3D Wellbore Visualization for Accurate Fracturing Zone Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems lack accuracy in identifying fractionation zones and placing well perforating guns and fractionation plugs in directional drilling, leading to inefficiencies in oil well production.
Innovation Solution
A computer-assisted method and system that utilizes a 3D model of a lateral pay zone, allowing remote users to view and interact with a wellbore profile, fractionation zones, and perforating gun locations in real-time, enabling accurate placement of fractionation plugs and guns through an executive dashboard.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional methods are used for identifying fractionation zones and placing well perforating guns, then the process is simpler and requires less technology, but the accuracy of zone identification and placement is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies 3D visualization technology to represent the wellbore profile, lateral pay zone, fractionation zones, and perforating gun locations in three-dimensional space. This dimensional enhancement allows operators to accurately identify fractionation zones and plan precise placement of perforating guns and fractionation plugs, directly resolving the accuracy deficiency of traditional 2D or manual methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital 3D model (copy) of the physical wellbore structure, including the lateral pay zone, fractionation zones, and equipment locations. This virtual replica can be manipulated, viewed from multiple angles, and updated in real-time without affecting the actual well, enabling accurate planning and decision-making while avoiding the limitations of physical inspection or simplified 2D representations.
2Productivity
If real-time 3D modeling and network access are implemented, then decision-making accuracy and collaboration are improved, but the system complexity and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The 3D visualization system serves multiple functions: it displays the wellbore profile, shows lateral pay zone geometry, identifies fractionation zones, plans perforating gun placement, tracks fractionation plug positions, and enables real-time collaboration among remote users. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate tools and processes, improving productivity while managing system complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time updates and continuous visualization of the wellbore status, allowing operators to monitor fractionation operations as they occur, adjust plans dynamically, and make informed decisions based on current conditions. This continuous feedback loop enhances operational efficiency and safety by eliminating delays associated with traditional periodic reporting or post-operation analysis.
3Reliability
If accurate placement of perforating guns and fractionation plugs is achieved through 3D modeling, then production maximization is improved, but the time and resources required for planning increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables operators to perform detailed planning and simulation of perforating gun placement and fractionation plug insertion before actual field operations begin. By visualizing the 3D wellbore profile and testing different placement scenarios in advance, operators can optimize equipment positioning for maximum production while identifying and resolving potential issues before they affect actual operations, thereby reducing on-site planning time and improving placement accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and computer assisted method to fractionate an oil or other well using a user moveable and rotatable three dimensional model of a lateral pay zone for a directionally drilled well, and other information relative to the lateral pay zone, enabling accurate identification of fractionation zones, accurate placement of well perforating guns, and accurate insertion of fractionation plugs to maximize production of the well, while additionally enabling the three dimensional model of the lateral pay zone to be viewable and updatable by on site uses at the location of the fractionation and by remote users as events occur, in some cases, in providing updates in less than 1 minute.