Indexing Valve System Compact Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current downhole valve actuation mechanisms in the resource exploration and recovery industry are complex and costly due to the use of multiple separate components and j-slot tracks, which also impose length restrictions, necessitating a more compact and simplified solution.
Innovation Solution
An indexing valve system comprising a first tubular with indexing components and a second tubular with indexing members that inter-engage to allow axial shifting and rotational movement, facilitated by an insert with an indexer that selectively engages with indexing elements, enabling rotation and re-engagement to control fluid flow without j-tracks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pin and j-slot assembly with multiple separate components is used for valve actuation, then the valve can be operated reliably, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (j-sleeve, bearing sleeve, j-slot track) into a single integrated valve body structure. The valve body itself forms the rotational track without requiring separate j-slot components, while internal features provide both bearing and indexing functions, thereby reducing component count and complexity while maintaining reliable actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve body is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it serves as the structural housing, provides the rotational track through internal features, acts as a bearing surface, and incorporates indexing mechanisms. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, reducing overall device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If a j-slot track is used to facilitate valve movement, then the valve can be actuated, but the valve length increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational track features are nested within the valve body structure itself rather than extending externally. The indexing elements and bearing surfaces are incorporated as internal features of the valve body, allowing the actuation mechanism to be compact and eliminating the need for extended j-slot tracks that would increase valve length.
3Ease of operation
If multiple separate components are used in the actuation mechanism, then the valve can be actuated, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple separate components into a single valve body that integrates the rotational track, bearing surfaces, and indexing features, the manufacturing process is simplified. Instead of manufacturing and assembling multiple precision components, the integrated design allows for fewer manufacturing steps and lower assembly costs, thereby reducing overall manufacturing cost while maintaining actuation functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An indexing valve system includes a first tubular having an outer surface portion, an inner surface portion defining a passage portion, and a plurality of indexing components. A second tubular is axially aligned with the first tubular. The second tubular includes an outer surface section, an inner surface section defining a passage section, and a plurality of indexing members that selectively inter-engage with the plurality of indexing components. The inner surface section including a plurality of indexing elements. An insert extends into, and is axially shiftable relative to, the passage portion and the passage section. The insert includes an outer surface supporting an indexer that selectively engages with the plurality of indexing elements to rotate the second tubular relative to the first tubular.