Downhole Isolation Valve Single Control Line Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole isolation valves require complex systems and multiple control lines for operation, making them cumbersome and inefficient in managing wellbore pressure for hydrocarbon extraction.
Innovation Solution
A single control line operates the isolation valve between open and closed positions using a tubular housing, a movable flow tube, a piston, and a hydraulic chamber, with selective fluid communication between chamber portions to manage pressure differentials and control the valve's operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple control lines are used to operate the isolation valve, then the valve operation reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single control line by using a spool valve with multiple positions that can direct hydraulic fluid to different chambers (first chamber for opening, second chamber for closing) through one hydraulic conduit, eliminating the need for separate control lines while maintaining reliable bidirectional valve operation
Solution Approach 2:
The single control line is designed to perform multiple functions by using a spool valve mechanism that can route hydraulic pressure to different destinations (first hydraulic chamber to open closure member, second hydraulic chamber to close closure member) based on the spool position, making one control line universally capable of controlling both opening and closing operations
2Device complexity
If a single control line is used to operate the isolation valve, then the device complexity is reduced, but the control precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic control system is segmented into distinct chambers (first hydraulic chamber for opening, second hydraulic chamber for closing) that are selectively activated through the spool valve positions, allowing precise control of the closure member in both directions while using a single control line
Solution Approach 2:
The spool valve acts as an intermediary device that receives control signals through a single control line and translates them into precise hydraulic actions by directing fluid pressure to appropriate chambers, thereby maintaining control precision while simplifying the external control system
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 solution simplifies the operation of downhole isolation valves, allowing efficient management of wellbore pressure and reducing the complexity of control systems, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of hydrocarbon extraction processes.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic chamber formed between the flow tube and the housing and receiving the piston
Implementation Method 2
the piston separates the chamber into a first portion and a second portion
Implementation Method 3
a rod disposed in the piston bore and configured to selectively block fluid communication between the piston bore and the first portion and the second portion
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
An isolation valve for use with a tubular string includes a tubular housing for connection with the tubular string; a closure member disposed in the housing and movable between an open position and a closed position; a flow tube longitudinally movable relative to the housing for opening the closure member; a piston for moving the flow tube; a hydraulic chamber formed between the flow tube and the housing and receiving the piston; a first hydraulic passage for fluid communication between a first portion of the chamber and a control line and for moving the piston in a first direction; and a second hydraulic passage for fluid communication between a second portion of the chamber and a bore of the tubular string and for moving the piston in a second direction. A single control line may be used to operate the isolation valve between an open position and a closed position.