Downhole Flow Control Actuation via Gas Generator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mechanical actuation of downhole flow control apparatuses is challenging, especially in deviated wellbores, limiting the number of stages that can be treated using conventional ball drop systems.
Innovation Solution
A downhole flow control apparatus with a housing, port, and flow control member that is actuated by pressurized fluid, allowing for controlled opening and closing of fluid communication between the wellbore and subterranean formation, utilizing a gas generator to displace the flow control member and manage fluid communication stations within the wellbore.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional ball drop systems are used for mechanical actuation, then the system structure is simple, but the ease of operation deteriorates in deviated wellbores and the number of treatable stages is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical actuation systems (ball drop systems) with a pressurized fluid actuation system. The flow control member is displaced by pressurized fluid rather than mechanical ball drops, enabling reliable operation in deviated wellbores and allowing treatment of multiple stages without increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs pressurized fluid (gas or liquid) to actuate the flow control member. The fluid pressure displaces the flow control member from the closed position to the open position, providing a reliable actuation mechanism that works effectively in deviated wellbores where mechanical systems fail
2Productivity
If pressurized fluid actuation is used, then the ease of operation improves for multiple stages, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The pressurized fluid actuation system serves multiple functions: it actuates the flow control member, provides zonal isolation capability, and enables treatment of multiple stages sequentially. This multi-functionality increases productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing wellbore fluid or injected gas to provide the pressurized fluid needed for actuation. The fluid communication station itself generates the pressure differential needed to displace the flow control member, eliminating the need for separate complex actuation mechanisms
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 controlled stimulation and production from subterranean formations by allowing selective fluid communication and zonal isolation, enhancing the treatment of multiple stages within the wellbore.
Implementation Method 1
generating gaseous material with a downhole gas generator such that the generated gaseous material becomes disposed in fluid communication with a flow control member
Implementation Method 2
displacing the flow control member, relative to a port, with the generated gaseous material
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a downhole flow control apparatus comprising: a housing; a port extending through the housing; a passage disposed within the housing for conducting material to and from the port; a flow control member displaceable relative to the port; and a flow control member actuator configured for producing a pressurized fluid for urging the displacement of the flow control member.