Resistor Actuator Release System for Well Tool Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydrocarbon well applications face challenges in actuating well tools between operational positions without physical access, as existing methods rely on mechanical and hydraulic inputs that are often cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing an electrical resistor to secure and release a mechanical release mechanism, allowing selective actuation of well tools by shifting portions between operational positions, facilitated by addressable electronics and spring bias for controlled movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If mechanical and hydraulic inputs are used to actuate well tools, then physical access is required, but the operation becomes cumbersome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical and hydraulic actuation systems with an electrical resistor-based actuation system. The resistor is positioned to engage with a release mechanism, and when electrical current is applied, the resistor heats up and disintegrates, releasing the mechanical constraint and allowing tool actuation. This substitution eliminates the need for physical access and cumbersome mechanical operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the actuation function from complex mechanical and hydraulic systems and isolates it to a simple electrical resistor component. By removing the need for external mechanical inputs and hydraulic systems, the patent achieves remote actuation capability while simplifying the overall system architecture.
2Reliability
If a release mechanism is secured by an electrical resistor, then controlled release is achieved, but the resistor must be positioned in contact with the release mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical resistor is pre-positioned in engagement with the release mechanism during tool assembly or deployment. This preliminary positioning ensures that when electrical current is subsequently applied, the resistor is already in the correct location to heat up and disintegrate, reliably releasing the mechanism without requiring complex positioning systems or additional actuators.
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 precise and controlled actuation of well tools without physical access, improving efficiency and versatility in various hydrocarbon well applications, including valve actuation, tool deployment, and other operations.
Implementation Method 1
By selectively applying sufficient electrical power to the electrical resistor, the electrical resistor disintegrates
Implementation Method 2
facilitated by addressable electronics and spring bias for controlled movement
Data Source
AI summary
A technique facilitates actuation of a tool via shifting of a first portion with respect to a second portion. A release mechanism initially is engaged between the first portion and the second portion to hold the second portion relative to the first portion in a first operational position. The release mechanism is secured in this initial position by an electrical resistor. By selectively applying sufficient electrical power to the electrical resistor, the electrical resistor disintegrates and allows release of the release mechanism. As a result, the first portion and the second portion may be shifted to a second operational position.