Rotatable Valve for Tubular String Fluid Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for controlling fluid flow in oil and gas drilling operations, such as drop ball-operated systems, restrict inner flow passages and impose limitations on drilling practices, leading to increased operating costs and inefficiencies, as they require maintaining specific flow rates and pressures to operate effectively.
Innovation Solution
A remotely controllable fluid flow apparatus with a rotatable valve element that can be actuated between multiple positions to alter fluid flow patterns between the inner flow passage and the wellbore annulus, using sensors to detect environmental changes and decode commands to enable or disable flow control, allowing for selective operation of the valve to change fluid flow profiles without restricting other operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If drop ball-operated systems are used to control fluid flow, then fluid flow control is achieved, but the inner flow passage is restricted and drilling practices are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamically controllable valve mechanism that can transition between multiple flow states (open, closed, partially open) and multiple positions (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°). This dynamic control allows the system to adapt to different drilling conditions and flow requirements without restricting the inner flow passage, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliable flow control and drilling practice flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by allowing the valve to assume different positions and opening degrees based on real-time flow conditions. The controller adjusts valve parameters (position, opening degree) to optimize flow control while maintaining adaptability to various drilling operations, eliminating the need to maintain specific flow rates and pressures.
2Reliability
If drop ball-operated systems are used, then fluid flow control is achieved, but operating costs increase due to mechanical restrictions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical drop ball system with an electronically controlled valve mechanism. The electronic controller receives signals from sensors and actuates the valve through electromagnetic or hydraulic means, eliminating the need for complex mechanical drop ball assemblies and reducing operating costs associated with mechanical restrictions and maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that automatically detect flow conditions and trigger appropriate valve responses without manual intervention. The self-regulating mechanism reduces operating costs by eliminating the need for continuous monitoring and adjustment, while maintaining reliable flow control.
3Reliability
If drop ball-operated systems are used, then fluid flow control is achieved, but specific flow rates and pressures must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs sensors to continuously monitor flow rates and pressures, providing feedback to the controller. The controller then adjusts the valve position and opening degree in real-time to maintain optimal flow conditions, eliminating the need for manual flow rate and pressure management while ensuring reliable flow control.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism dynamically adjusts its opening degree and position based on real-time flow conditions, allowing the system to adapt to varying flow rates and pressures without requiring manual intervention. This dynamic control simplifies operation while maintaining reliable flow control.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus is disclosed for remotely and selectively controlling fluid flow through tubular string disposed within a wellbore and further control fluid flow between the tubular string inner flow passage and the annular flow passage. The present invention further discloses a method of selectively and remotely receiving and interpreting a form of command or information at a desired apparatus within the wellbore caused by the operator on earth surface.