Magnetic Switch for Wellbore Remote Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wellbore technologies lack an efficient mechanism to activate devices mounted on the outside of a tubular from inside the tubular, particularly for providing a reliable electrical connection for operations like fracturing and fluid production.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic switch with aligned magnetic elements that form a continuous electrical path when activated by an external magnetic field, allowing for remote operation of devices on the outside of a tubular from inside the wellbore.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a switch is mounted on the outside of a tubular to enable remote operation, then the ability to activate devices outside the tubular from inside is improved, but the reliability of electrical connection is compromised due to the inability to provide consistent activation force in harsh wellbore environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical activation mechanisms with a magnetic field-based system. Magnetic elements within the tubular can actuate magnetic switches on the outside of the tubular through magnetic coupling, eliminating the need for direct mechanical contact while maintaining reliable activation in harsh wellbore environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the internal activation mechanism and the external switch. The magnetic field serves as a mediator that can transmit activation force through the tubular wall without physical contact, ensuring reliable operation despite environmental challenges.
2Ease of operation
If magnetic elements are used to provide electrical connection through the tubular wall, then remote operation from inside the tubular is enabled, but the complexity of the switching mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the switching system into separate components: magnetic elements inside the tubular and magnetic switches on the outside. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture by eliminating complex mechanical linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical switching mechanisms with a simpler magnetic field-based system. The magnetic interaction between internal elements and external switches provides a more straightforward and reliable activation method compared to traditional mechanical linkages.
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
Enables reliable and controlled activation of devices outside a tubular from within the wellbore, ensuring precise and efficient operations by providing a continuous electrical connection when needed and avoiding accidental activation.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of magnetic elements that provide a continuous electrical path or connection when the plurality of magnetic elements are aligned by an externally applied magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, an apparatus for use in a wellbore is disclosed that in one non-limiting embodiment includes a string for placement in the wellbore and a switch on an outside of the string, wherein the switch includes a plurality of magnetic elements that provide a continuous electrical when the plurality of magnetic elements are aligned by an externally applied magnetic field. In one embodiment, the switch includes a channel that houses the plurality of magnetic elements that remain unaligned until the magnetic elements are aligned by the externally applied magnetic field.