Tool Position Detection Using Magnet and Magnetometer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wellhead systems face challenges in accurately tracking tool position during fracturing operations, leading to premature closure of valves and potential wireline severance, which increases operational costs and risks undesirable events like tool falling back into the well.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a frac stack with a flow control device and a lubricator featuring a tool trap and position detection system, which includes sensors and actuators to ensure controlled movement and accurate detection of tool position, preventing premature valve closure and wireline severance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical encoders and sensors are used to track tool position, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and operational cost increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the detection function from complex external sensors and encoders, instead using a simple magnet attached to the tool combined with a magnetometer in the lubricator. This removes the need for complex optical encoding systems while maintaining position detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnet as an intermediary carrier that transfers position information from the tool to the magnetometer. This simple magnetic field mediator replaces complex direct sensing mechanisms, achieving position tracking with minimal hardware
2Measurement precision
If sensors are used to scan for objects along the tool string, then tool position detection is improved, but operational cost increases substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The tool carries its own magnetic signature (via the attached magnet) that passively provides position information. The system uses this self-carried signal rather than requiring active sensing resources, reducing operational energy consumption and costs
3Productivity
If valve closure is performed without accurate tool position detection, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to wireline severance risk
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of tool position using the magnet-magnetometer mechanism before initiating valve closure. This advance position verification ensures the tool is clear of the closure zone, preventing wireline severance while maintaining operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetometer continuously monitors the magnetic field signature to provide real-time feedback on tool position. This feedback mechanism allows operators to make informed decisions about valve timing, ensuring reliability without sacrificing productivity
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
The system ensures safe and controlled deployment and retrieval of tools by accurately detecting tool position, preventing wireline severance and enhancing operational safety and efficiency by increasing situational awareness for operators.
Implementation Method 1
The tool position detection system includes a magnetometer which generates a magnetic field and detects changes in the magnetic field caused by the magnet
Data Source
AI summary
A technique facilitates use of tools downhole during well operations. According to an embodiment, the technique employs a frac stack which may be coupled to a wellhead. The frac stack may include a flow control device which opens and closes a bore extending through the wellhead. A lubricator may be coupled to the frac stack. The lubricator includes a tool trap which opens and closes to facilitate controlled movement of a tool along the bore. A tool position detection system is used to detect a position of the tool in the tool trap to ensure, for example, removal of the tool from the frac stack before closure of the flow control device.