Shape-memory actuator for use in subterranean wells

Wells – Processes – Placing or shifting well part

Patent

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Details

166138, 166216, 277117, 148402, E21B 2300

Patent

active

051994976

ABSTRACT:
The present invention is a wellbore tool which includes as a component an actuator which is composed at least in-part of a shape-memory material characterized by having a property of switching between a deformed shape and a pre-deformed shape upon receipt of thermal energy of a preselected amount. The wellbore tool further includes a component which is movable in position relative to a wellbore tubular conduit into a selected one of a plurality of configurations. The plurality of configurations include a first configuration with the first component in a first position relative to the wellbore tubular conduit, and corresponding to a first mode of operation of the wellbore tool. The plurality of configurations also includes a second configuration with the first component in a second position relative to the wellbore tubular conduit, and corresponding to a second mode of operation in the wellbore tool. The first and second components are physically linked in a manner to transfer motion of a second portion to the first portion. Means is provided for selectively providing thermal energy to at least the second component in an amount of at least the preselected amount of thermal energy required to cause the second portion to switch between the deformed shape and the predeformed shape, resulting in the first component moving from the first position to the second position to urge the wellbore tool from the first mode of operation to the second mode of operation.

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