Segmented Packer Tool Ports for Fluid Sampling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual packer configurations used in wellbores to isolate regions for fluid collection are susceptible to mechanical stresses, limiting expansion ratio and drawdown pressure differential, which affects the efficiency of fluid collection.
Innovation Solution
A packer tool with ports optimized based on predetermined formation properties, including permeability ratios, to enable efficient fluid collection by selectively configuring sample and guard ports for optimal fluid flow and contamination prevention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If dual packer configuration is used to isolate wellbore regions for fluid collection, then fluid collection capability is improved, but mechanical stress susceptibility increases which limits expansion ratio and drawdown pressure differential
Solution Approach 1:
The packer is segmented into multiple independent elements (radial segments, axial segments) that can expand and contract independently. This segmentation allows the packer to distribute mechanical stresses across multiple smaller units rather than concentrating them in a single structure, thereby improving reliability under mechanical stress while maintaining fluid collection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The packer employs dynamic expansion and contraction capabilities through its segmented design, allowing it to adapt its configuration based on mechanical stress conditions. The segments can move relative to each other to accommodate stress variations, enabling the packer to maintain both high expansion ratios and resistance to mechanical stresses.
2Productivity
If ports are configured to maximize fluid flow into the tool, then fluid collection efficiency is improved, but contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
A filter element is introduced as an intermediary between the formation fluid and the tool interior. This filter allows fluid to pass through while blocking contaminants, thereby maintaining high fluid collection efficiency through optimized port configurations while simultaneously reducing contamination risk.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the packer have different port configurations optimized for specific functions. Sample ports are positioned and sized differently from guard ports, with local variations in port geometry and filtration characteristics. This local optimization allows efficient fluid collection at sample ports while guard ports provide contamination protection in critical areas.
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
The tool effectively collects formation fluid with reduced contamination and minimized clean-up time by optimizing port configurations according to formation properties, enhancing the efficiency of fluid sampling and collection processes.
Implementation Method 1
a packer expandable against the wellbore wall
Data Source
AI summary
A tool is to be used within a wellbore including a wall and extending into a formation with formation fluid. The tool includes a packer expandable against the wellbore wall with ports included within the packer to enable formation fluid to flow into the tool from the formation. The ports are arranged in a first port configuration optimized based upon a first predetermined formation property.