Variable Flow Resistance Wellbore Device for Fluid Phase Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies lack the ability to effectively regulate fluid flow in subterranean wells based on fluid characteristics such as viscosity, velocity, and composition, leading to inefficiencies in hydrocarbon production and injection operations.
Innovation Solution
A variable flow resistance system is introduced, which includes a flow passage and branch passages that divert fluid based on viscosity and velocity, and a flow path selection device that directs fluid flow through multiple paths based on the ratio of desired to undesired fluids, thereby adjusting resistance to flow accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flow restrictor is used to regulate fluid flow in a wellbore, then fluid flow can be controlled, but the system cannot differentiate between desired and undesired fluids based on their characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different flow resistance characteristics to different fluid phases within the same device. The flow restrictor is configured with specific geometry (e.g., slot width, length, orientation) that creates different flow paths for liquid versus gas phases, allowing selective control based on fluid characteristics rather than uniform restriction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the physical parameters of the flow restrictor (slot dimensions, orientation, cross-sectional area) to exploit differences in fluid properties such as viscosity, density, and phase behavior. These parameter variations enable the system to respond differently to oil, water, and gas phases based on their inherent characteristics
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional flow control apparatus is used, then some flow regulation is possible, but it cannot dynamically adjust resistance based on fluid composition ratios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing a flow restrictor that automatically adjusts its flow resistance characteristics in response to changing fluid composition without external control signals. The device uses the inherent physical properties of the flowing fluids (phase behavior, viscosity changes, density differences) to self-regulate the flow paths, eliminating the need for sensors, actuators, or complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by creating a flow restriction system whose effective resistance changes dynamically as fluid composition changes. The slot geometry and flow paths are designed to respond to real-time variations in fluid phase ratios, allowing the system to adapt its flow control characteristics continuously rather than remaining static
3Productivity
If flow restriction is applied uniformly to all zones, then injection can be simplified, but uneven displacement and premature breakthrough occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by enabling different segments or zones of the flow restrictor to provide different resistance levels to the injected fluid. This allows the injection system to create non-uniform flow distribution patterns that match the heterogeneous properties of different formation zones, improving sweep efficiency without requiring complex multi-zone control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses segmentation by dividing the flow restriction function into multiple independent elements (e.g., multiple slots, segmented flow paths, or zoned restrictor sections) that can independently respond to local fluid conditions. This segmentation allows preferential injection into zones needing stimulation while naturally limiting flow in already-saturated zones
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 system efficiently regulates fluid flow by increasing resistance to undesired fluids and reducing resistance to desired fluids, enhancing hydrocarbon production and injection efficiency by preventing coning and balancing production among zones.
Implementation Method 1
A fluid composition which enters the flow chamber via the second inlet can oppose flow of the fluid composition which enters the flow chamber via the first inlet, whereby a resistance to flow of the fluid composition through the flow chamber can vary with a ratio of flows through the first and second inlets
Data Source
AI summary
A system for variably resisting flow of a fluid composition in a subterranean well, the system comprising a flow path selection device that selects which of multiple flow paths a majority of fluid flows through from the device, based on a ratio of desired fluid to undesired fluid in the fluid composition.