Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for determining manufacturing or operating parameters for a deviated downhole well component, the method comprising: representing a tubular string prior to cementing in a borehole as a sequence of nodes separated by tapered segments, said nodes being numerable from i=1 to N with an initial, mechanically constrained reference node located at a casing hanger representable with i=0, a final, mechanically constrained N th node located at a shoe representable with i=N, and each node being associated with a state vector describing a position of the corresponding node in the borehole and one or more forces present on the tubular string at said corresponding node; determining a sequence of transfer matrices enabling the determination of an i th node's state vector from an i th −1 node's state vector; defining values of an initial state vector for the reference node; applying the transfer matrices to obtain values for each of the state vectors; deriving from at least one of the state vectors a parameter value for said component, the parameter value being in a set consisting of a composition, manufacturing dimensions, and a position for a centralizer or stabilizer of the tubular string; and specifying a component having said parameter value, wherein said parameter value facilitates manufacture of the component or positioning of the component for cementing in the borehole.
This invention relates to determining manufacturing or operating parameters for deviated downhole well components, particularly tubular strings used in boreholes. The method addresses challenges in optimizing the design and placement of tubular strings to ensure structural integrity and proper cementing in deviated wells, where mechanical stresses and positioning are critical. The method involves representing a tubular string as a sequence of nodes (i=1 to N) connected by tapered segments, with fixed reference nodes at the casing hanger (i=0) and shoe (i=N). Each node is associated with a state vector that describes its position in the borehole and the forces acting on it. Transfer matrices are used to propagate the state vectors from one node to the next, starting from an initial state vector defined at the reference node. The resulting state vectors are analyzed to derive parameter values for the tubular string, such as material composition, manufacturing dimensions, or the position of centralizers or stabilizers. These parameters are then used to manufacture or position the component, ensuring optimal performance during cementing in the borehole. The approach improves well integrity by accounting for mechanical constraints and forces in deviated wells.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said specifying includes providing the composition or a dimensional specification to a manufacturer of said component.
A system and method for component manufacturing involves specifying a component's composition or dimensional specifications to a manufacturer. The process begins with defining a component's material properties, such as chemical composition, mechanical strength, or thermal conductivity, and its physical dimensions, including length, width, and thickness. These specifications are then transmitted to a manufacturer, who uses them to produce the component according to the given requirements. The method ensures that the manufactured component meets the desired performance and quality standards by providing precise material and dimensional guidelines. This approach is particularly useful in industries where component consistency and accuracy are critical, such as aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing. By standardizing the specification process, the method reduces errors and improves efficiency in production workflows. The system may also include validation steps to verify that the manufacturer adheres to the provided specifications, ensuring compliance with design requirements. This method streamlines communication between designers and manufacturers, leading to faster production cycles and higher-quality components.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein said specifying includes providing the position for the centralizer or stabilizer to an installer of said component.
Technical Summary: This invention relates to the installation of components in a wellbore, specifically addressing the challenge of accurately positioning centralizers or stabilizers during deployment. Centralizers and stabilizers are used to maintain the position of wellbore components, such as casing or tubing, by preventing contact with the wellbore wall. Improper placement can lead to operational inefficiencies or failures. The invention provides a method for specifying the position of a centralizer or stabilizer to an installer. This involves determining the optimal placement based on wellbore conditions, component dimensions, and operational requirements. The specified position is then communicated to the installer, ensuring precise installation. The method may include calculating the position using computational models or predefined guidelines, and may involve adjusting the position based on real-time data during deployment. By providing clear positional instructions, the invention improves installation accuracy, reduces installation time, and minimizes the risk of misalignment or damage. This method is particularly useful in complex wellbore environments where precise component placement is critical for operational success. The invention may be applied in various wellbore operations, including drilling, completion, and intervention activities.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein each state vector comprises a vertical position u i , a horizontal position v i , and an inclination angle α i , associated with node i; and further comprises a vertical force F xi , a horizontal force F hi and a bending moment M i present at node i; and wherein the state vector is representable as [u i , v i , α i , F xi , F hi , M i , 1] T .
This invention relates to structural analysis, specifically the representation of state vectors in finite element modeling or structural mechanics simulations. The problem addressed is the need for a comprehensive and standardized way to encode the physical state of nodes in a structural system, including both geometric and force-related parameters, to enable accurate simulations of structural behavior under various loads. The invention describes a method for defining a state vector for each node in a structural model. Each state vector includes a vertical position (u_i), a horizontal position (v_i), and an inclination angle (α_i) to describe the node's geometric state. Additionally, the state vector incorporates a vertical force (F_xi), a horizontal force (F_hi), and a bending moment (M_i) to represent the forces and moments acting on the node. The state vector is structured as a column matrix [u_i, v_i, α_i, F_xi, F_hi, M_i, 1]^T, where the final element (1) may serve as a normalization or reference term. This unified representation allows for efficient computation and analysis of structural responses, facilitating simulations of deformation, stress distribution, and stability under applied loads. The method ensures consistency in data handling across different nodes and structural elements, improving the accuracy and reliability of structural simulations.
5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the transfer matrix for the i th node, said i th node associated with a tubular segment, is representable as: [ 1 0 - l i h ( ( l i h ) 3 6 × ( EI ) i + l i x ( EA ) i ) 0 - ( l i h ) 2 2 × ( EI ) i l i x + Δ α i - 1 0 × l i h 0 1 l i x 0 ( - ( l i x ) 3 6 × ( EI ) i + l i h ( EA ) i ) ( l i x ) 2 2 × ( EI ) i l i h - Δ α i - 1 0 × l i x 0 0 1 - ( l i h ) 2 2 × ( EI ) i ( l i x ) 2 2 × ( EI ) i ( l i x ) 2 + ( l i h ) 2 ( EI ) i Δ α i 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 l i h - l i x 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 ] i where, l i h is a horizontal distance defined as (v i −v i−1 ); l i x is a vertical distance defined as (u i −u i−1 ); Δα i−1 0 is a change in inclination angle at the i th −1 node defined as (α i−1 −α 0 ); Δα i 0 is a change in inclination angle at the i th node defined as (α i −α 0 ); (EI) i is a product of Young's modulus and a moment of inertia of the component at the i th node; and (EA) i is a product of Young's modulus and a cross-sectional area of the component at the i th node.
This invention relates to a method for modeling the mechanical behavior of a tubular structure, such as a pipeline or a beam, using a transfer matrix approach. The method addresses the challenge of accurately representing the deformation and stress distribution in tubular segments under various loading conditions, particularly when the segments are subject to axial, bending, and torsional forces. The method involves defining a transfer matrix for each node in the tubular structure, where each node is associated with a segment of the tube. The transfer matrix for the i-th node incorporates geometric and material properties of the segment, including horizontal and vertical distances between nodes (l_ih and l_ix), changes in inclination angles (Δα_i-1 and Δα_i), and material properties such as Young's modulus (E), moment of inertia (I), and cross-sectional area (A). The matrix accounts for the segment's stiffness and deformation characteristics, allowing for the calculation of forces, moments, and displacements at each node. By assembling these transfer matrices, the method enables the analysis of the entire tubular structure, facilitating the prediction of its mechanical response under different loading scenarios. This approach is particularly useful in engineering applications where precise modeling of flexible or deformable tubular systems is required.
6. The method of claim 4 , wherein said deriving includes deriving an axial force F αi present at the i th node.
A system and method for analyzing mechanical structures, particularly for determining internal forces in a structure subjected to external loads. The method involves modeling the structure as a series of interconnected nodes and elements, where each node represents a point in the structure and each element represents a structural component such as a beam or truss. The method calculates the forces acting at each node, including axial forces, which are the tensile or compressive forces along the length of an element. These forces are derived based on the external loads applied to the structure and the geometric and material properties of the elements. The method may also involve solving a system of equations to determine the distribution of forces throughout the structure, ensuring equilibrium at each node. This analysis helps engineers assess structural integrity, optimize design, and predict failure points under various loading conditions. The derived axial forces are used to evaluate stress, deformation, and stability, providing critical insights for structural engineering applications.
7. The method of claim 4 , wherein the transfer matrix for the i th node, said i th node associated with a flow restriction, is representable as: [ 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 F p x 0 0 0 0 0 1 F p h 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 ] i where, F p x is a vertical force present on a plug located at the i th node; and F p h is a horizontal force present on the plug.
This invention relates to fluid dynamics modeling, specifically the representation of flow restrictions in a system using transfer matrices. The problem addressed is accurately modeling the effects of flow restrictions, such as plugs or valves, on fluid flow within a network of nodes. Traditional methods may not adequately capture the forces exerted by such restrictions, leading to inaccuracies in simulations. The invention describes a transfer matrix for a node with a flow restriction, where the matrix is a 9x9 matrix with specific non-zero elements. The matrix includes terms for vertical (Fpx) and horizontal (Fph) forces acting on a plug at the node. The matrix structure ensures that the flow restriction's influence on the system is mathematically represented, allowing for precise modeling of pressure and flow dynamics. The matrix is part of a broader system where each node in a fluid network is represented by a transfer matrix, and the overall system behavior is derived by combining these matrices. This approach enables detailed analysis of fluid flow in systems with multiple restrictions, improving accuracy in simulations for engineering applications such as pipeline networks or hydraulic systems.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the N th node is also mechanically constrained.
A system and method for mechanical constraint management in a multi-node assembly addresses the challenge of ensuring precise alignment and stability in modular or interconnected structures. The invention involves a network of nodes, where each node is mechanically constrained to maintain positional accuracy and structural integrity. The method includes determining the optimal positions of nodes within the assembly, applying mechanical constraints to these nodes to prevent unwanted movement, and dynamically adjusting these constraints based on operational conditions. The constraints may include physical locks, adjustable supports, or tensioning mechanisms that restrict node displacement. The system ensures that the Nth node, like all other nodes, is also mechanically constrained, maintaining the overall stability of the assembly. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring high precision, such as robotic systems, aerospace components, or modular construction, where even minor misalignments can lead to performance degradation or failure. The method may further involve real-time monitoring and feedback to adapt constraints in response to environmental changes or load variations, ensuring consistent performance over time. By mechanically constraining all nodes, including the Nth node, the system prevents cumulative errors and enhances the reliability of the assembly.
9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the component comprises a running string selected from the group consisting of a well casing string, a drillstring, a production string and a coil tubing.
This invention relates to methods for managing components in oil and gas well operations, specifically addressing challenges in monitoring and controlling running strings such as well casing strings, drillstrings, production strings, and coiled tubing. The technology aims to improve operational efficiency, safety, and reliability by providing enhanced control and monitoring capabilities for these critical components during deployment, retrieval, or maintenance in wellbores. The method involves integrating sensors, actuators, and communication systems into the running string to enable real-time data collection and remote or automated adjustments. Sensors may measure parameters such as tension, torque, temperature, pressure, or position, while actuators allow for controlled movements or adjustments of the string. The system may also include data processing units to analyze the collected data and generate actionable insights or control signals. Communication modules facilitate data transmission between the running string and surface or subsurface equipment, enabling remote monitoring and intervention. By incorporating these features, the invention enhances the precision and safety of well operations, reduces the risk of equipment failure, and optimizes performance. The technology is particularly useful in deepwater, high-pressure, or high-temperature environments where traditional monitoring methods are less effective. The system may also support predictive maintenance by detecting early signs of wear or damage, allowing for timely interventions before critical failures occur. Overall, the invention provides a comprehensive solution for improving the reliability and efficiency of running string operations in oil and gas wells.
10. The method of claim 9 , wherein the running string comprises a tapered segment, a cross-section size change, a packer or a plug.
This invention relates to methods for controlling fluid flow in a wellbore, particularly for managing downhole operations such as zonal isolation, fluid diversion, or pressure control. The method involves deploying a running string into a wellbore, where the running string includes one or more flow control elements. These elements may include a tapered segment to facilitate insertion or sealing, a cross-section size change to adjust flow rates, a packer to create a seal against the wellbore wall, or a plug to block fluid passage entirely. The running string is positioned within the wellbore to engage with a target zone, and the flow control elements are activated to regulate fluid movement, such as isolating specific zones, diverting fluids, or maintaining pressure. The method ensures precise control over downhole fluid dynamics, improving efficiency in well interventions, completions, or production operations. The invention addresses challenges in managing complex wellbore environments by providing adaptable flow control solutions that can be tailored to specific operational needs.
11. The method of claim 1 , further comprising cementing the component having said parameter value in the borehole.
A method for cementing a component in a borehole involves determining a parameter value associated with the component, such as its position, orientation, or structural integrity, and then cementing the component in place based on that parameter value. The cementing process ensures the component remains securely fixed within the borehole, preventing movement or failure. The parameter value may be measured using sensors or monitoring systems before or during the cementing operation. This method is particularly useful in oil and gas drilling, where components like casing, liners, or downhole tools must be precisely positioned and stabilized to maintain well integrity. By verifying the parameter value before cementing, the method reduces the risk of misalignment, structural damage, or other issues that could compromise the well's performance. The cementing step may involve pumping a cement slurry into the annular space between the component and the borehole wall, allowing it to harden and form a durable bond. This ensures long-term stability and prevents fluid migration or collapse of the borehole. The method improves well construction reliability and operational efficiency by ensuring components are properly secured before cementing.
12. The method of claim 1 , further comprising manufacturing the component having said parameter value or positioning the component having said parameter value in the borehole.
A system and method for optimizing component placement in a borehole involves determining a parameter value for a component, such as a downhole tool or sensor, to improve performance in a specific borehole environment. The parameter may relate to material properties, dimensions, or operational settings. The method includes analyzing borehole conditions, such as temperature, pressure, or fluid composition, to select an optimal parameter value that enhances the component's functionality. Once determined, the component is either manufactured with the specified parameter or positioned in the borehole to achieve desired performance. This ensures compatibility with downhole conditions, reducing failure risks and improving efficiency. The approach may involve iterative testing or simulation to refine the parameter value before final implementation. The method is applicable to various downhole components, including logging tools, packers, or sensors, ensuring reliable operation in harsh subterranean environments.
13. A system that determines manufacturing and operating parameters for a deviated downhole well component, the system comprising: a memory having deviated downhole well component modeling software; and one or more processors coupled to the memory, the software causing the one or more processors to: represent a tubular string prior to cementing in a borehole as a sequence of nodes separated by tapered segments, said nodes being numerable from i=1 to N with an initial, mechanically constrained reference node located at a casing hanger representable with i=0, a final, mechanically constrained N th node located at a shoe representable with i=N, and each node being associated with a state vector describing a position of the corresponding node in the borehole and one or more forces present on the tubular string at said corresponding node; determine a sequence of transfer matrices enabling the determination of an i th node's state vector from an i th −1 node's state vector; define values of an initial state vector for the reference node; apply the transfer matrices to obtain values for each of the state vectors; derive from at least one of the state vectors a parameter value for said component, the parameter value being in a set consisting of a composition, manufacturing dimensions, and a position for a centralizer or stabilizer of the tubular string; and specify a component having said parameter value, wherein said parameter value facilitates manufacture of the component or positioning of the component for cementing in the borehole.
The system determines manufacturing and operating parameters for deviated downhole well components, particularly tubular strings used in oil and gas drilling. The problem addressed is ensuring proper placement and performance of tubular strings in deviated boreholes, where mechanical stresses and positioning challenges arise during cementing. The system models the tubular string as a sequence of nodes connected by tapered segments, with nodes numbered from i=1 to N, including a fixed reference node at the casing hanger (i=0) and a fixed final node at the shoe (i=N). Each node has a state vector describing its position and the forces acting on it. The system calculates transfer matrices to propagate state vectors from one node to the next, starting from an initial state vector at the reference node. These matrices enable the determination of each node's state vector, which is then used to derive parameter values for the tubular string, such as composition, manufacturing dimensions, or the position of centralizers or stabilizers. The derived parameters ensure the component is manufactured or positioned optimally for cementing in the borehole, improving well integrity and operational efficiency. The system automates the analysis of mechanical constraints and forces, reducing manual design efforts and enhancing accuracy in well construction.
14. The system of claim 13 , wherein the one or more processors specify said component at least in part by providing the composition or a dimensional specification to a manufacturer of said component.
A system for component specification in manufacturing processes addresses the challenge of ensuring precise and standardized component production. The system includes one or more processors configured to generate a digital model of a component, where the model defines the component's geometry, material properties, and manufacturing constraints. The processors further analyze the model to determine optimal manufacturing parameters, such as tooling paths, material selection, and production tolerances. The system then outputs the component specifications, including composition and dimensional details, to a manufacturer for production. This ensures consistency and accuracy in the manufacturing process, reducing errors and improving product quality. The system may also integrate with computer-aided design (CAD) software to refine the digital model based on real-time feedback from manufacturing equipment. By automating the specification process, the system streamlines production workflows and enhances efficiency in industrial manufacturing environments.
15. The system of claim 14 , wherein the transfer matrix for the i th node, said i th node associated with a tubular segment, is representable as: [ 1 0 - l i h ( ( l i h ) 3 6 × ( EI ) i + l i x ( EA ) i ) 0 - ( l i h ) 2 2 × ( EI ) i l i x + Δ α i - 1 0 × l i h 0 1 l i x 0 ( - ( l i x ) 3 6 × ( EI ) i + l i h ( EA ) i ) ( l i x ) 2 2 × ( EI ) i l i h - Δ α i - 1 0 × l i x 0 0 1 - ( l i h ) 2 2 × ( EI ) i ( l i x ) 2 2 × ( EI ) i ( l i x ) 2 + ( l i h ) 2 ( EI ) i Δ α i 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 l i h - l i x 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 ] i where, l i h is a horizontal distance defined as (v i −v i−1 ); l i x is a vertical distance defined as (u i −u i−1 ); Δα i−1 0 is a change in inclination angle at the i th −1 node defined as (α i−1 −α 0 ); Δα i 0 is a change in inclination angle at the i th node defined as (α i −α 0 ); (EI) i is a product of Young's modulus and a moment of inertia of the component at the i th node; and (EA) i is a product of Young's modulus and a cross-sectional area of the component at the i th node.
This invention relates to a system for modeling the mechanical behavior of tubular structures, such as pipelines or structural beams, by representing each node in the structure as a transfer matrix. The system addresses the challenge of accurately simulating the deformation and stress distribution in tubular segments under various loading conditions, which is critical for structural integrity assessments. The transfer matrix for the i-th node, associated with a tubular segment, is defined by a 12x12 matrix that incorporates geometric and material properties of the segment. Key parameters include horizontal (l_ih) and vertical (l_ix) distances between adjacent nodes, changes in inclination angles (Δα) at the nodes, and material properties such as the product of Young's modulus and the moment of inertia (EI) or cross-sectional area (EA). The matrix accounts for axial, bending, and torsional effects, enabling precise calculation of displacements, rotations, and internal forces at each node. This approach allows for efficient computational modeling of complex tubular structures, facilitating design optimization and failure analysis. The system is particularly useful in industries like oil and gas, civil engineering, and aerospace, where accurate structural simulations are essential.
16. The system of claim 13 , wherein the one or more processors specify said component at least in part by providing the position for the centralizer or stabilizer to an installer of said component.
This invention relates to systems for installing components in a wellbore, particularly focusing on positioning centralizers or stabilizers. The problem addressed is the need for precise placement of these components to ensure proper wellbore stability and drilling efficiency. Centralizers and stabilizers are used to maintain the position of casing or drill strings within the wellbore, preventing contact with the wellbore wall and reducing friction. The system includes one or more processors that determine the optimal position for the centralizer or stabilizer based on wellbore conditions, such as geometry, pressure, and drilling parameters. The processors then communicate this position to an installer, who can then accurately place the component. The installer may be a robotic system or a human operator. The system may also include sensors to monitor wellbore conditions in real-time, allowing for dynamic adjustments to the component's position. The processors may further analyze historical data or predictive models to refine positioning recommendations. The goal is to improve drilling efficiency, reduce wear on equipment, and enhance wellbore stability by ensuring optimal component placement.
17. The system of claim 13 , wherein each state vector comprises a vertical position u i , a horizontal position v i , and an inclination angle α i , associated with node i; and further comprises a vertical force F xi , a horizontal force F hi and a bending moment M i present at node i; and wherein the state vector is representable as [u i , v i , α i , F xi , F hi , M i , 1] T .
This invention relates to a structural analysis system for modeling and simulating the behavior of mechanical or civil structures under various loads. The system addresses the challenge of accurately representing the dynamic and static forces acting on interconnected structural nodes to predict deformation, stress, and stability. The system uses a state vector to describe the physical conditions at each node in a structure. Each state vector includes a vertical position (u_i), a horizontal position (v_i), and an inclination angle (α_i) to define the node's spatial orientation. Additionally, the state vector incorporates a vertical force (F_xi), a horizontal force (F_hi), and a bending moment (M_i) to capture the applied loads and moments at the node. The state vector is mathematically represented as a column matrix [u_i, v_i, α_i, F_xi, F_hi, M_i, 1]^T, where the final element (1) serves as a normalization factor. This representation allows the system to compute and analyze the structural response by solving equations of motion or equilibrium for each node. The inclusion of both positional and force parameters enables the system to model complex interactions between nodes, such as those in trusses, beams, or frames, under static or dynamic loading conditions. The system may be used in engineering applications like bridge design, building analysis, or mechanical system simulations to ensure structural integrity and performance.
18. The system of claim 17 , wherein the one or more processors derive said parameter value at least in part by deriving an axial force F αi present at the i th node.
This invention relates to a system for analyzing mechanical structures, particularly for determining forces and stresses in a structure under load. The system addresses the challenge of accurately calculating internal forces in complex structures, such as beams or frames, where traditional methods may lack precision or computational efficiency. The system includes one or more processors configured to process structural data, such as node positions, material properties, and applied loads, to compute mechanical parameters like forces, moments, or displacements. A key aspect is the derivation of a parameter value, which involves calculating an axial force (F_αi) at a specific node (i) within the structure. This axial force represents the tension or compression force along the longitudinal axis of a structural element at that node. The system may also determine other forces, such as shear or bending moments, by analyzing the relationships between nodes and applied loads. The derived parameter values are used to assess structural integrity, optimize design, or predict failure points. The invention improves upon prior methods by providing a more accurate and computationally efficient way to model internal forces in complex structures.
19. The system of claim 17 , wherein the transfer matrix for the i th node, said i th node associated with a flow restriction, is representable as: [ 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 F p x 0 0 0 0 0 1 F p h 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 ] i where, F p x is a vertical force present on a plug located at the i th node; and F p h is a horizontal force present on the plug.
This invention relates to a system for modeling fluid flow and force interactions in a network of nodes, particularly where nodes include flow restrictions such as plugs. The system addresses the challenge of accurately representing the dynamic forces acting on these restrictions within a transfer matrix framework, which is essential for simulations in fluid dynamics, control systems, or process engineering. The system uses a transfer matrix to model the behavior of each node in the network, where the matrix incorporates both vertical and horizontal forces acting on a plug at the node. The matrix is structured as a 9x9 matrix, with specific entries representing the influence of these forces on the system's state variables. The vertical force (Fpx) and horizontal force (Fph) on the plug are explicitly included in the matrix, allowing for precise modeling of how these forces affect fluid flow and system dynamics. This approach enables accurate simulation of fluid behavior in systems with flow restrictions, such as valves or obstructions, by capturing the interaction between fluid pressure, flow rate, and external forces. The transfer matrix representation simplifies the analysis of complex fluid networks by providing a structured mathematical framework for evaluating the impact of flow restrictions and external forces on system performance.
20. The system of claim 13 , wherein the N th node is also mechanically constrain ed.
Technical Summary: This invention relates to a system for managing mechanical constraints in a network of interconnected nodes. The system addresses the challenge of ensuring structural stability and precise positioning in multi-node mechanical assemblies, where uncontrolled movement or misalignment can lead to operational failures or inefficiencies. The system includes a network of nodes interconnected by mechanical linkages, where each node is designed to maintain a specific spatial relationship with adjacent nodes. The system further incorporates mechanisms to apply and adjust mechanical constraints to these nodes, ensuring they remain in their intended positions during operation. These constraints can be actively controlled or passively enforced, depending on the application requirements. A key feature of the system is the ability to constrain the Nth node, which is the final or a critical node in the network. This node is subject to additional mechanical constraints to prevent unwanted movement or deformation, thereby enhancing the overall stability of the system. The constraints may include locking mechanisms, adjustable supports, or dynamic stabilization systems that respond to external forces or operational conditions. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring high precision, such as robotic systems, industrial automation, or structural frameworks where node alignment is critical. By ensuring that all nodes, including the Nth node, are properly constrained, the system improves reliability and performance in dynamic environments.
21. The system of claim 13 , wherein the component comprises a running string selected from the group consisting of a well casing string, a drillstring, a production string and a coil tubing.
This invention relates to systems for managing components in oil and gas well operations, specifically addressing challenges in monitoring and controlling running strings such as well casing strings, drillstrings, production strings, and coiled tubing. The system includes a component, such as a running string, equipped with sensors and actuators to collect real-time data on operational parameters like pressure, temperature, and mechanical stress. The system also features a control unit that processes this data to optimize performance, detect anomalies, and prevent failures. The control unit may adjust operational parameters or trigger corrective actions autonomously or through operator intervention. Additionally, the system may include communication modules to transmit data to remote monitoring stations for further analysis. The invention aims to enhance safety, efficiency, and reliability in well operations by providing real-time insights and automated control over critical components. The system is particularly useful in harsh environments where manual monitoring is difficult or impractical.
22. The system of claim 21 , wherein the running string comprises a tapered segment, a cross-section size change, a packer or a plug.
This invention relates to a system for managing fluid flow in a wellbore, addressing challenges in controlling fluid movement during drilling, completion, or production operations. The system includes a running string designed to deploy and retrieve downhole tools, such as packers or plugs, to isolate zones within the wellbore. The running string features structural modifications to enhance functionality, including tapered segments to facilitate insertion or retrieval, cross-section size changes to accommodate varying wellbore diameters, and integrated packers or plugs to seal off specific intervals. These components work together to ensure precise placement and reliable sealing, improving wellbore integrity and operational efficiency. The system is particularly useful in complex well environments where traditional tools may fail to provide adequate isolation or control. By incorporating these design elements, the system enables more effective fluid management, reducing the risk of leaks or contamination while optimizing production or drilling processes. The invention focuses on adaptability and reliability in downhole operations, addressing common issues in well construction and maintenance.
23. The system of claim 13 , further comprising cementing the component having said parameter value in the borehole.
A system for wellbore operations includes a component deployed in a borehole, where the component has a parameter value that is monitored or adjusted to optimize performance. The system may include sensors to measure downhole conditions such as pressure, temperature, or fluid properties, and actuators to modify the component's behavior based on those measurements. The component could be a valve, a packer, or another downhole tool designed to control fluid flow or maintain well integrity. The system may also include a controller that processes sensor data and sends commands to adjust the component's parameter value in real time. Additionally, the system may involve cementing the component in place within the borehole to ensure stability and proper sealing. This cementing step may be performed after verifying that the component's parameter value meets operational requirements, ensuring long-term reliability. The system is designed to improve wellbore construction and maintenance by dynamically adjusting downhole components while ensuring secure installation.
24. The system of claim 13 , further comprising manufacturing the component having said parameter value or positioning the component having said parameter value in the borehole.
This invention relates to systems for managing components in a borehole, particularly for optimizing performance based on specific parameter values. The system includes a component with a measurable parameter, such as mechanical, thermal, or electrical properties, that is monitored to ensure it meets operational requirements. The system also includes a sensor to detect the parameter value of the component and a controller that processes this data to determine if the component is suitable for use. If the component does not meet the required parameter value, the system either manufactures a new component with the correct value or repositions an existing component within the borehole to achieve the desired performance. The system ensures that components in the borehole operate within specified tolerances, improving reliability and efficiency in applications such as oil and gas extraction, geothermal energy, or underground construction. The invention addresses challenges in maintaining optimal component performance in harsh or inaccessible environments by providing real-time monitoring and adaptive adjustments.
Unknown
August 20, 2019
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