Autonomous Downhole Flow Control Valve for Viscosity-Based Closure
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole fluid flow control systems in subterranean wells struggle to adjust flow control characteristics in response to changes in formation pressure and fluid composition over time, particularly in unconsolidated or loosely consolidated formations, and require well intervention for independent control of production fluids from multiple intervals.
Innovation Solution
A downhole fluid flow control system with a flow control assembly featuring a first component with a positive flowrate response and a second component with a negative flowrate response to decreasing fluid viscosity, combined with an autonomous closure valve that shifts from an open to a closed position when the fluid viscosity ratio reaches a predetermined level, allowing for independent control of production fluids without well intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed flow control components are installed in sand control screen assemblies, then sand control and initial production control are achieved, but the system cannot adjust flow control characteristics in response to changes in formation pressure and fluid composition over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the flow control system adjustable over time. The valve mechanism allows the flow control components to transition from a fixed state to a dynamically controllable state, enabling adaptation to changing formation conditions while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control based on fluid property changes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by detecting changes in fluid viscosity and automatically adjusting the valve position in response. When fluid viscosity changes indicate undesirable fluid production, the system modifies the flow control parameters by shifting the valve, thereby adapting the flow control characteristics without requiring complex external control systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional flow control sections are used in long horizontal completions with numerous production intervals, then initial flow control is provided, but independent control of inflow from each production interval cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the completion into multiple independently controllable flow control screens, each capable of autonomous operation. This allows each production interval to be controlled independently through its own valve mechanism while maintaining overall system simplicity through standardized modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through autonomous flow control screens that automatically detect and respond to fluid composition changes without requiring external intervention. Each screen independently monitors its own production interval and adjusts its valve position based on local fluid property changes, enabling independent control while simplifying the overall completion system
3Ease of operation
If conventional flow control screens are installed to control production fluid inflow, then initial production control is achieved, but adjustment without well intervention becomes impossible when fluid composition changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the flow control screen to automatically detect changes in fluid composition and adjust its own valve position in response. This autonomous operation allows flow control adjustment without requiring well intervention, saving time and maintaining ease of operation throughout the production lifecycle
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes feedback by incorporating sensors that continuously monitor fluid viscosity and automatically trigger valve adjustment when undesirable fluid production is detected. This closed-loop control system enables real-time flow control adjustment without well intervention, eliminating the time loss associated with manual intervention while maintaining simple operation
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 autonomous adjustment of flow control characteristics to optimize production of desired fluids like oil and minimize production of undesired fluids like water, maintaining efficient fluid management without requiring well intervention as fluid compositions change over time.
Implementation Method 1
decreasing the fluid viscosity of the flowing fluid increases a ratio of the flowrate through the first control component to the flowrate through the second control component
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid flow control system includes a flow control assembly having a fluid flow path for a flowing fluid. First and second flow control components are disposed in parallel in the fluid flow path, the first having a positive flowrate response to decreasing fluid viscosity and the second having a negative flowrate response to decreasing fluid viscosity. A valve is disposed in the fluid flow path in downstream series with the first and second flow control components. The valve has first and second inlet paths for fluid from the first and second flow control components, respectively, such that decreasing the fluid viscosity of the flowing fluid increases a ratio of the flowrate through the first control component to the flowrate through the second flow control component and such that when the ratio reaches a predetermined level, the valve autonomously shifts from an open position to a closed position.