Wellbore Temperature Prediction with Hybrid Numerical-ML Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wellbore temperature calculation methods primarily focus on optimizing single parameters, failing to account for the complex interplay of multiple factors, leading to inaccurate temperature predictions and inefficient cooling strategies in deep and ultra-deep wells, which jeopardize the stability of downhole instruments and well walls.

Innovation Solution

A wellbore temperature optimization and prediction method integrating numerical models and machine learning, utilizing a random forest algorithm trained with on-site data, optimized by genetic and annealing algorithms, to analyze multiple parameters and provide accurate, multi-parameter cooling recommendations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If single parameter optimization is used, then the optimization process is simple, but the temperature prediction accuracy is insufficient due to ignoring complex interplay of multiple factors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptimization process complexityVSAvoidtemperature prediction accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple optimization algorithms (genetic algorithm, annealing algorithm) with machine learning models (random forest) to create an integrated multi-parameter optimization system. This merging of algorithms and models enables simultaneous optimization of multiple parameters while maintaining prediction accuracy through the deterministic correction of the annealing algorithm.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Measurement precision

If multi-parameter optimization is implemented, then temperature prediction accuracy improves, but the computational complexity and time consumption increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature prediction accuracyVSAvoidcomputational time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary optimization using the random forest machine learning model to identify optimal parameter ranges and trends before applying the more computationally intensive annealing algorithm. This preliminary action narrows the search space and reduces the time required for final precise optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional iterative numerical optimization methods with a hybrid approach combining machine learning prediction and deterministic annealing optimization. This substitution reduces computational complexity by using the random forest model to guide the optimization process and the annealing algorithm to efficiently converge to optimal solutions without extensive iterative calculations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If traditional numerical models are used, then the physical mechanisms are well-captured, but the adaptation to different well conditions and parameter optimization efficiency is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvephysical mechanism accuracyVSAvoidadaptation to different well conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the approach from fixed physical model parameters to adaptive parameters optimized through machine learning and annealing algorithms. The system adjusts drilling parameters (flow rate, pump pressure, rotation speed) based on learned patterns from training data, enabling adaptation to different well conditions while maintaining the physical basis of the numerical model.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 method achieves high prediction accuracy (0.978 determination coefficient) and effective wellbore temperature control, enhancing operational safety and efficiency by integrating machine learning with numerical models to optimize cooling strategies.

Implementation Method 1

utilizing a random forest algorithm trained with on-site data, optimized by genetic and annealing algorithms

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMachine learning (Random Forest algorithm):

Implementation Method 2

optimized by genetic and annealing algorithms

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGenetic algorithm optimization:

Implementation Method 3

optimized by genetic and annealing algorithms

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAnnealing algorithm optimization: Annealing

Implementation Method 4

establishing a wellbore-formation transient heat transfer model, based on the principle of energy conservation combined with the heat transfer mechanism of each control area of a wellbore-formation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat transfer: Convection

Implementation Method 5

establishing a wellbore-formation transient heat transfer model, based on the principle of energy conservation combined with the heat transfer mechanism of each control area of a wellbore-formation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS20250307503A1Wellbore temperature optimization and predication method integrating numerical models and machine learning
Publication Date: 2025.10.02 SOUTHWEST PETROLEUM UNIV
  • US20250307503A1 patent drawing
  • US20250307503A1 patent drawing
  • US20250307503A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A wellbore temperature optimization and predication method integrating numerical models and machine learning includes the following steps: establishing a wellbore-formation transient heat transfer model, obtaining an initial data set composed of relevant parameters, normalizing the initial data set, training a wellbore temperature prediction model by using a random forest algorithm, then optimizing the hyperparameters of the random forest algorithm by using a genetic algorithm, performing global optimization by using an annealing algorithm to obtain the optimized wellbore temperature and related parameters, calculating the wellbore temperature by substituting the optimized parameters into the wellbore-formation transient heat transfer model, and performing comparative verification on the optimized wellbore temperature and the calculated wellbore temperature.