Annular Screen Communication System for Multi-Zone Completion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-zone completions face challenges in balancing the need for individual screen isolation with flow resistance and complex access issues due to additional tubulars, leading to uneven production and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
The use of external shrouds spanning over base pipe joints creates a continuous annular space between screen assemblies, allowing for uniform flow and single-valve control during gravel packing and production, with modular design for easier assembly and reduced complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If individual tubular sections are added to create communication paths between screens, then individual screen isolation capability is improved, but device complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple screen sections are coupled together to form a single integrated screen assembly, eliminating the need for individual tubular sections between screens. The assembly includes screens at spaced intervals along a central flow path, with all screens communicating through a common annular space rather than requiring separate connection paths.
Solution Approach 2:
A single valve assembly provides universal control for the entire screen assembly, replacing multiple individual valves. The valve can isolate any individual screen section or control flow through the entire assembly, providing both individual screen isolation and overall flow control functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If tubular sections are added to create connecting passages between screens, then individual screen control is improved, but drift diameter is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of creating horizontal connecting passages between screens that would reduce drift diameter, the invention uses a vertical annular space surrounding the central flow path. Flow moves radially outward through screens and then vertically along the annular space, utilizing the dimensional space around而非within the central flow path.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves are used for individual screen control, then screen isolation capability is improved, but flow resistance increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple valve functions are merged into a single valve assembly that can control flow to any individual screen section or to the entire assembly. This eliminates multiple separate valves and their associated seatings, reducing flow resistance while maintaining the ability to isolate individual screens.
4Ease of operation
If complex assembly structures with multiple leak paths are used, then individual screen access is improved, but reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex internal connection structure with multiple potential leak paths is extracted and replaced with a simpler external annular space configuration. The annular space provides access to all screens without requiring flow to pass through multiple internal passages and connections, reducing leak path opportunities.
Data Source
AI summary
Screen sections have opposed open ends near the threaded connection of a base pipe and on opposed ends. The base pipes have premium threads for connection. A shroud is placed over the premium bases pipe connection that spans from one open ended screen section to another that is adjacent. Collectively a long annular space is created under the screens and alternating shrouds with access to within the base pipes provided preferably at opposed ends. The valve on one end takes returns during gravel packing and the other takes production to the surface.