Communications module for alternate path gravel packing, and method for completing a wellbore

摘要

A communications module and methods for downhole operations having utility with production of hydrocarbon fluids from a wellbore, including at least one alternate flow channel and an electrical circuit. Generally, the electrical circuit is pre-programmed to (i) receive a signal and, in response to the received signal, deliver an actuating command signal. The communications module further has a transmitter-receiver. The communications module allows a downhole tool to be actuated within a completion interval of a wellbore without providing an electric line or a working string from the surface. The tool may be actuated in response to a reading from a sensing tool, or in response to a signal emitted in the wellbore by a downhole carrier, or information tag.

主权项

1. A communications module for downhole operations along a completion interval of a wellbore, comprising:
an inner mandrel; at least one alternate flow channel along the inner mandrel to provide a route for gravel slurry to partially bypass the communications module during a gravel packing operation and enable gravel packing below the communications module; a transmitter-receiver for (i) receiving a signal, and (ii) in response to the received signal, sending a separate instruction signal; an electrical circuit programmed to (i) receive a signal and, in response to the received signal, deliver an actuating command signal; and a control line configured to reside entirely within the completion interval of the wellbore, the control line conveying the actuating command signal provided by the electrical circuit; wherein the communications module is configured to connect to a tubular joint in a wellbore.