Wellbore Interlock System for Reliable Downhole Location Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the absolute and relative location of devices within a wellbore are unreliable, often leading to accidental activation of equipment due to the lack of precise location data and safety interlocks, particularly in scenarios where wireline or slickline systems fail or become tangled.
Innovation Solution
An interlock system that uses multiple sensors to register detection events at preselected locations along the wellbore, requiring a threshold number of verified detections before allowing automatic activation of downhole activities, eliminating the need for surface communication and ensuring safe and precise equipment activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If wireline or slickline is used to lower the device downhole and determine location by measuring cable length, then the device can be deployed and location can be determined, but the location determination becomes unreliable when the cable becomes snagged, wrapped, or severed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary location determination system that uses multiple sensors (accelerometers, gyroscopes, depth sensors) as mediators between the device and the wellbore environment. These sensors independently measure position without relying on the wireline/slickline cable, providing reliable location data even when the cable becomes snagged, wrapped, or severed during deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable-based location measurement system with an electronic sensor-based system. Instead of mechanically measuring cable length from the surface, the system uses electronic sensors (accelerometers, gyroscopes, depth sensors) to electronically determine position, eliminating the fundamental reliability issue of mechanical cable systems in harsh wellbore environments
2Extent of automation
If remote detonators are used with preset timers or pressure activation for automatic detonation, then surface reference communication is eliminated, but the actual location of the perforating gun cannot be accurately determined leading to unintended detonation locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous feedback from multiple sensors (accelerometers, gyroscopes, depth sensors) that monitor the device's position, orientation, and movement in real-time. This feedback is processed to continuously update the actual location of the perforating gun, ensuring accurate location determination and preventing unintended detonation at incorrect locations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-programming the interlock system with target location criteria and activation conditions before deployment. The system continuously compares real-time sensor data against these pre-set parameters, automatically determining when the device has reached the correct location and is properly oriented for safe activation, eliminating the need for surface reference communication
3Ease of operation
If a single detection event is used to activate the tool as disclosed in Thomeer, then activation is simple, but there is no protection against accidental firing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial or excessive action by requiring multiple detection events (exceeding the single event threshold) before activation. The system requires a predetermined number of sensor detections confirming the device has reached the target location and is properly oriented, providing redundant verification that prevents accidental firing while maintaining operational simplicity through automatic threshold-based activation
Data Source
AI summary
An interlock system for use in a wellbore and method of using same, including a plurality of sensors configured to detect physical conditions within a wellbore. The sensors may be absolute locational sensors or relative locational sensors. Electronic signals are generated when sensors detect corresponding physical conditions. A processor derives location information from the electronic signals, and verifies location by comparison to pre-programmed reference information for each sensor. A trigger signal is generated when at least two location information have been verified, which is used to activate a downhole event. A timer may also be set with a calculated time delay before the trigger signal is generated. The interlock system operates independent of connection to any device at the surface of a wellbore, and may be attached to any equipment for deployment down a wellbore.