Methods and apparatus for actuating a downhole tool
US7252152B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 18, 2003 |
| Grant date | Aug 7, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 17, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B2200/05
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
The present invention relates to apparatus and methods for remotely actuating a downhole tool. In one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for activating a downhole tool in a wellbore, the downhole tool having an actuated and unactuated positions. The apparatus includes an actuator for operating the downhole tool between the actuated and unactuated positions; a controller for activating the actuator; and a sensor for detecting a condition in the wellbore, wherein the detected condition is transmitted to the controller, thereby causing the actuator to operate the downhole tool. In one embodiment, conditions in the wellbore are generated at the surface, which is later detected downhole. These conditions include changes in pressure, temperature, vibration, or flow rate. In another embodiment, a fiber optic signal may be transmitted downhole to the sensor. In another embodiment still, a radio frequency tag is dropped into the wellbore for detection by the sensor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.