초록 ▼

A downhole control system for a production well is associated with permanent downhole formation evaluation sensors which remain downhole throughout production operations. These formation evaluation sensors may include, for example, neutron generator, gamma ray detector and resistivity sensors which

A downhole control system for a production well is associated with permanent downhole formation evaluation sensors which remain downhole throughout production operations. These formation evaluation sensors may include, for example, neutron generator, gamma ray detector and resistivity sensors which can, in real time, sense and evaluate formation parameters including important information regarding formation invading water entering the producing zone. Significantly, this information can be obtained prior to the water actually entering the producing geological formation and therefore corrective action (i.e., closing of a valve or sliding sleeve) can be taken prior to water being produced. This real time acquisition of formation data in the production well constitutes an important advance over current wireline techniques in that the present invention is far less costly and can anticipate and react to potential problems before they occur. In addition, the formation evaluation sensors themselves can be placed much closer to the actual formation (i.e., adjacent the casing or downhole completion tool) then wireline devices which are restricted to the interior of the production tubing.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An apparatus for the downhole control of at least one downhole tool in a well comprising:(a) at least one downhole formation evaluation sensor permanently located downhole for sensing a downhole formation parameter from the formation surrounding the well, wherein said sen

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An apparatus for the downhole control of at least one downhole tool in a well comprising:(a) at least one downhole formation evaluation sensor permanently located downhole for sensing a downhole formation parameter from the formation surrounding the well, wherein said sensed downhole formation parameter constitutes a parameter which is not normally present within the borehole;(b) at least one downhole control device for controlling at least one downhole tool; and(c) a downhole electronic controller in communication with said downhole formation evaluation sensor and said downhole control device.