Discrete Screen Assembly for Downhole Fluid Flow and Control Line Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional downhole screen assemblies have limitations in filtering solids and enabling fluid production, as they often require larger diameters and are not efficiently designed to allow for closer positioning to the borehole wall, which can hinder drilling efficiency and fluid flow.
Innovation Solution
A screen assembly with discrete, non-concentrically arranged screen members forming separate flow paths around a tubular string, allowing for closer proximity to the borehole and improved fluid flow, while also accommodating control lines and other equipment through gaps between the screen members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional screen assemblies are used, then fluid filtering is achieved, but the borehole diameter must be larger and positioning closer to the borehole wall is not efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The screen assembly is divided into multiple discrete screen members (e.g., 4-8 members) arranged around the tubular string, each forming its own flow path. This segmentation allows the assembly to be more compact and efficient, enabling smaller borehole diameters while maintaining effective filtering and fluid production capabilities.
2Productivity
If screen members are arranged closer to the borehole wall, then drilling efficiency improves, but traditional assemblies require larger diameters
Solution Approach 1:
The discrete screen members are nested around a central tubular string, with each screen member positioned at a radial distance that optimizes both proximity to the borehole wall and structural integrity. This nested configuration minimizes the overall volume of the assembly while enabling efficient positioning in smaller boreholes.
3Productivity
If discrete screen members are used, then fluid flow efficiency improves, but gaps between members must accommodate control lines
Solution Approach 1:
The gaps between discrete screen members serve multiple functions: they allow efficient fluid flow paths, provide routing channels for control lines and other equipment, and maintain structural flexibility. This multi-functional design accommodates control lines without compromising fluid flow efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A screen assembly including one or more screen members that correspondingly form one or more flow paths. The one or more flow paths are discrete from a tubular with which the one or more screen members are associated, but in fluid communication with an axial passageway of the tubular. A method of using a screen assembly is also included.