Dumpflood Pressure Visualization for Subsurface Reservoir Planning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The oil drilling industry faces inefficiencies in planning dumpflooding operations due to the complexity of variables involved in water flow between reservoirs, leading to confusion and increased planning time.
Innovation Solution
A computer-based method for calculating and displaying pressures required for fluid flow between subsurface reservoirs, using inputs such as vertical heights, permeability, and damage factors, allowing users to visualize and select optimal equipment and intervention options for efficient water injection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual calculation and analysis of dumpflood variables is performed, then detailed scenario evaluation is possible, but planning time increases and confusion occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical calculation and analysis with an automated computer-based system that performs pressure calculations and generates graphical representations. The system automatically processes input parameters (vertical heights, permeability, damage factors) and produces visual outputs, eliminating the need for manual scenario evaluation while maintaining accuracy and reducing planning time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates visual copies and representations of complex subsurface data through graphical displays. Instead of manually analyzing numerical data, the system generates graphical representations that copy and visualize the relationships between different parameters, making scenario evaluation faster and more intuitive without losing precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple variables are manipulated to determine different scenarios, then comprehensive planning is achieved, but confusion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms complex multi-variable data into a visual dimension through graphical representations. By displaying pressure calculations and scenario outcomes as visual graphs and charts, the system adds a visual dimension that makes it easier to comprehend and compare multiple scenarios simultaneously, reducing confusion while maintaining comprehensive analysis capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computer-based calculation system as an intermediary between raw subsurface data and human decision-making. This intermediary automatically processes multiple variables (vertical heights, permeability, damage factors) and presents results in a simplified graphical format, mediating the complexity and making scenario evaluation more manageable.
3Measurement precision
If detailed pressure calculations are performed for fluid flow, then accurate injection planning is possible, but computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal computer-based system that handles multiple functions: receiving input data, performing pressure calculations based on Darcy's law, analyzing flow scenarios, and generating graphical representations. This multi-functional system consolidates what would otherwise require separate complex calculations and presentations into a single integrated tool, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining accuracy.
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 approach simplifies the planning process by providing a graphical representation of calculated pressures and inputs, enabling users to quickly evaluate scenarios and determine the necessary interventions for optimal water flow, reducing confusion and planning time.
Implementation Method 1
calculating pressures required for a fluid to flow in a borehole from the first volume to the second volume as a function of vertical height of the first volume (h1), permeability of the first volume (k1), vertical height of the second volume (h2), permeability of the second volume (k2), a first damage factor (S1) representing damage to the first volume, and a second damage factor (S2) representing damage to the second volume
Data Source
AI summary
A non-transitory computer-readable medium includes computer-executable instructions for presenting dumpflood data to a user by implementing steps on a computer. The steps include: receiving first data describing a first subsurface volume; receiving second data describing a second subsurface volume that is deeper than the first subsurface volume; calculating pressures required for a fluid to flow in a borehole from the first volume to the second volume as a function of vertical height of the first volume (h1), permeability of the first volume (k1), vertical height of the second volume (h2), permeability of the second volume (k2), a first damage factor (S1) representing damage to the first volume, and a second damage factor (S2) representing damage to the second volume; and displaying on a computer display a graphical representation of the calculated pressures and inputs used to calculate the pressures.