Electrically Controlled Propellant for Downhole Tool Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subterranean operations face challenges in efficiently delivering energy to downhole tools due to the difficulty in transmitting electricity or hydraulic power through limited well bore diameters, which poses safety risks and requires cumbersome equipment.
Innovation Solution
The use of electrically controlled propellants that can be ignited by passing an electrical current to provide energy for actuating mechanical components in downhole tools, reducing the need for extensive power transmission and enhancing safety by controlled ignition and re-ignition capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If electricity or hydraulic power is transmitted through cables or wires from the surface to downhole locations, then energy can be provided to actuate tools, but the efficient delivery of energy becomes difficult due to limited well bore diameter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power transmission function from complex cable-based systems and relocates it to a simplified electrical propellant system. The propellant is contained within the tool itself, eliminating the need for external power transmission cables and reducing well bore diameter requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/hydraulic power transmission systems with an electrical propellant system. Instead of using hydraulic cables or mechanical drive shafts, the system uses electrical current to ignite a propellant, converting electrical energy directly into mechanical action at the tool location.
2Productivity
If explosive charges and perforating guns are used to create perforations, then fluid flow paths can be created, but safety risks increase during transportation and use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the state and handling parameters of the propellant by containing it in a stable, non-spontaneous form within the tool. The propellant remains inert during transportation and storage, only becoming active when electrical current is applied at the desired location, thereby eliminating safety risks associated with handling explosive charges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the hazardous explosive material from the transportation and storage phase and relocates it to a controlled, contained form within the tool. The propellant is isolated in a stable state until activation, removing it from the safety-risk environment of surface handling and transportation.
3Ease of operation
If pre-perforated tubulars with plugs or filling material are used, then fluid flow can be controlled, but the plugs must be removed requiring additional equipment and operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning the electrical propellant within the tool during manufacturing. This eliminates the need for field-based plug removal operations, as the propellant is already in place to enable direct electrical activation and propellant consumption to create flow paths.
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
Facilitates the operation of downhole tools without large power transmission, reduces safety risks, and allows for repeated use of equipment by controlled energy release, improving the efficiency and safety of subterranean operations.
Implementation Method 1
The electrically controlled propellants used in the present disclosure are substances that can be ignited by passing an electrical current through the propellant, which produces energy, gas, or other by-products.
Implementation Method 2
passing an electrical current through the propellant, which produces energy, gas, or other by-products
Implementation Method 3
when the propellant is ignited, the propellant may be at least partially consumed and the perforations may become opened
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods using electrically controlled propellant to operate equipment in subterranean formations are provided. In some embodiments, the methods comprise: providing a tool assembly that comprises a tool body and an electrically controlled propellant; and placing the tool assembly in at least a portion of a subterranean formation. Electrical current may be applied to at least a portion of the electrically controlled propellant to ignite the portion of the propellant to operate a portion of the tool assembly.