Downhole Flow Meter Single Conductor Vibration Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the resource exploration and recovery industry, existing flow meters require multiple conductors to connect with encoders, which are prone to failure due to vibration-induced friction, leading to potential operational issues.
Innovation Solution
A downhole flow meter system utilizing a single conductor that includes an impeller with magnets mounted on vanes and switches, which rotate with fluid flow to determine velocity, eliminating the need for multiple conductors by using a single conductor to transmit signals from switches to a surface control system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple conductors are used to connect the encoder to the surface system, then the flow meter can accurately measure fluid flow, but the number of potential failure points increases due to vibration-induced friction on conductor insulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple encoder functions into a single integrated sensor assembly. The flow meter uses a single conductor to connect the integrated sensor (including impeller, magnets, and switch) directly to the surface system, eliminating the need for multiple separate conductors that would otherwise connect to a traditional encoder. This merging reduces the number of intrusion points and conductor connections, thereby reducing potential failure points while maintaining measurement accuracy.
2Loss of information
If multiple conductors extend downhole to connect with the flow meter encoder, then comprehensive flow data can be transmitted, but the complexity of the system increases with more protective elements and intrusion points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the encoding function from a separate encoder component and integrates it directly into the flow sensor assembly. This extraction eliminates the need for complex multi-conductor connections to a separate encoder unit. The single conductor now carries all necessary signals from the integrated sensor, simplifying the overall system architecture while preserving complete flow data transmission capability.
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 reduces the number of conductors exposed to vibrations, enhancing reliability and maintaining flow meter operability by using a single conductor to transmit flow velocity and direction data effectively.
Implementation Method 1
at least one magnet mounted to the at least one vane, and a switch responsive to the at least one magnet
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole flow meter includes a body including an inlet exposed to downhole fluids, an impeller rotatably supported in the body, the impeller including at least one vane, at least one magnet mounted to the at least one vane, and a switch responsive to the at least one magnet arranged in the body.