FR2839354A1 - Valve closing device for moving shiftable valve into closed position comprises two spring assemblies - Google Patents

Abstract

A valve closing device comprises two spring assemblies. The first spring assembly is engageable with the shiftable valve. The first spring assembly is capable of at least moving the shiftable valve mechanism in closed position and assisting in retaining it in the closed position. The second spring assembly includes elastically deformable mechanism(s). A valve closing device comprises two spring assemblies (52). The first spring assembly is engageable with the shiftable valve. The first spring assembly is capable of at least moving the shiftable valve mechanism in closed position and assisting in retaining it in the closed position. The second spring assembly includes elastically deformable mechanism(s). The deformable mechanism(s) extends at least partially around the circumference of the bore and is disposed at least partially in a cavity into he valve housing. The deformable mechanism(s) is elongated. The deformable mechanism(s) has two ends and is connected to the shiftable vale mechanism at one location and to the valve into a closed position. The device is capable of moving shiftable valve mechanism mounted in a valve housing into a closed position and retaining it in the closed position. The valve hosing has bore and shiftable valve mechanism movable between open and closed position relative to the bore. The deformable mechanism(s) is non-helical and non-rigidly connected with the valve housing. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) a safety valve comprising a housing with a longitudinal bore, a flapper valve mechanism (34), and two springs; and (2) a moving shiftable valve comprising an actuating valve opening device to move the shiftable valve out of its closed position and cause the elongated deformable mechanism to twist, releasing the valve opening device, and applying a biasing force to the shiftable valve to move it into a closed position and retain it in the closed position.

Description

partly and on the peripheral side.

VALVE CLOSURE DEVICE

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

  DECLARATION RELATING TO RESEARCH AND

  DEVELOPMENT SUBSIDIZED AT FEDERAL LEVEL

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

  The invention relates to flow control devices having one or more displaceable valve members. More particularly, the invention relates to an apparatus and methods for moving a movable valve member from an open position to a

a closed position.

  Fluid flow operations often employ flow control devices with movable valve members that can be opened or closed to permit flow control of the fluids. Mechanisms for moving the movable valve members from an open position to a closed position are therefore required. For example, conventional operations related to oil and gas wells commonly use flow control devices that can be closed to interrupt the flow of a fluid and open to allow the flow of fluid. , access to and through the flow control device can also be obtained in another way. To cite a particular example, valve type safety valves commonly placed in the well production column and incorporating a movable valve member

  between open and closed positions.

  Mechanisms for closure of flow control devices have been proposed. For example, US Pat. No. 4,624,315 issued to Dickson

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  and Coat., 4,411,316, Carmody, 3,786,866, issued to Tausch et al. and 4,661,646 issued to Blizzard each disclose a spring engaged with the valve member of a valve type valve assembly and provided around a pin for biasing the valve member into a closed position. U.S. Patent No. 5,137,090 issued to Hare et al. discloses a curved blade-type spring mounted within the tubular body of a valve-type valve and an arm which engages the valve member to resiliently bias the valve member into its closed position. To cite yet another example, the American Patent No. 4,531,587 issued to Fineberg discloses the use of a helicoidal torsion spring padre engages with pins integral with the valve member in order to solicit the organ of

flapper in its closed position.

  With respect to each of the patents cited above, it is important to understand that the above features are merely illustrative features disclosed in the patents. Many other characteristics are disclosed in each patent, in addition to the features mentioned herein. The additional features will become clear from the in-depth review of each respective patent. The brief set out above is solely incorporated for purposes of presenting the subject-matter of patents and not for the purpose of distinguishing between the subject and the present invention. The intention of the patent applicant is therefore that the above brief remarks concerning the cited patents do not limit or in any way affect the scope of any of the

  attached claims. Any comparison of one

  any of the above-mentioned patents to the invention of

  any of the attached claims requires the

  comparison of all the characteristics of the patent

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  quoted taken together, in relation to the totality of

  the claim (s) selected.

  In view of current techniques for closing the displaceable valve member of a flow control device, there remains a need for an apparatus and methods having one or more of the following attributes: the valve member remains firm when in a closed position; a device that is robust and manageable in its environment of use; an apparatus that can be used in a two-spring configuration to increase the biasing force to resiliently bias the movable valve member into a closed position; an apparatus which requires or occupies a minimum length or no additional length in the flow control device or the conduit in which the

  flow control device is place.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

  According to the present invention, certain embodiments relate to an apparatus capable of moving a movable valve member in a position

  closed and keep it in the closed position.

  The valve member of the cable is mounted in a valve boltier with a bore and movable between at least one open position and at least one closed position relative to the bore. A first spring assembly engageable with the valve member extends the movable valve member in a closed position and helps to maintain it in the closed position. A second spring assembly comprising at least one resiliently deformable member extending at least partially around the circumference of the bore and at least partially disposed in a cavity in the valve bowl. Each elastically deformable member is elongated, comprises first and second ends

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  and is connected to the valve member movable in one place and to the valve bowl in one or more places. Each Alastically-deformable member is torsionally loaded to apply a closing biasing force to the expandable valve member to facilitate movement of the expandable valve member to a closed position and maintain it in the closed position. The second spring assembly may comprise a single Alastically-deformable member connected, at its first and second extremities, to the valve bell and,

  they, the valve organ Aplagable.

  [e second spring assembly may comprise first and second Alastically-deformable members, each of the first and second Alastically-deformable members having connected, at its first end, the displaceable valve member and, at

  level of its second extremity @, to the boltier valve.

  2. Alastically-deformable organs may be

  non-rigid way of fitting to the valve housing.

  The apparatus may include an arm engageable between the replaceable valve member and the Alastically-deformable members. Alastically-deformable members may be connected

  non-rigid way the removable valve member.

  A valve member may be a valve type valve member disposed in a downhole well conduit and the Alastically-deformable member may have an elliptical, rectangular, circular, or other cross-sectional shape. The Alastically-deformable member (s) may incorporate a plurality of yarns and / or Grain constituting (s) metals, single strands of yarn or composites. The apparatus may include an arm engageable between the displaceable valve member and the (Al) artificially deformable member (s). Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to a valve-type valve closure device for moving a valve-type valve member into a closed position and holding it in the closed position under normal operating conditions. The Atant valve-type valve member is disposed in a valve housing and is useful in an underground oil field tubular. The valve housing comprises an AlAsage and the valve-type valve member is movable on hinges between at least one open position and at least one closed position. The valve-type valve closure device comprises an Alastically-deformable member extending at least partially around the circumference of the bore and disposed at least partially in a cavity formed in the valve bowl. [0020] Alastically-deformable member is elongated, present at the first and second ends and is connected to the valve bowl, at its first and second ends, and the valve-type valve member therebetween. Alastically-deformable member is torsionally loaded to apply a closing biasing force on the valve-type valve member to move the valve-type valve member into a closed position and to maintain the valve member. valve type in the closed position under normal conditions of

operation.

  The valve closure device may incorporate a pivotable arm assembly dotA of at least one rotatable spindle and an arm engageable with the valve type valve member, the valve member being Alastically deformable. connection to the pivoting arm assembly. Alastically deformable member may be non-hydrolic, may be non-rigidly connected to the valve boltier and may

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  have a generally elliptical cross section, or any combination or none of these features.

  In some embodiments, the present

  The invention relates to a safety valve for use in an oil field tubular and having a housing through which a longitudinal bore is extended and a valve-type valve member mounted in the housing. The valve-type valve member is hinge-movable relative to the longitudinal bore and has an open position permitting fluid flow through the longitudinal bore and a closed position preventing fluid flow through the longitudinal bore. longitudinal boring. The safety valve has first and second springs engageable with the valve type valve member. The second spring comprises at least one elastically deformable elongate member disposed at least partially

  around the circumference of the longitudinal bore.

  Each elastically deformable elongate member is associated with the valve type valve member at a location and the housing in one or more other locations. The first and second springs apply biasing forces to move the valve-type valve member into a closed position. The second spring may comprise elongated first and second elastically deformable members, each elastically deformable elongate member being connected, at its first end, to the valve member of the valve type and, at its second

extremite, to the boltier.

  Various embodiments of the present invention

  a solenoid safety valve for use in an oil field tubular, having a boltier means through which a longitudinal bore is extended and a means

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  A flexible valve assembly has a bolting means for permitting and preventing fluid flow through the longitudinal bore. The exchangeable valve mechanism has an open position capable of permitting fluid flow through the longitudinal bore and a closed position capable of at least partially blocking the flow of fluid through the longitudinal bore. The safety valve also has first and second spring means for biasing the removable valve mechanism into a closed position and holding it in the closed position. The second spring means is Alastically deformable and disposed at least partially around the

  circumference of longitudinal aldsage.

  According to the present invention, certain embodiments relate to a method of moving a valve member from a solenoid valve to a closed position in a closed position by means of a valve closure device. The valve member is disposed in a housing with a bore and the valve closure device comprises at least one longitudinally elongate deformable member arranged at least partially around the circumference of the bore. Each Alastically Elastically Elongated member is connected to the expandable valve member at one location, and to the housing at at least one other location. The method involves the actuation of the valve closure device to move the valve member out of a closed position and to cause twisting to said at least one elas- tically aliased, elongate member 6, and release of the opening device. valve. [edit] At least one longitudinally Alastically Elastically Alformable member will attempt to tilt, applying a biasing force on the valve member to move it to a closed position and

keep in the closed position.

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  Accordingly, the present invention has features and advantages enabling it to progress considerably in the technique associated with the displacement of a movable valve member in a closed position. The features and advantages of the present invention as described above, as well as others, will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

  reading the detailed description that follows from

  preferred embodiments and with reference to the

attached drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

  For a detailed description of the embodiments

  In the preferred embodiments of the invention, reference is now made to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic sectional and elevational view of a well completion characteristic

  having a safety valve in the ground.

  Figure 2A is a fragmentary elevational view, partially in cross-section, illustrating a typical check valve type safety valve in

an open position.

  Figure 2B is a fragmentary elevational view, partially in cross-section, illustrating a valve-type safety valve in a closed position. FIG. 3A is an exploded perspective view of a prior art arm and spring for biasing a valve member into a closed position, as disclosed in US Patent No. 5,137,090. FIG. 3B is a detailed sectional view illustrating the connection of the spring to the arm of the embodiment of the prior art of FIG. 3A, when

  the valve member occupies an open position.

  FIG. 3C is a view similar to that of FIG. 3B, however illustrating the connection of the spring to

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  arm when the valve member is in a closed position. FIG. 4 is a sectional bottom view of an embodiment of a device closure device depla, cable endowed with a padre organs elastically deformable according to the present invention, illustrated together with another set at

  spring in a valve type valve assembly.

  FIG. 5 is a perspective exploded view of the movable closure device of the

figure 4.

  Figure 6A is a detailed sectional view of the front end of one of the elastically deformable members of Figure 4 loraque the valve member

occupies an open position.

  Figure 6B is a view similar to that of Figure 6A, however illustrating the front end of the elastically deformable member loraque the valve member

occupies a closed position.

  FIG. 7 is an exploded view in perspective of an alternative embodiment of a member elastically.

  deformable according to the present invention.

  Figure 8 is an isolated view, partially in cross section, illustrating the connection of an alternative embodiment of a member elastically deformable to a valve member according to the present invention. Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an organ closure device depla, cable used with a valve assembly

  valve type according to the present invention.

  FIG. 10 is a sectional bottom view of the device closure device depla, cable of the

figure 9.

  DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

  Currently preferred embodiments of

  The invention is illustrated in the figures identified above and described in detail below. In the - 1 o - 2839354

  description of the preferred embodiments,

  analogous or identical numerical references used to identify common or similar elements. The figures are not necessarily scalable and some features and views of the figures can be illustrated on an exaggerated scale or in a schematic way for the sake of clarity and

conciseness.

  The contents of this << Detailed Description of Modes of

  realization >>, the << Abrege >> sections,

  << Brief description of the drawings >>, << Summary of

  the invention "and" background of the invention "which accompany it as well as figures 1-10 annexces do not intend to limit, and can not be interpreted as limiting, the scope or the

  construction of any one of the claims

  annexed or the language of the said claims,

  exception and only to the extent expressly expressed in the form of a particular definition

  contained in this section entitled Description

  detailed, for a particular language likely

  to appear in one or more claims

  appendices, as a particular definition (s) incorporating the phrase "lt expression" means >>. Furthermore, as used herein and in all parts of this specification, the terms "invention", "present invention" and variations thereof are used to generally describe object likely to be encompassed

  by one or more appended claims, without

  however, limit any claims. These expressions do not mean, and do not mean, the claimed invention of any particular claim (s). The use herein of the terms "invention", "present invention" and variations thereof can not be construed as limiting the construction or

  scope of any of the appended claims.

11-2839354

  With reference to FIG. 1, an illustrative environment in which the present invention can be used is illustrated in the form of pit or completion of oil or gas production wells, as known in the art. art. The illustrated well completion 10 comprises a casing string 12 extending from well surface 13 to hydrocarbon production formation (not shown). A column of rods 14 is shown concentrically disposed within the casing string 12 and extends from a wellhead 16 through a production packer 18. The production packer 18 of Figure 1 closes the annulus formed between the column of rods and the tubing string 14, 12 and brings the fluids of the formation, such as oil, gas and water, into the column of rods 14, which wind fluids admitted into the borehole 19 via perforations (Not shown) in the tubing string 12. Valves 20, 22, which are useful in regulating the flow of fluids from the column of rods 14, wind shown at the surface 13 of the putts. A wellhead plug, 24, is useful, for example, for maintaining the well 10 via the column of rods 14 with the aid of a

wiring (not shown).

  Referring to the illustrative environment of FIG. 1, a flow control device 30 having a releasable valve member 37 (FIGS. 2A, 2B) and forming part of the column of rods 14 is installed in the well. 10 to facilitate the regulation of fluid flow to the well surface 13, through the column of rods 14, from the bottom of the hole, as is known in the art. The flow control device 30 illustrated is a solenoid valve 32 controlled from the surface, connected in the column of rods 14, for example by suitable threaded connections. The device 30 can

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  be actuated, for example, by a control fluid supplied from a hydraulic distributor 40 to the well surface, through a control line conduit 42. A more detailed explanation of the components, arrangement and operation of a completion of conventional and related material in prior art patents and other publications, such as U.S. Patent Nos. 4,723,606, 4,624,315 and 5,127,476, each of which is incorporated herein in its entirety as a reference.

  The above description, and other aspects of a

  conventional well completion comprising one or more underground oil field tubulars and a sol-sol safety valve, wind well known in the art and in no way limiting the present invention.

  invention or the appended claims. Furthermore.

  the present invention is not limited to use in the environment of a well completion, oil and gas well or oil field tubular, but may be used in an environment any one wishes to move from an open position to a closed position one or more movable valve members of a flow control device in a device

  or a fluid flow system.

  Referring now to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the illustrated safety valve 32 is a valve type valve assembly 34 generally having a boltier or valve body, 36, and a (movable) valve member 38. The illustrative valve member 38 is pivotally mounted in the valve housing 36 and is movable between at least one open position, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, and at least one closed position, as illustrated in FIG. 2B. , compared to a central bore 44 extending

  longitudinally through the valve housing 36.

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  To move the valve member 38 illustrates from a closed position to an open position, it is used

  typically a valve opening device, 57.

  The valve opening device 57 may be any of a group of suitable devices known or known to be known in the art. In the illustrated configuration, for example, the valve opening device 57 is a tubular member 58 with a reciprocating movement, capable of descending to come into contact with the valve member 38 and to do so. exiting a valve seat 46 to place it in an open position, as known in [art. As the tubular member 58 is held down, the valve member 38 is (at least temporarily) held in an open position, so as to allow the flow of fluid through the bore 44 and the column of rods 14, if we wish it. It is understood, however, that the present invention is not limited to use with a tubular organ type valve opening device, but may be used with any suitable type of device or technique. valve opening. Furthermore. the present invention does not require the use of a valve opening device or technique since it is intended to close a releasable valve member. It follows that the present invention is in no way limited by the device or the mode (where appropriate) used, or likely to be used, to move the movable valve member in a

open position.

  Still with reference to the conventional configuration of Figs. 2A and 2B, to allow the valve member 38 to move from an open position to a closed position, the valve opening device 57 (stir is used) is released. . In the illustrated device, the tubular member 58 is raised to disengage from

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  When the lower end 59 of the tubular member 58 is moved over the valve seat 46, the biasing force of the spring assembly 52 (and also possibly the rising flow of fluid passing through the column of rods 14 and the bore 44) moves the valve member 38 into a closed position, as known in the art. In Fig. 2B, the valve member 38 is shown resiliently biased in a closed position about a pin 50 by the spring assembly 52. The components, arrangement and operation of the flow control devices provision of movable valve members, such as conventional valve type valve assemblies, and related components are described in greater detail in the prior art patents and other publications, such as US Pat. Nos. 3,786,865, 3,786,866, 4,624,315, 5,127,476, 4,411,316, 4,356,867 and 4,723,606, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. By way of example, FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate an embodiment of a valve member 38 of the prior art rotating around pins 50 and biased in a closed position (FIG. 3C) by a spring assembly 52. and an arm 54. Details of the construction and operation of the configuration of FIGS. 3A-3C will be found in US Patent No. 5,137,090 issued to Hare et al. on August 12, 1992, which is incorporated here in its entirety as a reference. It is of course

  as the above description as well as other aspects

  of flow control devices by displaceable valve members, such as valve-type valve assemblies, do not limit in any way

  the invention or the appended claims.

  Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, an embodiment of an organ closure device

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  The movable frame constructed in accordance with the present invention is identified by the reference numeral "60" and illustrated in a two-spring configuration together with another spring assembly (52) used with a valve-type valve assembly 34. Such that used in this Patent Memo

  and in the appended claims, the expressions

  "spring assembly", "spring" and variants thereof means one or more structural members of any shape, configuration and operation capable of engagement with a displaceable valve member of a flow control device and capable of moving the movable valve member from an open position to a closed position. Moreover, as used in this Memorial

  patent and in the appended claims, the

  expressions "connected to", "liable to engage with", similar expressions and their variants mean connected or capable of being connected

directly or indirectly with.

  It will be understood that the example of a releasable closure device 60 is described herein and is illustrated in the accompanying drawings in connection with a valve-type valve assembly 34 (in a tubular oil field tubular). ground) for illustrative purposes only. The present invention is useful with any other suitable type of flow control device having one or more displaceable valve members, and in any other suitable environment. Furthermore, the movable closure device 60 of the present invention, when used in a two-spring configuration, is in no way limited to use with the illustrated spring assembly 52, but may be used with any suitable type of spring assembly. Thus, the (other) spring assembly with which the invention is used in a two - spring configuration may be of one type,

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  any shape, configuration and operation. Furthermore. the present invention is in no way limited by the type, shape, configuration and operation of this (other) adequate spring assembly. Still with reference to the embodiment of FIGS. 4 and 5, the displaceable organ closure device comprises a pad of elastically deformable members 64 extending generally laterally from the left and right sides 54a, 54b of the arm 54 and anchors level or near their rear ends

  68, 70 respectively (Figure 4) to the boltier valve 36.

  As used in this patent brief and

  in the appended claims, the expression "organ

  elastically deformable >> and its variants mean an elongated element consisting of one or more components, capable of elastically deforming and being connected in one or more places with the movable valve member and in one or more places with a component usually fixed by

  relative to the displaceable valve organ.

  The illustratively elastically deformable members 64 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 each have a semicircular shape and a generally elliptical cross section. However, any other shape, cross section and proper configuration can be used. By way of example, each deformable member 64 may take the form of multiple elongated members, such as the wires 73 of FIG. 7, cables (not shown) or springs (not shown), fasteners or groups, or maintained

  in another way, as in a sheath 75.

  The organs 64 wind consist of a material likely to deform elastically. In the embodiment of FIGS. 4 and 5, for example, the members 64 consist of a spring material,

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  as MP3SN or E [GILOI, which will remain in its Alastic domain when it is subjected to forces created by the amount of displacement or the expected or desired torque that it will undergo. Thus, the illustrative members do not have to be subjected to plastic deformation when subjected to these forces, which could cause failure and failure. However, any other material or

  Other combinations of materials may be used.

  Still with reference to the embodiment of FIGS. 4 and 5, the respective front ends 72, 74 of the Alastically-deformable members 64 are shown integral with an arm 54. However, any suitable technique and / or apparatus for connecting the members 64 and the arm 54 may be used as mechanical connectors. On the other hand, the members 64 may be directly connected to the valve member 38 (as in the absence of the arm 54), or both the valve member 38 and the arm 54. Moreover. the closure device 60 of the Aablagable member may take the form of a single Alastiquement unitarily deformable member 64 which connects to the arm 54, the valve member 38, or both. By way of example, a single unitary member 64 can connect the valve member 38 to the watertightness of its extrusions with the aid of a support 76 and bolts 77, as illustrated by FIG.

figure 8.

  Referring again to FIG. 4, the illustratively Alasformable Dies 64 extend into a cavitA, or cavitAs, 94 formed in the valve bowl 36 at least partially around the circumference of the boltier bore 44. . The cavity (or cavities) 94 provides (m) sufficient space to allow the members 64 to bend and twist therein or to deform therein. Moreover, one or more cavities 64 may be provided with a holding portion

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  surrounding or at least partially enclosing the member 64 that is disposed therein, such as, for example, the retaining wall 96 of FIG. 4, so as to prevent

  ejection of the organ 64 out of the cavity 94.

  With reference to FIG. 4, the rear ends 68, 70 of the elastically deformable members 64 shown are connected to the valve housing 36 in a manner sufficient to cause torsion of the members 64 upon rotation of the valve member. 38 out of the closed position. By way of example, a padre of connectors 100 can be used to rigidly connect each rear end 68, 70 directly to boltier 36. The illustrative connectors 100 wind screws 102 inserable in holes 104 respectively formed in the ends 68, 70, and in holes 106 in the housing 36. However, any other mechanism or technique can be used to connect the elastically deformable members 64 boltier 36 or any other fixed structure relative to the movable valve member 37. In addition, the members 64 need not necessarily be connected at their rear ends 68, 70, respectively, but can be connected to any other convenient location. Furthermore. the members 64 need not necessarily be rigidly connected to the boltier 36 or to another structure, if one wishes to allow a certain movement of the organ (organs) 64 at the level of the

connection region (s).

  In operation, the releasable closure device 60 of the present invention is capable of urging, or aiding, biasing the releasable valve member 37 into a closed position and maintaining it in a closed position under normal conditions. Operating. In the embodiment of Figures 4 and 5, for example, when opening the valve member 38, or its rotation

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  out of a closed position, the elastically deformable members 64 (connected to the arm 54 mounts on the bottom surface 38a of the valve member 38) will also move, or will attempt to rotate together with the valve member 38. Gold As the elastically deformable members 64 are connected at their rear ends 68, 70 to a component which remains fixed relative to the valve member 38 in motion, the rear ends 68, 70 will oppose the rotation and will cause the deformation. elastic or torsion of the members 64, thereby creating a torque or a spring action. By way of example, when the valve member 38 is rotated about ninety degrees from a fully closed position (as shown in FIG. 6B) to a fully open position (as shown in FIG. 6A), the angular displacement of the elastically deformable members 64 between their front and rear ends can increase by about eighty.

ten degree.

  Referring once again to the embodiment of FIG. 4, the torque of the elastically deformable members 64 is transferred to the arm 54 and to the valve member 38. When the opening or descending force acting on the organ Valve 38 illustrates decreases or disappears, the torque of the illustrated elastically deformable members 64, together with the spring force of the spring assembly 52 (as described in US Patent No. 5,137,090 and Coil., of column 3, line 64 to column 5, line 23) resiliently urges arm 54 and valve member 38 to a closed position. When the valve member 38 is in a closed position, the illustratively elastically deformable members 64 and the spring assembly 52 have a residual torsional or biasing force (1c) sufficient to hold the valve member 38 in a closed position. To open the valve member 38, sufficient downward force must be applied to the member 38 to raise the biasing forces of the Alastically-deformable members 64 and the assembly.

spring 52.

  Referring now to FIGS. 9 and 10, another embodiment of an exchangeable member closure device 60 in accordance with the present invention is illustrated with use with a valve type valve assembly 34, but without the configuration of two springs. [0020] The dAagable member closure device 60 comprises an Alastically-deformable member

  unitary 64 dotA of a generally semi-

  circular and of a generally circular cross section. However, organ 64 is not limited to these forms, but may be of any shape, section

  overall cross-section and configuration adAquate.

  Alastically-deformable member 64 is connected at or near its middle with a pivotable arm assembly 80, such as with bolts 81, with couplable members or other mechanical couplings. Any other technique or mechanism suitable for use may be used, or

  the member 64 and the assembly 80 may be integral.

  Alastically-deformable member 64 has left and right legs 67, 69 extending generally laterally from the left and right cat A, 80b of the pivotable arm assembly 80, respectively, and into a cavity, or cavities, 94 (FIG. 10) formed in the valve housing 36 at least partially around the circumference of the casing 44. [or the illustrative cavity (s) 94 provides (m) sufficient space to allow the steps 67 , 69 to bend or distort therein without significant resistance from the wall (s) 95 of the cavity or cavities 94, or with a desired resistance. [es pastes 67, 69 anchored in the boltier valve 36 proximitA or level

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  their respective ends 67a, 69a, as by means of mounting brackets 78 and bolts (not shown). However, any other suitable technique or mechanism for connecting posts 67, 69 to box 36 (or any other suitable component) may

to be used.

  The pivot arm assembly 80 of FIGS. 9 and 10 includes an arm 54 which engages the valve member 38 and transmits a torque, or upward biasing forces, from the resiliently deformable member 64 to the valve member 38. In the illustrated embodiment, the arm 54 is a metal member rigidly connected, as by welding, to the bottom surface 38a of the valve member 38, preferably along the axis of the member 38. However, the arm 54 may be of any suitable shape and configuration, and may be associated with the valve member

  movable 37 in any suitable manner.

  The illustrated pivot arm assembly 80 includes pins 82, 84 for pivoting the assembly and the valve member 38. The illustrative pins 82, 84 also have rigid metal members, and generally extend laterally left and right 80a, 80b of the assembly 80 into holes 90, 92 respectively formed in the valve housing 36. The pins 82, 84 are free to rotate in the orifices 90, 92, forming the axis of rotation of the pivotable arm assembly 80 and

of the valve member 38.

  The assembly 80 and its components, the arm 54, the pins 82, 84 (and possibly also the elastically deformable member 64) can be formed of a piece or in any other adequate manner. In addition, the pivotable arm assembly 80 may have any configuration, components, shape and proper operation.

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  In operation of the embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10, when the valve member 38 is opened or moved from a closed position, the pins 82, 84 rotate respectively in the orifices 90, 92, and the pivotable arm assembly 80 and the valve member 38 are pivoted. The elastically deformable member 64 (connected to the swivel arm assembly 80) will move, or attempt to rotate, with the valve cleat 38. As the legs 67, 69 of the organ 64 wind anchored in the housing of valve 36, the member 64 will oppose the rotation at the ends 67a, 69a, and deform or twist elastically, to generate a

couple.

  The torque of the elastically deformable member 64 is transferred to the pivotable arm assembly 80 and has its arm

  54, which transfers the torque to the valve member 38.

  When the opening or descending force exerted on the valve member 38 is decreasing or disappearing, the torque of the elastically deformable members 64 shown elastically solicits the arm 54 and valve body 38 in a closed position. When the valve member 38 occupies a closed position, the illustratively elastically deformable member 64 possesses a residual torsion stress! sufficient to maintain the valve member 38 in a closed position. Under normal operating conditions, the biasing force of the member 64 will maintain the valve member 38 in a closed position. To open the valve member 38, a sufficient downward force must be applied to the member 38 to overcome the forces of

  stressing of the elastically deformable member 64.

  It is understood that the illustrative methods of

  functioning of the embodiments described below.

  above or other embodiments of the present

- 23 - 2839354

  invent10n should not necessarily incorporate

  all the features and operations described above

  above, and that these operations should not necessarily be performed in a particular order, such as the order shown above. Furthermore, the procedures of the present invention should not be particularly useful in the particular embodiments illustrated and described in the present invention, such as the Alastically-deformable members illustrated, but may equally well be Applied with any other structure, shape and configuration of adequate components. In addition, in each case, vigilance should be exercised in the manufacture, assembly, handling and operation of any apparatus manufactured or used in accordance with the present invention. If desired, the elasticity and durability of the Alastically-deformable member (s) 64, such as that illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 10, and the biasing forces that can be varied, can be varied. they provide by modifying one or more variables. For example, Alasticity and the durability of the organs 64 are affected by their constituent material, which can therefore be chosen or

  change to influence one or more of the factors

  above. To cite another example, the durability of members 64 and the amount of biasing forces they create may be affected by the stiffness of the connection of the member (s) 64 to the other components. By way of example, with reference to the embodiment of FIGS. 4 and 5, a non-rigid connection of the members 64 to the valve bellows 36 will allow the outer extremities 68, 70 of the organ 64 to flare or bend in a to a certain extent, thereby reducing in a general way the efforts exerted on the organs 64 and the couple and the forces of

- 24 - 2839354

  solicitation they generate, compared to a rigid connection. To cite yet another example, the shape of the cross-section of the elastically deformable member (s) 64 may be chosen or modified to affect the torsional stiffness of the member (s) 64 and thus the exerting forces by the material on the member (s) 64. For example, a member 64 endowed with a thin elliptical cross-section would probably be more flexible than a member 64 of circular cross-section, of design and construction.

otherwise similar position.

  The preferred embodiments of the present

  Thus, the invention is well suited to achieving one or more objectives of the invention. Furthermore, the apparatus and methods of the present invention offer certain advantages over the prior art, which, if not explicitly discussed herein, stand out, or will emerge

  consideration of this description, the drawings and the

  additional claims. Moreover, he is well

  It is understood that certain features and combinations of the present invention are useful and may be employed without reference to other features and sub-combinations. this is

  considered by the appended claims, and returns

  within the scope of those claims.

  Although preferred embodiments of the

  In the present invention, numerous variations, modifications and / or changes in the apparatus and methods of the present invention, provided for example in components, construction and operating details, arrangements of parts and / or the methods of use, possible and contemplated by the applicant, in the context of

  appended claims, and may be made and

- 25 - 2839354

  used by the man of money without his going away for the sake of the spirit or the teachings of the invention

  and the scope of the appended claims. As

  many possible embodiments can be envisaged for the present invention, without departing from its scope, it is understood that it should be interpreted all that is exposA or illustrA in the accompanying drawings as an illustration , without any limiting purpose. As a result, the scope of the invention and

  claims is not limited to the modes of

  Writing and Illustrating in the Present.

- 26 - 2839354

Claims (14)

  Apparatus capable of moving a movable valve member, mounted in a valve housing, in a closed position and holding it in the closed position, the valve housing having a bore and the movable movable valve member between at least one open position and at least one closed position with respect to the boring, the apparatus comprising: a first spring assembly engageable with the releasable valve member, said first spring assembly being movable to the least partially the movable valve member in a first closed position and to help maintain it in the closed position, and a second spring assembly having at least one elastically deformable member extending at least partially around the circumference of the at least partially in a cavity in the valve housing, said at least one elastically deformable member being elongated, presenting first and second ends and being connected to the movable valve member at one location and the valve boltier at at least one other location, whereby said at least one resiliently deformable member is torsionally loaded to apply a closing biasing force on releasable valve member for facilitating movement of the releasable valve member to a closed position and maintaining the releasable valve member in the closed position.   2. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said second spring assembly comprises an elastically deformable member, said elastically deformable member being connected at the - 27 - 2839354   from its first and second ends, to the valve housing and, between them, to the movable valve member. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said second spring assembly comprises first and second elastically deformable members, each of said first and second elastically deformable members being connected at its first end to the movable valve member, and at the level of his second end, to the valve housing.   4. Apparatus according to claim 3, wherein said elastically deformable members wind non-rigidly connected to the valve boltier. Apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising an arm engageable with the movable valve member and said members elastically deformable.   An apparatus according to claim 5, wherein said elastically deformable members are non-rigidly connected to the displaceable valve.   Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the displaceable valve member is a valve type valve member disposed in a conduit of well in the ground.   Apparatus according to claim 7, wherein said at least one elastically deformable member has a generally elliptical cross-section. l - 28 - 2839354   Apparatus according to claim 7, wherein said elastomerically deformable member has a generally rectangular cross-section. Apparell according to claim 7, wherein said at least one elastically deformable member has a generally circular cross-section. Apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising an arm engageable between the movable valve member and the at least one an elastically deformable member.   Apparell according to revendlcatlon 7, wherein ledlt at least one elastically deformable member has a plurality of firs.   13. Apparatus according to claim 7, wherein at least one of the monomers is formally composed of metals, or composites.   14. Valve-type valve closing device for moving a valve-type valve member into a closed position and tampering it in the closed position under normal operating conditions, the valve-type valve member being provided in a housing valve member having a bore, the valve member being hingeably movable between at least one open position and at least one closed position relative to the valve member. Boring, the valve-type valve closing device comprising: a resiliently-deformable member extending longitudinally around the clrconference - 29 - 2839354   at least partially in a recess in the valve housing, said elastically deformable member being elongate, having first and second ends and being connected to the valve housing at its first and second ends and to the valve-type valve member therebetween, whereby said resiliently deformable member is torsionally loaded to apply a closing biasing force on the valve-type valve member to move the valve member valve type in a closed position and maintain the valve type valve member in the closed position under normal operating conditions. Valve type valve closure device according to claim 14, further comprising a pivotable arm assembly having an arm engageable with the valve type valve member and at least one rotatable spindle. , said elastically deformable member being   connected to said pivot arm assembly.   Valve type valve closure device according to claim 14, wherein said elastically deformable member is non-helicoidal. The valve type valve closure device according to claim 16, wherein said resiliently deformable member is connected to   non-rigid way to the valve housing.   The valve type closure device according to claim 17, wherein said resiliently deformable member has a   generally elliptical cross section. - 30 - 2839354   19. A safety valve for use in an oilfield tubular, the safety valve comprising: a boltier through which a longitudinal bore is extended, a valve member of the valve type mounted in said housing and movable on hinges by to said longitudinal bore, said valve-type valve member having an open position for fluid flow through said longitudinal bore and a closed position preventing fluid flow through said longitudinal bore, and first and second springs capable of to engage with said valve-type valve member, said second spring having at least one elastically-deformable elongate member disposed at least partially about the circumference of said longitudinal bore, said at least one elastically-deformable elongate member being associated with said valve member flapper type in one place and audit boltier in at least one other place whereby said first and second springs apply biasing forces to move said   valve type valve in a closed position.   20. The safety valve according to claim 19, wherein said second spring comprises elongated first and second elastically deformable members, each of said elongated first and second elastically deformable members having first and second ends and being connected at its first end. , to said valve member valve-type and, at its second extremite, audit case. - 31 - 2839354   21. A solenoid valve for use in an oil field tubular, the solids solenoid valve comprising: housing means through which a longitudinal bore is extended, an expandable valve means said box means for permitting and preventing fluid flow through said longitudinal bore, said valve means having an open position capable of permitting fluid flow through said longitudinal bore and a closed position capable of at least partially blocking Flow of fluid through said longitudinal bore, and first and second spring means for biasing said valve means to a closed position and maintaining it in the closed position, said second spring means being resiliently biased and disposed at the least partially around the circumference of said longitudinal alignment. 22. Method of moving a valve member movable from a solenoid valve to a closed position With the aid of a valve closure device, the valve insert valve is disposed in a bowl. a valve closure device comprising at least one Alastically-deformable member elongateA disposed at least partially around the circumference of the AlAsage, connects the valve member dAplagable in one place and the boltier in at least one other In this connection, the valve member opens with the aid of a valve opening device, the procAAdA comprising: - 32 - 2839354   actuating the valve opening device to move the valve member out of a feeder position and to cause twisting to said at least one Alasably deformable member extending to the release of the valve opening device, and said at least one resiliently elongate elongate member attempting to tilt, applying a biasing force to the displaceable valve member to move it to an open position and hold it in position.