System and method for multiple wells from a common surface location

Abstract

A system for accessing a subterranean zone from an entry well including an entry well extending from the surface. The entry well has a substantially vertical portion. A one or more drainage wells extend from the entry well to a subterranean zone. A one or more articulated wells extend from the entry well to the subterranean zone. At least one of the articulated wells intersects at least one of the one or more drainage wells at a junction proximate the subterranean zone. A drainage pattern is formed coupled to the junction and operable to conduct fluids from the subterranean zone to the junction.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims priority to US Patent Application Serial No. 10 / 788,694, entitled "System and Method for Multiple Wells from a Common Surface Location," filed February 27, 2004. technical field [0003] The present invention relates generally to the fields of subsurface exploration and drilling, and more particularly to systems and methods for multiple wells from a common surface location. Background technique [0004] Subsurface deposits of coal include large quantities of entrained methane gas. Small batch production using methane gas from coal deposits has been around for many years. However, a number of obstacles have prevented wider development of using methane gas from coal seams. A major problem with producing methane gas in coal seams is that, while coal seams can spread over large areas up to several thousand acres, coal seams are fairly shallow in depth, varying from a few inches to a few meters. T...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, such horizontal drilling techniques require the use of radial drill holes which present difficulties in removing entrained water from the coal seam

The most efficient method of pumping water from underground wells, the rod pump, does not work well in horizontal or radial boreholes

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