Fluid Density Valve Shuttle for Precise Inflow Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inflow control devices rely on viscosity to manage fluid flow, which is insufficiently precise for certain applications, necessitating improved fluid flow control technologies.
Innovation Solution
A fluid density valve utilizing a shuttle mechanism that adjusts fluid flow based on differential density between a reference density and a pilot fluid, allowing for continuous and variable control of fluid flow through alignment or misalignment of inlet and outlet paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If viscosity-based inflow control devices are used, then fluid flow control is achieved, but measurement precision and control accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the control parameter from viscosity to density. The valve body contains a reference density material that interacts with the pilot fluid based on density differential, enabling precise fluid identification and control accuracy improvement without excessive complexity increase
Solution Approach 2:
The reference density material acts as a counterweight that balances against the pilot fluid density. When densities match, the valve remains in its position; when densities differ, the imbalance triggers valve movement, providing precise control based on density differential
2Manufacturing precision
If density-based control is implemented, then fluid flow control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve uses the pilot fluid's own density property to control its operation. The reference density material and pilot fluid interact automatically based on density differential, eliminating the need for external sensors, power sources, or complex control systems while achieving high flow control precision
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses hydraulic principles where the pilot fluid pressure and density directly actuate the valve mechanism. The density-based hydraulic interaction between the pilot fluid and reference density material provides precise control without 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 precise and continuous control of fluid flow by differentiating between desirable and undesirable fluids based on density, enhancing the accuracy of fluid management in resource recovery and sequestration processes.
Implementation Method 1
moving a valve between fully open, fully closed, and choked depending upon the differential density between the pilot fluid and the reference density
Implementation Method 2
a pilot fluid portion 18 through which a pilot flow passes
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid density valve housing includes a pilot fluid inlet and outlet and a primary fluid inlet and outlet. A shuttle is disposed within the housing. The shuttle comprises a portion having a reference density and a portion defining a cavity fluidically connected to the pilot fluid inlet, the shuttle permitting or denying primary fluid flow depending upon a density of a pilot fluid flowing through the cavity versus the reference density. A method for controlling flow, including comparing density of a pilot flow with a reference density, moving a valve between fully open, fully closed, and choked depending upon the differential density between the pilot fluid and the reference density. A borehole system, including a borehole in a subsurface formation, a string in the borehole, and a fluid density valve disposed within or as a part of the string.