WO2016176317A1

WO2016176317A1 - Closing unit with magnetically locking valve

Info

Publication number: WO2016176317A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/029544
Authority: WO
Inventors: Matthew Wheeler; Brandon Thomas HOOKS; Eric TIPTON; Jacob Joseph EDEL
Original assignee: Stronghold Oilfield Solutions Llc
Priority date: 2015-04-27
Filing date: 2016-04-27
Publication date: 2016-11-03

Abstract

Systems and methods are disclosed that may include providing at least one magnetically locking valve (MLV) in a closing unit of a hydrocarbon production system, the MLV comprising a base plate comprising a plurality of gates, a shaft coupled to the base plate, wherein rotation of the shaft selectively alters a flowpath through the plurality of gates, and an electromagnetic locking mechanism, comprising a magnet, and a strike plate coupled to the shaft, wherein in response to passing an electrical current to the magnet, the magnet is configured to maintain its position with respect to the strike plate and prevent the shaft from rotating.

Description

Closing Unit with Magnetically Locking Valve

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 1 19(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/153,330 filed on April 27, 2015 by Matthew Wheeler, et al., and entitled "Closing Unit with Magnetically Locking Valve," the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX [0003] Not applicable.

BACKGROUND

[0004] Hydrocarbon production systems often include at least one closing unit that remotely opens and closes hydraulic valves, also referred to as blowout preventers (BOP's), to manage and/or control the flow of hydrocarbon production fluids. Typically, gas produced from the wellhead (referred to as "wellhead gas," "field gas," or "dirty gas"), can experience extreme and/or rapid pressure fluctuations. Failure to effectively manage and/or control these pressure fluctuations can often result in a situation referred to as a blowout, which is an uncontrolled and explosive discharge of production fluids from the well that can cause equipment damage, injury, and/or even loss of life. Additionally, the wrong hydraulic valve may often be actuated during fracturing or perforating operations, which may result in severing a wireline causing possible rupture of surface treating lines or wellhead damage, and/or unintentionally releasing pressure. Accordingly, effective and efficient management and/or control of hydraulic valves is imperative to safe and effective operation of a hydrocarbon production system.

SUMMARY

[0005] In some embodiments of the disclosure, a valve is disclosed as comprising: a valve body comprising a plurality of gates; a shaft coupled to the valve body, wherein rotation of the shaft selectively alters a flowpath through the plurality of gates; and an electromagnetic locking mechanism, comprising: a magnet; and a strike plate coupled to the shaft; wherein in response to passing an electrical current through the magnet, the magnet is configured to maintain its position with respect to the strike plate and prevent the shaft from rotating.

[0006] In other embodiments of the disclosure, a closing unit is disclosed as comprising: a power and control unit (PCU); and at least one magnetically locking valve (MLV), comprising: a valve body comprising a plurality of gates; a shaft coupled to the valve body, wherein rotation of the shaft selectively alters a flowpath through the plurality of gates; and an electromagnetic locking mechanism, comprising: a magnet; and a strike plate coupled to the shaft; wherein in response to passing an electrical current to the magnet, the magnet is configured to maintain its position with respect to the strike plate and prevent the shaft from rotating.

[0007] In yet other embodiments of the disclosure, a method is disclosed as comprising: providing at least one magnetically locking valve (MLV) in a closing unit, the MLV comprising a shaft, a magnet, and a strike plate coupled to the shaft; passing an electrical current to the magnet; locking a position of a strike plate with respect to the magnet; and preventing rotation of the shaft. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following brief description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings and detailed description:

[0009] FIG. 1 is an oblique assembled view of a magnetically locking valve (MLV) according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0010] FIG. 2 is an oblique exploded view of the magnetically locking valve (MLV) of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0011] FIG. 3 is an another oblique exploded view of the magnetically locking valve (MLV) of FIGS. 1 and 2 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 4 is an oblique exploded view of a magnetically locking valve (MLV) according to another embodiment of the disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 5 is an oblique exploded view of the magnetically locking valve (MLV) of FIG. 4 comprising a lock engagement monitor according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 6 is an oblique exploded view of the magnetically locking valve (MLV) of FIG. 4 comprising a valve position monitoring system according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 7 is an orthogonal top view of the valve position monitoring system of FIG. 6 according to another embodiment of the disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 8 is an orthogonal top view of a transmissive rotary encoder disk of the valve position monitoring system of FIG. 7 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 9 is an oblique exploded view of the magnetically locking valve (MLV) of FIG. 4 comprising an improper valve actuation monitor according to an embodiment of the disclosure; [0018] FIG. 10 is an oblique side view of a magnetically locking valve (MLV) according to another embodiment of the disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 1 1 is an oblique top view of the magnetically locking valve (MLV) of FIG. 10 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 12 is a schematic of a closing unit comprising a plurality of magnetically locking valves (MLV's) of FIGS. 1-1 1 and a power and control unit (PCU) according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 13 is a schematic of the power and control unit (PCU) of FIG. 12 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 14 is a schematic of a hydrocarbon production system comprising a plurality of closing units of FIG. 12 and at least one command interface unit (CIU) according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of a general-purpose processor system according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 16 is a flowchart of a method of configuring the command interface unit (CIU) of FIG. 14 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a method of operating the command interface unit (CIU) of FIG. 14 according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and

[0026] FIG. 18 is a flowchart of a method of operating the power and control unit (PCU) of FIGS. 12-14 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, an oblique assembled view, an oblique exploded view, and another oblique exploded view of a magnetically locking valve (MLV) 100 are shown, respectively, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The MLV 100 comprises a lower valve body 102, an upper valve body 105, a plurality of dowel pins 108, a magnet 109, a strike plate 1 12, a magnet cover tube 1 14, a magnet cover plate 1 17, a shaft 121, and a handle 124. Generally, the lower valve body 102 comprises two sets of opposing gates 103 that are configured to allow fluid to flow through selective flowpaths that extend between various gates 103. In some embodiments, the lower valve body 102 comprises a known component of an existing valve that utilizes known gate valve technology to selectively alter the flowpaths through the lower valve body 102 between the various gates 103. More specifically, a flowpath switching component of the lower valve body 102 may be coupled to a lower end of the shaft 121, whereby rotation of the shaft 121 may selectively rotate the flowpath switching component to alter the flowpath through the lower valve body 102 between the various gates 103 and/or substantially restrict the flow of any fluid through the gate 103 of the lower valve body 102.

[0028] The lower valve body 102 may generally comprise a substantially flat upper surface that is configured to mate to a substantially flat lower surface of the upper valve body 105. The lower valve body 102 may comprise a plurality of mounting holes 104 that are substantially complementary to mounting holes 106 disposed through the upper valve body 105. Fasteners, including but not limited to, threaded screws, dowel pins, and/or any other fastening means may be inserted through the mounting holes 106 of the upper valve body 105 and at least partially through the mounting holes 104 of the lower valve body 102 to secure the upper valve body 105 to the lower valve body 102. In some embodiments, the mounting holes 106 may comprise clearance holes configured to accept the shaft of a fastener, while the mounting holes 104 may comprise threaded holes configured to receive complementary threads of a fastener to secure the upper valve body 105 to the lower valve body 102. The upper valve body 105 may also comprise a substantially complementary outer profile that is substantially similar to the outer profile of the lower valve body 102. For example, the lower valve body 102 may generally comprise a substantially square shaped outer profile, while a lower portion 105' of the upper valve body 105 that mates to the lower valve body 102 may also comprise a substantially square shaped outer profile. Additionally, the upper valve body 105 may comprise an upper valve body bore 107 configured to allow the shaft 121 to extend through the upper valve body 105 to the lower valve body 102.

[0029] The upper valve body 105 may generally comprise a substantially cylindrical upper portion 105" that extends from the substantially square-shaped lower portion 105'. The cylindrical upper portion 105" of the upper valve body 105 may generally comprise a substantially complementary shaped profile to the magnet cover tube 1 14 and comprise a substantially flat upper surface that is configured to mate to a substantially flat lower surface of the magnet cover tube 1 14. In some embodiments, the mating surfaces of the upper valve body 105 and the magnet cover tube 1 14 may be configured to accept a seal, an O-ring, and/or any other sealing mechanism and/or device.

[0030] The magnet cover plate 1 17 may generally comprise a magnet cover plate seat 1 19 that is configured to mate to a top surface of the magnet cover tube 1 14. In some embodiments, the magnet cover plate 1 17 and/or the top surface of the magnet cover tube 1 14 may be configured to accept a seal, an O-ring, and/or any other sealing mechanism and/or device between the magnet cover plate seat 1 19 and the top surface of the magnet cover tube 1 14. The magnet cover plate 1 17 also comprises a plurality of magnet cover plate mounting holes 120 that are complementary to both magnet cover tube mounting holes 129 and upper valve body mounting holes 126. In some embodiments, the magnet cover plate mounting holes 120 and the magnet cover tube mounting holes 129 comprise clearance holes configured to accept the shaft of a fastener, while the upper valve body mounting holes 126 comprise threaded holes that have complementary threads to the fasteners. Accordingly, the magnet cover tube 1 14 may be held in place between the upper valve body 105 and the magnet cover plate 1 17. The magnet cover plate 1 17 also comprises a magnet cover plate bore 1 18 that is configured to accept the shaft 121 through the magnet cover plate 1 17. In some embodiments, the magnet plate cover 1 17 may comprise a bearing and/or plurality of bearings to facilitate rotation of the shaft within the MLV 100.

[0031] The magnet cover tube 1 14 may also generally comprise a magnet cover tube bore 1 15 that allows the magnet 109 and the stroke plate 1 12 to be housed within the magnet cover tube 1 14. The magnet cover tube 1 14 may also comprise a wiring aperture 1 16 configured to accept wiring 1 1 1 that delivers electrical current to the magnet 109. When assembled, the upper surface of the longitudinal upper portion 105" of the upper valve body 105 may comprise a plurality of upper valve body dowel pin holes 127 that are used to align the upper valve body 105 to the magnet 109. The magnet 109 may comprise a plurality of magnet dowel pin holes 128 that are configured to accept the plurality of dowel pins 108 to properly axially align the upper valve body 105 to the magnet 109. In some embodiments, the dowel pins 108 may press fit into the magnet dowel pin holes 128 of magnet 109, while the upper valve body dowel pin holes 127 comprise oversized holes that restrict, but not totally confine movement of the magnet 109. However, in alternative embodiments, the dowel pins 108 may press fit into the upper valve body 105, while the magnet dowel pin holes 128 comprise oversized holes that allow the dowel pins 108 to slide within the magnet dowel pin holes 128. [0032] The magnet 109 also comprises a magnet bore 1 10 that is configured to accept the shaft 121. Generally the magnet bore 1 10 comprises a slip fit that allows the magnet to slightly traverse along a longitudinal axis of the shaft 121. The strike plate 1 12 is also housed within the magnet cover tube 1 14 and comprises a strike plate bore 1 13 that is configured to receive the shaft 121. The strike plate bore 1 13 may generally be keyed to the shaft 121 such that the strike plate 1 12 rotates with the shaft 121. The shaft 121 may generally be received through the magnet cover plate bore 1 18 and extend through the strike plate bore 1 13, the magnet bore 1 10, and the upper body valve bore 107, and be coupled to a flowpath switching component of the lower valve body 102. Accordingly, rotation of the shaft 121 may selectively rotate the flowpath switching component to alter the flowpath through the lower valve body 102 between the various gates 103 and/or substantially restrict the flow of any fluid through the gates 103 of the lower valve body 102.

[0033] The shaft 121 generally extends beyond a top surface of the magnet cover plate 1 17 and comprises a shaft key 122 that is configured to couple to a complementary handle key 125 of the handle 124. Thus, by applying a force to the handle 124, the shaft 121 is rotated. Additionally, the shaft may also comprise a threaded portion 123 that extends from the shaft key 122 at a distal end of the shaft 121. The threaded portion 123 is configured to receive a nut, a locking nut, and/ or any other suitable complementary threaded fastener to secure, couple, and/or maintain the handle 124 in position with respect to the shaft 121.

[0034] Still referring to FIGS. 1 -3, in operation, the MLV 100 may generally be configured to utilize existing gate valve technology to selectively alter the flowpaths through the MLV 100. More specifically, rotation of the shaft 121 may selectively rotate a flowpath switching component of the lower valve body 102 to alter the flowpath through the lower valve body 102 between the various gates 103 and/or substantially restrict the flow of any fluid through the gate 103 of the lower valve body 102. However, MLV 100 incorporates an internal electromagnetic locking mechanism. To electromagnetically lock the MLV 100, an electrical current may be passed through the wiring 1 1 1 to the magnet 109, which causes the magnet 109 to lock to the strike plate 1 12, which is typically constructed from a steel alloy. With the magnet 109 locked from rotating by the dowel pins 108 inserted into the magnet dowel pin holes 128 of the magnet 109 and the upper valve body dowel pin holes 127 of the upper valve body 105, and the strike plate 1 12 keyed to the shaft 121, the shaft 121 is restricted from rotating, thereby locking the shaft 121 in position and locking the MLV 100. Accordingly, when an electrical current is passed through the magnet 109, and the MLV 100 is locked, the flowpaths through the MLV 100 may not be altered unless overridden by manually rotating the handle 124. Thus, the MLV 100 may be locked in an open position that may correspond to different flowpaths through the MLV 100 and/or locked in a closed position where no fluid passes through the MLV 100.

[0035] Consequently, when the current to the magnet 109 of the MLV 100 is ceased, the MLV 100 may be unlocked. In some embodiments, the MLV 100 may comprise a spring and/or a plurality of springs that may push the magnet 109 away from the strike plate 1 12 to aid in unlocking the MLV 100. In some embodiments, the MLV 100 may be capable of applying at least about 300 pounds of force to the shaft 121. However, in alternative embodiments, the MLV 100 may be capable of applying at least about 400 pounds, at least about 500 pounds, and/or at least about 600 pounds of force or higher to the shaft 121.

[0036] Additionally, in some embodiments, the MLV 100 may comprise a light emitting diode (LED) that indicates if the MLV 100 is in an open and/or closed position. In alternative embodiments, the MLV 100 may comprise a plurality of LED's that indicate if the MLV 100 is an open and/or closed position. In yet alternative embodiments, the MLV 100 may comprise a plurality of LED' s that indicate a particular open flowpath through the MLV 100 and/or a closed position of the MLV 100.

[0037] Referring now to FIG. 4, an oblique exploded view of a magnetically locking valve (MLV) 150 is shown according to another embodiment of the disclosure. MLV 150 may generally be substantially similar to MLV 100 and comprise a lower valve body 102, an upper valve body 105, a magnet cover tube 1 14, a magnet cover plate 1 17, a shaft 121, and a handle 124. However, MLV 150 comprises a keyed magnet assembly 152 and a complementary keyed strike plate 160. The keyed magnet assembly 152 may include magnet cover tube 1 14 and the magnet cover plate 1 17 of MLV 100 of FIGS. 1-4 and comprises an upper portion 154 and a lower magnet portion 156. The upper portion 154 of the keyed magnet assembly 152 comprises a central bore 153 that is substantially similar to the magnet bore 1 10 of FIGS. 1-3 and/or the magnet cover plate bore 1 18 FIGS. 1-3 and is configured to accept the shaft 121. Generally the central bore 153 comprises a slip fit that allows the magnet to slightly traverse along a longitudinal axis of the shaft 121. Additionally, the upper portion 154 of the keyed magnet assembly 152 comprises a plurality of mounting holes 155 that are substantially similar to the magnet cover plate mounting holes 120 of FIGS. 1-3 and are complementary to both magnet cover tube mounting holes 129 and upper valve body mounting holes 126. The mounting holes 155 comprise clearance holes configured to accept the shaft of a fastener and be configured to align with the upper valve body mounting holes 126, so that the threaded portion of the upper valve body mounting holes 126 may receive the complementary threads to the fasteners.

[0038] The lower magnet portion 156 of the keyed magnet assembly 152 may generally comprise a magnet and be coupled to the upper portion 154 of the keyed magnet assembly 152. In some embodiments, the lower magnet portion 156 may press fit into a concavity of a bottom side of the upper portion 154. However, in other embodiments, the lower magnet portion 156 may be integrally formed with the upper portion 154, molded into the upper portion 154, and/or otherwise captured by the upper portion 154. In yet other embodiments, the lower magnet portion 156 may be coupled to the upper portion 154 via an adhesive and/or fasteners, including, but not limited to screws, rivets, a combination of helicoils and fasteners and/or any other fastening devices. The lower portion 156 also comprises a plurality of teeth 158. In some embodiments, the teeth 158 may comprise "V-shaped" teeth that are configured to interlock with substantially complementary teeth 162 of the keyed strike plate 160. In some embodiments, the teeth 158 may comprise at least about a 45 degree angle with respect to the horizontal top surface from which they extend. However, in other embodiments, the teeth 158 may comprise at about a 60 degree angle, about a 65 degree angle, and/or about a 75 degree angle. In alternative embodiments, the teeth 158 may comprise a spline having a substantially 90 degree angle.

[0039] The keyed strike plate 160 may generally be substantially similar to the strike plate 1 12 of FIGS. 1 -3 and comprise a central bore 164 that is substantially similar to the strike plate bore 1 13 of FIGS. 1-3. However, the keyed strike plate 160 comprises the substantially complementary teeth 162 that are configured to interlock with the teeth 158 of the keyed magnet assembly 152 when the lower magnet portion 156 is energized by electrical current in a substantially similar manner as the magnet 109 of FIGS. 1-3 is energized by electrical current to electromagnetically lock the magnet 109 to the strike plate 1 12 of MLV 100. Accordingly, when the keyed magnet assembly 152 is energized by an electrical current, the keyed magnet assembly 152 may electromagnetically lock to the keyed strike plate 160 such that the teeth 158, 162 of the keyed magnet assembly 152 and the keyed strike plate 160, respectively, interlock. [0040] Similarly to MLV 100, MLV 150 may generally be configured to utilize existing gate valve technology to selectively alter the flowpaths through the MLV 150. More specifically, rotation of the shaft 121 may selectively rotate a flowpath switching component of the lower valve body 102 to alter the flowpath through the lower valve body 102 between the various gates 103 and/or substantially restrict the flow of any fluid through the gate 103 of the lower valve body 102. However, MLV 150 incorporates an internal electromagnetic locking mechanism substantially similar to MLV 100, but that is enhanced by the interlocking teeth 158, 162. The teeth 158, 162 may generally increase the coefficient of friction between the keyed magnet assembly 152 and the keyed strike plate 160. In some embodiments, the coefficient of friction between the keyed magnet assembly 152 and the keyed strike plate 160 and the holding force of the keyed magnet assembly 152 may combine to determine the holding and/or locking torque of the MLV 150. The MLV 150 may also comprise a spring and/or a plurality of springs that may push the keyed magnet assembly 152 away from the keyed strike plate 160 to aid in disengaging the teeth 158, 162 and therefore unlocking the MLV 150 when the electrical current through the keyed magnet assembly is ceased. Thus, the holding and/or locking torque may also account for the combined spring force.

[0041] Referring now to FIG. 5, an oblique exploded view of the magnetically locking valve (MLV) 150 of FIG. 4 comprising a lock engagement monitor 170 is shown according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The lock engagement monitor 170 generally comprises a system configured to verify that the MLV 150 is locked and/or unlocked. In some embodiments, the lock engagement monitor 170 may be installed, mounted, and/or secured to the keyed magnet assembly 152 and configured to be triggered by a movement in the keyed strike plate 160. However, in other embodiments, the lock engagement monitor 170 may be installed, mounted, and/or secured to the shaft 121 and/or any other component of the MLV 150. In some embodiments, the lock engagement monitor 170 may comprise a mechanical switch, including, but not limited to, a Hall Effect proximity sensor, an optical sensor, an acoustical sensor, and/or any other positional or proximity sensor that may be activated, tripped, and/or switched in response to movement of the keyed strike plate 160 when the MLV 150 is locked. Alternatively, the lock engagement monitor 170 may be deactivated, untripped, reset, and/or unswitched when the MLV 150 is unlocked.

[0042] In other embodiments, the lock engagement monitor 170 may comprise a sensor and/or magnetic switch configured to measure and/or detect the magnetic field generated by passing a current through the keyed magnet assembly 152 when the MLV 150 is locked. Accordingly, the lock engagement monitor 170 may be configured to notify a user if the electromagnetic locking system of the MLV 150 is engaged. The lock engagement monitor 170 may also allow data to be logged in order to determine if usage, climate, and/or time of engagement/disengagement affect the utility, effectiveness, reliability, and/or lifespan of the magnetic components of the MLV 150. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the lock engagement monitor 170 may not require use of additional components installed directly on the MLV 150. Instead, the lock engagement monitor 170 may function by monitoring the electromagnetic current being passed to the MLV 150 at the power source. This may be accomplished by monitoring the electromagnetic current remotely through a secondary control device (such as a PCU 202 described herein with respect to FIGS. 12-14). As such, the electrical current and other specific electromagnetic properties of the MLV 150 and/or its components may enable a user and/or a control system (such as the PCU 202) to determine the force applied to the MLV 150. Calculated magnetic forces may then be used to determine an appropriate range of forces necessary to manually override the MLV 150 and/or determine an appropriate force to prevent such overrides and/or accidental disengagement of the MLV 150.

[0043] Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, an oblique exploded view of the magnetically locking valve (MLV) 150 of FIG. 4 comprising a valve position monitoring system 180 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The valve position monitoring system 180 generally comprises a system configured to verify a specific position of the MLV 150. The valve position monitoring system 180 comprises a sensor 182 and an electrical connector 184 coupled to the sensor 182 for connecting external wiring to the sensor 182. The sensor 182 and the electrical connector 184 may generally be mounted to, carried by, or installed on and/or within the keyed magnet assembly 152. However, in alternative embodiments, the sensor 182 and/or the electrical connector 184 may be carried by any other component of the MLV 150. In some embodiments, the valve position monitoring system 180 may comprise utilizing a Boolean test to determine if the MLV 150 is in and/or near to one or more positions. In such embodiments, the sensor 182 may comprise a mechanical switch, a capacitive proximity sensor, an inductive proximity sensor, a magnetic proximity sensor, a photoelectric sensor, and/or a Hall Effect proximity sensor configured to monitor axial movement of the shaft 121 and/or the keyed strike plate 160 or rotational movement of the shaft 121 and/or handle 124 of the MLV 150 to determine the position of the MLV 150. For example, the sensor 182 may be able to determine a position such as open or closed, and/or may be able to determine a percentage that the MLV 150 is open or closed (i.e. about 10% open/closed, about 15% open/closed, about 25% open/closed, about 35% open/closed, about 50% open, closed) to denote its position.

[0044] Referring now to FIGS. 7 and 8, an orthogonal top view of the valve position monitoring system 180 of FIG. 6 and an orthogonal top view of a transmissive rotary encoder disk of the valve position monitoring system are shown according to another embodiment of the disclosure. In this embodiment, the sensor 182 comprises an optical encoder. Additionally, in this embodiment, the valve position monitoring system 180 also comprises a transmissive rotary encoder disk 185 having a plurality of rotary encoders 186 disposed radially about the transmissive rotary encoder disk 185. The transmissive rotary encoder disk 185 also includes a keyed guide hole 188 configured to couple to the shaft 121 of the MLV 150, such that rotation of the shaft 121 causes a similar rotational degree of the transmissive rotary encoder disk 185. The transmissive rotary encoder disk 185 may generally be coupled to and/or carried by the keyed magnetic strike plate 160 of the MLV 150. However, in other embodiments, the transmissive rotary encoder disk 185 may generally comprise at least a portion of the keyed magnetic strike plate 160 of the MLV 150 such that the rotary encoders 186 are carried by and/or part of the keyed magnetic strike plate 160. The valve position monitoring system 180 in this embodiment may generally be configured to provide a continuous position monitoring system to provide accurate positional information of the MLV 150, whereby the sensor 182 comprises an optical encoder that detects the various rotary encoders 186 of the transmissive rotary encoder disk 185 as the shaft 121 rotates to rotate the keyed strike plate 160 and/or the transmissive rotary encoder disk 185. By detecting the various rotary encoders 186, the sensor 182 may convey an accurate position to and/or determine ranges of correct positions with a control system operating the MLV 150.

[0045] Referring now to FIG. 9, an oblique exploded view of the magnetically locking valve (MLV) 150 of FIG. 4 comprising an improper valve actuation monitor 190 is shown according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The improper valve actuation monitor 190 may generally comprise at least one of a strain gauge 190' disposed on and/or within the handle 124 of the MLV 150 and a torque sensor 190" disposed on and/or within the shaft 121 of the MLV 150. The improper valve actuation monitor 190 may generally be configured to document occurrences when an improper and/or unexpected force is imparted on either the handle 124 and/or the shaft 121 of the MLV 150. More specifically, the strain gauge 190' may be disposed on the handle 124 and configured to measure strain on the handle 121, and the torque sensor 190" may be disposed on the shaft 121 and configured to measure torque imparted upon the shaft 121. Accordingly, when either of the strain gauge 190' or the torque sensor 190" measures a force imparted upon either the handle 124 or the shaft 121, respectively, the strain gauge 190' and/or the torque sensor 190" may indicate to a control system and/or control system device (such as a PCU 202 described herein with respect to FIGS. 12-14) when an improper and/or unexpected force is imparted on either the handle 124 or the shaft 121, which may be indicative of an error made my a user.

[0046] It will be appreciated that an MLV 150 may comprise any and/or each of the lock engagement monitor 170, the valve position monitoring system 180, and the improper valve actuation monitor 190. Additionally, while each of the lock engagement monitor 170, the valve position monitoring system 180, and the improper valve actuation monitor 190 are disclosed as being components of the MLV 150, each of the lock engagement monitor 170, the valve position monitoring system 180, and the improper valve actuation monitor 190 may also be installed in MLV 100 and/or any other embodiments of a magnetic locking valve (MLV) disclosed herein. Further, each of the lock engagement monitor 170, the valve position monitoring system 180, and the improper valve actuation monitor 190 may further be configured to trigger a local and/or remote visual and/or audible alarm when the respective sensors of the lock engagement monitor 170, the valve position monitoring system 180, and the improper valve actuation monitor 190 are activated and/or operated. Additionally, each of the lock engagement monitor 170, the valve position monitoring system 180, and the improper valve actuation monitor 190 may be coupled to a control system device (such as a PCU or CIU as disclosed herein with respect to FIGS. 12- 14) and further be configured to communicate with the control system device to provide information regarding the state of, position of, and/or force imparted on an MLV 100, 150 to the control system device and display the information on a display and/or graphical user interface of the control system device for a user to monitor.

[0047] Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 1 1, an oblique side view and an oblique top view of a magnetically locking valve (MLV) 400 are shown according to another embodiment of the disclosure. MLV 400 may generally be substantially similar to MLV 100 and MLV 150 and comprise a lower valve body 102, an upper valve body 105, a shaft 121 comprising a shaft key 122 and a threaded portion 123, and a handle 124 coupled to the shaft 121. However, MLV 400 comprises an external strike plate 402 and an external magnet 404. The strike plate 402 may generally be coupled to the handle 124 and disposed such that a face of the strike plate 402 is substantially parallel with the length of the handle 124 as viewed from a top position. The magnet 404 may generally be mounted and/or coupled to a magnet mounting plate 406 by a fastener 408, and the magnet mounting plate 406 may be mounted to the upper valve body 105 via at least one fastener 407 disposed through the body mounting holes 106 of the upper valve body 105 and the lower valve body 102. In some embodiments, however, the magnet mounting plate 406 may be mounted to the upper valve body 105 via a plurality of fasteners 407. The magnet mounting plate 406 generally forms a right angle from a base of the magnet mounting plate 406 and extends perpendicularly towards the top of the MLV 400, such that the magnet mounting plate 406 fixes the magnet 404 to the magnet mounting plate 406 substantially parallel with one side of the MLV 400 and orthogonally to an adjacent side of the MLV 400.

[0048] When the handle 124 of the MLV 400 is rotated, a flowpath switching component of the lower valve body 102 coupled to a lower end of the shaft 121 may alter the flowpath through the lower valve body 102 between the various gates 103 and/or substantially restrict the flow of any fluid through the gate 103 of the lower valve body 102. Additionally, as the handle is rotated, the strike plate 402 may approach the magnet 404, until the strike plate 402 contacts the magnet 404. To electromagnetically lock the MLV 400, an electrical current may be passed through the magnet 404, which causes the magnet 404 to lock to the strike plate 402, which is typically constructed from a steel alloy. With the magnet 404 locked to the strike plate 402, the shaft 121 is restricted from rotating, thereby locking the shaft 121 in position and locking the MLV 400. Accordingly, when an electrical current is passed through the magnet 404, and the MLV 400 is locked, the flowpaths through the MLV 400 may not be altered unless overridden by manually rotating the handle 124. Thus, the MLV 400 may be locked in an open position that may correspond to different flowpaths through the MLV 400 and/or locked in a closed position where no fluid passes through the MLV 400. Alternatively, when the electrical current is ceased through the magnet 404, the MLV 400 may be unlocked. It will be appreciated that the geometry of the handle 124, the strike plate 402, and the magnet 404 may be such that the strike plate 402 substantially abuts the magnet 404 when the handle 124 is rotated to the locking position to provide the maximum amount of locking force and/or contact surface area between the strike plate 402 and the magnet 404. Additionally, in alternative embodiments, the positions of the strike plate 402 and the magnet 404 may be switched such that the magnet 404 is coupled to the handle 124, and the strike plate 402 is affixed to the magnet mounting plate 406 by fastener 408. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that an MLV 400 may comprise any and/or all of the lock engagement monitor 170, the valve position monitoring system 180, and the improper valve actuation monitor 190 of FIGS. 5-9.

[0049] Referring now to FIG. 12, a schematic of a closing unit 200 comprising a plurality of magnetically locking valves (MLV's) 100, 150, 400 of FIGS. 1-1 1 and a power and control unit (PCU) 202 is shown according to an embodiment of the disclosure. It will be appreciated that while FIG. 12 depicts a plurality of MLV's 100, a plurality of MLV 150 and/or a plurality of MLV 400 may be substituted for any and/or all of the MLV's 100. However, the closing unit 200 will be discussed as comprising a plurality of MLV's 100 for simplicity. The closing unit 200 generally comprises a plurality of MLV's 100, a PCU 202, a conventional valve 205, and at least one pressure sensor 206. In some embodiments, the closing unit may comprise 2 MLV's 100, 3 MLV's 100, 4 MLV's 100, 6 MLV's 100, and/or any other suitable number of MLV's 100. The PCU 202 generally comprises an alternating current (AC) power connection 203 that supplies power to the PCU 202 and a data connection 204 used to receive data and/or commands from a frac van and/or a wireline command unit through a network router, which may be wired or wireless depending on the drilling site topography. In some embodiments, the data connection 204 may be configured for bidirectional communication and also be capable of communicating data received from the components of the closing unit 200, such as a pressure sensor 206, to the frac van and/or the wireline command unit.

[0050] From the AC power connection 203, the PCU 202 may generally supply electrical power and control signals to each MLV 100 through a power and data link 207 in order to control the operation and/or position of each MLV 100. More specifically, the PCU 202 may receive 120 Volts AC (VAC) through the AC power connection 203 and convert the voltage to required direct current (DC) voltage levels (i.e. 12 VDC and/or 24 VDC for the magnets 109 of the MLV'slOO, and 5VDC for the control signals to the MLV's 100) that are delivered through a power and data link 207 to each of the MLV's 100. Additionally, the PCU 202 may also convert commands received from the data connection 204 to a simple ON or OFF signal and send those signals to each of the MLV's 100 through the power and data links 207 in order to control the operating position of the MLV's 100.

[0051] The PCU 202 may comprise a touchscreen interface for displaying information and for receiving user inputs related to the control and/or operation of the closing unit 200. The PCU 202 may also display information related to the operation of the closing unit 200 and may receive user inputs related to operation of each of the MLV's 100 and/or the other components of the closing unit 200. More specifically, the PCU 202 may display information related to the position of each of the MLV's 100, pressures associated with the pressure sensors 206 and/or each of the MLV's 100, and/or other operational parameters of the closing unit 200. The PCU 202 may further be operable to display information and receive user inputs tangentially from a frac van and/or a wireline command unit. The PCU 202 may also be configured to display an ambient outdoor temperature. Still further, the PCU 202 may comprise an identification input that may be configured to identify a user operating the PCU 202. For example, in some embodiments, the PCU 202 may comprise a front facing camera, an input interface to enter a personal identification number (PIN) that is associated with a particular user, a magnetic swipe interface for a user to swipe an identification card having a magnetic identification strip, a Near Field Communication (NFC) interface, a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) interface, and/or other interface configured to identify a user of the PCU 202. [0052] The closing unit 200 may also comprise at least one pressure sensor 206. However, in some embodiments, the closing unit 200 may comprise a plurality of pressure sensors 206. The pressure sensors 206 may generally be configured to monitor the pressure of the fluid in the closing unit 200. However, in other embodiments, each MLV 100 may comprise a pressure sensor 206 and be configured to monitor the pressure of the fluid in each MLV 100. The pressure data from each pressure sensor 206 may generally be communicated to the PCU 202 through a pressure data link 208. In some embodiments, the pressure data received by the PCU 202 may be communicated to the frac van and/or the wireline command unit through the data connection 204. Furthermore, the PCU 202 may be configured to monitor each pressure sensor 206. More specifically, by monitoring the pressure communicated to the PCU 202 by the pressure sensors 206, the PCU 202 may effect control over one or more MLV 100. In some embodiments, the PCU 202 may be configured to automatically shut off and/or lock an MLV 100 when a specific pressure differential is present. In some embodiments, the PCU 202 may also prevent an MLV 100 from being opened and/or unlocked until the pressure differential as measured by at least one pressure sensor 206 is equalized. Accordingly, the PCU 202 and the pressure sensors 206 may provide a safety feature for a closing unit 200.

[0053] While not pictured, it will be appreciated that the closing unit 200 may comprise a secondary power disconnect that may be configured to physically interrupt the power supply through the AC power connection 203 and/or the individual power and data links 207 to each MLV 100. Additionally, the MLV's 100 may be physically positioned on the closing unit 200 to reflect their respective positions on an actual frac stack. In some embodiments, this may make it easier for an operator to visually monitor operation of each MLV 100. The closing unit 200 may also comprise a solar panel with battery storage configured to provide charging power to the PCU 202 and/or other components of the closing unit 200 to reduce fuel consumption and/or for off-grid power operation. In some embodiments, the closing unit 200 may also comprise dual diesel engines equipped with an alternating start technology on an auto-starting system. The closing unit 200 may comprise a data link connection 204 having both wireless and wired communication capabilities. More specifically, the data connection 204 may be configured for wireless communication through a wireless router and also be equipped with an onboard Ethernet or wired communication system in the event the wireless communication system fails. Furthermore, the physical layout of the closing unit 200 may be configured such that the closing unit comprises a short enough height for an operator to see the frac stack over the closing unit, hydraulic bottles may be positioned to the sides of the closing unit 200, and the closing unit 200 may also be skid-mounted, forklift-movable, and/or crane-movable.

[0054] Referring now to FIG. 13, a schematic of the power and control unit (PCU) 202 of FIG. 12 is shown according to an embodiment of the disclosure. PCU 202 generally comprises an AC power connection 203, a data connection 204, a plurality of power and data links 207, an alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) power supply 252, a control board 258, and a computer 260. The PCU 202 may generally be configured to be powered by an alternating current (AC) power source, i.e. a traditional 120 Volts AC (VAC) wall outlet, through the AC power connection 203 to supply power to the power supply 252. The power supply 252 may comprise a first output 254 and a second output 256. The power supply 252 may be configured to convert the incoming 120 VAC to a 12 or 24 Volt DC (VDC) output to power the control board 258 and/or to enable the control board 258 to provide power to lock and/or unlock each MLV 100 via the first output 254. Additionally, the power supply 252 may be configured to convert the incoming AC voltage to a 5 Volt DC (VDC) output to power the control board 258 and/or the computer 260 and/or enable the control board 258 and/or the computer 260 to provide control signals to the MLV's 100 via the second output 256. More specifically, the PCU 202 may receive 120 VAC through the AC power connection 203 and employ the power supply 252 to convert the voltage to required DC voltage levels (i.e. 12 VDC and/or 24 VDC for the magnets 109, keyed magnet assembly 152 of the MLV's 100, 150, 400 respectively, and 5VDC for the control signals to the MLV's 100, 150, 400) that are delivered through a power and data link 207 to each of the MLV's 100, 150, 400. Additionally, the computer 260 of the PCU 202 may also convert commands received from the data connection 204 to a simple ON or OFF signal and send those signals to the control board 258 and/or to each of the MLV's 100 through the power and data links 207 in order to control the operating position of the MLV's 100.

[0055] Referring now to FIG. 14, a schematic of hydrocarbon production system 300 comprising a plurality of closing units 200 of FIG. 12 and at least one command interface unit (CIU) 302 is shown according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The hydrocarbon production system 300 generally comprises a plurality of closing units 200 of FIG. 12 and at least one CIU 302. In some embodiments, the hydrocarbon production system 300 may comprise a CIU 302 installed in at least one of a frac van 303 and/or a wireline command unit 304. However, in some embodiments, the hydrocarbon carbon production system may comprise a CIU 302 installed in a frac van 303 and a CIU 302 installed in a wireline command unit.

[0056] The hydrocarbon production system 300 may also comprise a communication network 305. In some embodiments, the communication network 305 may comprise a wireless network and may be configured to communicate through a long distance wireless router and/or a wireless local area network (WLAN) router. However, in other embodiments, the communication network 305 may comprise a wired network and may be configured to communicate through a wired router. The communication network 305 may be configured to enable bidirectional communication between one or more CIU's 302 and/or one or more PCU's 202. Each CIU 302 may be configured to send and/or receive information from each PCU 202 through the communication network 305. More specifically, the CIU 302 may be configured to send instructions to effect control over one or more components of the closing units 200, the associated PCU's 202, and/or the associated MLV's 100. It will be appreciated that while FIG. 14 depicts MLV's 100, MLV 150 and/or MLV 400 may be substituted for any and/or all of the MLV's 100. However, the hydrocarbon production system 300 and the closing units 200 will be discussed as comprising a plurality of MLV 100 for simplicity. For example, a CIU 302 may be configured to adjust the position and/or operation of each MLV 100. Each CIU 302 may also be able to receive information from each of the PCU's 202 to monitor the operation of each closing unit 200. Such information received from the PCU's 202 may include user inputs related to operation of each of the MLV's 100, information related to the position and/or function of each of the MLV's 100, pressures associated with the pressure sensors 206 of the closing unit 200 and/or each of the MLV's 100, and/or other operational parameters of the closing unit 200. Furthermore, one or more CIU's 302 may be configured to monitor each of the pressure sensors 206. More specifically, by monitoring the pressure communicated to the CIU 302 by the pressure sensors 206 and/or the PCU 202, the CIU 302 may effect control over one or more MLV 100. In some embodiments, the CIU 302 may be configured to automatically shut off and/or lock an MLV 100 when a specific pressure differential is present, and the CIU 302 may also prevent an MLV 100 from being opened and/or unlocked until the pressure differential as measured by at least one pressure sensor 206 is equalized. Further, the CIU 302 may also be configured to automatically unlock an MLV 100 when the pressure differential is equalized. Pressure parameters may there be entered into the CIU 302 and/or the CIU may be preloaded with default pressure parameters to meet a specific application. Accordingly, the CIU 302 may provide a safety feature for a closing unit 200 and/or a hydrocarbon production system 300 that prevents so-called "shutting in" on a wireline, pumps, and/or other equipment of a hydrocarbon production system 300. Additionally, the CIU may effect control over the PCU's and/or MLV's that prevents opening an MLV 100 when a pressure differential is present, which may cause equipment damage, personal injury, and/or death.

[0057] The CIU 302 may also comprise a touchscreen interface for displaying information and for receiving user inputs related to the control and/or operation of the closing unit 200. The CIU 302 may also display information related to the operation of the closing unit 200 and may receive user inputs related to operation of each of the MLV's 100 and/or the other components of the closing unit 200. More specifically, the CIU 302 may display information related to the position of each of the MLV's 100, pressures associated with the pressure sensors 206 of the closing unit 200 and/or each of the MLV's 100, and/or other operational parameters of the closing unit 200. The CIU 302 may assign names and/or other identifiers to each of the MLV's 100, PCU's 202, and/or closing units 200. The CIU 302 may also display the components of each closing unit 200 and/or the entire hydrocarbon production system 300 in an arrangement that represents the appropriate physical location of each component in the hydrocarbon production system 300. Additionally, the CIU 302 allows an operator and/or a user to visually inspect the current status and/or operational positions of each MLV 100 in the system through the interface. The CIU 302 may also be configured to display an ambient outdoor temperature. Still further, the CIU 302 may comprise an identification input that may be configured to identify a user operating one of the PCU's 202 and/or the CIU's 302. For example, in some embodiments, the CIU 302 may comprise a front facing camera, an input interface to enter a personal identification number (PIN) that is associated with a particular user, a magnetic swipe interface for a user to swipe an identification card having a magnetic identification strip, an NFC interface, an RFID interface, and/or other interface configured to identify a user of the CIU 302. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the CIU 302 may also track operational parameters and/or user movement for a specified time period (i.e. one week, one month, etc.).

[0058] Referring now to FIG. 15, a schematic diagram of a general-purpose processor (e.g., electronic controller or computer) system 1300 is shown according to an embodiment of the disclosure. In some embodiments, processor system 1300 may be a component (i.e. control unit 258, computer 260) of a PCU, such as PCU 202 and/or a CIU, such as CIU 302, and be suitable for implementing one or more embodiments disclosed herein. In addition to the processor 1310 (which may be referred to as a central processor unit or CPU), the processor system 1300 may comprise network connectivity devices 1320, random access memory (RAM) 1330, read only memory (ROM) 1340, secondary storage 1350, and input/output (I/O) devices 1360. In some cases, some of these components may not be present or may be combined in various combinations with one another or with other components not shown. These components may be located in a single physical entity or in more than one physical entity. Any actions described herein as being taken by the processor 1310 might be taken by the processor 1310 alone or by the processor 1310 in conjunction with one or more components of the processor system 1300.

[0059] The processor 1310 generally executes algorithms, instructions, codes, computer programs, and/or scripts that it might access from the network connectivity devices 1320, RAM 1330, ROM 1340, or secondary storage 1350 (which might include various disk-based systems such as hard disk, floppy disk, optical disk, or other drive). While only one processor 1310 is shown, processor system 1300 may comprise multiple processors 1310. Thus, while instructions may be discussed as being executed by a processor 1310, the instructions may be executed simultaneously, serially, or otherwise by one or multiple processors 1310. The processor 1310 may be implemented as one or more CPU chips.

[0060] The network connectivity devices 1320 may take the form of modems, modem banks, Ethernet devices, universal serial bus (USB) interface devices, serial interfaces, token ring devices, fiber distributed data interface (FDDI) devices, wireless local area network (WLAN) devices, radio transceiver devices such as code division multiple access (CDMA) devices, global system for mobile communications (GSM) radio transceiver devices, worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) devices, Bluetooth, CAN (Controller Area Network) and/or other well-known technologies, protocols and standards for connecting to networks. These network connectivity devices 1320 may enable the processor 1310 to communicate with the Internet or one or more telecommunications networks or other networks from which the processor 1310 might receive information or to which the processor 1310 might output information.

[0061] The network connectivity devices 1320 might also include one or more transceiver components 1325 capable of transmitting and/or receiving data wirelessly in the form of electromagnetic waves, such as radio frequency signals or microwave frequency signals. Alternatively, the data may propagate in or on the surface of electrical conductors, in coaxial cables, in waveguides, in optical media such as optical fiber, or in other media. The transceiver component 1325 might include separate receiving and transmitting units or a single transceiver. Information transmitted or received by the transceiver component 1325 may include data that has been processed by the processor 1310 or instructions that are to be executed by the processor 1310. Such information may be received from and outputted to a network in the form, for example, of a computer data baseband signal or signal embodied in a carrier wave. The data may be ordered according to different sequences as may be desirable for either processing or generating the data or transmitting or receiving the data. The baseband signal, the signal embedded in the carrier wave, or other types of signals currently used or hereafter developed may be referred to as the transmission medium and may be generated according to several methods well-known to one skilled in the art.

[0062] The RAM 1330 might be used to store volatile data and perhaps to store instructions that are executed by the processor 1310. The ROM 1340 is a non- volatile memory device that typically has a smaller memory capacity than the memory capacity of the secondary storage 1350. ROM 1340 might be used to store instructions and perhaps data that are read during execution of the instructions. Access to both RAM 1330 and ROM 1340 is typically faster than access to secondary storage 1350. The secondary storage 1350 is typically comprised of one or more disk drives or tape drives and might be used for non-volatile storage of data or as an over-flow data storage device if RAM 1330 is not large enough to hold all working data. Secondary storage 1350 may be used to store programs or instructions that are loaded into RAM 1330 when such programs are selected for execution or information is needed.

[0063] The I/O devices 1360 may include liquid crystal displays (LCDs), touch screen displays, keyboards, keypads, switches, dials, mice, track balls, voice recognizers, card readers, paper tape readers, printers, video monitors, transducers, sensors, or other well-known input or output devices. Also, the transceiver component 1325 might be considered to be a component of the I/O devices 1360 instead of or in addition to being a component of the network connectivity devices 1320. Some or all of the I/O devices 1360 may be substantially similar to various components disclosed herein. [0064] Referring now to FIG. 16, a flowchart of a method 500 of configuring the command interface unit (CIU) of FIG. 14 is shown according to an embodiment of the disclosure. This method 500 may be implemented upon initial startup, initialization, and/or installation of a CIU 302 and/or a hydrocarbon production system 300. The method 500 may begin at block 502 by toggling a well on and off via a CIU 302. In some embodiments, a well may be toggled on and off to check proper operation and/or functioning of a well and/or and MLV 100, 150, 400 configured to regulate and/or control flow of a hydrocarbon production fluid through a well. The method 500 may continue at block 504 by toggling the MLV's 100, 150, 400 on and off via the CIU 302. In some embodiments, a well may be toggled on and off to check proper operation and/or functioning of an MLV 100, 150, 400 and/or any of its components, specifically the electromagnetic locking mechanism. The method 500 may continue at block 506 by assigning a name to the well and/or entering the name of a well into the CIU 302. The name assigned to each well may comprise a unique identifier, so that a well may be specifically identified when an action is taken through the CIU 302. The method 500 may continue at block 508 by adjusting a color of a well on the CIU 302. The color assigned to a well may be indicative of a type of well, a parameter of a well, and/or any other characteristic of a well. The method may then continue at block 510 by saving configuration settings to a configuration array on the CIU 302. The method 500 may continue by restarting and continuing back to block 502, where the method 500 may be repeated for an additional well and/or additional MLV's 100, 150, 400. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the method 500 may be accomplished by a user via a graphical user interface of the CIU 302, and the method 500 may be repeated for each additional well controlled by the CIU 302 and/or each additional MLV 100, 150, 400 controlled by the CIU 302. [0065] Referring now to FIG. 17, a flowchart of a method 600 of operating the command interface unit (CIU) of FIG. 14 is shown according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The method 600 may begin at block 602 by setting up and/or initializing a graphical user interface of a CIU 302 from a configuration array stored in the CIU 302. This method 500 may be implemented upon initial startup, initialization, and/or installation of a CIU 302 and/or a hydrocarbon production system 300. The method 600 may continue at block 604 by establishing at least one connection between the CIU 302 and a server. In some embodiments, the server may be a local server, and the connection may be established wirelessly and/or through a wired connection. However, in other embodiments, the server may be a remote server, and the connection may be established wirelessly through a wireless router and/or other wireless transceiver device. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that a server may comprise a global command server that monitors all CIU's 302, PCU's 202, on a network and/or via an Internet connection. The method 600 may continue at block 606 by monitoring and/or so-called "listening" for a toggling of at least one MLV 100, 150, 400 through the server connection. In some embodiments, the CIU 302 may be configured to monitor and/or listen for MLV 100, 150, 400 toggles conducted at step 504 in method 500 of FIG. 16. In other embodiments, the CIU 302 may be configured to monitor and/or listen for MLV 100, 150, 400 toggles during normal production operations of a hydrocarbon production system 300. The method 600 may continue at block 608 by sending commands to the server and/or other clients. As used herein, the term "client" should be used to refer to any device connected in communication with the CIU 302 through the established server connection. In some embodiments, the commands sent by the CIU 302 in step 608 may include any of the operations disclosed herein (i.e. operation and/or locking/unlocking of an MLV 100, 150, 400). The method 600 may then continue at block 610 by monitoring the server connection and/or listening for a server response and/or other communications from connected clients. In some embodiments, the CIU 302 may be configured to receive an acknowledgement from a server and/or other clients that the server and/or other client properly received and/or executed the command. The method 600 may then continue to block 606 where the CIU 302 may again monitor and/or listen for MLV 100, 150, 400 toggles. Additionally, it will be appreciated that block 606 through block 610 may occur in a repetitive operation to continuously monitor MLV 100, 150, 400 toggles and communicate and/or receive commands and/or responses with the server to effect control over at least one MLV 100, 150, 400.

[0066] Referring now to FIG. 18, flowchart of a method 700 of operating the power and control unit (PCU) 202 of FIGS. 12-14 is shown according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The method 700 may begin at block 702 by automatically launching software installed on a PCU 202. In some embodiments, the operating system may automatically launch software in response to initializing power to the PCU 202, establishing communication between the PCU 202 and a network and/or server, or establishing communication between the PCU 202 and a CIU 302. The method 700 may continue at block 704 by determining an IP address. This may be accomplished by connecting to a network and finding the IP address associated with the connection. The method 700 may continue at block 706 by monitoring a network and/or server connection and/or listening for client connections. By connecting to a network and/or server, such as at step 604 in FIG. 17, the PCU 202 may monitor a network and/or server connection. The method 700 may continue at block 708 by listening for a client command. The client commands may include any of the operations disclosed herein that are used to communicate between the CIU 302 and the PCU 202 and/or used to control operation of at least one MLV 100, 150. The method 700 may continue at block 710 by monitoring a current state (locked, unlocked, position, faults) of at least one MLV 100, 150, 400. The method 700 may continue at block 712 to determine whether a commanded state of an MLV 100, 150, 400 is different than an actual state of the MLV 100, 150, 400. In some embodiments, this may be accomplished by determining whether the MLV 100, 150, 400 is in a locked or unlocked position and/or determining the specific position of the MLV 100, 150, 400 in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein (i.e. lock engagement monitor 170, valve position monitoring system 180, etc.). If the PCU 202 determines at block 712 that the commanded state of an MLV 100, 150, 400 is different than the actual state of the MLV 100, 150, 400, the method 700 may continue at block 714 by notifying the client of the discrepancy and continue to block 716. This may be accomplished via a visual and/or audible notification and/or any other communication between devices. If the PCU 202 determines that the commanded state of an MLV 100, 150, 400 is proper, then the method 700 may continue at block 716. At block 716, the PCU 202 may determine if a client command has been received. If the PCU 202 determines that a client command has been received, then the method 700 may continue to block 718. Alternatively, if the PCU 202 determines that no client command has been received, the method 700 may return to block 706. At block 718, the PCU 202 may act upon a command and engage and/or disengage the electromagnetic locking mechanism of an MLV 100, 150, 400 in accordance with the received command. The method 700 may then continue at block 720 by sending a client action complete message from the PCU 202 to the client that sent the command in block 716. The complete message may include that the PCU 202 has carried out the command in block 718 that was received in block 716. The method 700 may then return to block 706. Additionally, it will be appreciated that block 706 through block 720 may occur in a repetitive operation to continuously monitor client connections, communicate and/or receive commands and/or responses, and control operation of the MLV's 100, 150, 400 with the PCU 202. [0067] At least one embodiment is disclosed and variations, combinations, and/or modifications of the embodiment(s) and/or features of the embodiment(s) made by a person having ordinary skill in the art are within the scope of the disclosure. Alternative embodiments that result from combining, integrating, and/or omitting features of the embodiment(s) are also within the scope of the disclosure. Where numerical ranges or limitations are expressly stated, such express ranges or limitations should be understood to include iterative ranges or limitations of like magnitude falling within the expressly stated ranges or limitations (e.g., from about 1 to about 10 includes, 2, 3, 4, etc.; greater than 0.10 includes 0.1 1, 0.12, 0.13, etc.). For example, whenever a numerical range with a lower limit, Rj, and an upper limit, R_u, is disclosed, any number falling within the range is specifically disclosed. In particular, the following numbers within the range are specifically disclosed: R=Ri+k*(R_u-Ri), wherein k is a variable ranging from 1 percent to 100 percent with a 1 percent increment, i.e., k is 1 percent, 2 percent, 3 percent, 4 percent, 5 percent, 50 percent, 51 percent, 52 percent, 95 percent, 96 percent, 97 percent, 98 percent, 99 percent, or 100 percent. Unless otherwise stated, the term "about" shall mean plus or minus 10 percent of the subsequent value. Moreover, any numerical range defined by two R numbers as defined in the above is also specifically disclosed. Use of the term "optionally" with respect to any element of a claim means that the element is required, or alternatively, the element is not required, both alternatives being within the scope of the claim. Use of broader terms such as comprises, includes, and having should be understood to provide support for narrower terms such as consisting of, consisting essentially of, and comprised substantially of. Accordingly, the scope of protection is not limited by the description set out above but is defined by the claims that follow, that scope including all equivalents of the subject matter of the claims. Each and every claim is incorporated as further disclosure into the specification and the claims are embodiment(s) of the present invention.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A valve, comprising:

a valve body comprising a plurality of gates;

a shaft coupled to the valve body, wherein rotation of the shaft selectively alters a flowpath through the plurality of gates; and

an electromagnetic locking mechanism, comprising:

a magnet; and

a strike plate coupled to the shaft;

wherein in response to passing an electrical current through the magnet, the magnet is configured to maintain its position with respect to the strike plate and prevent the shaft from rotating.

2. The valve of claim 1, wherein the strike plate is mounted to a handle coupled to the shaft, and wherein the magnet is mounted to the valve body.

3. The valve of claim 1, wherein the strike plate is configured to traverse along the shaft in response to passing the electrical current through the magnet.

4. The valve of claim 3, wherein the strike plate comprises a keyed strike plate having a plurality of teeth, and wherein at least a portion of the magnet comprises complimentary teeth configured to engage the teeth of the keyed strike plate in response to passing the electrical current through the magnet.

5. The valve of claim 1, further comprising:

a lock engagement monitor configured to determine whether the electromagnetic locking mechanism of the valve is engaged.

6. The valve of claim 1, further comprising:

a valve position monitoring system configured to determine a position of the valve.

7. The valve of claim 6, wherein the valve position monitoring system comprises an optical encoder and a transmissive rotary encoder disk having a plurality of rotary encoders disposed radially about the transmissive rotary encoder disk, and wherein the valve position monitoring system is configured to provide continuous positional monitoring of the position of the valve.

8. The valve of claim 1, further comprising:

an improper valve actuation monitor comprising at least one of a strain gauge and a torque sensor, wherein the improper valve actuation monitor is configured to determine when an unexpected force is imparted on a component of the valve.

9. A closing unit, comprising:

a power and control unit (PCU); and

at least one magnetically locking valve (MLV), comprising:

a valve body comprising a plurality of gates;

an electromagnetic locking mechanism, comprising:

a magnet; and

a strike plate coupled to the shaft;

wherein in response to passing an electrical current to the magnet, the magnet is configured to maintain its position with respect to the strike plate and prevent the shaft from rotating.

10. The closing unit of claim 9, wherein the at least one MLV comprises at least one of a lock engagement monitor, a valve position monitoring system, and an improper valve actuation monitor.

1 1. The closing unit of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of the MLV's.

12. The closing unit of claim 9, wherein the PCU comprises a touchscreen interface configured to display information related to at least one of the closing unit and the at least one MLV.

13. The closing unit of claim 12, wherein the PCU is configured to display information related to the position of the at least one MLV.

14. The closing unit of claim 13, wherein the PCU is configured to receive a user input to alter the position of the at least one MLV.

15. The closing unit of claim 9, wherein the closing unit comprises at least one pressure sensor configured to monitor pressure of a fluid in the closing unit.

16. The closing unit of claim 15, wherein the PCU is configured to monitor the at least one pressure sensor and alter the position of the at least one MLV in response to a threshold pressure differential.

17. The closing unit of claim 9, wherein the PCU comprises at least one of a front facing camera, an input interface to enter a personal identification number (PIN) associated with a particular user, a magnetic swipe interface for a user to swipe an identification card having a magnetic identification strip, an NFC interface, and an RFID interface configured to identify a user of the PCU.

18. A method of operating a valve, comprising:

providing at least one magnetically locking valve (MLV) in a closing unit, the MLV comprising a shaft, a magnet, and a strike plate coupled to the shaft;

passing an electrical current to the magnet;

locking a position of a strike plate with respect to the magnet; and

preventing rotation of the shaft.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

discontinuing the passing of the electrical current to the magnet;

unlocking the position of the strike plate with respect to the magnet; and

allowing rotation of the shaft.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising monitoring a pressure of a working fluid within the closing unit; and

monitoring the position of the strike plate with respect to the magnet.

21. The method of claim 20, further comprising automatically locking the position of the strike plate with respect to the magnet in response to a threshold pressure differential being detected by a pressure sensor associated with the closing unit.

22. The method of claim 18, further comprising monitoring a current state of the at least one MLV, determining whether a commanded state of the at least one MLV is different than an actual state of the at least one MLV, and notifying a client of a discrepancy between the commanded state and the actual state when the commanded state of the at least one MLV is different than the actual state of the at least one MLV.