Downhole Pump Actuated Valve Spring Bias
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Solution Overview
Problem
Downhole formation evaluation tools are complex, inefficient, and face challenges due to high hydrostatic pressure and temperature conditions, requiring improved reliability, efficiency, and adaptability for accurate formation and mud circulation measurements.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly within a downhole tool module, actuated by a compact pump and actuator, such as a solenoid or piezoelectric element, to regulate fluid flow efficiently and effectively, enabling high hydraulic pressure generation with low power consumption and compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If wireline tools are used to measure formation properties, then measurement capability is improved, but operational time and cost increase due to requiring trip downhole
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the formation evaluation tool with the drill string, allowing formation measurements to be taken during the drilling process without requiring a separate trip downhole. The drill string itself serves as the conduit for both drilling operations and measurement operations, merging two previously separate functions into one integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The drill string is given multiple functions: it serves both as the drilling mechanism and as the platform for formation evaluation measurements. By making the drill string multi-functional, the system eliminates the need for separate wireline tools and trips, thereby reducing operational time while maintaining measurement capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If downhole tools are made complex to handle various formation and drilling conditions, then adaptability is improved, but reliability decreases due to multiple moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly incorporates a spring-loaded valve that can dynamically respond to changing pressure conditions. The spring mechanism allows the valve to automatically adjust its position based on pressure differential, providing adaptability to varying formation and drilling conditions without requiring complex control systems or multiple moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly is designed to be self-regulating through the spring-loaded mechanism. The valve automatically opens or closes based on the pressure differential across it, without requiring external control signals or complex actuation systems. This self-service capability enhances reliability by eliminating the need for additional moving parts and control mechanisms.
3Stress or pressure
If hydraulic pressure is increased to actuate valves under high hydrostatic pressure, then valve actuation capability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces a traditional high-power hydraulic actuation system with a spring-loaded mechanical valve system. The spring mechanism provides the necessary force to overcome hydrostatic pressure and actuate the valve without requiring high hydraulic pressure, thereby significantly reducing power consumption while maintaining valve actuation 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
Enhances the reliability and efficiency of downhole tools by enabling precise control of fluid flow, improving formation evaluation processes under extreme conditions, and reducing operational time and costs.
Implementation Method 1
the valve comprises a spring configured to bias the valve toward the first valve position
Implementation Method 2
a first pump configured to pressurize a hydraulic fluid to actuate the valve into the second valve position
Implementation Method 3
the first actuator comprises a first solenoid or a first piezoelectric stack
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a valve assembly configured to be disposed within a downhole tool module, a valve of the valve assembly configured to regulate flow of a fluid within the downhole tool module, a pump configured to supply a hydraulic fluid to actuate the valve, and an actuator configured to drive the pump.