each of the plurality of the devices, each mechanism being distinct from each other mechanism within the group of devices. Further disclosed herein is a method for reducing the number of control lines needed to control a plurality of downhole devices including supplying a first control line in operable communication with a plurality of devices including at least one group of devices and supplying a second control line in operable communication with the at least one group.