Vibration Inducing Feature for Downhole Tool Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current remote actuation systems in the resource recovery industry lack efficient methods to initiate tool actuation in downhole operations, particularly in generating sufficient turbulence and vibration for reliable signal detection and tool activation.
Innovation Solution
A tubular system with a vibration inducing feature having a second inner diameter different from the first, featuring beveled end surfaces and multiple overbores, which increases turbulence and vibration within the flowbore, allowing a sensing system to detect vibrations and send command signals for tool actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a vibration inducing feature with varying inner diameter is introduced into the tubular, then turbulence and vibration amplitude are significantly increased, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tubular structure incorporates localized vibration inducing features (such as constrictions, expansions, or irregularities) at specific positions along its length, rather than making the entire tubular complex. These local variations in inner diameter create the necessary turbulence and vibration in the fluid flow while the rest of the tubular maintains a simple, uniform structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention deliberately introduces mechanical vibration into the system by designing the vibration inducing feature to create turbulent flow and oscillating motion in the fluid. This mechanical vibration serves as the carrier for the remote actuation signal, allowing the sensing system to detect and respond to specific vibration patterns that indicate desired tool actuation.
2Measurement precision
If the vibration inducing feature creates high turbulence, then vibration amplitude increases for better detection, but energy loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vibration inducing feature is designed to create turbulence and vibration of sufficient magnitude to exceed the detection threshold of the sensing system, rather than aiming for minimal adequate vibration. This ensures reliable detection even in challenging downhole conditions, while the turbulence is localized rather than affecting the entire fluid column.
Solution Approach 2:
The vibration inducing feature is positioned upstream of the sensing system, allowing the turbulence and vibration to be generated in advance before the fluid reaches the detection point. This preliminary action ensures that the vibration signal is fully developed and at maximum amplitude when it reaches the sensor, optimizing detection precision.
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 significantly increases flow turbulence, doubling or more the vibration amplitude, enabling reliable detection and actuation of tools, enhancing the reliability and effectiveness of downhole operations without moving parts, thus improving the system's longevity and performance.
Implementation Method 1
The vibration inducing feature is configured to increase turbulence within the flowbore
Implementation Method 2
a sensor arranged to detect vibration within flow passing the vibration inducing feature
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a tubular having an interior surface, a longitudinal axis, a flowbore, and a main portion having a first inner diameter. A vibration inducing feature is disposed along the interior surface of the tubular and is immovable with respect to the tubular, and has a second inner diameter within the tubular that is different than the first inner diameter. The feature has a beveled first end surface and a beveled second end surface, the beveled first and second end surfaces longitudinally displaced from each other. The feature is configured to increase turbulence within the flowbore and configured to dissuade a capture of objects passing therethrough. A sensing system includes a sensor arranged to detect vibration within flow passing the vibration inducing feature, and is configured to output a command signal in response to sensed data reaching a threshold value or indicative of a predetermined pattern.