Multi-cycle Single Line Switch for Wellbore Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing control systems for multiple pressure-controlled devices in wellbore production systems require a large number of hydraulic control lines, leading to increased costs, complexity, and potential leak paths, especially in deepwater wells, where reducing the number of control lines can minimize these issues.
Innovation Solution
A control system utilizing a J-slot lug mechanism that allows each pressure-controlled device to be actuated by hydraulic pressure variations in common inflow and outflow lines, with selective pressurization of a cycling line to move piston members between operational and non-operational positions, thereby reducing the number of control lines needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate control line is used for each pressure-controlled device, then each device can be independently controlled, but the number of control lines increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single control line by using a multi-position valve that can selectively connect the control line to different pressure-controlled devices. This allows one control line to serve multiple devices sequentially, reducing the total number of control lines while maintaining independent control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control line is designed to perform multiple functions by being selectively connected to different devices through the multi-position valve. A single control line can actuate multiple different pressure-controlled devices at different times, making it a universal control medium that replaces what would traditionally require multiple dedicated lines.
2Ease of operation
If multiple control lines are used, then each device can be controlled independently, but the cost of running control lines into the wellbore increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the function of multiple control lines into a single control line by using a multi-position valve mechanism that sequentially connects the control line to different pressure-controlled devices. This reduces the quantity of control line material required while preserving independent control of each device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more control lines are installed, then more devices can be controlled, but the number of potential leak paths increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces the number of control lines by combining their functions through a multi-position valve, thereby reducing the number of potential leak paths. The single control line serves multiple devices sequentially, minimizing the physical infrastructure and associated leak risks while maintaining the ability to control multiple devices.
4Device complexity
If a single control line is shared among multiple devices, then the number of control lines is reduced, but selective actuation of individual devices is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a multi-position valve as an intermediary mechanism between the single control line and multiple pressure-controlled devices. This valve selectively connects the control line to different devices based on activation signals, enabling precise control of individual devices while using a shared control line infrastructure.
5Ease of manufacture
If dedicated control lines are used for each device, then pressure testing is simplified, but the time and cost for installing and testing multiple lines increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single control line, which reduces the overall installation time and the cumulative pressure testing required. While the valve mechanism adds some complexity, the reduction in the number of lines from multiple dedicated lines to a single shared line significantly decreases installation and testing time.
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 solution enables efficient operational control of multiple pressure-controlled devices using a reduced number of control lines, reducing costs, simplifying the system, and minimizing potential leak paths, resulting in a more reliable and cost-effective wellbore control system.
Implementation Method 1
selective pressurization of a cycling line to move piston members between operational and non-operational positions
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
Systems and methods for selectively operating multiple hydraulic pressure controlled devices (PCDs) within a borehole using a common inflow and outflow line and a common cycling line. A control system is used wherein each of the PCDs is operationally associated with a separate sleeve controller. The sleeve controller for each PCD controls whether the individual PCD can be actuated by hydraulic pressure variations in the common inflow and outflow lines.