Magnetic Actuation for Selective Well Tool Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for selectively injecting fluid into multiple formation zones in a wellbore lack efficient control and precision, particularly in activating well tools and valves, which limits the effectiveness of operations such as fracturing and fluid distribution.
Innovation Solution
The use of magnetic devices to actuate well tools and valves by displacing magnetic patterns or signals, allowing for precise control of fluid injection into specific zones through interconnected injection valves within a tubular string, where sensors detect predetermined magnetic fields to open or close valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single magnetic device is used to activate well tools, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and control precision are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the wellbore into multiple discrete zones, each equipped with its own injection valve and packer. This segmentation allows independent control of each zone, enabling precise fluid injection into specific formation intervals while maintaining relatively simple overall device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements zone-specific control by placing sensors and actuators at each individual zone interval. Each zone can be activated or deactivated independently based on local formation characteristics and treatment requirements, providing localized precision without requiring complex centralized control systems.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple magnetic devices are used to control different zones, then control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs passive magnetic sensors and actuators at each zone that automatically detect and respond to magnetic field signals without requiring complex electronic control systems. The magnetic components self-activate the injection valves through direct magnetic coupling, eliminating the need for batteries, processors, or complex wiring at each zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a universal magnetic actuation mechanism that can control multiple different zones and well tools through a single type of magnetic device. The same magnetic sensor-actuator configuration can be replicated across numerous zones, providing precise control without increasing device complexity through多样化的 components.
3Ease of operation
If magnetic actuation is used for valve control, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability may be affected by magnetic field detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions magnetic sensors and actuators in advance at each zone interval during well construction. The magnetic components are pre-configured and tested to ensure proper alignment and functionality before the well is put into service, eliminating the need for complex field calibration and ensuring reliable operation from the start.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical valve control systems with magnetic field-based actuation. Magnetic sensors detect the presence and position of magnetic actuators, and magnetic forces directly drive the valve mechanisms, eliminating the need for mechanical linkages, hydraulic systems, or electrical motors that would reduce ease of operation and increase failure points.
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 approach enables selective and controlled fluid injection into multiple zones, enhancing the precision and efficiency of operations like fracturing and fluid distribution, allowing for concentrated fluid flow and individual zone control.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor which detects a magnetic field, and an actuator which opens the injection valve in response to detection of at least one predetermined magnetic signal by the sensor
Implementation Method 2
displacing a magnetic device pattern in the well, thereby transmitting a corresponding magnetic signal to the well tool
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of actuating a well tool can include producing a magnetic pattern in the well, thereby transmitting a corresponding magnetic signal to the well tool, and the well tool actuating in response to detection of the magnetic signal. A method of injecting fluid into selected ones of multiple zones can include producing a magnetic pattern in a tubular string having multiple injection valves interconnected therein, actuating a set of at least one of the injection valves in response to the magnetic pattern producing, producing another magnetic pattern in the tubular string, and actuating another set of at least one of the injection valves in response to the second magnetic pattern producing.