Wireless activatable valve assembly

A wireless actuation system comprises a transmitter, an actuation system comprising a receiving antenna, and one or more sliding members transitional from a first position to a second position. The transmitter is configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal, and the sliding member prevents a route of fluid communication via one or more ports of a housing when the sliding member is in the first position. The sliding member allows fluid communication via the one or more ports of the housing when the sliding member is in the second position, and the actuation system is configured to allow the sliding member to transition from the first position to the second position in response to recognition of the electromagnetic signal by the receiving antenna.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a filing under 35 U.S.C. 371 as the National Stage of International Application No. PCT/US2013/025424, filed Feb. 8, 2013, entitled “Wireless Activatable Valve Assembly,” by Michael L. Fripp, et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

Not Applicable.

REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND

When wellbores are prepared for oil and gas production, it is common to cement a casing string within the wellbore. Often, it may be desirable to cement the casing string within the wellbore in multiple, separate stages. The casing string may be run into the wellbore to a predetermined depth. Various “zones” in the subterranean formation may be isolated via the operation of one or more packers, which may also help to secure the casing string and stimulation equipment in place, and/or via cement.

Following the placement of the casing string, it may be desirable to provide at least one route of fluid communication out of the casing string. Conventionally, the methods and/or tools employed to provide fluid pathways out of the casing string require mechanical tools supplied by a rig and/or downhole tools needing high temperature protection, long term batteries, and/or wired surface connections. Additionally, conventional methods may not allow for individual, or at least selective, activation of a route of fluid communication from a plurality of formation zones.

SUMMARY

In an embodiment, a wireless actuation system comprises a transmitter, an actuation system comprising a receiving antenna, and one or more sliding members transitional from a first position to a second position. The transmitter is configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal, and the sliding member prevents a route of fluid communication via one or more ports of a housing when the sliding member is in the first position. The sliding member allows fluid communication via the one or more ports of the housing when the sliding member is in the second position, and the actuation system is configured to allow the sliding member to transition from the first position to the second position in response to recognition of the electromagnetic signal by the receiving antenna.

In an embodiment, a wireless actuation system comprises a receiving antenna, an actuation mechanism coupled to the receiving antenna, a pressure chamber, and a slidable component disposed in a downhole tool. The receiving antenna is configured to generate electric power in response to receiving a signal, and the actuation mechanism is configured to selectively trigger fluid communication between the pressure chamber and the slidable component using the electric power. The slidable component is configured to transition from a first position to a second position based on a pressure differential between the pressure chamber and a second pressure source.

In an embodiment, an actuation system for a downhole component comprises a powered transmitter comprising a transmitting antenna, and a downhole component comprising a central flowbore and a receiving antenna coupled to an actuation system. The powered transmitter is configured to be received within the central flowbore, and the transmitting antenna is configured to transmit a signal. The receiving antenna is configured to generate electric power in response to receiving the signal from the transmitting antenna, and the actuation system is configured to actuate using the electric power from the receiving antenna.

In an embodiment, a method of actuating a downhole component comprises passing a powered transmitter through a central flowbore of a downhole component; transmitting a signal from a transmitting antenna disposed in the powered transmitter; generating electric power in a receiver antenna disposed in the downhole component in response to receiving the signal from the transmitting antenna; and actuating an actuation system using the electric power. The downhole component may comprise a housing comprising the actuation system; and a sliding member slidably positioned within the housing. The sliding member may be configured to transition from a first position to a second position. When the sliding member is in the first position, the sliding member may prevent a route of fluid communication via one or more ports of the housing, and when the sliding member is in the second position, the sliding member may allow fluid communication via the one or more ports of the housing.

In an embodiment, a well screen assembly for use downhole comprises a fluid pathway configured to provide fluid communication between an exterior of a wellbore tubular and an interior of the wellbore tubular; a flow restrictor disposed in the fluid pathway; an actuation system comprising a receiving antenna, and a sliding member disposed in series with the flow restrictor in the fluid pathway. The receiving antenna is configured to generate electric power in response to receiving a first electromagnetic signal having a first frequency, and the sliding member is transitional from a first position to a second position in response to the electric power. The sliding member is configured to provide a first resistance to fluid communication along the fluid pathway when the sliding member is in the first position, and the sliding member is configured to provide a second resistance to fluid communication along the fluid pathway when the sliding member is in the second position. The first resistance and the second resistance are different.

In an embodiment, a well screen assembly for use in a wellbore comprises a plurality of fluid pathways. Each fluid pathway of the plurality of fluid pathways is configured to provide fluid communication between an exterior of a wellbore tubular and an interior of the wellbore tubular, and two or more fluid pathways of the plurality of fluid pathways comprise an actuation system comprising a receiving antenna, and a sliding member disposed in the corresponding fluid pathway. The receiving antenna is configured to generate electric power in response to receiving a specific electromagnetic signal, and the sliding member is transitional from a first position to a second position in response to the electric power. The sliding member prevents fluid communication along the corresponding fluid pathway when the sliding member is in the first position, and the sliding member allows fluid communication along the corresponding fluid pathway when the sliding member is in the second position. The actuation systems in each of the two or more fluid pathways may be configured to generate the electric power in response to specific electromagnetic signals having different frequencies.

In an embodiment, a method comprises preventing, by a sliding member, fluid flow through a fluid pathway in a well screen assembly, inductively coupling, by a receiving antenna, with a transmitting antenna that is transmitting a first signal, generating electric power in the receiving antenna in response to receiving the first signal, translating the sliding member using the electric power, and allowing fluid flow through the fluid pathway in response to the translating of the sliding member. The fluid pathway is configured to provide fluid communication between an exterior of a wellbore tubular and an interior of the wellbore tubular. A flow restrictor may be disposed in the fluid pathway.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

In the drawings and description that follow, like parts are typically marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same reference numerals, respectively. In addition, similar reference numerals may refer to similar components in different embodiments disclosed herein. The drawing figures are not necessarily to scale. Certain features of the invention may be shown exaggerated in scale or in somewhat schematic form and some details of conventional elements may not be shown in the interest of clarity and conciseness. The present invention is susceptible to embodiments of different forms. Specific embodiments are described in detail and are shown in the drawings, with the understanding that the present disclosure is not intended to limit the invention to the embodiments illustrated and described herein. It is to be fully recognized that the different teachings of the embodiments discussed herein may be employed separately or in any suitable combination to produce desired results.

Unless otherwise specified, use of the terms “connect,” “engage,” “couple,” “attach,” or any other like term describing an interaction between elements is not meant to limit the interaction to direct interaction between the elements and may also include indirect interaction between the elements described. Unless otherwise specified, use of the terms “up,” “upper,” “upward,” “up-hole,” or other like terms shall be construed as generally from the formation toward the surface or toward the surface of a body of water; likewise, use of “down,” “lower,” “downward,” “down-hole,” or other like terms shall be construed as generally into the formation away from the surface or away from the surface of a body of water, regardless of the wellbore orientation. Use of any one or more of the foregoing terms shall not be construed as denoting positions along a perfectly vertical axis. Unless otherwise specified, use of the term “subterranean formation” shall be construed as encompassing both areas below exposed earth and areas below earth covered by water such as ocean or fresh water. As used herein, the term “sliding” refers to the movement of two surface against each other in an axial, radial, and/or rotational manner.

The configuration of a wellbore may be varied throughout the life of the wellbore. This may allow for desired zones to be opened or closed to flow, or the flow characteristics adjusted during production. In order to implement this adjustment, a tool may be inserted into the wellbore to physically alter the configuration of the components of the drilling, completion, and/or production string. For example, a valve can be manually operated with a latch mechanism engaged to a slickline, coiled tubing, or the like, which requires a physical presence within the wellbore. Such operations may be expensive and difficult. As disclosed herein, a well tool such as a Wireless Activatable Valve Assembly (WAVA) may be used to adjust the configuration of the flowpaths within the wellbore. The WAVA may effect a change in the variation of a wellbore assembly using an electrical actuator coupling to a transmitter disposed within the wellbore. For example, the WAVA may rely on one or more batteries to supply power to actuation systems, receivers, actuators, and/or to any other components. Such embodiments may be used for a limited time corresponding to the life of the batteries.

In some embodiments, a power source such as a battery may not be present. Rather, the electrical actuator may be powered based on inductively coupling a receiving antenna with a transmitter disposed in the wellbore. When a receiver coupled to the actuator receives the proper frequency (e.g., a resonant frequency and/or filtered frequency response), electric power may be generated in the receiver that is sufficient to actuate the electrical actuator. In this embodiment, the electrical actuator may sit unpowered within the downhole assembly until needed. When it is desired to actuate the electrical actuator, a transmitter may be disposed in the wellbore that is configured to transmit the proper frequency to induce a current in the receiver. Since the receiver can be tuned to be sensitive to frequency, a transmitter may be capable of actuating only the desired electrical actuator while leaving other electrical actuators that are tuned to different frequencies unaffected. Thus, the wireless actuation tools disclosed herein, may allow for selective actuation of one or more flowpaths that may be disposed in a plurality of zones in the wellbore without the need to physically intervened in the wellbore other than disposing a transmitter into the wellbore. As such, the disclosed wireless actuation tools may provide an operator with improved control and flexibility for scheduling the actuation of various valves while offering a potential activation period that extends beyond the life of any batteries used with a well tool.

Disclosed herein are embodiments of a WAVA, as well as systems that may be utilized in performing the same. Particularly, disclosed herein are one or more embodiments of a WAVA configured for selective activation and methods of utilizing the same in servicing and/or completing a wellbore. In an embodiment, the WAVA and/or methods of utilizing the same, as disclosed herein, may allow an operator to wirelessly open and/or close one or more valves, such as for producting from one or more zones of a subterranean formation, producing a formation fluid therefrom, performing one or more workover procedures therethrough (e.g., hydraulic fracturing, acidizing, etc.), injecting a fluid into the formation, and the like. In some embodiments, the WAVA and/or methods of utilizing the same may allow for piloting operation of a valve or indirect actuation of other valve components. For example, the WAVA may allow for a ball valve seat to be opened and/or closed to thereby allow the valve to be opened or closed. In an embodiment, the WAVA may be used to establish a fluid pathway for actuating a larger component such as a packer, thereby selectively providing fluid communication to a packer setting piston.

Referring toFIG. 1, in an embodiment of an operating environment in which such a WAVA and/or method may be employed is illustrated. It is noted that although some of the figures may exemplify horizontal or vertical wellbores, the principles of the methods, apparatuses, and systems disclosed herein may be similarly applicable to horizontal wellbore configurations, conventional vertical wellbore configurations, or combinations thereof. Therefore, unless otherwise noted, the horizontal, deviated, or vertical nature of any figure is not to be construed as limiting the wellbore to any particular configuration.

Referring to the embodiment ofFIG. 1, the operating environment generally comprises a wellbore114that penetrates a subterranean formation102. Additionally, in an embodiment, the subterranean formation102may comprising a plurality of formation zones 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, and 18 for the purpose of recovering hydrocarbons, storing hydrocarbons, disposing of carbon dioxide, or the like. The wellbore114may be drilled into the subterranean formation102using any suitable drilling technique. In an embodiment, a drilling or servicing rig106comprises a derrick108with a rig floor110through which one or more tubular strings (e.g., a work string, a drill string, a tool string, a segmented tubing string, a jointed tubing string, or any other suitable conveyance, or combinations thereof) generally defining an axial flowbore may be positioned within or partially within the wellbore114. In an embodiment, such a tubular string may comprise two or more concentrically positioned strings of pipe or tubing (e.g., a first work string may be positioned within a second work string). The drilling or servicing rig106may be conventional and may comprise a motor driven winch and other associated equipment for conveying the work string within the wellbore114. Alternatively, a mobile workover rig, a wellbore servicing unit (e.g., coiled tubing units), or the like may be used to convey the tubular string within the wellbore114. In such an embodiment, the tubular string may be utilized in drilling, stimulating, completing, or otherwise servicing the wellbore, or combinations thereof.

The wellbore114may extend substantially vertically away from the earth's surface over a vertical wellbore portion, or may deviate at any angle from the earth's surface104over a deviated or horizontal wellbore portion. In alternative operating environments, portions or substantially all of the wellbore114may be vertical, deviated, horizontal, and/or curved. In an embodiment, the wellbore114may be a new hole or an existing hole and may comprise an open hole, cased hole, cemented cased hole, pre-perforated lined hole, or any other suitable configuration, or combinations thereof. For example, in the embodiment ofFIG. 1, a casing string115is positioned within at least a portion of the wellbore114and is secured into position with respect to the wellbore with cement117(e.g., a cement sheath). In alternative embodiments, portions and/or substantially all of such a wellbore may be cased and cemented, cased and uncemented, uncased, or combinations thereof. In another alternative embodiment, a casing string may be secured against the formation utilizing one or more suitable packers, such as mechanical packers or swellable packers (for example, SwellPackers™, commercially available from Halliburton Energy Services).

In an embodiment as illustrated inFIG. 2, one or more WAVA200may be disposed within the wellbore114. In such an embodiment, the wellbore tubular string120may comprise any suitable type and/or configuration of string, for example, as will be appreciated by one of skill in the art upon viewing this disclosure. In an embodiment, the wellbore tubular string120may comprise one or more tubular members (e.g., jointed pipe, coiled tubing, drill pipe, etc.). In an embodiment, each of the tubular members may comprise a suitable means of connection, for example, to other tubular members and/or to one or more WAVA200, as disclosed herein. For example, in an embodiment, the terminal ends of the tubular members may comprise one or more internally or externally threaded surfaces, as may be suitably employed in making a threaded connection to other tubular members and/or to one or more WAVA200. In an embodiment, the wellbore tubular string120may comprise a tubular string, a liner, a production string, a completion string, another suitable type of string, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the WAVA200may be configured so as to selectively allow fluid flow there-through, for example, in response to receiving or sensing a predetermined EM signal. Referring toFIGS. 3A-3BandFIG. 6A-6C, an embodiment of such a WAVA200is disclosed herein. In the embodiment ofFIGS. 3A-3BandFIG. 6A-6C, the WAVA200may generally comprise a housing210generally defining a flow passage36, one or more sliding members216, one or more ports212for fluid communication between the flow passage36of the WAVA200and an exterior of the WAVA200(e.g., an annular space), and a actuation system226.

As used herein, the term “EM signal” refers to an electromagnetic signal. For example, an electrical signal may be transformed into an electromagnetic (EM) signal by exciting a proximate electric field and/or a proximate magnetic field, thereby generating an electromagnetic signal. Additionally, the EM signal may be transmittable via a transmitting antenna (e.g., an electrical conducting material, for example, a copper wire). Not intending to be bound by theory, the EM signal generally comprises an oscillating electrical field and an oscillating magnetic field propagating at a velocity proportional to or at about the speed of light. Additionally, the EM signal may be transmitted at a suitable magnitude of transmission power as would be appreciated by one of skill in the arts upon viewing this disclosure. Also, the EM signal may generally comprise polarized waves, non-polarized waves, longitudinal waves, transverse waves, and/or combinations thereof. The EM signal may be receivable and may be transformed into an electrical signal (e.g., electric power) via a receiving antenna (e.g., an electrical conducting material, for example, a copper wire), as disclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the EM signal may be characterized as comprising any suitable type or configuration of waveform or combination of waveforms, having any suitable characteristics or combinations of characteristics. For example, the EM signal may comprise one or more sinusoidal signals and/or one or more modulated analog signals, for example, via amplitude modulation, frequency modulation, phase modulation, quadrature amplitude modulation, space modulation, single-sideband modulation, the like, or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the EM signal may exhibit any suitable duty-cycle, frequency, amplitude, phase, duration, or combinations thereof, as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art upon viewing this disclosure. For example, in an embodiment, the EM signal may comprise a sinusoidal waveform with a frequency within a frequency range of about 3 kHz to about 300 GHz, alternatively, about 100 kHz to about 10 GHz, alternatively, about 120 kHz to about 3 GHz, alternatively, about 120 kHz to about 920 MHz, alternatively, at any suitable frequency as would be appreciated by one of skill in the arts upon viewing this disclosure. In some embodiments, the EM signal may comprise a frequency in a relatively low frequency range such as between about 1 Hz to about 100 kHz, or about 3 Hz to about 3 kHz. Additional suitable frequency ranges may include about 1 kHz to about 100 kHz, or about 3 kHz to about 100 kHz. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment the EM signal may comprise one or more modulated digital signals, for example, via amplitude-shift keying, continuous phase modulation, frequency-shift keying, multiple frequency-shift keying, minimum-shift keying, on-off keying, phase-shift keying, the like, or combinations thereof. For example, the EM signal may exhibit any suitable data rate, baud rate, and/or amplitude, as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art upon viewing this disclosure. For example, in an embodiment, the EM signal may comprise an on-off keying signal digital modulation at any suitable data rate.

In an embodiment, the WAVA200is selectively configurable either to disallow fluid communication to/from the flow passage36of the WAVA200to/from an exterior of the WAVA200or to allow fluid communication to/from the flow passage36of the WAVA200to/from an exterior of the WAVA200. As illustrated inFIGS. 3A-3BandFIGS. 6A-6B, in an embodiment, the WAVA200may be configured to be transitioned from a first configuration to a second configuration, as disclosed herein.

In the embodiment depicted byFIG. 3AandFIG. 6A, the WAVA200is illustrated in the first configuration. In the first configuration, the WAVA200is configured to disallow fluid communication between the flow passage36of the WAVA200and the wellbore114via the ports212. Additionally, in an embodiment, when the WAVA200is in the first configuration, the sliding member216is located (e.g., immobilized) in a first position within the WAVA200, as disclosed herein.

In an embodiment as depicted byFIG. 3BandFIG. 6B, the WAVA200is illustrated in the second configuration. In the second configuration, the WAVA200is configured to allow fluid communication between the flow passage36of the WAVA200and the wellbore114via one or more of the ports212. In an embodiment, the WAVA200may be configured to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration upon the transmission of a predetermined signal (e.g., an EM signal) to the flow passage36of the WAVA200, as disclosed herein. Additionally, in such an embodiment, when the WAVA200is in the second configuration one or more of the sliding members216is in the second position, as disclosed herein.

In an additional or alternative embodiment, as depicted inFIG. 6C, the WAVA200is illustrated in a third configuration. In the third configuration, the WAVA200is configured to allow fluid communication between the flow passage36of the WAVA200and the wellbore114via a bypass port410, as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the WAVA200may be configured to transition from the first position or the second configuration to the third configuration upon actuation of a bypass valve416, as disclosed herein. Additionally, in such an embodiment, when the WAVA200is in the third configuration the sliding member216may be in either the first position or the second position, as disclosed herein.

Referring toFIGS. 3A-3BandFIGS. 6A-6C, in an embodiment, the WAVA200comprises a housing210which generally comprises a cylindrical or tubular-like structure. The housing210may comprise a unitary structure; alternatively, the housing210may be made up of two or more operably connected components (e.g., an upper component and a lower component). In an embodiment, the housing210may comprise any suitable structure; such suitable structures will be appreciated by those of skill in the art with the aid of this disclosure.

In an embodiment, the WAVA200may be configured for incorporation into the wellbore tubular string120or another suitable tubular string. In such an embodiment, the housing210may comprise a suitable connection to the wellbore tubular string120(e.g., to a casing string member, such as a casing joint), or alternatively, into any suitable string (e.g., a liner, a work string, a coiled tubing string, or other tubular string). For example, the housing210may comprise internally or externally threaded surfaces. Additional or alternative suitable connections to a casing string (e.g., a tubular string) will be known to those of skill in the art upon viewing this disclosure.

In the embodiment ofFIGS. 3A-3BandFIGS. 6A-6C, the housing210generally defines the flow passage36, for example, a flow path36generally defined by an inner bore surface238of the housing210. In such an embodiment, the WAVA200is incorporated within the wellbore tubular string120such that the flow passage36of the WAVA200is in fluid communication with the flow passage121of the wellbore tubular string120.

In an embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 4, the housing210may comprise one or more sliding chambers disposed circumferentially around the flow passage36of the housing210and the housing210may be configured to allow the one or more sliding members216to be slidably positioned therein. For example, in an embodiment, the housing210may generally define a sliding chamber220. In an embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 5, the sliding chamber220may generally comprise a cylindrical bore surface230, a first axial face234, and a second axial face236. In an embodiment, the first axial face234may be positioned at an uphole interface of the cylindrical bore surface230. Also in such an embodiment, the second axial face234may be positioned at a downhole interface of the cylindrical bore surface230. While illustrated as cylindrical bores, sliding chambers comprising any suitable cross-section may be used with sliding members having corresponding cross-sections. In additional or alternative embodiments, the housing210may further comprise one or more recesses, cut-outs, chambers, voids, or the like in which one or more components of the actuation system226may be disposed, as disclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the housing210comprises one or more ports212. In an embodiment, the one or more ports212may be disposed circumferentially around an interior and/or exterior surface of the housing210. For example, the ports212may comprise an outer port orifice212aand an inner port orifice212band may extend radially outward from and/or inwards towards the flow passage36, as illustrated inFIG. 4. As such, these ports212may provide a route of fluid communication between the flow passage36and an exterior of the housing210when the WAVA200is so-configured. For example, the WAVA200may be configured such that the ports212provide a route of fluid communication between the flow passage36and the exterior of the WAVA200(for example, the annulus extending between the WAVA200and the walls of the wellbore114when the WAVA200is positioned within the wellbore) when the route of fluid communication of the ports212are unblocked (e.g., by the sliding member216, as disclosed herein). Alternatively, the WAVA200may be configured such that no fluid will be communicated via the ports212between the flow passage36and the exterior of the WAVA200when the route of fluid communication of the ports are blocked (e.g., by the sliding member216, as disclosed herein). When a plurality of WAVA are disposed in the sliding chambers disposed circumferentially around the flow passage of the housing210, each WAVA may be configured to actuate in response to the same or a different frequency as any other WAVA, as described in more detail herein. This may allow for selective opening or reconfiguration of individual sliding chambers.

In an embodiment, as illustrated inFIGS. 3A-3B, the outer port orifice212amay be disposed along the cylindrical bore surface230of the sliding chamber220and the outer port orifice212amay provide a route of fluid communication between the exterior of the housing210and the sliding chamber220. Additionally, the inner port orifice212bmay be disposed along the cylindrical surface230of the sliding chamber220and the inner port orifice212bmay provide a route of fluid communication between the sliding chamber220and the flow path36of the housing210. In such an embodiment, the outer port orifice212amay be substantially aligned, at least partially up-hole, or at least partially down-hole of the inner port orifice212b.

In an alternative embodiment, as illustrated inFIGS. 6A-6C, the housing210may comprise an exterior port212c, an interior port212d, and a bypass port410. In an embodiment, the external port212cmay provide a route of fluid communication between the exterior of the housing210and one or more chambers within the housing210(e.g., an inflow chamber412), as disclosed herein. Additionally, the internal port212dmay be disposed along the cylindrical surface230of the sliding chamber220and the internal port212bmay provide a route of fluid communication between the sliding chamber220and the flow path36of the housing210. Further, in an embodiment, the bypass port410may be disposed within the inflow chamber412of the housing210and may provide a route of fluid communication between the inflow chamber412and the flow path36of the housing210.

In an additional embodiment, one or more of the ports212(e.g., the external port212c) may be positioned adjacent to a plug, a screen, a filter, a “wire-wrapped” filter, a sintered mesh filter, a pre-pack filter, an expandable filter, a slotted filter, a perforated filter, a cover, or a shield, for example, to prevent debris from entering the ports212. For example, in an embodiment as illustrated inFIG. 6A-6C, the WAVA200may comprise a filter402(e.g., a “wire-wrapped” filter) positioned adjacent to and/or covering the exterior port212cand the filter402may be configured to allow a fluid to pass but not sand or other debris larger than a certain size. In an additional or alternative embodiment, the ports212may comprise one or more pressure-altering devices (e.g., nozzles, erodible nozzles, fluid jets, or the like).

In an additional or alternative embodiment, the housing210may comprise the inflow chamber412. In the embodiments ofFIG. 6A-6C, the inflow chamber412may provide a route of fluid communication between the exterior of the housing210and the flow passage36of the housing210, for example, via the external port212cand a flow restrictor404and/or the bypass port410, when so configured, as disclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the flow restrictor404may be disposed within the housing210to provide a route of fluid communication between the inflow chamber412and the sliding chamber220. In such an embodiment, the flow restrictor404may be configured to cause a fluid pressure differential across the flow restrictor404in response to flowing a fluid through the flow restrictor404in at least one direction. In an embodiment, the flow restrictor404may be cylindrical in shape and may comprise at least one fluid passage extending axially through the flow restrictor404having a diameter significantly smaller than the length of the passage. In an additional or alternative embodiment, the flow restrictor404may be formed of an orifice restrictor, a nozzle restrictor, a helical restrictor, a u-bend restrictor, and/or any other types of suitable restrictors for creating a pressure differential across the flow restrictor404. In an additional or alternative embodiment, the flow restrictor404may permit one-way fluid communication, for example, allowing fluid communication in a first direction with minimal resistance and substantially preventing fluid communication in a second direction (e.g., providing a high resistance). For example, in an embodiment, the flow restrictor404may comprise a check-valve or other similar device for providing one-way fluid communication.

In an embodiment, the route of fluid communication provided by the flow restrictor404may be at least partially more restrictive (e.g., more resistance) than the route of fluid communication provided via the bypass port410. For example, in an embodiment, a fluid may flow at a lower flow rate and/or with a higher pressure drop through the flow restrictor404than through the bypass port410.

In an embodiment as shown inFIGS. 6A-6C, a bypass valve416may be disposed within the inflow chamber412and may be configured to selectively allow or disallow fluid communication between the inflow chamber412and flow passage36of the housing210via the bypass port410, as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the bypass valve416may comprise an actuatable valve, a sliding member, a rupture disk, or any other suitable device for selectively allowing or disallowing a route of fluid communication, as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art upon viewing this disclosure. For example, in an embodiment, upon actuating (e.g., opening) the bypass valve416the WAVA200may be configured such that a fluid may be allowed to communicate between the inflow chamber412and the flow passage36of the housing210via the bypass port410. In an embodiment, the bypass valve416comprises a sliding member216, an actuator415and a receiver417. The actuator415and or receiver417may be configured to be actuated in response to a different frequency and/or EM signal than the receiver218. This may allow the actuator250to be actuated without activating the actuator415, and vice versa.

In the embodiments ofFIGS. 3A-3BandFIGS. 6A-6C, the sliding member216may be configured to selectively allow or disallow a route of fluid communication between the exterior of the housing210and the flow path36of the housing210. In the embodiment ofFIG. 5, the sliding member216generally comprises a cylindrical or tubular structure and may be sized to be slidably and concentrically fitted in a corresponding bore, as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the sliding member216may comprise a unitary structure; alternatively, the sliding member216may be made up of two or more operably connected segments (e.g., a first segment, a second segment, etc.). Alternatively, the sliding member216may comprise any suitable structure. Such suitable structures will be appreciated by those of skill in the art upon viewing of this disclosure. In an embodiment, the sliding member216may comprise cylindrical sliding member surfaces216aand216b, a first sliding member face216c, and a second sliding member face216d.

As shown inFIG. 5, the sliding member216may be slidably positioned within the housing210(e.g., within the sliding chamber220). For example, in the embodiment ofFIG. 5, at least a portion of the cylindrical sliding member surface216amay be slidably fitted against at least a portion of cylindrical bore surface230of the housing210in a fluid-tight or substantially fluid-tight manner. In an embodiment, the sliding member216may further comprise one or more suitable seals (e.g., O-ring, T-seal, gasket, etc.) at one or more surface interfaces, for example, for the purposes of prohibiting or restricting fluid movement via such a surface interface. In the embodiment ofFIG. 5, the sliding member216comprises seals215at the interface between the cylindrical sliding member surface216aand the cylindrical bore surface230.

In an embodiment, the sliding member216and the one or more seals215may be disposed within the sliding chamber220of the housing210such that at least an upper portion of the sliding chamber220(e.g., a first chamber portion220a) may be fluidicly isolated from a lower portion of the sliding chamber220(e.g., a second chamber portion220band a third chamber portion220c). In such an embodiment, the first chamber portion220amay be generally defined by the first axial face234, the first sliding member face216c, and at least a portion of the cylindrical bore surface230extending between the first axial face234and the first sliding member face216c. Additionally, in an embodiment, the second chamber portion220band the third chamber portion220cmay be in fluidic isolation from each other, for example, via an actuable member222(e.g., a rupture plate, an activatable valve), as disclosed herein. In such an embodiment, the second chamber portion220bmay be generally defined by the second sliding member face216d, the actuable member222, and at least a portion of the cylindrical bore surface230extending between the second sliding member face216dand the actuable member222. Also, in such an embodiment, the third chamber portion220cmay be generally defined by the actuable member222, the second axial face236, and at least a portion of the cylindrical bore surface230extending between the actuable member222and the second axial face236.

In an embodiment, the first chamber portion220a, the second chamber portion220b, and/or the third chamber portion220cmay be characterized as having a variable volume. For example, the volume of the first chamber portion220a, the second chamber portion220b, and/or the third chamber portion220cmay vary with movement of the sliding member216, as disclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the sliding member216may be movable, with respect to the housing210, from a first position to a second position. In an embodiment, fluid communication between the flow passage36of the WAVA200and the exterior of the WAVA200, for example, via the outer port orifice212aand the inner port orifice212bof the ports212, may depend upon the position of the sliding member216relative to the housing210.

Referring to the embodiments ofFIG. 3AandFIG. 6A, the sliding member216is illustrated in the first position. For example, in an embodiment as illustrated inFIG. 3A, the sliding member216blocks the inner port orifice212bof the housing210and thereby, prevents fluid communication between the flow passage36of the WAVA200the exterior of the WAVA200via the ports212. In an alternative embodiment, in the first position the sliding member216may be positioned such that at least a portion of the sliding member216is between the outer port orifice212aand the inner port orifice212band thereby blocks a route of route of fluid communication between the ports212.

Referring to the embodiments ofFIG. 3BandFIG. 6B, the sliding member216is illustrated in the second position. In the second position, such as illustrated inFIG. 3B, the sliding member216does not block the inner port orifice212bof the housing210and thereby, allows fluid communication from the flow passage36of the WAVA200to the exterior of the WAVA200via the ports212.

In an embodiment, the sliding member216may be held (e.g., selectively retained) in the first position by a suitable retaining mechanism, as disclosed herein. For example, in the embodiment ofFIG. 3A, the sliding member216may be held (e.g., selectively retained) in the first position by a hydraulic fluid which may be selectively retained within the second chamber portion220bby the actuation system226(e.g., to form a fluid lock). In such an embodiment, while the hydraulic fluid is retained within the second chamber portion220b, the sliding member216may be impeded from moving in the direction of the second position. Conversely, while the hydraulic fluid is not retained within the second chamber portion220b, the sliding member216may be allowed to move in the direction of the second position. In an embodiment, for example, in the embodiment illustrated byFIG. 3B, where fluid is not retained within the second chamber portion220b, the sliding member216may be configured to transition from the first position to the second position upon the application of a pressure (e.g., hydraulic) to the first sliding member face216c, as disclosed herein.

In an additional or alternative embodiment, the sliding member216may be held in the first position by one or more sheer pins. For example, one or more shear pins may extend between the housing210and the sliding member216. In such an embodiment, the one or more shear pins may be inserted or positioned within a suitable borehole in the housing210and the borehole in the sliding member216. As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the one or more shear pins may be sized to shear or break upon the application of a desired magnitude of force (e.g., force resulting from the application of a hydraulic fluid pressure, such as a pressure test) to the sliding member216, as disclosed herein. In an alternative embodiment, the sliding member216may be held in the first position by any suitable frangible member, such as a shear ring or the like.

In an embodiment, the sliding member216may be configured to selectively transition from the first position to the second position. In an embodiment the sliding member216may be configured to transition from the first position to the second position following the activating of the actuation system226. For example, upon activating the actuation system226a pressure change within the sliding chamber220may result in a differential force applied to the sliding member216in the direction towards the second position.

In such an embodiment, the sliding member216may comprise a differential in the surface area of the surfaces which are fluidicly exposed to the first sliding chamber portion220a(e.g., the second sliding member face216d) and the surface area of the surfaces which are fluidicly exposed to the second sliding chamber portion220band/or the third sliding chamber portion220c(e.g., the first sliding member face216c). For example, in an embodiment, the exposed surface area of the surfaces of the sliding member216which will apply a force (e.g., a hydraulic force) in the direction toward the second position (e.g., a downward force) may be greater than exposed surface area of the surfaces of the sliding member216which will apply a force (e.g., a hydraulic force) in the direction away from the second position (e.g., an upward force). For example, in the embodiment ofFIG. 3Aand not intending to be bound by theory, the second sliding chamber portion220bis fluidicly sealed (e.g., by the one or more seals115and the actuable member222), and therefore unexposed to hydraulic fluid pressures applied to the first sliding chamber portion220athereby resulting in such a differential in the force applied to the sliding member216in the direction toward the second position (e.g., an downward force) and the force applied to the sliding member216in the direction away from the second position (e.g., an upward force). In an additional or alternative embodiment, a WAVA like WAVA200may further comprise one or more additional chambers (e.g., similar to first sliding chamber portion220a, the second sliding chamber portion220b, and/or the third sliding chamber portion220c) providing such a differential in the force applied to the first sliding member in the direction toward the second position and the force applied to the sliding member in the direction away from the second position. Alternatively, in an embodiment the sliding member216may be configured to move in the direction of the second position via a biasing member, such as a spring or compressed fluid or via a control line or signal line (e.g., a hydraulic control line/conduit) connected to the surface.

In an embodiment, the hydraulic fluid may comprise any suitable fluid. In an embodiment, the hydraulic fluid may be characterized as having a suitable rheology. In an embodiment, the second sliding chamber portion220bis filled or substantially filled with a hydraulic fluid that may be characterized as a compressible fluid, for example a fluid having a relatively low compressibility, alternatively, the hydraulic fluid may be characterized as substantially incompressible. In an embodiment, the hydraulic fluid may be characterized as having a suitable bulk modulus, for example, a relatively high bulk modulus. For example, in an embodiment, the hydraulic fluid may be characterized as having a bulk modulus in the range of from about 1.8 105psi, lbf/in2to about 2.8 105psi, lbf/in2from about 1.9 105psi, lbf/in2to about 2.6 105psi, lbf/in2, alternatively, from about 2.0 105psi, lbf/in2to about 2.4 105psi, lbf/in2. In an additional embodiment, the hydraulic fluid may be characterized as having a relatively low coefficient of thermal expansion. For example, in an embodiment, the hydraulic fluid may be characterized as having a coefficient of thermal expansion in the range of from about 0.0004 cc/cc/° C. to about 0.0015 cc/cc/° C., alternatively, from about 0.0006 cc/cc/° C. to about 0.0013 cc/cc/° C., alternatively, from about 0.0007 cc/cc/° C. to about 0.0011 cc/cc/° C. In another additional embodiment, the hydraulic fluid may be characterized as having a stable fluid viscosity across a relatively wide temperature range (e.g., a working range), for example, across a temperature range from about 50° F. to about 400° F., alternatively, from about 60° F. to about 350° F., alternatively, from about 70° F. to about 300° F. In another embodiment, the hydraulic fluid may be characterized as having a kinematic viscosity in the range of from about 50 centistokes to about 500 centistokes. Examples of a suitable hydraulic fluid include, but are not limited to aqueous fluids (e.g., water), oils, such as synthetic fluids, hydrocarbons, or combinations thereof. Particular examples of a suitable hydraulic fluid include water, silicon oil, paraffin oil, petroleum-based oils, brake fluid (glycol-ether-based fluids, mineral-based oils, and/or silicon-based fluids), transmission fluid, synthetic fluids, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the actuation system226may be configured to transition the sliding member216from the first position to the second position. Additionally, in an embodiment, the actuation system226may be configured to selectively allow a route of fluid communication within the WAVA200upon receiving a predetermined EM signal, as disclosed in more detail herein. For example, in an embodiment the actuation system226may allow a route of communication between two or more chambers220of the WAVA200upon receiving a predetermined EM signal, for example, a transmitter300transmitting an RF signal of about a predetermined frequency within the flow passage36of the WAVA200. Additionally, in an embodiment, the actuation system226may be configured to selectively respond to one or more predetermined characteristics of an EM signal (e.g., frequency, modulation), as disclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the actuation system226generally comprises a receiver218and an actuator250, as illustrated inFIG. 5. In an embodiment, the receiver218and/or the actuator250may be fully or partially incorporated within the WAVA200by any suitable means as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art. For example, in an embodiment, the receiver218and/or the actuator250may be housed, individually or separately, within a recess within the housing210of the WAVA200. In an alternative embodiment, as will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, at least a portion of the receiver218and/or the actuator250may be otherwise positioned, for example, external to the housing210of the WAVA200. It is noted that the scope of this disclosure is not limited to any particular configuration, position, and/or number of the receivers218, and/or actuators250. For example, although the embodiment ofFIG. 5illustrates an actuation system226comprising multiple distributed components (e.g., a single receiver218and a single actuator250, each of which comprises a separate, distinct component), in an alternative embodiment, a similar actuation system may comprise similar components in a single, unitary component; alternatively, the functions performed by these components (e.g., the receiver218and the actuator250) may be distributed across any suitable number and/or configuration of like componentry, as will be appreciated by one of skill in the art with the aid of this disclosure.

In an embodiment, the receiver218may comprise a receiving antenna and may be generally configured to receive a signal (e.g., an EM signal). The receiver218may output an activation signal (e.g., an analog voltage or current), which may be generated due to receiving the EM signal, upon a determination that the receiving antenna has experienced the predetermined EM signal. For example, in an embodiment, the receiver218may output an activation signal (e.g., electric power) to the actuator250in response to receiving a predetermined EM signal (e.g., an RF signal of about a predetermined frequency).

In an embodiment, the receiver218may comprise one or more receiving antennas. In an embodiment, the receiving antenna may be positioned within the housing210of the WAVA200such that the receiving antenna may sense EM signals within the flow passage36of the housing210. In order to allow the EM signal to be detected by a receiving antenna, a window of material configured to allow for the transmission of an EM signal may be disposed in the housing adjacent or near the receiving antenna. In such an embodiment, the one or more receiving antennas may be configured to receive a signal (e.g., the EM signal) and may convert the EM signal to a suitable electrical signal (e.g., electric power). In an alternative embodiment, the one or more receiving antennas may be configured to inductively couple with a transmitting antenna and in response may output a suitable electrical signal (e.g., electric power). For example, in an embodiment, a suitable electrical signal may comprise a varying voltage signal or a varying current signal indicative of the predetermined EM signal. In an embodiment, the receiving antenna may be configurable and/or tunable to resonate and/or to respond selectively to an EM signal comprising one or more predetermined frequencies. The receiving antenna may comprise a receiver circuit, or be tuned based on the design of the receiving antenna (e.g., based on the coil length, diameter, etc.). The receiving antenna may comprise various components designed to provide a desired response such as inductors, capacitors, and/or frequency filters. For example, in an embodiment, the receiver may comprise a coiled receiving antenna and in response to receiving an EM signal of about a predetermined frequency the coiled receiving antenna may inductively generate an EM field which may be transferred into electric power or an electrical voltage (e.g., via inductive coupling) above a threshold value. In an embodiment, EM signals varying from the predetermined frequencies by more than a certain amount (e.g., by more than about 5%, more than about 10%, more than about 15%, or more than about 20%) may not produce an inductive coupling, and/or may not generate electric power or voltage above the threshold value necessary to actuate the WAVA.

In an embodiment, the receiving antenna may generally comprise an electrically conductive material such as one or more materials formed of aluminum, copper, gold, and/or any other suitable conductive material, as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art upon viewing this disclosure. In an embodiment, the one or more materials of the receiving antenna may form a coiled antenna, a loop antenna, short dipole antenna, a half-wave dipole antenna, a double zepp antenna, an extended double zepp antenna, a one and one half wave dipole antenna, a dual dipole antenna, an off center dipole antenna, a microstrip antenna, a patch antenna, a stripline antenna, a PCB transmission line antenna, and/or any other suitable type of antenna as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art upon viewing this disclosure. Additionally, in an embodiment, the receiving antenna may comprise a terminal interface. In such an embodiment, the terminal interface may electrically and/or physically connect the receiving antenna to a receiving circuit, as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the terminal interface may comprise one or more wire leads, one or more metal traces, a BNC connector, a terminal connector, an optical connector, and/or any other suitable connection interfaces as would be appreciated by one of skill in the arts upon viewing this disclosure.

In an embodiment, the receiver218may further comprise an optional receiving circuit and may be configured to tune the receiving antenna and/or respond to the presence of the predetermined EM signal from the receiving antenna. For example, the receiving circuit may be configured to set and/or to adjust the resonance of the receiving antenna and to output an electrical signal (e.g., an analog voltage, an analog current) in response to receiving the predetermined EM signal. Additionally or alternatively, the receiving circuit may be configure to amplify the electrical signal from the receiving antenna, to filter the electrical signal from the receiving antenna, to rectify a time varying signal, to trigger the actuator250, and/or any combination thereof, as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art upon viewing this disclosure. In such an embodiment, the receiving circuit may be in signal communication with the receiving antenna. In an embodiment, the receiving circuit receives an electrical signal from the receiving antenna and generates an output response (e.g., electric power or an electrical voltage). In an embodiment, the receiving circuit may comprise any suitable configuration, for example, comprising one or more printed circuit boards, one or more integrated circuits (e.g., an ASIC), a one or more discrete circuit, one or more active devices, one or more passive devices components (e.g., a resistor, an inductor, a capacitor), one or more microprocessors, one or more microcontrollers, one or more wires, an electromechanical interface, a power supply and/or any combination thereof. For example, the receiving circuit may comprise a resistor-inductor-capacitor circuit and may configure the receiving antenna to resonate and/or to respond to a predetermined frequency. As noted above, the receiving circuit may comprise a single, unitary, or non-distributed component capable of performing the function disclosed herein; alternatively, the receiving circuit may comprise a plurality of distributed components capable of performing the functions disclosed herein.

In an embodiment (for example, in the embodiment ofFIG. 4where the receiver218and the actuator250comprise distributed components) the receiver218may communicate with the actuator250via a suitable signal conduit, for example, via one or more suitable wires. Examples of suitable wires include, but are not limited to, insulated solid core copper wires, insulated stranded copper wires, unshielded twisted pairs, fiber optic cables, coaxial cables, any other suitable wires as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the receiving circuit may comprise a voltage driving circuit (e.g., a transistor power amplifier) configured to output a voltage signal (e.g., an activation signal) to the actuator250in response to the electric power or electrical voltage from the receiving antenna. In an alternative embodiment, the receiving circuit may comprise a switch (e.g., an electromechanical relay, a one or more transistor, one or more digital logic gates) configured to short a physical connection between the actuator250and an electronic voltage supply in response to the electric power or electrical voltage from the receiving antenna.

In an embodiment, the receiving circuit may communicate with the actuator250via a suitable signaling protocol. Examples of such a signaling protocol include, but are not limited to, an encoded digital signal. Alternatively, in an embodiment, the receiving circuit may communicate with the actuator250via an electronic signal (e.g., an analog voltage or current signal).

In an embodiment, the receiving circuit may be configured to output a digital voltage or a current signal to an actuator250in response to the presence of the predetermined EM signal. For example, in an embodiment, the receiving circuit may be configured to transition its output from a low voltage signal (e.g., about 0V) to a high voltage signal (e.g., about, 1.5 V, about 3 V, about 5 V) in response to the presence of the predetermined RF signal. In an alternative embodiment, the receiving circuit may be configured to transition its output from a high voltage signal (e.g., about, 1.5 V, about 3 V, about 5 V) to a low voltage signal (e.g., about 0V) in response to the presence of the predetermined EM signal.

Additionally, in an embodiment, the receiving circuit may be configured to operate in either a low-power consumption or “sleep” mode or, alternatively, in an operational or active mode. The receiving circuit may be configured to enter the active mode (e.g., to “wake”) in response to a predetermined RF signal, for example, as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the actuator250may not be coupled to a power source other than the power generated by the receiving antenna.

In an embodiment, the receiver218may be supplied with electrical power generated by the receiving antenna. For example, in an embodiment, in response to receiving an EM signal the receiving antenna (e.g., a coiled antenna) may inductively generate an EM field, which may be transferred into electric power or an electrical voltage (e.g., inductive coupling). For example, in an embodiment, the EM field may generate an alternating electrical current and the receiver218may comprise a bridge rectifier configured generate an electrical voltage in response to the alternating electrical current passing there-through. In such an embodiment, the electrical voltage generated by the bridge rectifier may power the receiver218and/or the actuator250. For example, the generated power may supply power in the range of from about 3 mW to about 0.5 W, alternatively, from about 0.5 to about 1.0 W. In an embodiment, the power generated by the antenna may be the only power available to the device, which may be sufficient to actuate the actuator250. In an embodiment, the power supplied by the receiving antenna may be the only source of power for the receiver218and/or actuator250.

In an alternative embodiment, the receiver218may receive electrical power via a power source. For example, in such an embodiment, the WAVA200may further comprise an on-board battery, be coupled to a power generation device, be coupled to a power source within the wellbore, be coupled to a power source outside the wellbore, or any combination thereof. In such an embodiment, the power source and/or power generation device may supply power to the receiver circuit218, to the actuator250, and/or combinations thereof, for example, for the purpose of operating the receiver218, the actuator, or combinations thereof. An example of a power source and/or a power generation device is a Galvanic Cell, a molten salt batter, and the like. In an embodiment, the power source and/or power generation device may be sufficient to power the receiver218, the actuator250, or combinations thereof. For example, the power source and/or power generation device may supply power in the range of from about 0.5 to about 10 watts, alternatively, from about 0.5 to about 1.0 watt.

In an embodiment, the actuator250may generally be configured to provide selective fluid communication in response to an activation signal (e.g., an analog voltage or current). For example, the actuator250may allow or disallow a fluid to be communicated between two or more chambers220in response to an activation signal. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the actuator250may be positioned adjacent to and/or partially define the third chamber portion220c. In such an embodiment, the actuator250may be configured to provide fluid communication between the third chamber portion220cand the second chamber portion220bin response to an activation signal. In an embodiment, the third chamber portion220cmay have a pressure below that of the second chamber portion220b.

In an embodiment as illustrated inFIG. 5, the actuator250may comprise a piercing member224such as a punch or needle. In such an embodiment, the punch may be configured, when activated, to puncture, perforate, rupture, pierce, destroy, disintegrate, combust, or otherwise cause the actuable member222to cease to seal the third chamber portion220c. In such an embodiment, the punch may be electrically driven, for example, via an electrically-driven motor or an electromagnet. Alternatively, the punch may be propelled or driven via a hydraulic means, a mechanical means (such as a spring or threaded rod), a chemical reaction, an explosion, or any other suitable means of propulsion, in response to receipt of an activating signal. Suitable types and/or configuration of actuators250are described in U.S. Patent Pub. No. 2011/0174504 entitled “Well Tools Operable Via Thermal Expansion Resulting from Reactive Materials” to Adam D. Wright, et al., and U.S. Patent Pub. No. 2010/0175867 entitled “Well Tools Incorporating Valves Operable by Low Electrical Power Input” to Wright et al., the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. In an alternative embodiment, the actuator may be configured to cause combustion of the actuable member. For example, the actuable member may comprise a combustible material (e.g., thermite) that, when detonated or ignited may burn a hole in the actuable member222. In an embodiment, the actuator250(e.g., the piercing member224) may comprise a flow path (e.g., ported, slotted, surface channels, etc.) to allow hydraulic fluid to pass therethrough.

In an alternative embodiment, the actuator250may comprise an activatable valve. In such an embodiment, the valve may be integrated within the housing210, for example, at least partially defining the sliding chamber220(e.g., defining the third chamber220c). In such an embodiment, the valve may be activated (e.g., opened) so as to allow fluid communication between the third chamber portion220cand the second chamber portion220b.

In an embodiment, the actuable member222may be configured to contain the hydraulic fluid within the second chamber portion220buntil a triggering event occurs (e.g., an activation signal), as disclosed herein. For example, in an embodiment, the actuable member222may be configured to be punctured, perforated, ruptured, pierced, destroyed, disintegrated, combusted, or the like, for example, when subjected to a desired force or pressure. In an embodiment, the actuable member222may comprise a fluid barrier, a rupture disk, a rupture plate, or the like, which may be formed from a suitable material. Examples of such a suitable material may include, but are not limited to, a metal, a ceramic, a glass, a plastic, a composite, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, upon destruction of the actuable member222(e.g., open), the hydraulic fluid within the second sliding chamber portion220bmay be free to move out of the second sliding chamber portion220bvia the pathway previously contained/obstructed by the actuable member222. For example, in the embodiment ofFIG. 3B, upon destruction of the actuable member222, the third sliding chamber portion220cmay be configured such that the fluid may be free to flow out of the second sliding chamber portion220band into the third sliding chamber portion220c. In alternative embodiments, the third sliding chamber portion220cmay be configured such that the fluid flows into a secondary chamber (e.g., an expansion chamber), out of the well tool (e.g., into the wellbore), into the flow passage, or combinations thereof.

Additionally or alternatively, the second sliding chamber portion220bmay be configured to allow the fluid to flow therefrom at a predetermined or controlled rate. For example, in such an embodiment, an atmospheric chamber may further comprise a fluid meter, a fluidic diode, a fluidic restrictor, or the like. For example, in such an embodiment, the fluid may be emitted from the second sliding chamber portion220bvia a fluid aperture, for example, a fluid aperture which may comprise or be fitted with a fluid pressure and/or fluid flow-rate altering device, such as a nozzle or a metering device such as a fluidic diode. In an embodiment, such a fluid aperture may be sized to allow a given flow-rate of fluid, and thereby provide a desired opening time or delay associated with flow of fluid exiting the second sliding chamber portion220band, as such, the movement of the sliding member216. Fluid flow-rate control devices and methods of utilizing the same are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Pub. No. 2011/0036590 entitled “System and Method for Servicing a Wellbore” to Jimmie R. Williamson, et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In an embodiment, such an EM signal may be generated by a transmitter formed as or contained within a tool, or other apparatus (e.g., a ball, a dart, a bullet, a plug, etc.) disposed within the wellbore tubular string120. For example, in the embodiments ofFIGS. 3A-3B, the transmitter300(e.g., a dart) may transmit a predetermined EM signal and may be disposed within the flow passage121of the wellbore tubular string120and/or the flow passage of the WAVA200so as to be detected by the WAVA or a component thereof, as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the transmitter300may comprise a transmitting circuit310.

In an embodiment, the transmitter300may comprise one or more transmitting antennas. In an embodiment, the transmitting antenna may be positioned within the transmitter300such that the transmitting antenna may transmit EM signals within the flow passage36of the housing210of the WAVA200. In such an embodiment, the one or more transmitting antennas may be configured to transmit an electrical signal (e.g., electric power) and may convert the electrical signal to a suitable EM signal. In an additional or alternative embodiment, the one or more transmitting antennas may be configured to inductively couple with a receiving antenna. In an embodiment, the transmitting antenna may be configured by the transmitting circuit310to transmit an EM signal comprising one or more predetermined frequencies. For example, the transmitting antenna may only transmit an EM signal of a predetermined frequency, or a plurality of EM signals of predetermined frequencies.

In an embodiment, the transmitting antenna may generally comprise a conductive material such as one or more materials formed of aluminum, copper, gold, and/or any other suitable conductive material, as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art upon viewing this disclosure. In an embodiment, the one or more materials of the transmitting antenna may form a coiled antenna, a loop antenna, short dipole antenna, a half-wave dipole antenna, a double zepp antenna, an extended double zepp antenna, a one and one half wave dipole antenna, a dual dipole antenna, an off center dipole antenna, a microstrip antenna, a patch antenna, a stripline antenna, a PCB transmission line antenna, and/or any other suitable type of antenna as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art upon viewing this disclosure. Additionally, in an embodiment, the transmitting antenna may comprise a terminal interface. In such an embodiment, the terminal interface may electrically and/or physically connect the receiving antenna to the transmitting circuit310. In an embodiment, the terminal interface may comprise one or more wire leads, one or more metal traces, a BNC connector, a terminal connector, an optical connector, and/or any other suitable connection interfaces as would be appreciated by one of skill in the arts upon viewing this disclosure.

In an embodiment, the transmitting circuit310may be configured to generate an EM signal and to transmit the EM signal via the transmitting antenna. For example, in an embodiment, the transmitting circuit310may generally be configured to generate an electrical signal (e.g., electric power or electrical voltage), to amplify the electrical signal, to modulate the electrical signal, to filter the electrical signal, to transmit the electrical signal via the transmitting antenna and/or any combination thereof, as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art upon viewing this disclosure. In such an embodiment, the transmitting circuit310may be in signal communication with the transmitting antenna.

In an embodiment, the transmitting circuit310may comprise any suitable configuration, for example, comprising one or more printed circuit boards, one or more integrated circuits (e.g., an ASIC), a one or more discrete circuit components, one or more active devices, one or more passive devices (e.g., a resistor, an inductor, a capacitor), one or more microprocessors, one or more microcontrollers, one or more wires, an electromechanical interface, a power supply and/or any combination thereof. As noted above, the transmitting circuit310may comprise a single, unitary, or non-distributed component capable of performing the function disclosed herein; alternatively, the transmitting circuit310may comprise a plurality of distributed components capable of performing the functions disclosed herein.

For example, in an embodiment, the transmitting circuit310may comprise an integrated circuit comprising a crystal oscillator and a coiled transmitting antenna. In such an embodiment, the crystal oscillator may be configured to generate an electrical voltage signal comprising one or more predetermined frequencies. Additionally, in such an embodiment, the electrical voltage signal maybe applied to the coiled transmitting antenna and in response the coiled transmitting antenna may generate an EM signal. As disclosed herein, the EM signal may be effective to elicit a response from the WAVA, such as to “wake” one or more components of the actuation system226, to activate the actuation system226as disclosed herein, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the transmitting circuit310may be supplied with electrical power via a power source. For example, in such an embodiment, the transmitter300may comprise an on-board battery, a power generation device, or combinations thereof. In such an embodiment, the power source and/or power generation device (e.g., a battery) may supply power to the transmitting circuit310, for example, for the purpose of operating the transmitting circuit310. An example of a power source and/or a power generation device is a Galvanic Cell. In an embodiment, the power source and/or power generation device may be sufficient to power the transmitting circuit310. For example, the power source and/or power generation device may supply power in the range of from about 0.5 to about 10 watts, alternatively, from about 0.5 to about 1.0 watt.

One or more embodiment of a WAVA200and a system comprising one or more of such WAVA200having been disclosed, one or more embodiments of a wireless actuation system method utilizing the one or more WAVAs200(and/or system comprising such WAVA200) is disclosed herein. In an embodiment, such a method may generally comprise the steps of providing a wellbore tubular string120comprising one or more WAVAs200within a wellbore114that penetrates the subterranean formation102, optionally, isolating adjacent zones of the subterranean formation102, passing a transmitter300within the flow passage121of the wellbore tubular string120, preparing the WAVA200for communication of a formation fluid (for example, a hydrocarbon, such as oil and/or gas), and communicating a formation fluid via the ports212of the WAVA200. In an additional embodiment, for example, where multiple WAVA200are placed within a wellbore114, a downhole component actuation method may further comprise repeating the process of preparing the WAVA200for the communication of a production fluid and communicating a production fluid via the ports212if the WAVA200for each of the WAVA200.

Referring toFIG. 2, in an embodiment the wireless actuation system method comprises positioning or “running in” a completion string120comprising a plurality of WAVA200a-200iwithin the wellbore114. For example, in the embodiment ofFIG. 2, the completion string120has incorporated therein a first WAVA200a, a second WAVA200b, a third WAVA200c, a fourth WAVA200d, a fifth WAVA200e, a sixth WAVA200f, a seventh WAVA200g, an eighth WAVA200h, and a ninth WAVA200i. Also in the embodiment ofFIG. 2, the completion string120is positioned within the wellbore114such that the first WAVA200a, the second WAVA200b, the third WAVA200c, the fourth WAVA200d, the fifth WAVA200e, the sixth WAVA200f, the seventh WAVA200g, the eighth WAVA200h, and the ninth WAVA200imay be positioned proximate and/or substantially adjacent to a first, a second, a third, a fourth, a fifth, a sixth, a seventh, an eighth, and a ninth subterranean formation zone 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, and 18, respectively. It is noted that although in the embodiment ofFIG. 2, the wellbore tubular string120comprises nine WAVAs (e.g., WAVA200a-200i), one of ordinary skill in the art, upon viewing this disclosure, will appreciate that any suitable number of WAVA200may be similarly incorporated within a tubular string such as the wellbore tubular string120, for example one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or more WAVA200. In an alternative embodiment, two or more WAVA200may be positioned proximate and/or substantially adjacent to a single formation zone, alternatively, a WAVA200may be positioned adjacent to two or more zones.

In an embodiment, once the completion string120comprising the WAVA200(e.g., WAVA200a-200i) has been positioned within the wellbore114, one or more of the adjacent zones may be isolated and/or the completion string120may be secured within the subterranean formation102. For example, in an embodiment, the first zone 2 may be isolated from relatively more uphole portions of the wellbore114(e.g., via a first packer170a), the first zone 2 may be isolated from the second zone 4 (e.g., via a second packer170b), the second zone 4 from the third zone 6 (e.g., via a third packer170c), the third zone 6 from the fourth zone 4 (e.g., via a fourth packer170d), the fourth zone 8 from relatively more downhole portions of the wellbore114(e.g., via a fifth packer170e), or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the adjacent zones may be separated by one or more suitable wellbore isolation devices. Suitable wellbore isolation devices are generally known to those of skill in the art and include but are not limited to packers, such as mechanical packers and swellable packers (e.g., Swellpackers™, commercially available from Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.), sand plugs, sealant compositions such as cement, or combinations thereof. In an alternative embodiment, only a portion of the zones (e.g., 2-18) may be isolated, alternatively, the zones may remain unisolated. Additionally and/or alternatively, a casing string may be secured within the formation, as noted above, for example, by cementing.

In an embodiment, for example, as shown inFIG. 2, the WAVA200a-200imay be integrated within the completion string120, for example, such that, the WAVA200and the completion string120comprise a common flow passage. Thus, a fluid and/or an object introduced into the completion string120will be communicated with the WAVA200.

In the embodiment, the WAVA200is introduced and/or positioned within a wellbore114in the first configuration, for example as shown inFIG. 3AandFIG. 6A. As disclosed herein, in the first configuration, the sliding member216may be held in the first position, thereby blocking fluid communication to/from the flow passage36of the WAVA200to/from the exterior of the WAVA200via the ports212. In some embodiments, the sliding member216may be positioned in a bypass port and a separate flow passage may exist to allow production through a flow control device. The first configuration of the completion assembly comprising the WAVA in the first position may be used during a completion operation and/or during production for any amount of time.

In an embodiment where the wellbore is serviced working from the furthest-downhole formation zone progressively upward, the first WAVA200amay be to be transitioned into a different configuration. For example, the WAVA200amay be prepared for the communication of a formation fluid (for example, a hydrocarbon, such as oil and/or gas) from the proximate formation zone(s). In an embodiment, preparing the WAVA200to communicate the formation fluid may generally comprise communicating an EM signal within the flow passage36of the WAVA200to transition the WAVA200from the first configuration to the second configuration.

In an embodiment, the EM signal may be communicated to the WAVA200to transition the WAVA200from the first configuration to the second configuration, for example, by transitioning the sliding member216from the first position to the second position. In an embodiment, the EM signal may be transmitted by introducing a transmitter (e.g., a dart) to the flow passage36of the completion string120. In an embodiment, the EM signal may be unique to one or more WAVAs200and/or one or more receivers218of the one or more WAVAs200. For example, a WAVA200(e.g., the actuation system226of such a well tool) may be configured such that a predetermined EM signal may elicit a given response from that particular well tool and/or WAVA. For example, the EM signal may be characterized as unique to a particular tool (e.g., one or more of the WAVA200a-200iand/or one or more receivers218). In an additional or alternative embodiment, a given EM signal may cause a given tool to enter an active mode (e.g., to wake from a low power consumption mode) and/or to activate the actuation system226.

In an embodiment, the EM signal may comprise known characteristics, known frequencies, modulations, data rates, for example, as previously disclosed. The EM signal may be sensed by the receiving antenna of one or more receivers218. In an embodiment, the receiving antenna may communicate with the actuator250, for example, by transmitting an analog voltage signal via electrical wires in response to detecting a predetermined EM signal (e.g., a known frequency, modulation, and/or any other characteristics of the EM signal).

In an embodiment, in response to (e.g., upon) receiving the predetermined EM signal, the actuation system226may allow fluid to escape from the second sliding chamber portion220b. For example, in an embodiment, the receiver218may detect an EM signal within the flow passage36and the receiver218may determine whether the EM signal experienced is a predetermined EM signal (e.g., via an inductive coupling). In response to the predetermined EM signal, the receiver218may communicate an activation signal (e.g., electric power) to the actuator250, thereby causing the actuator250to cease to seal the second sliding chamber portion200band to provide fluid communication with the fluid contained therein. As fluid flows from the second sliding chamber portion220b, the fluid will no longer retain the sliding member216in its first position and the sliding member216may transition from the first position to the second position. For example, the sliding member216may transition from the first position to the second position as a result of a fluid pressure applied to the first chamber portion220a. In an embodiment, the sliding member216may move from the first position to the second position because of a differential in the surface area of the upward-facing surfaces which are fluidicly exposed to the first sliding chamber portion220aand the surface area of the downward-facing surfaces which are fluidicly exposed to the second sliding chamber portion220b. In an embodiment, the transition of the sliding member216from the first position to the second position may open the WAVA to flow by unblocking the inner port orifice212b, thereby providing a route of fluid communication between the inner port orifice212band the outer port orifice212ato fluid flow. In an embodiment, the transition of the sliding member216from the first position to the second position may open a flowpath through a flow restriction by unblocking the interior port212d, thereby providing a route of fluid communication between the external port212cand the interior port212dto fluid flow. In an embodiment, the process of preparing the WAVA200for the communication of a fluid may further comprise actuating (e.g., opening) one or more bypass valves416of the WAVA200. In such an embodiment, the one or more bypass valve416of the WAVA200may be actuated (e.g., via electric power) and may provide a route of fluid communication between the exterior port212cand the flow passage36via the bypass port410. Once the WAVA200has been configured for the communication of a formation fluid (e.g., a hydrocarbon, such as oil and/or gas), for example, when the well tool (e.g., the first WAVA200a) has transitioned to the second configuration, fluid communication may be established between the first formation zone 2 and the flow passage36via the unblocked ports212of the first WAVA200a.

In an embodiment, the process of preparing the WAVA200for the communication of a fluid (e.g., a production fluid) via communication of a EM signal, and communicating a production fluid via the ports212of the WAVA200to the zone proximate to that WAVA200may be repeated with respect to one or more of the well tools (e.g., the first WAVA200a, the second WAVA200b, the third WAVA200c, the fourth WAVA200d, the fifth WAVA200e, the sixth WAVA200f, the seventh WAVA200g, the eighth WAVA200h, and/or the ninth WAVA200i). For example, in an embodiment, the process of preparing the WAVA may be repeated for the first WAVA200aand may actuate (e.g., open) one or more additional ports212for fluid communication. In an additional or alternative embodiment, one or more WAVAs200(e.g., the second WAVA200b) may be prepared for communication of a fluid (e.g., a production fluid).

When one or more of the well tools are present in the wellbore, the transmitter may be used to actuate only a single WAVA or a plurality of the WAVA. For example, the transmitter may transmit a single frequency that inductively couples with a specific WAVA (e.g., the first WAVA200a), thereby providing power to actuate the specific WAVA. In order to actuate another WAVA, a second transmitter may be disposed in the wellbore to actuate one or more of the remaining WAVA (e.g., the second WAVA200b, the third WAVA200c, the fourth WAVA200d, the fifth WAVA200e, the sixth WAVA200f, the seventh WAVA200g, the eighth WAVA200h, and/or the ninth WAVA200i). This process may be repeated to actuate the desired number of WAVA. In an embodiment, the single frequency transmitted by the transmitter may actuate a plurality of WAVA. For example, two or more of the WAVA may be configured to actuate based on the same frequency EM signal. In this embodiment, a transmitter may be used to actuate the applicable plurality of WAVA in a single pass along the wellbore.

In an embodiment, a transmitter may transmit a plurality of frequencies, which may actuate a plurality of WAVA. For example, the transmitter may transmit a plurality of frequencies, with each frequency being inductively coupled to one or more of the WAVA (e.g., one or more of the first WAVA200a, the second WAVA200b, the third WAVA200c, the fourth WAVA200d, the fifth WAVA200e, the sixth WAVA200f, the seventh WAVA200g, the eighth WAVA200h, or the ninth WAVA200i). The receivers associated with each WAVA may be configured to inductively couple with one of the plurality of frequencies, thereby allowing for any desired combination of WAVA to be actuated by a transmitter passed through the wellbore. As another example, when a plurality of WAVA are present in a single location (e.g., distributed circumferentially around a sleeve), the transmitter may be configured to actuate one or more of the WAVA, without necessarily actuating all of the WAVA. This may allow for a selective configuration of the flowpath at a given location.

In some embodiments, the transmitter may transmit different frequencies at different times and/or locations within the wellbore. In this embodiment, the transmitter may transmit one or more frequencies as it passes through the wellbore. The transmitter may vary the transmission of the one or more frequencies based on time, depth, pressure, temperature, or the like to selectively actuate one or more of the WAVA. The ability of the transmitter to transmit a single signal, a plurality of signals, or signals that change during passage through the wellbore may allow for the WAVA to be selectively reconfigured during use, with some zones being changed, while others are left in the original or subsequent configurations.

While described herein in terms of a valve, it should be understood that the WAVA may be used to actuate one or more fluid pathways that can provide fluid communication to one or more downhole tools, thereby providing an indirect, selective actuation of the downhole tools. For example, the WAVA may be actuated to release a valve seat (e.g., a ball seat) and thereby allow a ball valve to selectively open and/or close, thereby indirectly actuating the valve. Similarly, the WAVA may serve to selectively provide fluid communication to a downhole tool, where the fluid communication provides the larger driving force to open, close, or provide a desired resistance to a separate fluid pathway. For example, the WAVA may be actuated to open a fluid pathway to a piston. The resulting fluid communication with the piston may be used to drive one or more components within the wellbore, such as a packer setting tool, a valve assembly, a sleeve, or any other type of piston driven downhole tools. Accordingly, the WAVA may be used to directly control a fluid pathway within the wellbore and/or provide a fluid pathway configured to further actuate one or more downhole tools within the wellbore.

Having described the systems and method herein, various embodiments may include, but are not limited to:

In an embodiment, a wireless actuation system comprises a transmitter, an actuation system comprising a receiving antenna, and one or more sliding members transitional from a first position to a second position. The transmitter is configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal, and the sliding member prevents a route of fluid communication via one or more ports of a housing when the sliding member is in the first position. The sliding member allows fluid communication via the one or more ports of the housing when the sliding member is in the second position, and the actuation system is configured to allow the sliding member to transition from the first position to the second position in response to recognition of the electromagnetic signal by the receiving antenna. The receiving antenna may be tuned to receive a specific signal frequency, and the actuation system may be configured to allow the sliding member to transition from the first position to the second position in response to the receiving antenna receiving the specific signal frequency. The actuation system may be configured to maintain the sliding member in the first position in response to the receiving antenna receiving a signal substantially different than the specific signal frequency. The transmitter may comprise a power source and a signal generator coupled to a transmitting antenna. The receiving antenna may be configured to generate electric power in response to receiving the electromagnetic signal from the transmitter. The actuation system may be configured to allow the sliding member to transition from the first position to the second position responsive to the electric power. The actuation system may comprise an actuator coupled to the receiving antenna, and the actuator may be configured to transition the sliding member from the first position to the second position. The actuator may comprise a piercing member and an actuable member. The actuator may comprise an actuatable valve. The actuation system may be configured to pierce, rupture, destroy, perforate, disintegrate, or combust the actuable member in response to the recognition of the predetermined electromagnetic signal by the receiving antenna. The wireless actuation system may comprise a fluid chamber disposed between the one or more sliding members and the actuation system, and the fluid chamber may be configured to retain the one or more sliding members in the first position when fluid is sealed in the fluid chamber. The actuation system may be configured to selectively allow fluid to escape from the fluid chamber in response to recognition of the predetermined electromagnetic signal by the receiving antenna.

In an embodiment, a wireless actuation system comprises a receiving antenna, an actuation mechanism coupled to the receiving antenna, a pressure chamber, and a slidable component disposed in a downhole tool. The receiving antenna is configured to generate an electric power in response to receiving a signal, and the actuation mechanism is configured to selectively trigger fluid communication between the pressure chamber and the slidable component using the electric power. The slidable component is configured to transition from a first position to a second position based on a pressure differential between the pressure chamber and a second pressure source. The receiving antenna may be tuned to generate the electric power in response to receiving the signal. The slidable component may prevent a route of fluid communication via one or more ports of a housing when the slidable component is in the first position, and the slidable component may allow fluid communication via the one or more ports of the housing when the slidable component is in the second position. The pressure chamber may comprise an atmospheric chamber. The wireless actuation system may also include a valve, and the actuation mechanism may be configured to open the valve using the electric power to provide the fluid communication between the pressure chamber and the slidable component.

In an embodiment, an actuation system for a downhole component comprises a powered transmitter comprising a transmitting antenna, and a downhole component comprising a central flowbore and a receiving antenna coupled to an actuation system. The powered transmitter is configured to be received within the central flowbore, and the transmitting antenna is configured to transmit a signal. The receiving antenna is configured to generate electric power in response to receiving the signal from the transmitting antenna, and the actuation system is configured to actuate using the electric power from the receiving antenna. The signal may be configured to selectively generate the electric power in the receiver antenna. The actuation system may be configured to puncture a rupture disk, and the actuation system may be configured to actuate a valve from an open position to a closed position or from a closed position to an open position in response to puncturing the rupture disk. The powered transmitter may comprise a power source and a signal generator coupled to the transmitting antenna. The actuation system may also include a valve member, and the actuation system may be configured to actuate the valve member in response to receiving the electric power from the receiving antenna.

In an embodiment, a method of actuating a downhole component comprises passing a powered transmitter through a central flowbore of a downhole component; transmitting a signal from a transmitting antenna disposed in the powered transmitter; generating electric power in a receiver antenna disposed in the downhole component in response to receiving the signal from the transmitting antenna; and actuating an actuation system using the electric power. The downhole component may comprise a housing comprising the actuation system; and a sliding member slidably positioned within the housing. The sliding member may be configured to transition from a first position to a second position. When the sliding member is in the first position, the sliding member may prevent a route of fluid communication via one or more ports of the housing, and when the sliding member is in the second position, the sliding member may allow fluid communication via the one or more ports of the housing. The method may also include transitioning the sliding member from the first position to the second position in response to the actuating of the actuation system. The signal may be uniquely associated with the receiver antenna. The transmitter may comprise a transmitting antenna configured to transmit the signal, and the electric power may be generated through inductive coupling between the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna.

In an embodiment, a well screen assembly for use downhole comprises a fluid pathway configured to provide fluid communication between an exterior of a wellbore tubular and an interior of the wellbore tubular; a flow restrictor disposed in the fluid pathway; an actuation system comprising a receiving antenna, and a sliding member disposed in series with the flow restrictor in the fluid pathway. The receiving antenna is configured to generate electric power in response to receiving a first electromagnetic signal having a first frequency, and the sliding member is transitional from a first position to a second position in response to the electric power. The sliding member is configured to provide a first resistance to fluid communication along the fluid pathway when the sliding member is in the first position, and the sliding member is configured to provide a second resistance, which is different than the first resistance, to fluid communication along the fluid pathway when the sliding member is in the second position. The well screen assembly may also include a second actuation system comprising a second receiving antenna, and a second sliding member disposed in parallel with the flow restrictor. The second receiving antenna may be configured to generate electric power in response to receiving a second electromagnetic signal having a second frequency, and the second sliding member may be disposed in a second fluid pathway between the exterior of the wellbore tubular and the interior of the wellbore tubular. The second fluid pathway may bypass the flow restrictor, and the second sliding member may prevent fluid communication along the second fluid pathway when the second sliding member is in an initial position. The second sliding member may allow fluid communication along the second fluid pathway when the second sliding member is in an actuated position. The first frequency and the second frequency may be the same, or the first frequency and the second frequency may be different. The well screen assembly may also include a transmitter, and the transmitter may be configured to transmit the first electromagnetic signal to the receiving antenna. The transmitter may further be configured to transmit the second electromagnetic signal to the second receiving antenna. The well screen assembly may also include a second transmitter, and the second transmitter may be configured to transmit the second electromagnetic signal to the second receiving antenna. The well screen assembly may also include a second fluid pathway configured to provide fluid communication between an exterior of a second wellbore tubular and an interior of the second wellbore tubular, a second flow restrictor disposed in the second fluid pathway, a second actuation system comprising a second receiving antenna, and a second sliding member disposed in series with the second flow restrictor in the second fluid pathway. The wellbore tubular and the second wellbore tubular may form parts of a wellbore tubular string. The second receiving antenna may be configured to generate a second amount of electric power in response to receiving a second electromagnetic signal having a second frequency, and the second sliding member may be transitional from a third position to a fourth position in response to the second amount of electric power. The second sliding member may prevent fluid communication along the second fluid pathway when the second sliding member is in the third position, and the second sliding member may allow fluid communication along the second fluid pathway when the second sliding member is in the fourth position. The first frequency and the second frequency may be different.

In an embodiment, a well screen assembly for use in a wellbore comprises a plurality of fluid pathways. Each fluid pathway of the plurality of fluid pathways is configured to provide fluid communication between an exterior of a wellbore tubular and an interior of the wellbore tubular, and two or more fluid pathways of the plurality of fluid pathways comprise an actuation system comprising a receiving antenna, and a sliding member disposed in the corresponding fluid pathway. The receiving antenna is configured to generate electric power in response to receiving a specific electromagnetic signal, and the sliding member is transitional from a first position to a second position in response to the electric power. The sliding member prevents fluid communication along the corresponding fluid pathway when the sliding member is in the first position, and the sliding member allows fluid communication along the corresponding fluid pathway when the sliding member is in the second position. The actuation systems in each of the two or more fluid pathways may be configured to generate the electric power in response to specific electromagnetic signals having different frequencies. The well screen assembly may also include a flow restriction disposed in at least one of the two or more fluid pathways. The receiving antenna may be physically tuned to the specific electromagnetic signal. The well screen assembly may also include a transmitter, and the transmitter may be configured to transmit the specific electromagnetic signal to at least one corresponding receiving antenna. At least one receiving antenna may be configured to not generate electric power in response to the transmitter transmitting the specific electromagnetic signal to the at least one corresponding receiving antenna.

In an embodiment, a method comprises preventing, by a sliding member, fluid flow through a fluid pathway in a well screen assembly, inductively coupling, by a receiving antenna, with a transmitting antenna that is transmitting a first signal, generating electric power in the receiving antenna in response to receiving the first signal, translating the sliding member using the electric power, and allowing fluid flow through the fluid pathway in response to the translating of the sliding member. The fluid pathway is configured to provide fluid communication between an exterior of a wellbore tubular and an interior of the wellbore tubular. A flow restrictor may be disposed in the fluid pathway. The method may also comprise preventing, by a second sliding member, fluid flow through a second fluid pathway in the well screen assembly, inductively coupling, by a second receiving antenna, with a second transmitting antenna that is transmitting a second signal; generating a second amount of electric power in the second receiving antenna in response to receiving the second signal; translating the second sliding member using the second amount of electric power; and allowing fluid flow through the second fluid pathway in response to the translating of the second sliding member. The second fluid pathway may be configured to provide fluid communication between the exterior of a wellbore tubular and an interior of the wellbore tubular. The second fluid pathway may be disposed in parallel with the fluid pathway. The transmitting antenna and the second transmitting antenna may be disposed in the same transmitter. The first signal and the second signal may have approximately the same frequencies, or the first signal and the second signal may have different frequencies.

It should be understood that the various embodiments previously described may be utilized in various orientations, such as inclined, inverted, horizontal, vertical, etc., and in various configurations, without departing from the principles of this disclosure. The embodiments are described merely as examples of useful applications of the principles of the disclosure, which is not limited to any specific details of these embodiments.

In the above description of the representative examples, directional terms (such as “above,” “below,” “upper,” “lower,” etc.) are used for convenience in referring to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be clearly understood that the scope of this disclosure is not limited to any particular directions described herein.

Of course, a person skilled in the art would, upon a careful consideration of the above description of representative embodiments of the disclosure, readily appreciate that many modifications, additions, substitutions, deletions, and other changes may be made to the specific embodiments, and such changes are contemplated by the principles of this disclosure. Accordingly, the foregoing detailed description is to be clearly understood as being given by way of illustration and example only, the spirit and scope of the invention being limited solely by the appended claims and their equivalents.