Beaded Matrix Tubular for Zoned Injection Fluid Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current well completion and control methods in hydrocarbon recovery face challenges in optimizing injection fluid distribution and permeability, leading to inefficiencies in fluid flow and pressure management within wellbores.

Innovation Solution

A tubular system with a plurality of beaded matrixes having varying permeabilities is used to distribute injection fluids, allowing for tailored fluid flow profiles and pressure management by configuring a pattern of beaded matrixes with different permeabilities within the tubular, enabling controlled fluid distribution and propagation within the wellbore.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If uniform permeability matrixes are used throughout the wellbore, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the injection fluid distribution is inefficient and cannot be tailored to specific formation requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinjection fluid distribution efficiencyVSAvoidmatrix configuration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by configuring different beaded matrixes with varying permeabilities at different locations within the wellbore. Each matrix segment is designed with specific permeability properties matched to the local formation requirements, enabling tailored injection fluid distribution patterns that optimize hydrocarbon recovery while managing pressure effectively.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The injection distribution system is segmented into multiple discrete beaded matrixes that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows each matrix to be optimized for specific zones, enabling differential permeability patterns throughout the wellbore while maintaining overall system manageability through modular construction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If multiple completion strings are used to manage fluid distribution and pressure, then control precision is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepressure management controlVSAvoidcompletion string quantity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The beaded matrix system performs multiple functions within a single integrated structure: it distributes injection fluid, manages pressure differentials, and provides zoned control capabilities. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate completion strings for each function, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining operational control precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the functions of fluid distribution, pressure management, and zoned control into a single integrated beaded matrix system. By combining these functions in one structure rather than using separate completion strings, the system reduces complexity while achieving the same control objectives.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If high permeability matrixes are used throughout, then fluid flow is maximized, but pressure control and fluid distribution precision are lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefluid flow rateVSAvoidfluid front profile control

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses local quality by assigning different permeability levels to different matrix segments based on specific zone requirements. High permeability areas maximize fluid flow where needed, while lower permeability areas provide pressure control and fluid front profiling, achieving both productivity and precision control simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the permeability parameter of the beaded matrixes across different zones to optimize performance. By varying permeability values in different segments, the system achieves both high fluid flow rates in productive zones and precise pressure control in other areas, balancing productivity with control precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This solution enhances fluid distribution and pressure management, reducing costs and improving hydrocarbon recovery by creating a selected fluid front profile and maintaining structural integrity of the tubular system, potentially reducing the need for additional completion strings and enhancing the effectiveness of steam injection and cement placement.

Implementation Method 1

at least one of the beaded matrixes has an injection fluid permeability different than an injection fluid permeability of at least one other of the plurality of beaded matrixes

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPermeation: Permeation

Data Source

PatentUS7775271B2Device and system for well completion and control and method for completing and controlling a well

Publication Date: 2010.08.17 BAKER HUGHES CO

AI summary

An injection fluid distribution configuration including a tubular having a plurality of openings therein and a plurality of beaded matrixes disposed within the openings. At least one of the beaded matrixes having an injection fluid permeability different than an injection fluid permeability of at least one other of the plurality of beaded matrixes. A method for distributing an injection fluid in a wellbore. A method for making an injection fluid distribution apparatus for distributing an injection fluid in a wellbore.