Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
SIGNAL-RESPONSIVE FRAC BALL AND HYDRAULIC FRACTURING SYSTEM
FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure to bodies, deployable by flowing fluids, for
landing on
corresponding seats within a wellbore, for interfering with fluid
communication within the
wellbore.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Plugs, frac balls, and other deployable bodies, are used for
effecting zonal isolation
within a wellbore to enable multi-stage fraccing. Such bodies are intended to
provide sufficient
zonal isolation to enable manipulation of wellbore components, such as
sleeves, through
pressurization within a selected zone.
SUMMARY
[0003] In one aspect, there is provided a fluid communication-interference
body for
interfering with fluid communication through an opening within a wellbore,
comprising: a sensor
configured for sensing an actuating signal; a trigger configured for
establishing a fluid passage
extending though the body in response to the sensing of a signal by the
sensor.
[0004] In another aspect, there is provided a fluid communication-
interference body for
interfering with fluid communication through an opening within a wellbore,
comprising: a
sensor; a sealing interface; and an actuator; wherein the actuator is
responsive to sensing of the
actuating signal by the sensor, for changing a condition of the sealing
interface such that the
sealing interface becomes disposed in a defeatable condition, such that, in
response to receiving
communication of a pressurized fluid, the sealing interface is defeated and
establishment of a
fluid passage extending through the body is effected.
[0005] In yet another aspect, there is provided a process for implementing
a wellbore
operation within a wellbore disposed within a subterranean formation,
comprising: conducting
fluid through an opening within the wellbore; seating the fluid communication-
interference body
as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 against a seat disposed within the
wellbore such that the
closing of the opening is effected; and after the seating of the fluid
communication-interference
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body against the seat has been effected, transmitting an actuating signal
downhole such that the
actuating signal is sensed by the sensor of the fluid communication-
interference body, such that
the fluid passage is established and is disposed in fluid communication with
the opening.
100061 In yet still another aspect, there is provided a process for
implementing a wellbore
operation within a wellbore disposed within a subterranean formation,
comprising: conducting
fluid through an opening within the wellbore; seating the fluid communication-
interference body
as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 10 against a seat disposed within the
wellbore such that the
closing of the opening is effected; and after the seating of the fluid
communication-interference
body against the seat has been effected, transmitting an actuating signal
downhole such that the
actuating signal is sensed by the sensor of the fluid communication-
interference body, such that
the sealing interface becomes disposed in a defeatable condition; and while
the sealing interface
is disposed in the defeatable condition, supplying pressurized fluid to the
wellbore such that the
sealing interface receives the pressurized fluid with effect that the sealing
interface becomes
defeated and such that the fluid passage is established and is disposed in
fluid communication
with the opening.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
10007] The preferred embodiments will now be described with the following
accompanying
drawings, in which:
[0008] Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of a sectional view of an
embodiment of a fluid
communication-interference body of the present disclosure, with the passageway
being sealed;
100091 Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of a sectional view of the
fluid communication-
interference body of Figure 1, with the sealing interface having been defeated
and the
passageway having become unsealed;
[0010] Figure 3 is identical to Figure 2, and further illustrating the flow
path for fluid
through the fluid passage having become established in the fluid communication-
interference
body;
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[0011] Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of a sectional view of another
embodiment of a
fluid communication-interference body of the present disclosure, with the
passageway being
sealed;
[0012] Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of a sectional view of the
fluid communication-
interference body of Figure 4, with the sealing interface having been defeated
and the
passageway having become unsealed;
[0013] Figure 6 is identical to Figure 5, and further illustrating the flow
path for fluid
through the fluid passage having become established in the fluid communication-
interference
body;
100141 Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of a system for effecting fluid
communication
between the surface and a subterranean formation via a wellbore having a seat
for receiving the
the fluid communication-interference body of the present disclosure;
[0015] Figure 8 is a schematic illustration of a system for effecting fluid
communication
between the surface and a subterranean formation via a wellbore having a seat
for receiving the
the fluid communication-interference body of the present disclosure, with a
seismic source
disposed at the surface;
[0016] Figure 9 is a sectional view of an embodiment of a flow control
apparatus, showing
the port disposed in the closed condition, and with both of the flow control
valve member and the
pressure control valve member disposed in the closed positions;
[0017] Figure 10 is a detailed view of Detail "A" in Figure 9;
[0018] Figure 11 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the flow control
apparatus
illustrated in Figure 9, showing the port disposed in the closed condition,
and with the pressure
control valve member disposed in the open position, and with the flow control
valve member
disposed in the closed position;
[0019] Figure 12 is a detailed view of Detail "B" in Figure 11;
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[0020] Figure 13 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the flow control
apparatus
illustrated in Figure 9, showing the port disposed in the open condition, and
with both of the flow
control valve member and the pressure control valve member disposed in the
open positions;
100211 Figure 14 is a detailed view of Detail "C" in Figure 13;
[0022] Figure 15 is a detailed view of Detail "D" in Figure 13;
[0023] Figure 16 is sectional view of a fragment of another embodiment of
the flow control
apparatus having an exploding bolt, illustrated prior to fracturing of the
bolt;
[0024] Figure 17 is sectional view of a fragment of the embodiment of the
flow control
apparatus shown in Figure 16, illustrated after fracturing of the bolt;
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] Referring to Figures 1 to 8, there is provided a fluid communication-
interference
body 10 for interfering with fluid communication through an opening 102 within
a wellbore 100
(see Figures 7 and 8).
[00261 Figures 1 to 3 and 4 to 6 are sectional views of embodiments of the
fluid
communication-interference body 10. The fluid communication-interference body
10 can be of
any suitable form, including a plug, a ball, or a dart, so long as the form is
conducive for
effecting interference with fluid communication through an opening within the
wellbore. In
some embodiments, for example, the fluid communication-interference body 10 is
a frac plug.
[0027] The fluid communication-interference body 10 includes a sensor 12.
The sensor 12
is configured for sensing an actuating signal. In some embodiments, for
example, the actuating
signal is transmitted through the wellbore 100. In some of these embodiments,
for example, the
actuating signal is transmitted via fluid disposed within the wellbore 100.
[00281 In some embodiments, for example, the sensor 12 is a pressure
sensor, and the
actuating signal is one or more pressure pulses. An exemplary pressure sensor
is a Kellar
Pressure Transducer Model 6LHP/81188TM.
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[0029] Other suitable sensors may be employed, depending on the nature of
the signal being
used for the actuating signal. Other suitable sensors include a Hall effect
sensor, a radio
frequency identification ("RFID") sensor, or a sensor that can detect a change
in chemistry (such
as, for example, pH), or radiation levels, or ultrasonic waves.
[0030] In some embodiments, for example, the actuating signal is defined by
a pressure pulse
characterized by at least a magnitude. In some embodiments, for example, the
pressure pulse is
further characterized by at least a duration. In some embodiments, for
example, the actuating
signal is defined by a pressure pulse characterized by at least a duration.
[0031] In some embodiments, for example, the actuating signal is defined by
a plurality of
pressure pulses. In some embodiments, for example, the actuating signal is
defined by a plurality
of pressure pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least
a magnitude. In
some embodiments, for example, the actuating signal is defined by a plurality
of pressure pulses,
each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a magnitude and a
duration. In some
embodiments, for example, the actuating signal is defined by a plurality of
pressure pulses, each
one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a duration. In some
embodiments, for
example, each one of pressure pulses is characterized by time intervals
between the pulses.
[0032] A fluid passage 16, extending through the fluid communication-
interference body 10,
is established, or is establishable, in response to the sensing of the
actuating signal by the sensor
12.
[0033] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, in one aspect, the body 10 includes a
trigger 14
configured for establishing the fluid passage 16 (see Figures 2 and 3)
extending though the body
,in response to the sensing of a signal by the sensor 12. In some embodiments,
for example,
the established fluid passage 16 extends between a first port 18, defined at a
first surface portion
23 of the body 10, and a second port 22, defined at a second surface portion
22 of the body 10.
In some embodiments, for example, relative to the first port 18, the second
port 22 is disposed on
an opposite side of the body 10.
[0034] In some embodiments, for example, the body 10 further includes a
sealing interface
15, and the trigger 14 includes an actuator 20 for defeating the sealing
interface 15. The actuator
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20 is responsive to sensing of the signal by the sensor 12 for defeating the
sealing interface 15
such that the establishment of the fluid passage 16 is effected.
[0035] In some embodiments, for example, the body further includes a
housing 11 and a
valve 24, and the sealing interface 15 is defined by sealing, or substantially
sealing, engagement
between the valve 24 and the housing 11. In some embodiments, for example, the
valve 24
carries sealing members 15A (e.g. o-rings) for effecting the sealing, or
substantially sealing,
engagement. In this respect, the change in condition of the sealing interface
15 is effected by a
change in condition of the valve 24. Also in this respect, the actuator 20 is
configured to effect a
change in condition of the valve 24 (in response to the sensing of the signal
by the sensor 12)
such that there is a loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement
between the valve 24
and the housing 11. As a result, there is a loss of sealing, or substantially
sealing, engagement
between the valve 24 and the housing 11, such that establishment of the fluid
passage 16 is
effected, and, in this respect, such that the sealing interface 15 is
defeated.
[0036] In some embodiments, for example, the valve 24 is displaceable, and
the change in
condition of the valve 24, which the actuator 20 is configured to effect in
response to the sensing
of an actuating signal by the sensor 12, includes displacement of the valve
24. In this respect,
the actuator 20 is configured to effect displacement of the valve 24 such that
the establishment of
the fluid passage 16 is effected, and, in this respect, such that the sealing
interface 15 is defeated.
[0037] In some embodiments, for example, the body 10 further includes a
passageway 26.
The valve 24 and the passageway 26 are co-operatively disposed such that the
fluid passage 16 is
established in response to the displacement of the valve 24, effected in
response to the sensing of
the actuating signal by the sensor 12. In this respect, the establishing of
the fluid passage 16 is
controlled by the positioning of the valve 24 within the passageway 26. The
valve 24 is
configured for displacement relative to the passageway 26. In some
embodiments, for example,
the valve 24 includes a piston. The displacement of the valve 24 is from a
closed position (see
Figures 1) to an open position (Figures 2 and 3). In some embodiments, for
example, when
disposed in the closed position, the valve 24 is occluding the passageway 26.
In some
embodiments, for example, when the valve 24 is disposed in the closed
position, sealing, or
substantial sealing, of fluid communication, between the first port 18 and the
second port 22.
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When the valve 24 is disposed in the open position, fluid communication is
effected between the
first port 18 and the second port 22 via the established fluid passage 16.
[0038] In some embodiments, for example, the actuator 20 includes an
electro-mechanical
trigger, such as a squib. The squib is configured to, in response to the
signal received by the
sensor 12, effect generation of an explosion. In some embodiments, for
example, the squib is
mounted within the body such that the generated explosion effects the
displacement of the valve
24.
[0039] Referring to Figures 4 to 6, in another aspect, the body 10 includes
a sealing interface
115 and an actuator 120. The actuator is responsive to sensing of the
actuating signal by the
sensor 12, for changing a condition of the sealing interface 115 such that the
sealing interface
115 becomes disposed in a defeatable condition such that, in response to
receiving
communication of a pressurized fluid, the sealing interface 115 is defeated
such that the
establishment of the fluid passage 16 (see Figures 5 and 6), extending through
the body 10, is
effected. In this respect, while the sealing interface 115 is disposed in the
defeatable condition,
in response to receiving communication of a pressurized fluid, the sealing
interface 115 becomes
defeated such that the establishment of the fluid passage 16, extending though
the body 10, is
effected.
[0040] In some embodiments, for example, the established fluid passage 16
extends between
a first port 118, defined at a first surface portion 120 of the body 10, and a
second port 122,
defined at a second surface portion 123 of the body 10. In some embodiments,
for example,
relative to the first port 118, the second port 122 is disposed on an opposite
side of the body 10.
[0041] In some embodiments, for example, the body 10 further includes a
housing 111 and a
valve 124, and the valve 124 is disposed within the housing 111. The sealing
interface 115 is
defined by sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 124
and the housing
111. In this respect, the change in condition of the sealing interface 115 is
effected by a change
in condition of the valve 124. Also in this respect, the actuator 120 is
configured to effect the
change in condition of the valve 124 (in response to the sensing of the signal
by the sensor 12)
such that the sealing interface 115 becomes disposed in the defeatable
condition. In this respect,
while the sealing interface 115 (defined by the sealing, or substantially
sealing, engagement
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between the valve 124 and the housing 111) is disposed in the defeatable
condition (the
defeatible condition having been effected in response to the change in
condition of the valve
124), in response to receiving communication of a pressurized fluid, there is
a loss of the sealing,
or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 124 and the housing
111. As a result,
there is a loss of sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the
valve 124 and the
housing 111, such that the establishment of the fluid passage 16, extending
through the body 10,
is effected, and such that fluid communication between the ports 118, 122
becomes established,
and, in this respect, such that the sealing interface 115 is defeated.
[0042] In some embodiments, for example, the valve 124 includes a sealing
surface 124A
configured for effecting the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement
between the valve 124
and the housing 111. In this respect, the sealing, or substantially sealing,
engagement between
the valve 124 and the housing 111 is effected by the sealing, or substantially
sealing, engagement
between the valve sealing surface 124A and a housing sealing surface 111A.
Also in this
respect, the change in condition of the valve 124 is such that the valve
sealing surface 124A
becomes displaceable relative to the housing sealing surface 111A for
effecting a loss of the
sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve sealing
surface 124A and the
housing sealing surface 111A, resulting in the establishment of the fluid
passage 16, extending
through the body 10, and also with effect that fluid communication between the
ports 118, 122
becomes established, and, in this respect, such that the sealing interface 115
is defeated. Also in
this respect, the loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement
between the valve 124
and the housing 111, that is effected in response to receiving communication
of a pressurized
fluid while the valve 124 is disposed in a fractured condition, includes the
loss of the sealing, or
substantially sealing, engagement between the valve sealing surface 124A and
the housing
sealing surface 111A.
[0043] In some embodiments, for example, the body 10 further includes a
passageway 126,
and the passageway extends between the first and second ports 118, 122. The
valve 124 and the
passageway 126 are co-operatively disposed such that the fluid passage 16 is
established in
response to the displacement of the valve 124, effected in response to the
sensing of the actuating
signal by the sensor 112. Sealing, or substantial sealing, of the passageway
126 is effected by
the sealing or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 124 and the
housing 111 (and,
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in some embodiments, for example, the valve sealing surface 124A and the
housing sealing
surface 111A). Also in this respect, sealing, or substantially sealing, of
fluid communication
between the first and second ports 118, 122 is effected by the sealing or
substantially sealing,
engagement between the valve 124 and the housing 111 (and, in some
embodiments, for
example, the valve sealing surface 124A and the housing sealing surface 111A).
[0044] In some embodiments, for example, the actuator 120 includes a squib,
and the change
in condition of the sealing interface 115 (and also, in some embodiments, for
example, the valve
124) is effected by an explosion generated by the squib in response to sensing
of the signal by
the sensor 126. In some embodiments, for example, the squib is suitably
mounted within the
housing 112 to apply the necessary force to the valve 124. Another suitable
valve actuator 120 is
a fuse-able link or a piston pusher.
[0045] In some embodiments, for example, the change in condition of the
valve 124 includes
a fracturing of the valve 124. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 5 and
6, the fracture is
identified by reference numeral 252. In some embodiments, for example, while
the valve 124 is
disposed in a fractured condition, in response to receiving communication of a
pressurized fluid,
a loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve
124 and the housing
111 is effected, such that there is an absence of sealing, or substantially
substantially sealing,
engagement between the valve 124 and the housing 111, and such that the fluid
passage 16,
extending through the body 10, is established, and such that fluid
communication between the
ports 118, 122 becomes established, and, in this respect, such that the
sealing interface 115 is
defeated.
[0046] In those embodiments where the change in condition of the valve 124
includes a
fracturing of the valve 124, in some of these embodiments, for example, the
valve 124 includes a
coupler 124B that effects coupling of the valve 124 to the housing 111 while
the change in
condition is effected. In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 124B is
threaded to the
housing 12. In those embodiments where the valve 124 includes a coupler 124B,
in some of
these embodiments, for example, the valve 124 and the actuator 120 are defined
by an exploding
bolt 150, such that the exploding bolt 150 is threaded to the housing 111. In
some embodiments,
for example, the squib is integrated into the bolt 150.
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[0047] In some embodiments, for example, the body 10 further includes a
controller. The
controller is configured to receive a sensor-transmitted signal from the
sensor 12 upon the
sensing of the actuating signal and, in response to the received sensor-
transmitted signal, supply
a transmitted signal to the trigger 14, or the actuator 120. In some
embodiments, for example,
the controller and the sensor 12 are powered by a battery that is disposed on-
board within the
body 10. Passages for wiring for electrically interconnecting the battery, the
sensor 12, the
controller and the trigger 14, or the actuator 120, as the case may be, are
also provided within the
body 10.
[0048] As above-mentioned, in some embodiments, for example, the fluid
communication-
interference body 10 is configured for interfering with fluid communication
through an opening
102 within a wellbore 100.
[0049] In some embodiments, for example, the seat 104 is provided for
receiving seating of
the fluid communication-interference body 10 such that closing of the opening
102 is effected.
In some embodiments, for example, the seat 104 surrounds the opening 102. In
some
embodiments, for example, the seat 104 is positioned within a wellbore string
200 that is
disposed within a wellbore 100 formed within a subterranean formation 110. In
some
embodiments, for example, it may be desirable to effect zonal isolation by
closing, or sealing (or
substantially sealing), the opening 102, and then later re-opening the opening
102. In this
respect, the seat 104 is configured to receive the fluid communication-
interference body 10 for
effecting zonal isolation, between zones that are communicating via the
opening 102, with the
opportunity of re-opening the opening 102 by effecting the establishment of
the fluid passage 16
through the fluid communication-interference body 10.
[0050] In this respect, there is provided a process including: after the
conducting of fluid
through the opening 102, seating of the fluid communication-interference body
10 against the
seat 104 such that the closing of the opening 102 is effected, and, after the
seating of the fluid
communication-interference body 10 against the seat 104 has been effected,
transmitting an
actuating signal downhole such that the actuating signal is sensed by the
sensor 12. In some
embodiments, for example, the seating of the fluid communication-interference
body 10 on the
seat 104 is effected by landing of the fluid communication-interference body
10 on the seat 104
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by conducting the fluid communication-interference body 10 downhole with fluid
that is
supplied to and is flowing within the wellbore 200.
[0051] In those embodiments where the fluid communication-interference body
10 includes a
trigger 14 configured for establishing a fluid passage 16 extending through
the body 10, in
response to the sensing of an actuating signal by the sensor 12, upon the
sensing of the actuating
signal by the sensor 12, the fluid passage 16 is established such that fluid
communication is
effected through the opening 102.
[0052] In those embodiments where, in response to the sensing of the
actuating signal by the
sensor 112, the sealing interface 115 of the fluid communication-interference
body 10 becomes
defeatable (such that, in response to receiving communication of a pressurized
fluid, the sealing
interface 115 is defeated such that the establishment of a fluid passage 16
extending through the
body 10 is effected), upon the sensing of the actuating signal by the sensor
12, a change in
condition of the sealing interface 115 of the fluid communication-interference
body 10 is
effected such that the sealing interface 115 becomes defeatable. After the
change in condition of
the sealing interface 115, a pressurized fluid is communicated such that the
communicated
pressurized fluid is received by the sealing interface 115, and in response to
the receiving of the
communicated pressurized fluid, the sealing interface 115 is defeated such
that the fluid passage
16 is established such that fluid communication is effected between the fluid
passage and the
opening 102.
[0053] In some embodiments, for example, the opening 102 is disposed uphole
relative to a
port 218 defined within the wellbore string 200 for effecting fluid
communication between the
surface and the port 218 via the wellbore 100. The seat 104 is defined within
the wellbore string
and is configured for seating the fluid communication-interference body 10
such that the fluid
communication-interference body closes the opening 102 such that a sealing
interface is defined
such that fluid communication between the surface and the port 218, and,
therefore. the
subterranean formation 110, via the opening 104, is sealed or substantially
sealed. In some
embodiments, for example, the seating of the fluid communication-interference
body 10 on the
seat 104 is effected by landing of the fluid communication-interference body
10 on the seat 104
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by conducting the fluid communication-interference body 10 downhole with fluid
that is
supplied to and is flowing downhole within the wellbore 200.
[0054] In some embodiments, for example, the wellbore string 200 further
includes a flow
control member 214 for controlling fluid communication, via the port 218,
between the wellbore
100 and the subterranean formation 110. In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control
member 214 is in the form of a sleeve. In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control
member 214 is displaceable between a closed position and an open position.
While the flow
control member 214 is disposed in the closed position, the port 218 is
disposed in a closed
condition. In some embodiments, for example, while the flow control member 214
is disposed in
the closed position, sealing, or substantial sealing, of fluid communication,
via the port 218, is
effected between the wellbore 100 and the subterranean formation 110. While
the flow control
member 214 is disposed in the open position, the port 218 is disposed in an
open condition, and
fluid communication, via the port 218, is effected between the wellbore 100
and the subterranean
formation 110.
[0055] In some embodiments, for example, the flow control member 214 is
displaceable
from a closed position to an open position for effecting opening of the port
218, but is not
designed to return to the closed position. An example where the flow control
member 214 is not
designed to return to the closed position is a "toe valve" or "toe sleeve". In
other embodiments,
upon the flow control member 14 becoming disposed in the open position,
attempts to close the
flow control member 14 are unsuccessful.
[0056] After a treatment operation, involving the conducting of fluid via
the port 218 (such
as, for example, the supplying of treatment fluid into the subterranean
formation 110, such as, for
example, during a hydraulic fracturing operation) has been effected, it may be
desirable to close
the port 218, at least temporarily, with the intention of later re-opening the
port 218 (such as, for
example, in order to receive production of reservoir fluids, from the
subterranean formation 110,
within the wellbore 100).
[0057] In this respect, a process is provided and includes displacing a
flow control member
214 for effecting opening of a port 218 within a wellbore 100, conducting
fluid via the opened
port 218, and, after the conducting, seating a fluid communication-
interference body 10 on a seat
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104 such that an opening 102, disposed uphole of the port 218, becomes closed.
In some
embodiments, for example, the seating of a fluid communication-interference
body 10 is such
that fluid communication between the surface and the subterranean formation,
via the port 218,
becomes sealed or substantially sealed.
[0058] After the seating of the fluid communication-interference body 10,
an actuating signal
is transmitted downhole such that the signal is sensed by the sensor 12.
[0059] In those embodiments where the fluid communication-interference body
10 includes a
trigger 14 configured for establishment of a fluid passage 16 extending
through the body 10,in
response to the sensing of an actuating signal by the sensor 12, upon the
sensing of the actuating
signal by the sensor 12, the fluid passage 16 is established such that fluid
communication is
effected through the port 218.
[0060] In those embodiments where, in response to the sensing of the
actuating signal by the
sensor 12, the sealing interface 115 of the fluid communication-interference
body 10 becomes
defeatable (such that, in response to receiving communication of a pressurized
fluid, the sealing
interface 115 is defeated such that the establishment of a fluid passage 16
extending through the
body 10 is effected), upon the sensing of the actuating signal by the sensor
12, a change in
condition of the sealing interface 115 of the fluid communication-interference
body 10 is
effected such that the sealing interface 115 becomes defeatable After the
change in condition of
the sealing interface 115, a pressurized fluid is communicated such that the
communicated
pressurized fluid is received by the sealing interface 115, and in response to
the receiving of the
communicated pressurized fluid, the sealing interface 115 is defeated such
that the fluid passage
16 is established and such that fluid communication is effected between the
fluid passage and the
port 218.
100611 In some embodiments, for example, the flow control member 214 is
integrated within
a flow control apparatus 310 and includes a fluid responsive surface 220 for
receiving
communication of a pressurized fluid for urging the displacement of the flow
control member
214 between the closed and open positions, and the flow control apparatus 310
further includes a
sensor 326, a housing 312, and a trigger 313. The housing 312 includes a
housing passage 316,
and the housing 312 is integratable within the wellbore string 200, such as by
a threaded
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connection. The trigger 313 is responsive to the sensing of a trigger-
actuating ("TI") signal by
the sensor, with effect that fluid communication is established between the
housing passage 316
and the fluid responsive surface 220 in response to the sensing of a trigger-
actuating ("TI")
signal by the sensor 326. In this respect, while the flow control apparatus
310 is integrated
within the wellbore string 200 such that the housing passage 316 is disposed
in fluid
communication with the surface via the wellbore 100, and while a TI signal is
being transmitted
(such as, for example, via the wellbore), in response to the sensing of the TI
signal by the sensor
326, fluid communication between the surface and the fluid responsive surface
220, via the
wellbore 100, is established by the trigger 313.
[0062] In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is transmitted
through the wellbore
100. In some of these embodiments, for example, the TI signal is transmitted
via fluid disposed
within the wellbore 100.
[0063] In some embodiments, for example, the sensor 326 is a pressure
sensor, and the
actuating signal is one or more pressure pulses. An exemplary pressure sensor
is a Kellar
Pressure Transducer Model 6LHP/81188TM.
[0064] Other suitable sensors may be employed, depending on the nature of
the signal being
used for the actuating signal. Other suitable sensors include a Hall effect
sensor, a radio
frequency identification ("RFID") sensor, or a sensor that can detect a change
in chemistry (such
as, for example, pH), or radiation levels, or ultrasonic waves.
[0065] In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is one or more
pressure pulses. In
some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is defined by a pressure pulse
characterized by at
least a magnitude. In some embodiments, for example, the pressure pulse is
further
characterized by at least a duration. In some embodiments, for example, the TI
signal is defined
by a pressure pulse characterized by at least a duration.
[0066] In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is defined by a
plurality of pressure
pulses. In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is defined by a
plurality of pressure
pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a magnitude.
In some
embodiments, for example, the TI signal is defined by a plurality of pressure
pulses, each one of
CAN_DMS \107628429\1 14
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the pressure pulses characterized by at least a magnitude and a duration. In
some embodiments,
for example, the TI signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses, each
one of the pressure
pulses characterized by at least a duration. In some embodiments, for example,
each one of
pressure pulses is characterized by time intervals between the pulses.
[0067] In some embodiments, for example, the sensor 326 is disposed in
communication
within the wellbore 100, and the TI signal is being transmitted within the
wellbore 100, such that
the sensor 326 is disposed for sensing the TI signal being transmitted within
the wellbore 100. In
some embodiments, for example, the sensor 326 is disposed within the wellbore
100. In this
respect, in some embodiments, for example, the sensor 326 is mounted to the
housing 112 within
a hole that is ported to the wellbore 200, and is held in by a backing plate
that is configured to
resist the force generated by pressure acting on the sensor 326.
[0068] In some embodiments, for example, the sensor 326 is configured to
receive a signal
generated by a seismic source . In some embodiments, for example, the seismic
source includes
a seismic vibrator unit. In some of these embodiments, for example, the
seismic vibration unit is
disposed at the surface 10.
[0069] In some embodiments, for example, the flow control apparatus 310
further includes a
sealing interface 315, and the trigger 313 includes an actuator 322 for
defeating the sealing
interface 315. In this respect, the actuator 322 is responsive to sensing of
the TI signal by the
sensor 326. for defeating the sealing interface 315 such that the
establishment of fluid
communication between the housing passage 316 and the fluid responsive surface
220 is
effected.
[0070] In some embodiments, for example, the flow control apparatus 310
further includes a
valve 324, and the sealing interface 315 is defined by a sealing, or
substantially sealing,
engagement between the valve 324 and the housing 312. In some embodiments, for
example, the
sealing interface 315 is defined by sealing members 315A (such as, for
example, o-rings) carried
by the valve 324. In this respect, the change in condition of the sealing
interface 315 is effected
by a change in condition of the valve 324. Also in this respect, the actuator
322 is configured to
effect a change in condition of the valve 324 (in response to the sensing of
the TI signal by the
sensor 326) such that there is a loss of the sealing, or substantially
sealing, engagement between
CAN_DMS \107628429\1 15
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the valve 324 and the housing 312, such that the sealing interface 315 is
defeated, and such that
fluid communication between the housing passage 316 and the fluid responsive
surface 220 is
established.
[0071] In some embodiments, for example, the valve 324 is displaceable, and
the change in
condition of the valve 324, which the actuator 322 is configured to effect in
response to the
sensing of a TI signal by the sensor 326, includes displacement of the valve
324. In this respect,
the actuator 322 is configured to effect displacement of the valve 324 such
that the sealing
interface 315 is defeated and such that fluid communication between the
housing passage 316
and the fluid responsive surface 220 is established.
[0072] In some embodiments, for example, the flow control apparatus 310
further includes a
passageway 326. The valve 324 and the passageway 326 are co-operatively
disposed such that
fluid communication between the housing passage 316 and the fluid responsive
surface 220 is
established in response to the displacement of the valve 324, which is
effected in response to the
sensing of the TI signal by the sensor 326. In this respect, the establishing
of the fluid
communication between the housing passage 316 and the fluid responsive surface
220 is
controlled by the positioning of the valve 324 within the passageway 326. In
this respect, the
valve 324 is configured for displacement relative to the passageway 326. In
some embodiments,
for example, the valve 324 includes a piston. The displacement of the valve
324 is from a closed
position (see Figure 4) to an open position (see Figures 5 and 6). In some
embodiments, for
example, when disposed in the closed position, the valve 324 is occluding the
passageway 326.
In some embodiments, for example, when the valve 324 is disposed in the closed
position,
sealing, or substantial sealing, of fluid communication, between the housing
passage 316 and the
fluid responsive surface 220 is effected. When the valve 324 is disposed in
the open position,
fluid communication is effected between the housing passage 316 and the fluid
responsive
surface 220.
[0073] In some embodiments, for example, the passageway 326 extends through
the flow
control member 214, and the valve 324 is disposed in a space within the flow
control member
214, such that the displacement of the valve 324 is also relative to the flow
control member 214.
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[0074] In some embodiments, for example, the actuator 322 includes an
electro-mechanical
trigger, such as a squib. The squib is configured to, in response to the
signal received by the
sensor 326, effect generation of an explosion. In some embodiments, for
example, the squib is
mounted within the body such that the generated explosion effects the
displacement of the valve
324. Another suitable actuator 322 is a fuse-able link or a piston pusher.
[0075] In some embodiments, for example, the flow control apparatus 310
further includes
first and second chambers 334, 336. The first chamber 334 is disposed in fluid
communication
with the fluid responsive surface 220 for receiving pressurized fluid from the
housing passage
316, and the second chamber 336 is configured for containing a fluid and
disposed relative to the
flow control member 214 such that fluid contained within the second chamber
336 opposes the
displacement of the flow control apparatus 310 that is being urged by
pressurized fluid within the
first chamber 334, and the displacement of the flow control member 214 is
effected when the
force imparted to the flow control member 214 by the pressurized fluid within
the first chamber
334 exceeds the force imparted to the flow control member by the fluid within
the second
chamber 336. In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the flow
control member
214 is effected when the pressure imparted to the flow control member 214 by
the pressurized
fluid within the first chamber 334 exceeds the pressure imparted to the flow
control member 214
by the fluid within the second chamber 336.
[0076] In some embodiments, for example, both of the first and second
chambers 334, 336
are defined by respective spaces interposed between the housing 312 and the
flow control
member 214, and a chamber sealing member 338 is also included for effecting a
sealing interface
between the chambers 334, 336, while the flow control member 214 is being
displaced to effect
the opening of the port 318.
[0077] In some embodiments, for example, to mitigate versus inadvertent
opening, the valve
324 may, initially, be detachably secured to the housing 312, in the closed
position. In this
respect, in some embodiments, for example, the detachable securing is effected
by a shear pin
configured for becoming sheared, in response to application of sufficient
shearing force, such
that the valve 324 becomes movable from the closed position to the open
position. In some
embodiments, for example, the shearing force is effected by the actuator 312..
CAN_DMS \107628429\1 17
CA 2971504 2017-06-21
[0078] In some embodiments, for example, to prevent the inadvertent opening
of the valve
324, the valve 324 may be biased to the closed position, such as by, for
example, a resilient
member such as a spring. In this respect, the actuator 322 used for effecting
opening of the valve
324 must exert sufficient force to at least overcome the biasing force being
applied to the valve
324 that is maintaining the valve 324 in the closed position.
[0079] In some embodiments, for example, to prevent the inadvertent opening
of the valve
324, the valve 324 may be pressure balanced such that the valve 324 is
disposed in the closed
position.
[0080] In some embodiments, for example, the flow control apparatus 310
further includes a
controller. The controller is configured to receive a sensor-transmitted
signal from the sensor
326 upon the sensing of the TI signal and, in response to the received sensor-
transmitted signal,
supply a transmitted signal to the trigger 313. In some embodiments, for
example, the controller
and the sensor 326 are powered by a battery that is disposed on-board within
the flow control
apparatus 310. Passages for wiring for electrically interconnecting the
battery, the sensor, the
controller and the trigger are also provided within the apparatus 310.
[0081] In some embodiments, for example, the flow control member 214 is
integrated within
a flow control apparatus 410 that includes a sensor 426, and the flow control
member 214 is
displaceable from the closed position to the open position in response to
urging by a pressurized
fluid that is communicated to the flow control member after the defeating of a
sealing interface
415, the defeating of the sealing interface 415 being actuated by
communication of a pressurized
fluid while the sealing interface 415 is disposed in a defeatable condition,
the sealing interface
415 having become disposed in the defeatable condition in response to the
sensing of a sealing
interface actuation ("SIN') signal by the sensor 426.
[0082] In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is transmitted
through the
wellbore 100. In some of these embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is
transmitted via
fluid disposed within the wellbore 100.
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CA 2971504 2017-06-21
[0083] In some embodiments, for example, the sensor 426 is a pressure
sensor, and the
actuaSIAng signal is one or more pressure pulses. An exemplary pressure sensor
is a Kellar
Pressure Transducer Model 6LHP/81188TM.
[0084] Other suitable sensors may be employed, depending on the nature of
the signal being
used for the actuang signal. Other suitable sensors include a Hall effect
sensor, a radio frequency
idenfication ("RFID") sensor, or a sensor that can detect a change in
chemistry (such as, for
example, pH), or radiation levels, or ultrasonic waves.
[0085] In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is one or more
pressure pulses. In
some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is defined by a pressure pulse
characterized by
at least a magnitude. In some embodiments, for example, the pressure pulse is
further
characterized by at least a duration. In some embodiments, for example, the
SIA signal is
defined by a pressure pulse characterized by at least a duration.
[0086] In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is defined by a
plurality of
pressure pulses. In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is defined
by a plurality of
pressure pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a
magnitude. In some
embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is defined by a plurality of pressure
pulses, each one
of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a magnitude and a duration.
In some
embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is defined by a plurality of pressure
pulses, each one
of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a duration. In some
embodiments, for example,
each one of pressure pulses is characterized by time intervals between the
pulses.
[0087] In some embodiments, for example, the sensor 426 is disposed in
communication
within the wellbore 100, and the SIA signal is being transmitted within the
wellbore 100, such
that the sensor 426 is disposed for sensing the SIA signal being transmitted
within the wellbore
100. In some embodiments, for example, the sensor 426 is disposed within the
wellbore 100. In
this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the sensor 426 is mounted to
the housing 412
within a hole that is ported to the wellbore 200, and is held in by a backing
plate that is
configured to resist the force generated by pressure acting on the sensor 426.
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CA 2971504 2017-06-21
[0088] In some embodiments, for example, the sensor 426 is configured to
receive a signal
generated by a seismic source . In some embodiments, for example, the seismic
source includes
a seismic vibrator unit. In some of these embodiments, for example, the
seismic vibration unit is
disposed at the surface 10.
[0089] In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the flow control
member 214
includes a fluid responsive surface 220 for receiving communication of a
pressurized fluid for
urging displacement of the flow control member 214. As well, the flow control
apparatus 410
includes a housing 412 that is integratable within the wellbore string 200,
such as by a threaded
connection, and a housing passage 416 is defined within the housing 412. The
flow control
apparatus 410 also includes a sealing interface 415 and an actuator 422. The
actuator 422 is
responsive to sensing of the SIA signal by the sensor 426, for changing a
condition of the sealing
interface 415 such that the sealing interface 415 becomes disposed in a
defeatable condition such
that, in response to receiving communication of a pressurized fluid, the
sealing interface 415 is
defeated and such that fluid communication is established between the housing
passage 416 and
the fluid responsive surface 420.
[0090] In some embodiments, for example, the flow control apparatus further
includes a
valve 424, and the sealing interface 415 is defined by sealing, or
substantially sealing,
engagement between the valve 424 and the housing 412. In this respect, the
change in condition
of the sealing interface 415 is effected by a change in condition of the valve
424. Also in this
respect, the actuator 422 is configured to effect a change in condition of the
valve 424 (in
response to the sensing of the signal by the sensor 426) such that the sealing
interface 415
becomes disposed in the defeatable condition. In this respect, while the
sealing interface 415
(defined by the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the
valve 424 and the
housing 412) is disposed in the defeatable condition (the defeatible condition
having been
effected in response to the change in condition of the valve 424, as above-
described), in response
to receiving communication of a pressurized fluid, there is a loss of the
sealing, or substantially
sealing, engagement between the valve 424 and the housing 412. As a result,
there is a loss of
sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 424 and the
housing 412, such
that the sealing interface 415 is defeated, and such that fluid communication
is established
between the housing passage 416 and the fluid responsive surface 420.
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CA 2971504 2017-06-21
[0091] In some embodiments, for example, the valve 424 includes a valve
sealing surface
424A configured for effecting the sealing, or substantially sealing,
engagement between the
valve 424 and the housing 412. In this respect, the sealing, or substantially
sealing, engagement
between the valve 424 and the housing 412 is effected by the sealing, or
substantially sealing,
engagement between the valve sealing surface 424A and a housing sealing
surface 412A. Also
in this respect, the change in condition of the valve 424 is such that the
valve sealing surface
424A becomes displaceable relative to the housing sealing surface 412A for
effecting a loss of
the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve sealing
surface 424A and the
housing sealing surface 412A, such that the sealing interface 415 is defeated
and such that fluid
communication is established between the housing passage 416 and the fluid
responsive surface
420. Also in this respect, the loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing,
engagement between
the valve 424 and the housing 412, that is effected in response to receiving
communication of a
pressurized fluid while the valve 424 is disposed such that the valve sealing
surface 424A is
displaceable relative to the housing sealing surface 412A, includes the loss
of the sealing, or
substantially sealing, engagement between the valve sealing surface 424A and
the housing
sealing surface 412A.
[0092] In some embodiments, for example, the flow control apparatus 410
further includes a
passageway 427, and the passageway extends between the housing passage 412 and
the fluid
responsive surface 420. The valve 424 and the passageway 427 are co-
operatively disposed such
that the fluid communication between the housing passage 416 and the fluid
responsive surface
420 is established in response to the displacement of the valve 424 relative
to the passageway
427, effected in response to the sensing of the SIA by the sensor 426.
Sealing, or substantial
sealing, of the passageway 427 is effected by the sealing or substantially
sealing, engagement
between the valve 424 and the housing 412 (and, in some embodiments, for
example, the valve
sealing surface 424A and the housing sealing surface 412A). Also in this
respect, sealing, or
substantially sealing, of fluid communication between the housing passage 412
and the fluid
responsive surface 420 is effected by the sealing or substantially sealing,
engagement between
the valve 424 and the housing 412 (and, in some embodiments, for example, the
valve sealing
surface 424A and the housing sealing surface 412A).
CAN_DMS \107628429\1 21
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[0093] In some embodiments, for example, the actuator 422 includes a squib,
and the change
in condition of the sealing interface 415 (and also, in some embodiments, for
example, the valve
424) is effected by an explosion generated by the squib in response to sensing
of the signal by
the sensor 426. In some embodiments, for example, the squib is suitably
mounted within the
housing 412 to apply the necessary force to the valve 424. Another suitable
valve actuator 42 is
a fuse-able link or a piston pusher.
[0094] In some embodiments, for example, the change in condition of the
valve 424 includes
a fracturing of the valve 424. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 17,
the fracture is
identified by reference numeral 452. In some embodiments, for example, while
the valve 424 is
disposed in a fractured condition, in response to receiving communication of a
pressurized fluid,
a loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve
424 and the housing
412 is effected, such that there is an absence of sealing, or substantially
sealing, engagement
between the valve 424 and the housing 412, and such that the sealing interface
415 is defeated
and such that fluid communication is established between the housing passage
416 and the fluid
responsive surface 420.
[0095] In those embodiments where the change in condition of the valve 424
includes a
fracturing of the valve 424, in some of these embodiments, for example, the
valve 424 includes a
coupler 424B that effects coupling of the valve 424 to the housing 412 while
the change in
condition is effected. In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 424B is
threaded to the
housing 412. In those embodiments where the valve 424 includes a coupler 424B,
in some of
these embodiments, for example, the valve 424 and the actuator 422 are defined
by an exploding
bolt 350, such that the exploding bolt 350 is threaded to the housing 412. In
some embodiments,
for example, the squib is integrated into the bolt 350.
[0096] In some embodiments, for example, the flow control apparatus 410
further includes
first and second chambers (only the first chamber 434 is shown). The first
chamber 434 is
disposed in fluid communication with the fluid responsive surface 420 for
receiving pressurized
fluid from the housing passage 412, and the second chamber is configured for
containing a fluid
and disposed relative to the flow control member 214 such that fluid contained
within the second
chamber opposes the displacement of the flow control apparatus 410 that is
being urged by
CAN_DMS \107628429\1 22
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pressurized fluid within the first chamber 434, and the displacement of the
flow control member
214 is effected when the force imparted to the flow control member 214 by the
pressurized fluid
within the first chamber 434 exceeds the force imparted to the flow control
member by the fluid
within the second chamber. In some embodiments, for example, the displacement
of the flow
control member 214 is effected when the pressure imparted to the flow control
member 214 by
the pressurized fluid within the first chamber 434 exceeds the pressure
imparted to the flow
control member by the fluid within the second chamber. In some embodiments,
for example, the
fluid within the second chamber is disposed at atmospheric pressure.
[0097] In some embodiments, for example, both of the first and second
chambers are defined
by respective spaces interposed between the housing 412 and the flow control
member 214, and
a chamber sealing member 438 is also included for effecting a sealing
interface between the first
and second chambers while the flow control member 214 is being displaced to
effect the opening
of the port 418.
[0098] In some embodiments, for example, the flow control apparatus 410
further includes a
controller. The controller is configured to receive a sensor-transmitted
signal from the sensor
426 upon the sensing of the SIA signal and, in response to the received sensor-
transmitted signal,
supply a transmitted signal to the actuator 422. In some embodiments, for
example, the
controller and the sensor 426 are powered by a battery that is disposed on-
board within the flow
control apparatus 410. Passages for wiring for electrically interconnecting
the battery, the sensor
426, the controller and the actuator 422 are also provided within the
apparatus 410.
[0099] In the above description, for purposes of explanation, numerous
details are set forth in
order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However,
it will be
apparent to one skilled in the art that these specific details are not
required in order to practice
the present disclosure. Although certain dimensions and materials are
described for
implementing the disclosed example embodiments, other suitable dimensions
and/or materials
may be used within the scope of this disclosure. All such modifications and
variations, including
all suitable current and future changes in technology, are believed to be
within the sphere and
scope of the present disclosure. All references mentioned are hereby
incorporated by reference
in their entirety.
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