Downhole tool with navigation system
A downhole tool for use in a well bore comprises an onboard navigation system for determining the location of the tool within the well bore, wherein the tool is moved along at least a partial length of the well bore via an external force. A method of locating a downhole tool in a well bore comprises deploying the tool along at least a partial length of the well bore via an external force, and self-determining the location of the tool without receiving communications from the surface. In an embodiment, the tool is a well bore zonal isolation device.
1. A downhole tool for use in a well bore comprising:
an onboard navigation system for determining the location of the tool within the well bore; and
at least one activator for activating a functional component of the tool at one or more locations within the well bore; wherein:
the tool is moved along at least a partial length of the well bore via an external force;
the functional component comprises a brake operable to slow the tool, stop the tool, release the tool, or a combination thereof;
the brake is operable to set the tool against a casing or against an open hole wall in the well bore; and
the brake comprises a dissolvable component that is dissolved to unset the tool.
2. A well bore zonal isolation device comprising:
a navigation system for onboard determination of the location of the device within a well bore; and
a check valve operable to prevent flow downwardly through the device, and selectively operable to either allow flow upwardly through the device or prevent flow upwardly through the device; wherein:
the device is moved along at least a partial length of the well bore via an external force; and
the device is operable to flow back to the surface of the well bore when the check valve prevents flow upwardly through the device.