Flow-Actuated Actuator Full Bore Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole tool actuators often require removal of components post-actuation and restrict full bore access, which are drawbacks in well operations.
Innovation Solution
A downhole flow-actuated actuator system featuring a first tubular with a longitudinally movable second tubular and a movable member that allows full bore access when not actuated, and occludes it when actuated, utilizing fluid flow to generate urging forces and a cam mechanism for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a ball seat actuator system is used, then actuation can be achieved, but full bore access is restricted and the ball must be removed after actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is divided into separate functional components: a movable member for occlusion, a second tubular for longitudinal movement, and a first tubular housing. This segmentation allows the movable member to be actuated without requiring removal of the entire actuator assembly, maintaining full bore access while achieving reliable actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable member is designed to move dynamically between occluding and non-occluding positions within the full bore. This dynamic positioning allows the system to maintain full bore access when not actuated while providing reliable occlusion when needed, eliminating the need for ball removal.
2Reliability
If a ball seat actuator system is used, then actuation can be achieved, but the ball must be removed after actuation is complete
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator system is designed to remain in place and service itself through repeated actuation cycles. The movable member can be actuated multiple times without removal, and the system automatically returns to its non-occluding position when fluid flow ceases, eliminating the need for manual intervention or component removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator provides continuous readiness for actuation without requiring component removal. The movable member remains positioned to allow full bore access during non-actuated periods, enabling immediate re-actuation if needed, thus eliminating downtime associated with ball removal and reinstallation.
3Ease of operation
If a movable member is introduced to occlude flow, then actuation control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator utilizes fluid flow through the second tubular to generate urging force that moves the movable member. This hydraulic actuation mechanism provides precise control over the occlusion action while avoiding complex mechanical actuation systems, as the fluid pressure itself drives the movable member to the occluded position.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator controls the occlusion state by changing the flow parameters (fluid pressure and flow rate) through the second tubular. By adjusting these fluid parameters, the movable member can be precisely positioned between fully open and fully occluded states, providing fine control without adding mechanical complexity.
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 actuation without subsequent component removal and maintains full bore access, providing accurate control over fluid flow and forces, thus enhancing operational efficiency in well operations.
Implementation Method 1
moving the second tubular with a first urging force generated by fluid flowing through a full inner bore of the second tubular
Implementation Method 2
actuatingly moving the second tubular with a second urging force generated by fluid flowing against the at least partially occluded second tubular
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator includes, a first tubular, a second tubular longitudinally movably disposed within the first tubular and movable in response to fluid flow therethrough, the second tubular having a full bore therethrough, and a movable member movably attached to the second tubular and movable with the second tubular relative to the first tubular. The movable member is movable between a first position and a second position, the movable member is unobstructive of the full bore when in the first position and at least partially occluding of the full bore when in the second position, the movable member is movable from the first position to the second position in response to movement of the second tubular.