Patent ID: 8322446

Claim:
A method of selectively actuating from a remote location multiple downhole well tools in a well, the method comprising the steps of: selecting a first one of the well tools for actuation by flowing electrical current in a first direction through a first set of conductors in the well; selectively controlling a position of a first piston by permitting the first piston to displace at a first predetermined velocity for a first given amount of time, thereby controlling a duration of actuation of the first one of the well tools, and variably actuating the first one of the well tools; selecting a second one of the well tools for actuation by flowing electrical current through the first set of conductors in a second direction opposite to the first direction; and selectively controlling a position of a second piston by permitting the second piston to displace at a second predetermined velocity for a second given amount of time, thereby controlling a duration of actuation of the second one of the well tools, and variably actuating the second one of the well tools.