Intermittent Pressure Switch for Pneumatic Valve Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for operating oil and gas wells rely heavily on manual intervention to open and close valves based on pressure, which is labor-intensive and inefficient, especially for low-producing wells, and existing pressure switches have not been effectively utilized in this context.
Innovation Solution
An electronic pressure sensor-based automation switch device with a high/low switch and automated solenoid valve that controls pneumatic valves to open and close based on set pressure formation, allowing for remote operation and integration with SCADA systems, reducing human intervention and optimizing production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual valve operation is used to control well production, then the system can respond to pressure changes, but labor intensity increases and production efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure switch is configured to automatically detect formation pressure changes and trigger valve operations without human intervention. The system serves itself by using the well's own pressure signals to control the valve timing, eliminating the need for manual monitoring and operation while optimizing production based on actual pressure conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation of valve control with an automated electromechanical system. The pressure switch converts pressure changes into electrical signals that automatically actuate the valve, substituting human-operated mechanical systems with automated control mechanisms that improve efficiency and reduce labor intensity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing pressure switches are used in oil and gas wells, then pressure control is achieved, but the specific application requirements for intermittent valve operation are not met
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure switch is specifically configured with local adaptations for oil and gas well applications, including appropriate pressure ranges, environmental sealing, and mounting configurations suited to wellhead conditions. The device is tailored to the specific operational requirements of intermittent valve control in production wells, ensuring reliable performance in this particular application context.
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 enables increased oil and gas production by automating the opening and closing of valves according to formation pressure, reducing manual labor and improving efficiency, particularly in low-producing wells, with demonstrated production increases of 5%-100% in field tests.
Implementation Method 1
A pressure switch for sensing fluid pressure contains a capsule, bellows, Bourdon tube, diaphragm or piston element that deforms or displaces proportionally to the applied pressure
Implementation Method 2
An automated solenoid valve that controls pneumatic valves to open and close based on set pressure formation
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an intermittent pressure switch for pneumatic valves to control pressure relief valves in oil and gas producing operations by directing the valve to open and close based on pressure parameters (pre)set by the user. This enables oil and gas wells to produce based on formation pressure buildup. The inventive switch consists of a box containing a pressure switch programmable from 0 to 5,000 psi, a 3-port solenoid valve, 24 volt battery system, solar panel, solar control charger, pressure gauge, circuit wiring, and pressure fittings.