Fiber Cable Sensor Data Filtering for Wellbore Fluid Flow Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods in reflection seismology face challenges in accurately processing seismic data to determine fluid flow and fracture characteristics in subsurface formations, particularly due to interference from multiple reflected waves, which can hinder the interpretation of seismic data and affect the efficiency of reservoir management and fracturing operations.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a fiber cable sensor system that filters vibration data to isolate traveling waves, generates fluid flow information, and adjusts treatment processes based on this information, allowing for real-time optimization of fracturing operations and improved data interpretation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional reflection seismology methods are used to process seismic data, then fluid flow and fracture characteristics can be determined, but multiple reflected waves interfere with the accuracy of data interpretation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of fluid flow analysisVSAvoidinterference from multiple reflected waves
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and isolates the useful traveling wave signals from the seismic data by filtering out the harmful multiple reflected waves. The fiber optic cable sensor system specifically detects traveling waves that carry fluid flow information while excluding stationary or reflected wave components, thereby resolving the interference problem and improving measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Loss of time

If fiber cable sensor data is collected during treatment process, then real-time fluid flow information can be obtained, but the complexity of data processing increases due to multiple wave reflections

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereal-time data availabilityVSAvoidcomplexity of data processing
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where fiber optic cable sensors continuously monitor fluid flow during the treatment process, and the processed information is immediately used to adjust treatment parameters. The system creates a closed-loop control where real-time traveling wave data feeds back to optimize the fracturing operation, maintaining time efficiency while managing processing complexity through targeted filtering.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If traditional seismic data processing is used, then subsurface formation properties can be estimated, but the efficiency of reservoir management is reduced due to inability to optimize treatment in real-time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveefficiency of reservoir managementVSAvoidlack of real-time fluid flow information
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables the treatment system to self-adjust and self-optimize by continuously monitoring its own performance through fiber optic cable sensors. The system automatically detects fluid flow patterns, identifies optimal treatment conditions, and adjusts parameters without external intervention, thereby improving productivity while maintaining comprehensive information awareness through real-time traveling wave monitoring.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 enhances the accuracy of fluid flow analysis and fracture monitoring, enabling more effective reservoir management and fracturing operations by filtering out noise from multiple reflected waves and providing real-time data for optimizing treatment processes.

Implementation Method 1

receiving vibration data acquired over a length of a fiber cable sensor disposed in a well

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVibration detection: Vibration

Implementation Method 2

filtering the vibration data as to traveling waves to generate filtered data

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWave filtering: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentUS10392913B2Treatment based on fiber cable sensor data
Publication Date: 2019.08.27 SCHLUMBERGER TECH CORP
  • US10392913B2 patent drawing
  • US10392913B2 patent drawing
  • US10392913B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method can include, during a treatment process, receiving vibration data acquired over a length of a fiber cable sensor disposed in a well that includes perforations; filtering the vibration data as to traveling waves to generate filtered data; analyzing the filtered data to generate fluid flow information; and adjusting the treatment process based at least in part on the fluid flow information.