Patent · US Active

Mud pulser actuation

US8640779B2 · kind B2 · utility

2Cited by
6References
18Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateNov 26, 2008
Grant dateFeb 4, 2014
Priority date
Expiry dateJul 29, 2030

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
  • CPC primaryF03G7/062
  • WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A system and method for transmitting mud pulse signals in a downhole environment may utilize a shape memory alloy. In one embodiment, a mud pulser system includes a valve; a wire comprising shape memory alloy (SMA), and operable to have a first shape at a first temperature and a second shape at a second temperature; a thermal energy source to heat the wire from the first temperature to the second temperature; and a valve poppet coupled to the wire, wherein the valve poppet is extended to close the valve when the wire is in the first shape and wherein the valve poppet is retracted to open the valve when the wire is in the second shape.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.