Distributed Inflow Control Device with Segmented Flow Paths
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Inflow control devices with single flow paths in well systems are prone to production delays due to blockages, and they fail to evenly distribute fluid flow, leading to imbalanced production from different zones in a subterranean formation.
Innovation Solution
A distributed inflow control device with multiple independent flow paths and a sealing mechanism to prevent fluid entry or exit at points other than the inlet or outlet, reducing the risk of blockages and improving flow distribution by allowing fluid to flow through parallel paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single flow path is used in an inflow control device, then the device structure is simple, but the risk of production delays due to blockage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inflow control device is divided into multiple independent flow paths within a single device structure. Each flow path operates independently, allowing fluid to flow through alternative paths if one becomes blocked, thereby reducing the risk of production delays while maintaining structural integration.
2Device complexity
If a single flow path is used in an inflow control device, then the device structure is simple, but the ability to evenly distribute fluid flow decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates multiple flow paths that segment the fluid flow into separate channels. This segmentation allows for more uniform distribution of fluid across different zones by directing flow through multiple parallel paths rather than concentrating it in a single path.
Solution Approach 2:
Each flow path can be designed with specific local characteristics (such as different restrictor configurations or path lengths) to optimize flow distribution to particular zones. This allows tailored flow control for different production zones while maintaining an integrated device structure.
3Reliability
If multiple independent flow paths are implemented, then the risk of blockage is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple independent flow paths are merged into a single integrated device structure. The flow paths share common components such as the body, sealing mechanisms, and mounting features, which reduces overall device complexity while maintaining the reliability benefits of multiple independent flow paths.
Data Source
AI summary
Certain aspects of the present invention are directed to a distributed inflow control device that can be disposed in a wellbore through a fluid-producing formation. The distributed inflow control includes a shroud that can be disposed in the fluid-producing formation. The shroud circumferentially covers a section of a tubing string. The shroud includes a profile having multiple flow paths between the fluid-producing formation and an inner volume of the section of the tubing string. Each flow path restricts a fluid flow through the flow path and is independent of each other flow path. The distributed inflow control device also includes a seal over the profile including the flow paths. The seal causes fluid to flow from an inlet to an outlet of each flow path and prevents fluid from entering or exiting each flow path at a point other than the respective inlet or the respective outlet.