Electric Wireline BHA for Sleeve Actuation and Real-Time Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for hydraulic fracturing using wireline technology face limitations in real-time data communication and tool reliability due to mechanical actuation, limited tensile strength, and vulnerability to abrasive fluids, which hinder effective downhole operations and data acquisition.
Innovation Solution
An electrically enabled wireline bottom hole assembly (BHA) with electric actuators, packers, and sensors for real-time pressure and axial force measurement, allowing for the manipulation of downhole sleeve assemblies and improved data communication between surface and downhole tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireline is used to convey BHA for downhole operations, then deployment flexibility and cost are improved, but tensile strength is insufficient to overcome resistive forces for initiating uphole sliding operation of sleeves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical actuation systems with electrically actuated components. The BHA includes electric motors and hydraulic systems that can be controlled from surface via electrical signals through the wireline, eliminating the need for mechanical forces to be transmitted through the wireline itself. This allows the use of lighter, more flexible wireline while maintaining adequate actuation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic reciprocating motion of the BHA to generate sliding forces on the sleeves. By moving the BHA back and forth along the casing, sufficient force is generated to initiate and maintain sleeve sliding operations without requiring excessive tensile strength in the wireline.
2Ease of operation
If wireline lacks rigid structure, then deployment flexibility is improved, but ability to transmit pushing force from surface to BHA and engaged sleeve is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical pushing force transmission with electrically actuated systems. Electric motors and hydraulic pumps on the BHA generate the necessary forces locally, eliminating the need for the wireline to transmit pushing forces from surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic reciprocating motion of the BHA to generate sliding forces. The periodic movement creates sufficient force to initiate and maintain sleeve sliding operations without requiring continuous force transmission through the flexible wireline.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional wireline is used, then cost is reduced, but vulnerability to abrasive fluids increases causing tool wear and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a protective flexible sleeve that envelops the wireline in the fracturing fluid pathway. This protective layer shields the wireline from direct contact with abrasive proppant-laden fluids, reducing wear and extending service life while maintaining the cost advantages of wireline technology.
4Quantity of substance
If data is stored in memory tools carried by BHA, then data acquisition capability is improved, but real-time monitoring capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates both memory storage and real-time data transmission capabilities. Sensors on the BHA continuously monitor downhole conditions and transmit data to surface via the wireline electrical conductors, enabling real-time feedback. Simultaneously, memory tools store data for post-operation analysis, providing both real-time and historical data capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods are provided relating bottom hole assemblies (BHA) electrically connected to a wireline. The BHA adapted for manipulating one or more target sleeve valves spaced along a wellbore having a sleeve shifting tool and a sealing element. The system can be shifted open by fluid pressure or electrically actuated stroking and closed by electrically actuated stroking. Methods of deploying a BHA for fracturing operations connected by wireline in a casing of a wellbore are also provided including obtaining real time sensor data from the BHA.