Multizone Wellbore Retrieval With Sequential Disconnect Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-zone well completion systems face challenges in efficiently installing and retrieving completion assemblies due to issues like the inner string becoming stuck, requiring complex operations to separate the outer string from the wellbore without damaging the isolation packers or causing unnecessary fluid leakage.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates an outer assembly with isolation packers, release modules, and disconnect modules that can be armed and activated sequentially to allow for the separation of the outer string from the wellbore, enabling efficient retrieval by pulling upward and avoiding premature activation of disconnect modules, thus facilitating a single trip retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the inner string is cut off to remove the outer string after the inner string becomes stuck, then the outer string can be retrieved, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The disconnect module is armed in advance during installation by applying a first force (such as hydraulic pressure) to set the lock mechanism in a ready state. This preliminary action allows the disconnect module to be activated quickly later by applying a second force (such as upward pull force), eliminating the need for complex cutting operations to retrieve the outer string.
2Ease of operation
If the disconnect module is armed using a first force and activated using a second force, then the outer string can be disconnected at the selected location, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The disconnect module employs a dynamic lock mechanism that transitions between armed and activated states based on applied forces. The lock can be set (armed) by a first force during installation and later released (activated) by a second force during retrieval, providing controlled disconnection capability while maintaining a relatively simple structural design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple disconnect modules are provided along the wellbore, then selective disconnection at different zones is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The completion assembly is divided into multiple zones with individual disconnect modules positioned at different locations along the wellbore. Each disconnect module can be independently armed and activated, allowing selective disconnection at specific zones. This segmentation provides versatility in retrieval operations while using standardized modular components that limit overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, an apparatus for use in a wellbore is disclosed that in one non-limiting embodiment contains an outer assembly that includes an isolation packer corresponding to each of a plurality of zones along the wellbore, wherein each isolation packer is configured to be set in the wellbore, a release module associated with each isolation packer to release its associated isolation packer after such isolation packer has been set in the wellbore, and a disconnect module below each isolation packer that is armed using a first force and activated using a second force.