Fluidic Impulse Generator for Tubing Friction Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices used to reduce friction between tubing and wellbores during insertion, such as those employing Moineau motors or mud motors, are complex, require frequent maintenance, and are sensitive to temperature and pressure variations, limiting their effectiveness and operational range.
Innovation Solution
A vibratory impulse generator assembly utilizing a fluidic switch with a piston and interruption valve, generating periodic impulses to reduce friction by controlling fluid flow without moving parts, allowing remote operation and tolerance to gases and varying conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Moineau motors or mud motors are used to create oscillatory action for reducing friction, then periodic pulses are generated to move tubing, but device complexity increases and maintenance frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical oscillatory devices (Moineau motors, mud motors) with a fluidic impulse generator that uses fluid pressure differentials to create impulse motion. The system employs a fluidic amplifier, timing channels, and a single moving part (the tubing itself) rather than multiple mechanical components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to generate periodic pulses for reducing friction during tubing insertion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary mechanical components from the oscillatory device system. By removing motors, gears, and multiple moving parts, the invention retains only the essential function of generating impulse motion through fluidic means, significantly simplifying the device structure while preserving its effectiveness in reducing friction
2Reliability
If Moineau motors or mud motors are used to create oscillatory action, then periodic pulses are generated, but the device requires frequent maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical oscillatory devices with a fluidic impulse generator that has minimal moving parts. The system uses fluidic logic elements (amplifier, timing channels, switch) and relies on the tubing's own motion rather than mechanical actuators, dramatically reducing maintenance requirements while maintaining the friction-reduction function
Solution Approach 2:
The fluidic impulse generator is designed to operate with minimal external intervention. The system uses the incoming fluid flow itself to power the impulse generation mechanism, and the tubing's motion automatically triggers the fluidic switching action, eliminating the need for external power sources and reducing maintenance needs
3Productivity
If oscillatory devices are positioned within tubing and powered by main fluid flow, then periodic pulses are created, but the devices are sensitive to temperature and pressure variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a fluidic impulse generator that uses pneumatic and hydraulic principles to create periodic pulses. The system uses fluid pressure differentials, timing channels, and a fluidic amplifier to generate impulses that are inherently adaptable to varying temperature and pressure conditions, as fluidic systems naturally respond to such variations without mechanical sensitivity
Solution Approach 2:
The fluidic impulse generator is designed to accommodate parameter changes in temperature and pressure by using fluid properties that naturally adjust to such conditions. The timing channels and fluidic amplifier respond to pressure variations, and the system maintains functionality across a wide range of operating parameters, enhancing adaptability to different wellbore conditions
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
The solution effectively reduces friction between tubing and wellbores, requires less maintenance, operates across a wider temperature and pressure range, and is compact, improving the efficiency of tubing insertion while being resistant to corrosive fluids and gases.
Implementation Method 1
a fluidic switch having a first power path and a second power path... The first power path may be connected to a first side of the cylinder and the second power path may be connected to a second side of the cylinder
Implementation Method 2
a piston in communication with the fluidic switch and positioned within a cylinder... The piston may be configured to actuate the interruption valve
Implementation Method 3
The interruption port may be configured to substantially stop fluid from moving through the fluid passage when actuated by the piston... generating periodic impulses to reduce friction
Data Source
AI summary
A device for vibrating tubing as it is inserted into a wellbore is disclosed. The device has a fluidic switch that has no moving parts. The fluidic switch is connected to a piston that oscillates back and forth in a cylinder. The piston is the only moving part. As the piston oscillates, it blocks and unblocks openings in the cylinder or other components. The movement of the piston controls the timing of the oscillation, and also generates an impulse or vibration. The vibration may reduce the friction between the tubing and the wellbore.