Variable Flow Resistance System for Subterranean Pressure Pulses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for propagating pressure pulses in subterranean wells are inefficient in enhancing fluid mobility and balancing production or injection operations, as they fail to effectively regulate fluid flow based on characteristics like viscosity and density.
Innovation Solution
A variable flow resistance system that includes a vortex chamber, where the resistance to fluid flow alternately increases and decreases by creating and dissipating a vortex, allowing for pressure pulses to be propagated into the subterranean formation based on fluid characteristics such as viscosity, velocity, and desired/undesired fluid ratios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If constant flow resistance is used in the well system, then the system structure is simple, but pressure pulses cannot be effectively propagated to enhance fluid mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from constant flow resistance to variable flow resistance that changes in response to fluid flow conditions. The variable flow resistance system dynamically adjusts resistance based on fluid characteristics such as viscosity and flow rate, enabling pressure pulse propagation that enhances fluid mobility while adapting to changing well conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the flow resistance parameter from a fixed value to a variable value that responds to fluid properties. The variable flow resistance system changes resistance parameters based on fluid viscosity, flow rate, and other characteristics, allowing effective pressure pulse propagation without requiring complex external control systems.
2Productivity
If variable flow resistance system is implemented to propagate pressure pulses, then fluid mobility is enhanced, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle by designing a variable flow resistance system that automatically responds to fluid flow conditions without requiring external control systems. The system self-regulates resistance based on fluid characteristics such as viscosity and flow rate, enhancing fluid mobility while minimizing added system complexity through autonomous operation.
3Stress or pressure
If flow resistance is increased to propagate pressure pulses, then pressure pulses are generated, but fluid flow becomes restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action through the alternating creation and dissipation of vortices in the variable flow resistance system. This periodic variation in resistance generates pressure pulses that propagate through the well system, enhancing fluid mobility without permanently restricting flow. The cyclical nature of resistance change allows pressure pulse generation while maintaining overall fluid productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by using a variable flow resistance system that continuously adjusts resistance levels rather than maintaining a fixed high resistance. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to generate pressure pulses when needed while permitting unrestricted flow during other periods, resolving the contradiction between pressure pulse magnitude and fluid flow rate.
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
This system enhances fluid mobility and production by alternately increasing and decreasing backpressure, facilitating easier fluid flow into and out of the wellbore, and can be configured to optimize pressure pulses for specific operations like oil production or injection.
Implementation Method 1
A vortex is created when the fluid composition flows spirally about the outlet. A resistance to flow of the fluid composition through the vortex chamber alternately increases and decreases.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of propagating pressure pulses in a well can include flowing a fluid composition through a variable flow resistance system which includes a vortex chamber having at least one inlet and an outlet, a vortex being created when the fluid composition spirals about the outlet, and a resistance to flow of the fluid composition alternately increasing and decreasing. The vortex can be alternately created and dissipated in response to flowing the fluid composition through the system. A well system can include a variable flow resistance system which propagates pressure pulses into a formation in response to flow of a fluid composition from the formation.