Magnetic Valve Assembly Radial Shift Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for providing fluid pathways within a casing string in wellbores require mechanical tools and do not allow for selective activation of fluid communication from multiple formation zones, limiting control and reliability in oil and gas production.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic valve assembly (MVA) with a magnetic valve component that radially shifts in response to a magnetic field, allowing for selective actuation of fluid pathways without the need for mechanical interventions or pressure maintenance, enabling wireless control of fluid flow through the use of disposable magnetic members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional mechanical tools are used to provide fluid pathways, then the system can control fluid flow, but the device complexity and need for mechanical interventions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical valve actuation systems with a magnetic field-based actuation system. A magnetic member is disposed within the wellbore tubular string that generates a magnetic field to actuate magnetic valve components, eliminating the need for complex mechanical tools and interventions while maintaining fluid flow control capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional methods are used, then fluid pathways can be established, but the ability to selectively activate multiple zones is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the wellbore into multiple isolated zones using packers, with each zone capable of independent fluid communication control. Multiple magnetic valve components are distributed along the wellbore tubular string, each responsive to magnetic field actuation, enabling selective activation of individual zones without requiring complex centralized control systems.
3Extent of automation
If mechanical tools and pressure maintenance are used, then fluid flow can be controlled, but the need for physical interventions and surface connections increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic valve assembly enables self-service operation within the wellbore environment. The magnetic member actuates the magnetic valve components autonomously in response to magnetic field changes, eliminating the need for external mechanical tools, surface connections, or continuous pressure maintenance while maintaining full fluid flow control capability.
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 MVA provides improved control and flexibility in scheduling valve actuations, allowing for independent activation of multiple zones and reducing the need for physical interventions, thereby enhancing the reliability and efficiency of fluid production in wellbores.
Implementation Method 1
The magnetic valve component is configured to radially shift from a first position to a second position in response to interacting with the magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
The at least one magnet is configured to axially shift the magnetic valve seat from a first position to a second position when the plug passes within the central flowbore
Data Source
AI summary
An actuation device comprises a housing comprising one or more ports, a magnetic valve component, and a central flowbore. The central flowbore is configured to receive a disposable member configured to emit a magnetic field, and the magnetic valve component is configured to radially shift from a first position to a second position in response to interacting with the magnetic field.