Packer Setting Assembly with Real-Time Verification

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Solution Overview

Problem

The process of setting a packer in a wellbore is inefficient due to limited surface knowledge of equipment placement and actuation, lacking real-time verification of proper seal formation.

Innovation Solution

A packer setting assembly that includes a control module and telemetry module to provide real-time feedback on packer setting conditions, using a conveyance line for mechanical and electrical connectivity, allowing for remote actuation and verification of the packer's sealing operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If packer setting is performed with traditional surface-based methods, then equipment can be actuated from surface, but real-time verification of proper seal formation is not achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepacker seal verificationVSAvoidreal-time feedback on setting conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback system where sensors positioned on the packer and conveyance line monitor setting conditions in real-time and transmit data to the surface. This allows verification of proper seal formation through pressure differential sensors that detect when the packer has successfully isolated zones, and through monitoring of pulling and setting forces that indicate proper engagement with the wellbore.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary telemetry system that transfers information between the downhole packer setting assembly and the surface control system. This intermediary enables real-time communication of setting conditions, seal verification data, and operational parameters without requiring direct surface access to the packer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If packer setting operations are performed without real-time monitoring, then operational complexity is reduced, but operational inefficiency increases due to lack of verification

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepacker setting efficiencyVSAvoidreal-time monitoring system
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple functions into the packer setting assembly, including setting operations, seal verification, force monitoring, and data transmission, all controlled from the surface. The conveyance line serves multiple purposes: mechanical support, hydraulic actuation, and electrical signal transmission. This multi-functionality improves productivity without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The packer setting assembly performs self-verification through integrated sensors that automatically monitor setting conditions and transmit data to the surface. The system self-regulates by providing real-time feedback on seal formation and engagement forces, eliminating the need for separate verification operations and improving operational efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If traditional packer setting methods are used, then equipment placement can be performed, but accurate verification of equipment placement and actuation is not achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveequipment placement verificationVSAvoiddownhole equipment status
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs sensors that provide continuous feedback on packer position, engagement forces, and seal formation. Pressure differential sensors across the packer elements detect zone isolation, while force sensors on the conveyance line measure pulling and setting forces to verify proper placement and actuation of the equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical verification methods with electronic sensing and telemetry systems. Instead of relying on mechanical indicators or post-setting verification, the system uses electronic sensors to detect and transmit data on equipment placement and actuation status in real-time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables real-time verification of packer setting, ensuring proper seal formation and reducing operational inefficiencies by providing accurate feedback on pressure and flow rate data.

Implementation Method 1

conveyance line for mechanical and electrical connectivity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical force transmission: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 2

conveyance line for mechanical and electrical connectivity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical signal transmission: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 3

providing accurate feedback on pressure and flow rate data

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure measurement: Pressure Increase

Data Source

PatentUS11125037B2Packer setting and real-time verification method
Publication Date: 2021.09.21 HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES INC
  • US11125037B2 patent drawing
  • US11125037B2 patent drawing
  • US11125037B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This disclosure may generally relate to subterranean operations and, more particularly, to systems and methods for setting a packer. Specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure may provide real-time verification of setting a packer in order to form a seal within a wellbore. A system for packer setting may comprise a packer, a telemetry module operable to wirelessly receive one or more control signals from a surface location, and a control module coupled to the telemetry module and the packer, wherein the control module is operable to actuate the packer in response to the one or more control signals from the surface location.