Shifting Tool Interface Member for Multi-Zone Wellbore Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for fracturing and gravel packing in multi-zone well systems are inefficient, leading to increased rig time, erosion of crossover tools, and wear, particularly when dealing with multiple well zones, due to the need for repeated trips and operations with screens and crossover tools.
Innovation Solution
A system with multiple valves connected to a casing, where a shifting tool and shifting tool interface member (STIM) are used to selectively open and close ports, allowing for sequential fracturing and gravel packing of well zones without the need for a crossover tool, reducing trips and equipment wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If discrete operations with screens and crossover tools are used for each well zone, then fracturing and gravel packing can be performed, but rig time increases and equipment wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (fracturing, gravel packing, production) into a single integrated system with a production string that remains in the wellbore throughout all operations. Multiple valves are integrated onto a single string, eliminating the need for separate screens and crossover tools, thereby reducing rig time and equipment wear while maintaining all necessary well treatment capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The production string is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it serves as the fracturing conduit, the gravel packing delivery system, and the production flow path. The valves integrated on the string can selectively direct flow for different operations, making the single string universal for all well zone treatments and eliminating repeated trips.
2Productivity
If crossover tools are used for fracturing operations, then fluid can be directed to formation, but erosive qualities of gravel slurry and tool wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the crossover tool from the system entirely, extracting the problematic component that subjected to erosion and wear. The fracturing function is achieved directly through valves on the production string, eliminating the need for tools that must withstand the erosive effects of gravel slurry while maintaining fracturing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamically controllable valves on the production string that can redirect flow between different well zones and operational modes. This dynamic control allows the same flow path to be used for both fracturing and production without the need for static crossover tools, reducing wear while maintaining operational flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple trips in the hole are made for different well zones, then complete treatment can be achieved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The production string is segmented into multiple independently controllable valve sections, each capable of directing flow to different well zones. This segmentation allows complete multi-zone treatment capability while maintaining a single, integrated device that does not require multiple trips, simplifying the overall completion sequence.
Data Source
AI summary
A method comprising moving a shifting tool in a first direction through a moveable member positioned in a casing of a wellbore, including moving the shifting tool through a shifting tool interface member (STIM) adjacent the moveable member, until the shifting tool is positioned past the moveable member and the STIM. The shifting tool is then moved in a second direction substantially opposite the first direction until the shifting tool and the STIM engage. The shifting tool is then further moved in the second direction, thereby moving the STIM and the moveable member in the second direction, until the STIM substantially simultaneously (1) engages the casing and (2) disengages the shifting tool.