Wireline-Adjustable Downhole Flow Control Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling fluid flow in wellbores are inefficient as they require frequent removal and adjustment of passive inflow control devices, which is costly and time-consuming, especially when dealing with uneven fluid distribution and unwanted fluid production in horizontal wellbores.
Innovation Solution
A tool equipped with sensors and a latching device is used to measure downhole properties and adjust flow control devices in real-time without removing the production string, allowing for precise control of fluid flow and prevention of unwanted fluid production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If passive inflow control devices are pre-set at the surface and installed in the production string, then the flow rate is initially controlled, but the devices cannot be adjusted downhole and require production string removal for any adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control device incorporates a setting device with a latching mechanism that can be remotely actuated to change the flow rate setting. The device transitions from a static pre-set configuration to a dynamic adjustable configuration, allowing multiple flow rate settings to be selected during the life of the well without removing the production string.
Solution Approach 2:
A setting device acts as an intermediary between the wireline tool and the flow control device. The setting device includes a latching mechanism that can be remotely actuated by a wireline tool to change the flow rate setting, serving as a mediator that enables adjustment without direct manual intervention or production string removal.
2Productivity
If wireline tools are used to determine fluid properties and adjust flow control devices, then adjustments can be made without removing the production string, but the tool must be able to couple to and move the setting device
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism uses magnetic coupling instead of direct mechanical connection. The wireline tool uses magnetic force to actuate the setting device remotely, replacing complex mechanical linkages with a simpler magnetic field-based actuation system that reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The setting device is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls the flow rate setting, provides a latching mechanism for maintaining settings, and interfaces with the wireline tool for remote actuation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of producing fluids from a wellbore that has therein n adjustable flow control device for controlling flow of fluid between a formation and the wellbore may include: providing a tool having a sensor configured to provide measurements relating to a downhole property of interest, wherein the tool is configured to adjust flow from the flow control device; conveying the tool into the wellbore; determining the property of interest using the tool; and adjusting the flow through the flow control device with the tool at least in part in response to the determined parameter of interest. An apparatus for controlling fluid flow between a formation and a wellbore, according to one embodiment may include: a tool configured to be conveyed into a wellbore that contains at least one sensor for estimating a property of interest downhole and a latching device configured to couple to a flow control device in the wellbore to alter flow of the fluid through the flow control device.