Energy-Saving for a Velocity Control System of a Pipe Isolation Tool Based on a Reinforcement Learning Method

The pipe isolation tool (PIT) demonstrates remarkable advantages in safety and efficiency compared with traditional plugging devices. However, its utilization in plugging operations is limited by the operation duration. In addition, the existing energy recovery system has low energy saving efficiency. In this paper, a real-time control energy-saving system of the PIT was designed based on a reinforcement learning algorithm. First, an experimental device for energy-saving was designed. Secondly, the energy distribution scheme of a hydraulic pump and accumulator based on experimental data was proposed. Finally, the reinforcement learning algorithm was used to adjust the opening of the hydraulic pump and the accumulator valves in real time during the plugging process to improving energy saving efficiency. The results verify that the energy saving efficiency of the PIT control system based on reinforcement learning could reach 23.71%, which satisfies the objectives of energy-saving and environmental applicability.