Acoustic Flow Prediction Model for Perforation Clusters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring fluid flow during hydraulic fracturing are inefficient, relying on expensive and time-consuming equipment, and existing downhole flowmeters face technical limitations, leading to uncertain flow rate estimations due to placement issues and large flow rates exceeding mechanical meter capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A flow prediction model that utilizes perforation cluster geometry, fluid characteristics, and acoustic activity, integrated with distributed acoustic sensing systems, to predict fluid flow rates and inform well completion and fracturing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If wireline logging tools are deployed to collect flow rate data, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and productivity deteriorate due to interruption of downhole operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical flow meters and wireline logging tools with an acoustic sensing system that uses acoustic waves to measure fluid flow. The system employs acoustic sensors to detect flow-induced acoustic signals, eliminating the need for physical intrusion into the flow path and avoiding operational interruptions while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces acoustic waves as an intermediary to indirectly measure fluid flow characteristics. Instead of directly measuring flow with intrusive devices, the system uses acoustic signals that interact with the flowing fluid to extract flow rate information, enabling non-intrusive continuous monitoring
2Measurement precision
If permanent downhole flow rate sensors are installed, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to distribution of multiple sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the acoustic sensing system multi-functional by enabling it to measure flow rates at multiple perforation clusters using a single integrated system. The acoustic sensors can detect flow characteristics across different locations and depths, replacing the need for multiple dedicated sensors while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple sensing functions into a single acoustic sensing system that can simultaneously monitor flow at multiple perforation clusters. By merging the capabilities of multiple separate sensors into one integrated acoustic system, the patent reduces device complexity and installation burden while maintaining comprehensive flow monitoring
3Measurement precision
If mechanical flow meters are used during hydraulic fracturing, then measurement precision is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to high flow rates exceeding meter capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical flow meters with an acoustic sensing system that has no moving parts and no mechanical components exposed to the high-velocity fluid stream. The acoustic sensors measure flow by detecting acoustic signals generated by the flowing fluid, eliminating mechanical wear and damage risks associated with traditional flow meters in high-flow hydraulic fracturing operations
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 accurate and continuous monitoring of fluid flow rates, allowing for real-time adjustments and improved decision-making in hydraulic fracturing operations, reducing costs and operational interruptions.
Implementation Method 1
obtain distributed measurements of acoustic energy as a function of time and position downhole
Implementation Method 2
The receiver includes at least one optical fiber coupler that receives backscattered light and that produces one or more optical interferometry signals from the backscattered light
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes obtaining distributed measurements of acoustic energy as a function of time and position downhole. The method also includes deriving acoustic activity values as a function of time and position from the one or more distributed measurements. The method also includes predicting fluid flow for a downhole perforation cluster as a function of time, wherein predicting fluid flow involves a flow prediction model that is a function of perforation cluster geometry, fluid characteristics, and at least one of the acoustic activity values. The method also includes storing or displaying the predicted fluid flow.