Telemetry Module Push-Only Gate Valve Abrasion Mitigation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current mud pulse telemetry systems face challenges with abrasion and erosion in moving parts, leading to reduced fatigue life and reliability, especially with the need for higher data rates and longer operational times in deeper and more complex wells.
Innovation Solution
The use of a telemetry module with opposing push solenoids that move a gate between open and closed positions without direct coupling to the gate, mitigating stress and abrasion by eliminating the T-slot joint, thus reducing wear and erosion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional T-slot joint coupling is used between gate and valve stem, then the valve assembly can be manufactured with standard components, but abrasion and erosion occur between moving parts reducing tool life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the T-slot joint coupling from the valve assembly design. By eliminating this coupling mechanism, the gate is no longer connected to the valve stem through a T-slot joint, thereby eliminating the source of abrasion and erosion between these components. The gate now moves independently within the valve body, controlled by solenoid actuators that push the gate open or closed without mechanical coupling that would cause wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces solenoid actuators as intermediary devices to control gate movement. Instead of direct mechanical coupling between the valve stem and gate through a T-slot joint, the solenoids act as intermediaries that convert electrical signals into mechanical motion, pushing the gate to open or close positions without creating sliding friction or wear between the gate and valve stem.
2Productivity
If higher data rates are required for deeper wells, then more information can be transmitted, but the operational duration of telemetry tools must be extended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the principle of using simpler, more durable components that can withstand longer operational periods. By eliminating the complex T-slot joint coupling and its associated wear mechanisms, the valve assembly becomes a more robust component capable of sustaining higher data transmission rates over extended periods. The simplified design with solenoid-controlled gate movement reduces maintenance needs and extends the operational lifespan of the telemetry tool in deep well applications.
3Reliability
If opposing solenoids are used to move the gate, then the T-slot joint is eliminated reducing abrasion, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of the valve stem and gate into a more integrated assembly. The opposing solenoids are positioned on opposite sides of the valve body, with one solenoid pushing the gate open and the other pushing it closed. This merging of actuation functions into a compact opposing configuration reduces the need for separate coupling mechanisms like the T-slot joint, thereby reducing complexity while improving durability.
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 design extends the operational life of downhole tools by minimizing material removal due to abrasion and erosion, allowing for reliable and efficient data transmission over longer periods at higher data rates.
Implementation Method 1
a first solenoid assembly arranged on a first side of the valve assembly and including a first valve train engageable with the gate and a first push solenoid operatively coupled to the first valve train to move the gate in a first direction, and a second solenoid assembly arranged on a second side of the valve assembly and including a second valve train engageable with the gate and a second push solenoid operatively coupled to the second valve train to move the gate in a second direction opposite the first direction
Data Source
AI summary
An telemetry module includes a valve assembly having a gate defining gate valve flow ports and a valve seat defining valve seat flow ports. A first solenoid assembly is arranged on a first side of the valve assembly and includes a first valve train engageable with the gate and a first push solenoid operatively coupled to the first valve train to move the gate in a first direction. A second solenoid assembly is arranged on a second side of the valve assembly and includes a second valve train engageable with the gate and a second push solenoid operatively coupled to the second valve train to move the gate in a second direction opposite the first direction. Moving the gate in the first direction with the first solenoid increases flow through the gate and alternately moving the gate in the second direction with the second solenoid decreases flow through the gate.