FR3135485A1 - WIRELESS FLOW CONTROL DEVICES AND METHODS OF RESTORING FLUID FLOW THROUGH A FLOW CONTROL DEVICE - Google Patents

Abstract

A wireless flow control device includes a movable apparatus and a power source configured to provide power to move the movable apparatus from a first position to a second position. The wireless flow controller also includes a valve that forms a first fluid flow path through the wireless flow controller while the movable apparatus is in the first position. The wireless flow controller further includes an actuation assembly, which, when actuated, forms a second fluid flow path through the wireless flow controller, and a turbine designed to recharge the power source.

Description

WIRELESS FLOW CONTROL DEVICES AND METHODS OF RESTORING FLUID FLOW THROUGH A FLOW CONTROL DEVICE Context

The present invention generally relates to wireless flow control devices and methods of restoring fluid flow through a flow control device.

Fluids are sometimes pumped through one or more ports of a tube into a wellbore during certain well operations, such as hydraulic fracturing operations, well injection operations, and production operations. Flow control devices are sometimes positioned at certain sections of the tube to control the flow of fluid into and out of the tube. Some fluid flow control devices have movable apparatus that are designed to move into multiple positions to control the flow of fluid through the flow control devices.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the figures of the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference and in which:

There is a schematic side view of a well environment having three wireless flow control devices deployed in a well;

There is a schematic cross-sectional view of a wireless flow control device that can be deployed in the well of the while a movable sleeve of the wireless flow controller is in a first position;

There is a schematic cross-sectional view of the wireless flow control device of the after the movable sleeve moves from the first position shown in up to a second position;

There is a schematic cross-sectional view of the wireless flow control device of the after the movable sleeve has moved from the second position shown in up to a third position;

There is a schematic cross-sectional view of the actuation assembly of the wireless flow control device of the , And . ;

There is a schematic cross-sectional view of another wireless flow control device that is similar to the wireless flow control device of the , And ;

There is a schematic cross-sectional view of another wireless flow control device that is similar to the wireless flow control device of the , And ;

There is a schematic cross-sectional view of another wireless flow control device that is similar to the wireless flow control device of the , And ;

There is a schematic diagram of a first configuration of a wireless flow controller that is similar to the wireless flow controller of the ;

There is a schematic diagram of a second configuration of a wireless flow controller that is similar to the wireless flow controller of the ;

There is a schematic diagram of a third configuration of a wireless flow controller that is similar to the wireless flow controller of the ; And

There is a flow diagram of a method of restoring fluid flow through a flow control device.

The illustrated figures are presented as examples only; they are not intended to impose any explicit or implicit restriction on the environment, architecture, design or process in which different embodiments may be implemented.

detailed description

In the following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form an integral part hereof. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is understood that other embodiments may be used and that logical structural, mechanical, electrical modifications and chemical can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. To avoid details that are not necessary to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments described herein, the description may omit certain information known to those skilled in the art. The following detailed description should therefore not be considered restrictively, the scope of the illustrative embodiments being defined solely by the appended claims.

The present invention relates to wireless flow control devices and methods of restoring fluid flow through a flow control device. A wireless flow controller includes a movable apparatus that is configured to move to one or more positions along the wireless flow controller to control fluid flow through the controller. wireless flow. More particularly, a valve of the wireless flow control device forms a fluid flow path (first fluid flow path) through the wireless flow control device while the movable apparatus is located in an initial position (first position). As mentioned herein, a movable device includes any component, device or apparatus that can be moved to one or more positions along the wireless flow control device. Examples of movable devices include, but are not limited to, sleeves, covers, rods, pistons, latches and other types of components, devices or appliances designed to move into one or more positions the along the wireless flow control device. In some embodiments, the movable apparatus is a movable sleeve having a shape that is similar to the shape of the movable sleeve shown in Figures 2A through 2C. In some embodiments, the movable apparatus is a concentric sleeve that is concentric about the axis of the production column. In one or more of these embodiments, the concentric sleeve covers 360 degrees. In one or more of these embodiments, the concentric sleeve spans an arc less than 360 degrees. In some embodiments, the movable apparatus is a piston sleeve configured to variably restrict fluid flow from the outside diameter and inside diameter of the production column. In one or more of these embodiments, the piston sleeve is cylindrical in shape, conical in shape, prismatic in shape, or in the shape of another translatable object. In some embodiments, the movable apparatus is an actuation sleeve, the actuation sleeve being used to adjust a degree of restriction of a control valve, such as a ball valve, diaphragm valve or a flap valve. In certain embodiments, the movable device is a plug valve. In some embodiments, in which the wireless flow control device is fluidly coupled to a tube, the first fluid flow path provides a flow path for fluids to flow therein and /or outside the tube. However, after the movable apparatus is moved from the first position to another position (second position), the movable apparatus shuts off fluids or prevents them from flowing through the first fluid flow path while that the movable device is in the second position.

The movable apparatus is powered by a power source that is configured to provide power to the movable apparatus to move the movable apparatus, for example from the first position of the movable apparatus to the second position of the movable apparatus, to prevent the flow of fluid through the wireless flow control device, from the second position of the movable apparatus to the first position of the movable apparatus to allow the flow of fluid to through the wireless flow controller via the first fluid flow path, or in other positions along the wireless flow controller. In some embodiments, the movable apparatus is controlled by a downhole or surface processor to move to a desired location along the wireless flow controller. For example, the processor initially instructs the movable device to remain in the second position during downhole deployment to prevent fluid flow into the wireless flow controller during deployment. The processor then directs the movable apparatus to move from the second position to the first position during a production operation to provide fluid flow into the wireless flow controller during the production operation. The processor then instructs the movable device to move from the first return position to the second position once the production operation is complete.

The movable apparatus also includes a turbine that is configured to rotate while fluid flows around the turbine (e.g., via the first fluid flow path) to recharge the power source, which provides energy to move the movable device to a desired location along the wireless flow controller while the power source has more than a threshold amount of stored charge. After fluid flow around the turbine stops, the turbine no longer recharges the power source, and the energy stored by the power source is drained until it reaches a level below the threshold level for move the movable device.

The movable apparatus includes an actuation assembly that, when actuated, forms a second fluid flow path through the wireless flow controller. As mentioned herein, an actuation assembly includes one or more components or devices that, when actuated, form a second fluid flow path through the wireless flow control device. In some embodiments, the actuation assembly includes a rupture disc that initially prevents fluid flow through the rupture disc, a thruster that, when actuated, moves the thruster from a first position at a second position to rupture the rupture disk, and an actuator which, when actuated or engaged, moves or causes the rupture disk to move from the first position to the second position to rupture the rupture disk. In one or more of these embodiments, the actuation assembly includes or is in communication with a communications module that is configured to receive an actuation signal (e.g. from a surface-based device or another downhole device) to operate the actuation assembly. Additionally, in response to receiving the actuation signal, the actuation assembly operates or engages the actuator to move the thruster to rupture the rupture disc. In one or more of these embodiments, the actuator includes a chemical charge that, when triggered, starts a chemical reaction that moves the propellant to rupture the rupture disk. In one or more of these embodiments, the actuator is battery powered, with the battery providing electrical energy to move the thruster to rupture the rupture disk.

In some embodiments, the actuation assembly includes or is fluidly coupled to a valve (second valve), wherein fluid flow through the second valve is initially blocked by the rupture disk while the rupture disk rupture is intact. Once the rupture disk is ruptured, a second fluid flow path is formed for fluids to flow through the wireless flow controller via the second valve and through the rupture disk. The second fluid flow path also directly or indirectly provides fluid flow to rotate the turbine, which, in turn, provides energy to recharge the power source. Additionally, after the power source is recharged to a level above the threshold energy level, the movable apparatus can be operated to move to a desired location to restore the first flow path. of fluid while maintaining fluid flow through the second fluid flow path, restoring the first fluid flow path and cutting off the second fluid flow path, or cutting off both the first and second second fluid flow paths.

In some embodiments, the wireless flow controller includes additional actuation assemblies, each of which, when actuated, establishes a new fluid flow path through the flow controller wireless. For example, the wireless flow control device includes a second actuation assembly similar to the actuation assembly described herein. The second actuation assembly, when actuated, provides a third path for fluid flow therethrough (e.g., through a third valve). Once the third fluid flow path is established, fluid flowing through the third flow path spins the turbine, which, in turn, recharges the power source. In some embodiments, the wireless flow controller includes a second turbine that is positioned along the second fluid flow path while the first turbine is positioned along the first fluid flow path. In one or more of these embodiments, the first turbine rotates to recharge the power source while the movable apparatus is in the first position, and the second turbine rotates to recharge the power source after the formation of the power source. second fluid flow path.

In some embodiments, actuation of the actuation assembly of the wireless flow controller does not establish a second fluid flow path through the wireless flow controller. In one or more of these embodiments, actuation of the actuation assembly triggers a chemical charge, which rotates the turbine, which, in turn, recharges the power source until it reaches a higher level at the threshold energy level to move the movable apparatus from the second return position to the first position to restore the first fluid flow path. In one or more of these embodiments, actuation of the actuation assembly triggers a chemical charge, which moves the movable apparatus from the second return position to the first position, thereby restoring the first travel path. fluid flow. Additional descriptions of wireless flow control devices and methods of restoring fluid flow through a flow control device are provided in the paragraphs below and are illustrated in Figures 1 through 8.

Looking now at the figures, the is a schematic side view of a well environment 100 having three wireless flow control devices 131A to 131C deployed in a well 102. As shown in , a wellbore 114 of well 102 extends from surface 108 of well 102 to or through a formation 126. A hook 138, a cable 142, a movable block (not shown) and a hoist (not shown ) are provided to lower the tube 116 into the wellbore 114. The tube 116 is coupled to or includes three wireless flow controllers 131A to 131C which regulate the fluid flow of the fluids (such as water resources hydrocarbons and reservoir fluids) to flow from formation 126 through fractures 121A to 121C into tube 116, and via tube 116 back to surface 108. To this end, a baffle or a outlet conduit 128 may be connected to a container 130 at wellhead 106 to provide a fluid return flow path from wellbore 114.

In the embodiment of the , the tube 116 extends through three zones 111A, 111B and 111C. Packing assemblies 110A to 110C, filters (not shown), sensors (not shown), and other hardware components (not shown) are also installed downhole with tube 116, and are deployed or activated to isolate zones 111A, 111B and 111C, and control fluid flow into and out of zones 111A, 111B and 111C. Each of the wireless flow controllers 131A through 131C includes a movable sleeve, a power source that provides power to move the movable sleeve, and a turbine configured to recharge the power source. Illustrations of movable sleeves, power sources, and turbines are provided in Figures 2A through 6. Wireless flow controllers 131A through 131C periodically receive instructions from an electronic device, such as the controller 118, to regulate and control the flow of fluid through the respective wireless flow controller 131A, 131B or 131C. More particularly, the controller 118 periodically requests the movable sleeves of the wireless flow controllers 131A to 131C to move to different positions along the wireless flow controllers 131A to 131C to control the flow of fluid through the wireless flow control devices 131A to 131C into the tube 116.

After certain well operations, controller 118 provides instructions to restrict fluid flow through one or more of wireless flow controllers 131A to 131C. For example, in response to receiving an instruction to stop fluid flow in zone 111A, controller 118 requests wireless flow controller 131A (or a communications module of the device wireless flow controller 131A) to move the movable sleeve of the wireless flow controller 131A from a first position to a second position to stop the flow of fluid in the tube 116 at the area 111A. The impeller of the wireless flow controller 131A eventually stops rotating due to a lack of fluid flow through the wireless flow controller 131A, and no longer recharges the power source of the wireless flow control device 131A. The power source in turn empties until the power source no longer stores a threshold amount of energy to move the movable sleeve. In the embodiment of the , the wireless flow controller 131A includes an actuation assembly which, when actuated, provides an additional fluid flow path to restart the turbine. Continuing with the previous example, after the movable sleeve moves to a position that prevents fluid flow through the wireless flow controller 131A, the controller 118 transmits a signal to actuation to the communications module of the wireless flow controller 131A to restore fluid flow to the turbine. In some embodiments, in response to receiving the actuation signal, the wireless flow controller 131A initiates a chemical reaction that moves a propellant to rupture a rupture disk to establish fluid flow until 'to the turbine to rotate the turbine, which, in turn, recharges the power source until it reaches a level above the threshold energy level to move the movable sleeve. Once the power source is recharged to a level above the threshold level, the controller 118 transmits a signal to move the movable sleeve of the wireless flow controller 131A to a different position to provide a flow of fluid in the tube 116.

Although the illustrates three wireless flow control devices 131A to 131C, arranged in three areas, 111A, 111B and 111C, respectively, in some embodiments, a different number of wireless flow control devices are deployed in a number different areas. Although the illustrates a production environment, wireless flow controllers 131A through 131C and similar wireless flow controllers described herein are used before, during and after injection operations, fracturing operations and d other well operations. Additional descriptions and illustrations of similar wireless flow control devices, and components of the wireless flow control devices are provided herein, and are illustrated at least in Figures 2A through 7.

There is a schematic cross-sectional view of a wireless flow control device 200 that may be deployed in the well of the while a movable sleeve 202 of the wireless flow controller 200 is in a first position. In the embodiment of the , a power source 214 of the wireless flow controller 200 provides energy to move the movable sleeve 202 while the power source 214 stores more than a threshold amount of energy. In the embodiment of the , and while the movable sleeve 202 is in the first position, a first fluid flow path in a direction illustrated by arrow 208 is established through a first valve 206 of the wireless flow controller 200 and an opening 204 of the movable sleeve 202, and in a flow bore of the tube 116 of the . Additionally, while the movable sleeve 202 is in the first position, fluids also flow to a turbine 210 of the wireless flow controller 200, which rotates the turbine 210. The turbine 210 charges the power source 214 to maintain the power source above the threshold amount of energy. The wireless flow control device 200 also includes an actuation assembly 212 and a second valve 216. In the embodiment of the , the actuation assembly 212 initially prevents fluid flow from the second valve 216 through the wireless flow controller 200 and into the flow bore of the tube 116 before the assembly d actuation 212 is actuated. Additional descriptions of the actuation assembly are provided herein and are illustrated at least in .

The wireless flow controller 200 periodically receives instructions, for example from the controller 118 of the , to move the movable sleeve 202 to a different position in order to limit the flow of fluid into the flow bore of the tube 116. In this regard, the is a schematic cross-sectional view of the wireless flow control device 200 of the after the movable sleeve 202 moves from the first position illustrated in to a second position shown in . As illustrated in , the first fluid flow path through the wireless flow controller 200 into the flow bore of the tube 116 is cut off by the movable sleeve 202 after the movable sleeve 202 moves to the second position shown in . Separating the first fluid flow path also prevents fluids from flowing to the turbine 210 via the first fluid flow path to rotate the turbine 210. The power source 214 eventually becomes depleted while the movable sleeve 202 remains in the second position illustrated in and the turbine 210 is not rotated.

In the embodiment of the , the actuation assembly 212 is actuated to form a second fluid flow path as illustrated by the arrow 218, through the second valve 216 and the actuation assembly 212, to the turbine 210 and finally in the flow bore of the tube 116. In the embodiment of the , although the first fluid flow path is cut off by the movable sleeve 202, fluid flow along the second fluid flow path rotates the turbine 210, which, in turn, recharges the source power 214 until reaching a level above a threshold amount of energy to move the movable sleeve 202. In this regard, actuation of the actuation assembly 212 enables the wireless flow control device 200 to provide fluid flow into the flow bore of tube 116 after fluid flow into the flow bore is initially shut off and after a power source, such as the power source power supply 214, which provides energy to move the movable sleeve 202 to restore fluid flow in the flow bore, no longer stores sufficient energy to move the movable sleeve 202. More particularly, the actuation of the actuation assembly 212 recharges the power source 214 to move the movable sleeve 202, for example from the second position illustrated in back to the first position as shown in , up to a third position as illustrated in to permanently restrict fluid flow through the wireless flow controller 200, or in a different position along the wireless flow controller 200.

In this regard, the is a schematic cross-sectional view of the wireless flow control device 200 of the after the movable sleeve 202 moves from the second position illustrated in up to a third position shown in , the fluid flow through the first fluid flow path and the second fluid flow path being cut off by the movable sleeve 202. In the embodiment of the , fluid no longer flows around the turbine 210 to rotate the turbine 210. Furthermore, the power source 214 eventually empties until the power source 214 no longer stores the threshold quantity energy to move the movable sleeve 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the movable sleeve 202 is moved to the third position if it is no longer desired to flow fluid through the controller wireless flow channel 200 in the flow bore of the tube 116.

Although Figures 2A through 2C illustrate a movable sleeve 202, in some embodiments, the wireless flow controller 200 uses another type of movable device, such as, but not limited to, a piston movable, a movable cover, a movable rod, a concentric sleeve, a piston sleeve, an actuator sleeve, or another type of movable device having an opening similar to the opening 204, and movable into the positions illustrated in Figures 2A to 2C. Additionally, although Figures 2A through 2C illustrate the power source 214 and the turbine 210 being separated by the movable sleeve 202, in some embodiments the power source 214 and the turbine 210 are housed in the same housing. Additionally, although Figures 2A through 2B illustrate the first valve 206 and the second valve 216, in some embodiments, the wireless flow controller 200 includes one or more intermediate ports, valves, and flow paths which provide fluid flow to the turbine 210 and into the flow bore of the tube 116. Although the illustrates an opening 204, in some embodiments, the movable sleeve 202 includes multiple openings configured to form multiple fluid flow paths through the wireless flow controller 200. In some embodiments, an adjustable valve is positioned in or around the opening 204 to control fluid flow through the movable sleeve. In the embodiment of Figures 2A and 2B, the actuation assembly 212 comprises a communication module (not shown) which is housed in a housing of the actuation assembly. In some embodiments, the communications module is a remote component.

There is a schematic cross-sectional view of the actuation assembly 212 of the wireless flow control device 200 of the . In the embodiment of the , the actuation assembly 212 includes a rupture disk 302 which is initially intact to prevent fluid from flowing through the second valve 216 of Figures 2A and 2B so that it flows through the disk of rupture 302. The actuation assembly 212 also includes a thruster 304 which is in a first position, as illustrated in the , and an actuator 306, which, when actuated, moves the thruster 304 from the first position to a second position (not shown) through the rupture disk 302 to rupture the rupture disk 302. In some modes In one embodiment, the actuator 306 is a chemical actuator which, when actuated, triggers a chemical reaction which moves the propeller 304 from the first position to the second position to rupture the rupture disc 302. In some modes of embodiment, actuator 306 is a chemical actuator which, when actuated, initiates a chemical reaction which pulls a plug 308 from its sealing location. In some embodiments, the actuator 306 is battery operated and is configured to provide power to move the thruster 304 from the first position to the second position to rupture the rupture disc 302. embodiment, the actuator 306 operates on battery and is designed to provide energy to move the plug 308 from a first sealing position to a second position which allows the passage of fluid. In the embodiment of the , after the rupture of the rupture disk 302, the fluid flowing through the second valve 216 of Figures 2A and 2B also flows through the rupture disk 302 to the turbine 210 of Figures 2A to 2C to make rotating the turbine 210, which recharges the power source 214 of Figures 2A and 2B to provide the power source 214 with sufficient energy to move the movable sleeve 202 of Figures 2A and 2B.

There is a schematic cross-sectional view of another wireless flow control device 400 that is similar to the wireless flow control device 200 of the while a movable sleeve 402 of the wireless flow controller 400 is in a first position. In the embodiment of the , a power source 414 of the wireless flow controller 400 provides energy to move the movable sleeve 402 while the power source 414 stores more than a threshold amount of energy. In the embodiment of the , and while the movable sleeve 402 is in the first position, a first fluid flow path in a direction illustrated by arrow 408 is established through a first valve 406 of the wireless flow controller 400 and an opening 404 of the movable sleeve 402, and in a flow bore of the tube 116. Additionally, while the movable sleeve 402 is in the first position, a second fluid flow path in a direction illustrated by the arrow 428 is established through a second valve 426 of the wireless flow controller 400 and a housing of the wireless flow controller 400 which also houses a turbine 410, and into a flow bore of the tube 116. In this regard, while the movable sleeve 402 is in the first position, fluids also flow to the impeller 410 of the wireless flow controller 400 which rotates the impeller 410, which in its turn tower, charges the power source 414 to maintain the power source above the threshold amount of energy. The wireless flow controller 400 also includes an actuation assembly 412 that is similar to the actuation assembly 212 of the , and a third valve 416. In the embodiment of the , the actuation assembly 412 initially prevents fluid flow from the third valve 416 through the wireless flow controller 400 and into the flow bore of the tube 116 before the actuation assembly 412 actuation 412 is activated.

The wireless flow controller 400 periodically receives instructions, for example from the controller 118 of the , to move the movable sleeve 402 to a different position to limit the flow of fluid into the flow bore of the tube 116. After the movable sleeve 402 moves from the first position shown in to a second position (not shown) which intersects the first fluid flow path and the second fluid flow path, fluids no longer flow to the turbine 410, and the power source 414 ends up being exhausted while the movable sleeve 402 remains in the second position. Once the power source 414 is depleted, an actuation signal is sent (e.g. to a communications module of the wireless flow controller 400 which is housed in the same housing of the power source 414) to actuate the actuation assembly 412, and to form a third fluid flow path which is similar to the second fluid flow path 218 of the to the turbine 410 and finally into the flow bore of the tube 116. In this regard, although the first fluid flow path and the second fluid flow path are intersected by the movable sleeve 402, fluid flow along the third fluid flow path rotates the turbine 410, which, in turn, recharges the power source 414 until it reaches a level greater than a threshold amount of energy to move the movable sleeve 402. Although the illustrates a movable sleeve 402, in some embodiments, the wireless flow control device 400 includes another type of movable device, such as, but not limited to, a movable piston, a movable cover, a movable movable rod, a concentric sleeve, a piston sleeve, an actuating sleeve, or another type of movable device having an opening similar to the opening 404.

There is a schematic cross-sectional view of another wireless flow control device 500 that is similar to the wireless flow control device 200 of the . The wireless flow controller 500 includes a movable sleeve 502 that is movable from a first position (not shown), where fluid flows through a first fluid flow path formed from a first valve 506 of the wireless flow control device 500 and an opening 504 of the movable sleeve 502 in a flow bore of the tube 116, to a second position illustrated in , where the first fluid flow path through the wireless flow controller 500 is intersected by the movable sleeve 502. The wireless flow controller 500 includes a first actuation assembly 522 that is fluidly coupled to a second valve 526 of the wireless flow control device 500, and a second actuation assembly 512 which is fluidly coupled to a third valve 516 of the wireless flow control device 500.

After the movable sleeve 502 moves to the second position and a power source 514 of the wireless flow controller 500 no longer has sufficient power to move the movable sleeve 502, a signal actuation is transmitted (for example from the control device 118 of the ) to a communications module (not shown) of the wireless flow controller 500 to establish a second fluid flow path. In the embodiment of the , the first actuation assembly 522 is similar or identical to the actuation assembly 212 of the . Additionally, in response to receiving the actuation signal, the first actuation assembly 522 initiates a chemical reaction to move a propellant (not shown) through a rupture disk (not shown) which initially prevents fluids into the second valve 526 to flow through the rupture disc. After the rupture disk ruptures, fluid flowing through the second valve 526 also flows through the rupture disk to a turbine 510 of the wireless flow controller 500 to rotate the turbine 510, which recharges the power source 514 to provide the power source 514 with sufficient energy to move the movable sleeve 502 into the first position to restore the first fluid flow path, or optionally into a third position (not shown) to cut off the second fluid flow path established by actuation of the first actuation assembly 522. In some embodiments, a command is transmitted by the controller 118 of the after completion of a well operation to move the movable sleeve 502 to the third position to prevent fluid flow through the first fluid flow path and the second fluid flow path into the tube 116.

Once the movable sleeve 502 moves to the third position and the power source 514 of the wireless flow controller 500 no longer has sufficient power to move the movable sleeve 502, another signal d The actuation is transmitted to the communication module of the wireless flow controller 500 to establish a third fluid flow path. In the embodiment of the , the second actuation assembly 512 is also similar or identical to the actuation assembly 212 of the . Additionally, in response to receiving the actuation signal, the second actuation assembly 512 initiates a chemical reaction to move a propellant (not shown) through a rupture disk (not shown) which initially prevents fluids into the third valve 516 to flow through the rupture disk. After the rupture disk ruptures, fluid flowing through the third valve 516 also flows through the rupture disk to the turbine 510, which recharges the power source 514 to provide the source with supply 514 with sufficient energy to move the movable sleeve 502 into the first position to restore the first fluid flow path, optionally into a fourth position (not shown) to cut off the third fluid flow path, or a different position along the wireless flow controller 500. Although the illustrates two actuation assemblies 512 and 522, in some embodiments, the wireless flow controller 500 includes three or more actuation assemblies, each configured to establish a fluid path to recharge the source of food 514. Although the illustrates a movable sleeve 502, in some embodiments, the wireless flow control device 500 includes another type of movable device, such as, but not limited to, a movable piston, a movable cover, a movable movable rod, a concentric sleeve, a piston sleeve, an actuating sleeve, or another type of movable device having an opening similar to the opening 504.

There is a schematic cross-sectional view of another wireless flow control device 600 that is similar to the wireless flow control device 200 of the . In the embodiment of the , similar to the embodiment of the , a movable sleeve 602 of the wireless flow controller 600 can be moved from a first position (not shown), where fluids flow via a first fluid flow path through the valve 606 and an opening 604 of the movable sleeve 602 in a flow bore of the tube 116, up to the second position illustrated in , where fluid flow through the first fluid flow path is cut off by the movable sleeve 602.

After the movable sleeve 602 moves to the second position and a power source 614 of the wireless flow controller 600 no longer has sufficient power to move the movable sleeve 602, a signal actuation is transmitted (for example from the control device 118 of the ) to a communications module (not shown) of the wireless flow controller 600 to restore fluid flow through the wireless flow controller 600. In the embodiment of the , in response to receiving the actuation signal, an actuation assembly 612 of the wireless flow controller 600 initiates a chemical reaction to move the movable sleeve 602 into the first position or another position to establish a fluid flow to a turbine 610 of the wireless flow controller 600 to rotate the turbine 610, which recharges the power source 614 to provide the power source 614 with sufficient energy to move the movable sleeve 602 for subsequent operations. In some embodiments, the chemical reaction moves the movable sleeve 602 into the first position to also restore fluid flow through the first fluid flow path. In some embodiments, the chemical reaction rotates the turbine 610, which recharges the power source 614 to provide the power source 614 with sufficient energy to move the movable sleeve 614 for subsequent operations. Although the illustrates a movable sleeve 602, in some embodiments, the wireless flow control device 600 includes another type of movable device, such as, but not limited to, a movable piston, a movable cover, a movable movable rod, a concentric sleeve, a piston sleeve, an actuating sleeve, or another type of movable device having an opening similar to the opening 604.

There is a schematic diagram 700 of a first configuration of a wireless flow controller that is similar to the wireless flow controller 200 of the . In the embodiment of the , the adjustable valves 702, 712, and 722 are components of a movable apparatus (e.g., movable sleeve openings) of the wireless flow control device and are coupled to each other. Additionally, the wireless flow control device also includes a valve 716 which is actuated by an actuation assembly such as actuation assembly 212 of the to provide fluid flow to an impeller 710 of the wireless flow controller. Additionally, the movable apparatus is configured to move into different positions to fluidly couple one or more of the adjustable valves 702, 704 and 706 with the valve 716 or other valves (not shown), ports (not shown) or openings (not shown) to provide fluid flow through the wireless flow controller, and to provide fluid flow to the turbine 710.

There is a schematic diagram 730 of a second configuration of a wireless flow controller that is similar to the wireless flow controller 200 of the . In the embodiment of the , an adjustable valve 732 of a movable apparatus of the wireless flow controller is in series with a turbine 740 of the wireless flow controller. Additionally, the wireless flow control device also includes a valve 746 which is actuated by an actuation assembly such as actuation assembly 212 of the to provide fluid flow to the turbine 740. In the embodiment of the , the adjustable valve 732 is parallel to the valve 746.

There is a schematic diagram 760 of a third configuration of a wireless flow controller that is similar to the wireless flow controller 200 of the . In the embodiment of the , an adjustable valve 762 of a movable apparatus of the wireless flow control device is in series with a first turbine 770 of the wireless flow control device. Additionally, the wireless flow control device also includes a valve 776 which is actuated by an actuation assembly such as actuation assembly 212 of the to provide fluid flow to a second impeller 780 of the wireless flow controller. In the embodiment of the , the adjustable valve 762 and the first turbine 770 are in series with each other, while the valve 776 and the second turbine 780 are in series with each other. In addition, the adjustable valve 762 and the first turbine 770 are parallel to the valve 776 and the second turbine 780. More particularly, in the embodiment of the , parallel (or different) fluid flow paths are established to rotate the first turbine 770 and the second turbine 780.

There is a flow diagram of a process 800 of restoring fluid flow through a flow control device. Although the operations of process 800 are represented in a particular sequence, certain operations may be performed in different sequences or at the same time, where possible.

At block S802, a movable apparatus is moved from a first position to a second position to cut off a first fluid flow path through a flow controller. In this regard, Figures 2A to 2B illustrate the movement of the movable device 202 from the first position illustrated in to the second position shown in to cut off the first fluid flow path illustrated by arrow 208. At block S804, an actuation assembly is actuated to rotate a turbine. In this regard, the illustrates an actuation assembly 212 containing a rupture disc 302, a thruster 304 and an actuator 306 which, when actuated, moves the thruster 304 from the first position illustrated in to a second position (not shown) through the rupture disk 302 to rupture the rupture disk 302. In some embodiments, the actuator 306 is a chemical actuator which, when actuated, triggers a reaction chemical that moves the thruster 304 from the first position to the second position to rupture the rupture disc 302. In some embodiments, the actuator 306 is battery operated and is configured to provide power to move the propeller 304 from the first position to the second position to rupture the rupture disk 302. After the rupture disk 302 ruptures, the fluid flowing through the rupture disk 302 also flows to the turbine 210 of Figures 2A through 2C to rotate the turbine 210. In some embodiments, a second fluid flow path through the wireless flow controller, such as the second fluid flow path of there as indicated by arrow 218 of the , is established after actuation of the actuation assembly. In the embodiment of the , fluid flowing through the second fluid flow path rotates the turbine 210 and eventually flows into the flow bore of the tube 116 of the .

At block S806, energy generated by the turbine is supplied to a power source to recharge the power source. The turbine 210 of Figures 2A to 2C, for example, recharges the power source 214 of Figures 2A and 2B to provide the power source 214 with sufficient energy to move the movable sleeve 202 of Figures 2A and 2B. At block S808, the movable apparatus is moved from the second position to the first position to restore the first fluid flow path. In this regard, once the power source 214 is sufficiently charged, the power source 214 provides energy to move the movable sleeve 214 from the second position illustrated in back to the first position shown in to restore the first flow path. In some embodiments, after the movable apparatus is moved to the first position, and after completion of an operation, the movable apparatus is then moved to the third position, such as the position illustrated in to cut off both the first and second fluid flow paths through the wireless flow controller. In some embodiments, where the wireless flow control device includes additional actuation assemblies, an additional assembly is actuated once the movable apparatus is in the third position to restore fluid flow until 'to the turbine, which recharges the power source of the wireless flow controller to move the movable apparatus from the third position to a different position.

The embodiments described above have been presented for purposes of illustration and to enable those skilled in the art to put the description into practice, but the description is neither exhaustive nor limited to the forms described. Many non-substantial modifications and variations will appear to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The scope of the claims is intended to cover generally the described embodiments and any such modifications. Additionally, the following clauses represent additional embodiments of the invention and should be considered within the scope of the invention:

Clause 1, wireless flow control device, comprising: a movable apparatus; a power source configured to provide power to move the movable apparatus from a first position to a second position; a valve that forms a first fluid flow path through the wireless flow controller while the movable apparatus is in the first position; an actuation assembly, which, when actuated, forms a second fluid flow path through the wireless flow control device; and a turbine designed to recharge the power source.

Clause 2, wireless flow control device according to clause 1, further comprising a second valve which is fluidly coupled to the actuation assembly, wherein the second valve and the actuation assembly form the second path of fluid flow after actuation of the actuation assembly, and wherein the turbine is positioned along the second fluid flow path and configured to recharge the power source while the fluid flows through the second fluid flow path rotates the turbine.

Clause 3, wireless flow control device according to clause 2, wherein the power source is configured to provide power to move the movable apparatus from the second position to the first position to restore the first fluid flow path through the wireless flow control device after the fluid flowing through the second fluid flow path rotates the turbine.

Clause 4, a wireless flow control device according to any of clauses 1 to 3, further comprising a second turbine positioned along the second fluid flow path and configured to recharge the power source while fluid flowing through the second fluid flow path rotates the second turbine, wherein the turbine is positioned along the first fluid flow path and is configured to recharge the power source while the Fluid flowing through the first fluid flow path rotates the turbine.

Clause 5, a wireless flow control device according to any of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the actuation assembly comprises: a rupture disc; and a thruster configured to move from a first position to a second position to rupture the rupture disk, wherein the actuation assembly is actuated after the thruster moves from the first position to the second position.

Clause 6, a wireless flow control device according to Clause 5, wherein the thruster comprises a chemical actuator configured to: receive an actuation signal; and in response to receiving the actuation signal, starting a chemical reaction that moves the thruster from the first position to the second position.

Clause 7, a wireless flow control device according to any of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the movable apparatus includes an aperture which is fluidly coupled to the valve to form the first fluid flow path with the valve while the movable device is in the first position.

Clause 8, a wireless flow control device according to any of clauses 1 to 7, wherein the movable apparatus is configured to move to a third position, wherein the first fluid flow path and the second fluid flow path are cut off while the movable apparatus is in the third position.

Clause 9, a wireless flow control device according to any of clauses 1 to 8, wherein the power source is configured to supply power to a communications module, and wherein the communications module is configured to receive an actuation signal to actuate the actuation assembly.

Clause 10, a wireless flow control device according to any of clauses 1 to 9, further comprising a second actuation assembly, which, when actuated, forms a third fluid flow path to through the wireless flow controller.

Clause 11, wireless flow control device, comprising: a movable apparatus; a power source configured to provide power to move the movable apparatus from a first position to a second position; a valve that forms a first fluid flow path through the wireless flow controller while the movable apparatus is in the first position; a turbine designed to recharge the power source; and an actuator configured to operate after the movable apparatus is moved from the first position to the second position, wherein actuation of the actuation assembly causes the movable apparatus to move from the second position position to the first position.

Clause 12, wireless flow control device according to clause 11, wherein the actuator includes a chemical charge which, when actuated, moves the movable apparatus from the second position to the first position.

Clause 13, wireless flow control device according to clauses 11 or 12, wherein the actuator includes a chemical charge which, when actuated, rotates the turbine.

Clause 14, a wireless flow control device according to any of clauses 11 to 13, further comprising an actuation assembly, which, when actuated, forms a second fluid flow path through the wireless flow control device, wherein the actuator is a component of the actuation assembly, and wherein the turbine is positioned along the second fluid flow path and configured to recharge the source of feed while fluid flowing through the second fluid flow path rotates the turbine.

Clause 15, wireless flow control device according to clause 14, wherein the power source is configured to provide power to move the movable apparatus from the second position to the first position to restore the first fluid flow path through the wireless flow control device after the fluid flowing through the second fluid flow path rotates the turbine.

Clause 16, a method of restoring fluid flow through a wireless flow control device, comprising: moving a movable apparatus from a first position to a second position to cut off a first flow path fluid flow through the wireless flow controller; after the first fluid flow path through the flow control device is cut off, operating an actuation assembly to rotate a turbine; providing the energy generated by the turbine to recharge a power source; and after the power source is recharged, moving the movable apparatus from the second position to the first position to restore the first fluid flow path.

Clause 17, method according to clause 16, wherein actuation of the actuation assembly further comprises actuation of the actuation assembly to establish a second fluid flow path through the controller of wireless flow, in which fluid flowing through the second fluid flow path rotates the turbine.

Clause 18, a method according to clause 17, further comprising moving the movable apparatus from the second position to a third position to cut off the second fluid flow path.

Clause 19, a method according to clause 18, further comprising: after fluid flow through the second fluid flow control device is cut off, operating a second actuation assembly to rotate the turbine; providing the energy generated by the turbine to recharge the power source; after the power source is recharged, moving the movable apparatus from the third position to the first position to restore the first fluid flow path.

Clause 20, method according to any of clauses 16 to 19, wherein the actuation assembly comprises a rupture disc and a thruster, and wherein actuation of the actuation assembly comprises: starting a chemical reaction to move the propellant from a first position to a second position to perforate the rupture disc; and establishing the second fluid flow path through the rupture disk after the rupture disk is punctured.

It will further be understood that the terms "include" and/or "comprising", when used in this description and/or in the claims, specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements and /or components presented, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other characteristics, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof. Additionally, the steps and components described in the embodiments and figures above are merely illustrative and do not imply that any particular step or component is a requirement of a claimed embodiment.

Arrows indicating fluid flow directions are for illustration purposes only. It is understood that fluids may flow in other directions not shown in the figures.

Claims (15)

Wireless flow control device (200), comprising:
a movable device;
a power source (214) configured to provide power to move the movable apparatus from a first position to a second position;
a valve (206) that forms a first fluid flow path through the wireless flow controller (200) while the movable apparatus is in the first position;
an actuation assembly (212) which, when actuated, forms a second fluid flow path through the wireless flow control device; And
a turbine (210) configured to recharge the power source. The wireless flow control device (200) of claim 1 further comprising a second valve (216) that is fluidly coupled to the actuation assembly, wherein the second valve (216) and the assembly actuation (212) form the second fluid flow path after actuation of the actuation assembly, and wherein the turbine (210) is positioned along the second fluid flow path and configured to recharge the power source (214) while fluid flowing through the second fluid flow path rotates the turbine. A wireless flow control device (200) according to claim 2, wherein the power source (214) is configured to provide power to move the movable apparatus from the second position to the first position to restore the first fluid flow path through the wireless flow controller after fluid flowing through the second fluid flow path rotates the turbine. A wireless flow control device (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a second turbine (780) positioned along the second fluid flow path and configured to recharge the source of fluid. supply (214) while fluid flowing through the second fluid flow path rotates the second turbine, wherein the turbine is positioned along the first fluid flow path and is configured to recharge the source feed while fluid flowing through the first fluid flow path rotates the turbine. Wireless flow control device (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the actuation assembly comprises:
a rupture disk (302); And
a thruster (304) designed to move from a first position to a second position in order to break the rupture disc,
wherein the actuation assembly (212) is actuated after the thruster moves from the first position to the second position. A wireless flow control device (200) according to claim 5, wherein the thruster (304) comprises a chemical actuator configured to:
receive an actuation signal; And
in response to receiving the actuation signal, starting a chemical reaction that moves the thruster from the first position to the second position. A wireless flow control device (200) according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the movable apparatus includes an opening (204) which is fluidly coupled to the valve to form the first fluid flow path with the flap while the movable device is in the first position. A wireless flow control device (200) according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the movable apparatus is configured to move to a third position, wherein the first fluid flow path and the second fluid flow path are cut off while the movable apparatus is in the third position. A wireless flow control device (200) according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the power source (214) is configured to provide power to a communications module, and wherein the The communication module is configured to receive an actuation signal to actuate the actuation assembly. A wireless flow control device (200) according to any of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a second actuation assembly (512), which, when actuated, forms a third flow path of fluid through the wireless flow controller. A method of restoring fluid flow through a wireless flow controller (200), comprising:
moving a movable apparatus from a first position to a second position to intersect a first fluid flow path through the wireless flow controller;
after the first fluid flow path through the flow control device is cut off, operating an actuation assembly (212) to rotate a turbine (210);
providing energy generated by the turbine to recharge a power source (214); And
after the power source is recharged, moving the movable apparatus from the second position to the first position to restore the first fluid flow path. The method of claim 11, wherein actuating the actuation assembly further comprises actuating the actuation assembly to establish a second fluid flow path through the flow control device wireless, in which fluid flowing through the second fluid flow path rotates the turbine. The method of claim 12 further comprising moving the movable apparatus from the second position to a third position to cut off the second fluid flow path. A method according to claim 13, further comprising:
after fluid flow through the second fluid flow control device is cut off, operating a second actuation assembly (512) to rotate the turbine;
providing the energy generated by the turbine to recharge the power source;
after the power source (214) is recharged, moving the movable apparatus from the third position to the first position to restore the first fluid flow path. A method according to claim 14, wherein the actuation assembly comprises a rupture disc (302) and a thruster (304), and wherein actuation of the actuation assembly comprises:
starting a chemical reaction to move the propellant from a first position to a second position to puncture the rupture disk; And
establishing the second fluid flow path through the rupture disk after the rupture disk is punctured.