Flow control apparatus for use in a wellbore
US7059401B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 25, 2005 |
| Grant date | Jun 13, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 25, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B2200/02
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An apparatus and method of controlling the flow of hydrocarbons into and/or out of a string of tubing disposed in a wellbore. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a tubular member having at least one aperture formed in a wall thereof and a sleeve disposed radially outward of the tubular member. The sleeve is selectively movable between a first position and a second position to control the flow between the outside and the inside of the tubular member. In one aspect, the apparatus further comprises a biasing member disposed adjacent the sleeve and adapted to apply a force against the sleeve in an axial direction and further comprises a piston adapted to receive a hydraulic pressure to move the sleeve against the force of the biasing member. In another aspect, the apparatus further comprises a electromechanical device adapted to selectively move the sleeve between the first position and the second position and further comprises a control line adapted to conduct an electrical current. In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises a tubular member having at least one aperture formed therein and a fixed ring and a rotatable ring disposed radially outward of the tubular member. In …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.