Abandoned Well Data Transmission via Electromagnetic Relay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing well abandonment procedures face challenges in efficiently communicating data from abandoned wells with discontinuous metallic well structures, particularly those with open hole sections, as the metallic structure cannot be used as a sole medium for propagating data signals to the surface.
Innovation Solution
A communication system that wirelessly transmits data signals from a downhole sensor in the open hole section using electromagnetic methods, with a communications device injecting signals into the metallic well structure and receivers deployed at the surface or seabed to receive and process these signals, allowing data collection even after the metallic well structure is severed below the surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the metallic well structure is severed below the surface during abandonment, then the abandonment requirements are met and environmental isolation is achieved, but the metallic structure cannot be used as a medium for propagating data signals to the surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary communication system comprising a transmitter positioned in the open hole section and receivers positioned at or near the surface. This intermediary system enables data transmission through alternative pathways (electromagnetic signals through subsurface formations, acoustic signals through fluid-filled sections, or combination methods) when the metallic well structure is severed, thus resolving the contradiction between meeting abandonment requirements and maintaining data transmission capability
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system is segmented into multiple independent components: a transmitter in the open hole section, potential relay points at cement plugs, and receivers at the surface. This segmentation allows the system to function even when the metallic structure is discontinuous, as each segment can operate independently through different transmission media
2Adaptability or versatility
If wireless transmission through subsurface formations is used, then data can be transmitted without direct contact with the metallic well structure, but the transmission distance and signal strength are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple transmission dimensions and pathways: electromagnetic waves propagating through subsurface formations (one dimension), acoustic waves traveling through fluid-filled well sections (another dimension), and potential relay transmission through cement plugs (third dimension). By utilizing multiple dimensions simultaneously, the system overcomes the distance limitations of any single transmission method
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system is designed to maintain continuous data transmission capability throughout the well lifecycle, including during and after abandonment. The system can switch between different transmission modes (electromagnetic, acoustic, or combination) to ensure continuous operation even when the metallic structure is severed or when environmental conditions change
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the collection and processing of data from abandoned wells, such as temperature and pressure readings, facilitating additional data gathering beyond the well's abandonment, improving understanding of reservoir connectivity and integrity without the need for direct contact with the metallic well structure.
Implementation Method 1
A communication system that wirelessly transmits data signals from a downhole sensor in the open hole section using electromagnetic methods
Implementation Method 2
a communications device injecting signals into the metallic well structure
Implementation Method 3
receivers deployed at the surface or seabed to receive and process these signals
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2
Figure 3a
AI summary
In described examples, there are systems and methods for deployment in proximity to an abandoned well. The systems and methods may allow use of data collected from an abandoned well, in which a sensor is positioned in the open hole section, or a well having a discontinuous metallic well structure. In some examples, there is described a communication system that is configured to be deployed in an abandoned well having a discontinuous metallic well structure that may be severed below a ground region.