Formation Isolation Valve Locking Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional formation isolation valves face challenges in achieving a high holding force while maintaining a low and consistent shifting force threshold due to the inconsistent geometry of collets and detents, leading to unreliable operation.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a locking device that can be selectively extended into different profiles to lock the valve element in open or closed states, with an interference device radially retaining the locking device to prevent disengagement until a controlled transition is made, using a mechanism with springs to establish a low shifting force threshold independent of the holding force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a collet and detent geometry is used to lock the valve element, then the valve can be locked in open or closed states, but the shifting force threshold becomes inconsistent and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the locking device with locking surfaces for engagement, and the interference device with interference surfaces for retention. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component's function, with the locking device providing reliable state locking and the interference device providing controlled shifting capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The interference device acts as an intermediary element between the locking device and the external shifting tool. It provides a controlled interface for applying shifting force through the interference surfaces, mediating the force transmission in a predictable and consistent manner independent of the locking geometry.
2Device complexity
If the same collet geometry provides both holding force and shifting force threshold, then the structure is simplified, but the holding force and shifting force threshold cannot be independently optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two distinct devices: the locking device responsible for providing holding force through locking surfaces, and the interference device responsible for establishing the shifting force threshold through interference surfaces. This functional segmentation allows independent optimization of each parameter without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
Different geometric characteristics are applied to different parts of the mechanism: the locking surfaces have geometry optimized for high holding force, while the interference surfaces have geometry optimized for low and consistent shifting force threshold. Each local region has quality tailored to its specific function.
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 configuration ensures a high holding force and a low, consistent shifting force, enhancing the reliability and safety of the valve by preventing inadvertent shifting and allowing precise control over the valve's state transitions.
Implementation Method 1
The interference device is adapted to be selectively extended radially inside the locking device to retain the locking device in the profile
Implementation Method 2
The locking device is adapted to be selectively extended into the profile to lock the valve element in the open or closed state
Data Source
AI summary
A valve includes a housing, a valve element that is located in the housing, an operator, a locking device and an interference device. The housing includes an interior surface that has a profile. The operator may be configured to transition the valve element between open and closed states. The locking device is adapted to be selectively extended into the profile. The interference device may be adapted to be selectively extended radially inside the locking device to retain the locking device in the profile, thereby locking the valve element in the open or closed state.