Apparatus and method for a retrievable semi-permanent monitoring system

Abstract

An apparatus for retrievable semi-permanent monitoring system includes a casing for a well; a transmission system installed on the outside of the casing or in a wall of the casing; and a sensor array. The sensor array is adapted to couple with the transmission system, and where a wall of the casing is disposed between the sensor array and the transmission system.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]1. Technical Field[0002]Embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein generally relate to an apparatus and method for a retrievable semi-permanent monitoring system.[0003]2. Discussion of the Background[0004]Fracture monitoring and reservoir production monitoring may require installing permanent sensor systems, including seismic sensors, in a production well when the distance between wells is too high to monitor the production well from adjacent wells. Pressure, flow and other physical parameters of the production well may also need to be monitored. A permanent sensor system may be installed outside the casing in the well, or cable deployed arrays or memory gauges may be used within the casing.[0005]FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary permanent sensor system installed outside of the casing. Tools 104, which may include seismic sensors such as, for example, geophones, hydrophones, and electromagnetic sensors, in an appropriate housing, may be installed permanently outsid...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent presents a retrievable semi-permanent monitoring system for wells, which includes a casing, a transmission system, and a sensor array. The sensor array is designed to connect to the transmission system through a wall of the casing. This system allows for the deployment of sensors into a well and the continuous or intermittent monitoring of parameters, such as temperature or pressure, that can provide useful information about the well's environment. The data collected by the sensors can be transmitted to an external receiver through the casing wall and used to better manage and maintain the well.

Problems solved by technology

Additionally, the increased number of levels in the permanent sensor monitoring system may reduce the reliability of the sensors, which may not be repairable or replaceable due to being both encased in concrete and below the surface.

Once a permanent sensor system is designed and deployed, it may be extremely difficult to remove or replace.

Also, if one sensor fails during operation, that sensor and others connected to it are unusable as these sensors cannot be replaced due to their permanent distribution.

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