Remotely Actuated Valve for Wellbore Fluid Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for controlling fluid flow in wellbores, such as those using drop balls or bypass tools, face limitations in flexibility and efficiency, as they often restrict flow rates and pressures, making it difficult to change fluid flow profiles without disrupting drilling operations and increasing operating costs.
Innovation Solution
A remotely controllable fluid flow apparatus with a rotatable valve element that can be actuated by changes in environmental conditions, such as pressure, using sensors and energy transformation mechanisms to enable selective fluid flow states without restricting other operations, allowing for desired flow patterns like no flow, through flow, diverted flow, or full flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If drop ball or bypass tools are used to control fluid flow, then fluid flow can be controlled, but flow rates and pressures are restricted and operating costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical flow control methods (drop balls, bypass tools) with an electromagnetic actuation system. The electromagnetic actuator uses electrical signals to control the valve element, eliminating the need for mechanical intervention and reducing operational constraints on flow rates and pressures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic adjustment of valve position through electromagnetic actuation, allowing continuous modulation of fluid flow parameters. This replaces discrete mechanical positioning with continuous electrical control, optimizing flow rates and pressures without energy loss.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional flow control apparatus are used, then fluid flow can be controlled, but flexibility and efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic valve element that can be positioned at multiple angles through electromagnetic actuation. This allows real-time adjustment of flow profiles to match changing drilling conditions, significantly improving adaptability and drilling efficiency compared to static traditional devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic actuated valve can perform multiple flow control functions (blocking, diverting, regulating) through a single device, eliminating the need for multiple specialized tools and improving overall drilling operation efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If flow control apparatus mode is changed, then fluid flow pattern can be optimized, but drilling parameters may be inadvertently changed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates sensors that monitor drilling parameters and provide feedback to the control system. This ensures that when the valve position is adjusted to optimize flow patterns, any potential changes to drilling parameters are detected and compensated for, maintaining operational reliability.
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 flexible and efficient control of fluid flow in wellbores, reducing operating costs and risks associated with fluid losses, while allowing for optimized drilling parameters without inadvertently changing the flow control apparatus's mode, thus improving drilling efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor and energy source are provided. The sensor is capable of detecting changes in environmental conditions to trigger actuation of the moveable element.
Implementation Method 2
an actuator capable of changing the position of the rotatable element to cause the valve into a desired state, comprising a means for transforming a suitably available energy source into a mechanical movement
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3D
AI summary
A method and apparatus is disclosed for remotely and selectively controlling fluid flow through tubular string disposed within a wellbore and further control fluid flow between the tubular string inner flow passage and the annular flow passage. The present invention further discloses a method of selectively and remotely receiving and interpreting a form of command or information at a desired apparatus within the wellbore caused by the operator on earth surface.