Hydraulic Delay Toe Valve for Controlled Well Casing Injection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current time delay tools for injecting fluid into geologic formations lack controlled and repeatable operation, often resulting in uncontrolled opening, inability to open multiple tools simultaneously, and reliability issues due to complex construction and propensity for leaks.
Innovation Solution
A controlled time delay apparatus with a stacked delay restrictor and hydraulic fluid system that allows for a controlled opening of ports in a well casing, enabling delayed injection of pressurized fluid into a geologic formation, allowing multiple tools to be opened simultaneously and reducing the risk of leaks through a single-piece mandrel design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current time delay tools are used, then fluid injection delay is achieved, but the opening is uncontrolled and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a hydraulic system where pressurized fluid acts on a piston to control the opening of ports. The hydraulic pressure provides controlled, repeatable, and reliable actuation of the piston, replacing uncontrolled mechanical opening mechanisms. The fluid pressure system enables precise control over the timing and manner of port opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in fluid pressure parameters to control the piston movement and port opening. By adjusting the pressure differential across the piston and controlling the rate of pressure increase, the system achieves repeatable and controlled opening behavior. The pressure parameters are carefully managed to ensure reliable operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tools are deployed, then more injection points are created, but pump pressure cannot reach subsequent tools due to first tool connection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs preliminary action by equipping multiple tools with time delay mechanisms before deployment. Each tool is pre-configured with a delay timer that will automatically open its ports after a predetermined interval. This allows all tools to be deployed simultaneously through the casing, with each opening at its designated time, eliminating the need to wait for sequential deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The time delay tools are designed to be self-actuating, where the tool itself controls its own opening timing based on pre-set parameters. Once deployed, the tool automatically opens after the delay period without requiring additional activation or pressure input, enabling multiple tools to operate independently and simultaneously.
3Reliability
If complex construction is used, then time delay function is achieved, but propensity for leaks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the time delay mechanism, piston, port sealing, and actuation system into a single unified tool design. By combining these functions into one integrated apparatus rather than using separate components, the system reduces the number of potential leak paths while maintaining the time delay functionality. The integrated design simplifies the overall construction and improves reliability.
4Reliability
If uncontrolled opening manner is used, then instant opening is achieved, but repeatable and reproducible time delays cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms through pressure sensing and monitoring systems that track the actuation process. The system monitors pressure changes, piston position, and flow rates to ensure consistent and repeatable operation. This feedback allows for verification of proper function and adjustment to maintain reproducible time delays across multiple operations.
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 apparatus provides a reliable, repeatable, and controlled time delay for fluid injection, enabling efficient fracturing and improved connection to the formation by allowing multiple tools to be opened simultaneously, while reducing leaks and enhancing the structural integrity of the well casing.
Implementation Method 1
a first plurality of passages in the mandrel configured to align to the first openings in the housing during the first port opening time interval to allow the pressurized fluid to flow from the well casing to the formation
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for providing a time delay in injection of pressured fluid into a geologic formation. In one aspect the invention is a toe valve activated by fluid pressure that opens ports after a predetermined time interval to allow fluid to pass from a well casing to a formation. The controlled time delay enables casing integrity testing before fluid is passed through the ports. This time delay also allows multiple valves to be used in the same well casing and provide a focused jetting action to better penetrate a concrete casing lining.