Self-Deflecting Multilateral Junction Single-Trip Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multilateral well systems require multiple trips and separate deflector runs to establish pressure-tight connections between main and lateral wellbores, increasing complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A self-deflecting multilateral junction that integrates a deflection device with a lateral stinger and running tool, allowing for a single trip to establish pressure-tight connections between wellbores without the need for additional deflectors, using a deflecting ramp and valve mechanism to control flow paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate deflector runs are used to establish pressure-tight connections, then connection reliability is improved, but operational complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the deflection device and lateral stinger into a single integrated multilateral junction assembly that can be deployed in one continuous operation. The deflection device includes a main tubular with flow paths, while the lateral stinger with its nose end and lateral seal integrates seamlessly to create pressure-tight connections without requiring separate deflector runs, thus reducing operational complexity while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The multilateral junction serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides deflection capabilities through the deflecting ramp, establishes pressure-tight seals through the lateral seal engaging with the lateral seal bore, enables lateral wellbore access through the second flow path, and maintains main wellbore continuity through the first flow path. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized tools for each function
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple trips are required for deployment, then installation precision is improved, but time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The lateral stinger is pre-positioned within the main tubular of the deflection device during assembly, with the lateral seal and nose end already in place. This preliminary positioning allows the entire assembly to be deployed in a single trip while maintaining precise installation, as the components are pre-configured to engage correctly with the wellbore structure upon deployment
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional deflectors are used, then flow path control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deflecting ramp is designed to dynamically guide the lateral stinger into the correct position as it is deployed through the main tubular. The ramp's geometry automatically adjusts the stinger's trajectory to engage with the lateral seal bore at the appropriate angle, providing flow path control through geometric constraints rather than additional active control mechanisms, thus maintaining simplicity
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a self-deflecting multilateral junction, a method, and a well system. The self-deflecting multilateral junction, in one aspect, includes a deflection device having an uphole end and a downhole end, the deflection device including a main tubular, a first flow path off the main tubular and operable to couple to a wellbore, a second flow path off the main tubular and operable to couple to a lateral wellbore, the second flow path having a lateral seal bore, and a deflecting ramp. The self-deflecting multilateral junction, according to this aspect, further includes a lateral stinger positioned within the main tubular and releasably coupled to the deflection device, the lateral stinger including a nose end configured to extend into the second flow path, a valve member, and a lateral seal for engaging the lateral seal bore.