Fluid Network Simulation for Multiphase Flow Bottlenecks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fluid production systems face challenges in optimizing complex networks with numerous flowlines and production equipment due to unpredictable multiphase flow dynamics and inefficiencies in equipment operation, leading to suboptimal production and environmental impact.

Innovation Solution

A flow simulation model is employed to simulate and optimize fluid networks, incorporating equations for multiphase flow, nodal analysis, and equipment performance, allowing for the identification of bottlenecks and optimization of production systems through simulation and data-driven decision-making.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If flow simulation modeling is applied to optimize fluid networks, then production efficiency is improved and bottlenecks are reduced, but the complexity of analyzing multiphase flow dynamics increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction efficiencyVSAvoidcomplexity of analyzing multiphase flow dynamics
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual copy of the fluid production network through flow simulation modeling. This digital replica allows engineers to analyze multiphase flow dynamics, test optimization scenarios, and identify bottlenecks without interfering with actual field operations, thus improving productivity while managing analytical complexity through virtual experimentation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The flow simulation model serves as an intermediary between the complex multiphase flow system and decision-makers. It translates intricate flow dynamics into actionable insights and optimization recommendations, enabling efficient analysis without requiring direct engagement with the full complexity of the physical system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If equipment operation is optimized using simulation data, then environmental impact is minimized, but the time and computational resources required for simulation increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenvironmental impactVSAvoidtime and computational resources for simulation
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs flow simulations and environmental impact assessments in advance before implementing equipment changes. This preliminary analysis allows optimization decisions to be made based on predicted outcomes, minimizing actual environmental impact while the computational work is completed beforehand rather than during operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The simulation system is designed to automatically process simulation data and generate optimization recommendations without requiring extensive manual intervention. This self-service capability reduces the time and computational resources needed by automating the analysis process while still achieving environmental optimization goals

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20250307505A1Fluid network framework
Publication Date: 2025.10.02 SCHLUMBERGER TECH CORP
  • US20250307505A1 patent drawing
  • US20250307505A1 patent drawing
  • US20250307505A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method can include accessing a flow simulation model for a fluid network; receiving parameters for the fluid network; performing one or more flow simulations for the fluid network using the flow simulation model and the parameters to generate results; and generating result constructs, using the results, for optimization of the fluid network.