Selective Magnetic Positioning Tool for Downhole Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole tools in hydrocarbon wells face challenges in precise interaction and control due to accidental actuation of multiple tools with similar mechanisms, leading to unintended movement and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic positioning tool system utilizing a plurality of permanent magnets that can transition between configurations to selectively interact with downhole components, allowing for precise actuation and minimization of accidental interactions with other tools by controlling the magnetic field strength inside and outside the housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a magnetic positioning tool uses a strong magnetic field to actuate downhole tools, then the actuation force is sufficient to move components, but the magnetic field may accidentally interact with other similar tools causing unintended actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a concentrated magnetic field at specific locations rather than a uniform field. The positioning tool uses localized magnetic sources that generate strong fields only at intended actuation points, allowing sufficient force for moving components while minimizing accidental interactions with other tools through spatially selective field distribution
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic field distribution patterns as an intermediary mechanism between the positioning tool and downhole tools. By controlling the spatial distribution and intensity of magnetic fields, the system acts as a mediator that enables selective actuation - the magnetic field pattern serves as the intermediary that distinguishes between tools requiring actuation and those that should remain unaffected
2Strength
If the magnetic field is concentrated inside the housing for protection, then the tool structure is protected, but the magnetic interaction with external components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by placing magnetic sources within the housing structure while extending magnetic field influence outward. The housing contains and protects the magnetic sources (nested inner layer), while the magnetic field penetrates through the housing walls to interact with external components, achieving both structural protection and functional effectiveness
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 downhole tools, reducing accidental interactions and improving operational efficiency by using a magnetic field to selectively engage and disengage with specific tools, thereby enhancing the management of wellbore operations.
Implementation Method 1
The plurality of permanent magnets is configured to provide a stronger magnetic field strength outside the housing than inside the housing in the first position, and the plurality of permanent magnets is configured to provide a stronger magnetic field strength inside the housing than outside the housing in the second position
Data Source
AI summary
An actuation device comprises a housing, and a plurality of permanent magnets disposed about the housing. The plurality of permanent magnets is configured to selectively transition between a first position and a second position. The plurality of permanent magnets is configured to provide a stronger magnetic field strength outside the housing than inside the housing in the first position, and wherein the plurality of permanent magnets is configured to provide a stronger magnetic field strength inside the housing than outside the housing in the second.