METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IN-WELL WIRELESS CONTROL USING INFRASOUND SOURCES

摘要

A system and method for downhole data communication using an infrasound wave generator (26) and receivers (28 ). The infrasound waves (30) have a low frequency and a wavelength that is much larger than the transverse dimensions of the well (10). When the infrasound waves (30) are directed down the well (10), the well (10) will act as a wave guide for low frequency excitations. The receivers (28) are operatively connected to inflow valves (23) and other downhole equipment, and receive the infrasound waves (30). If the waves (30) are of a predetermined frequency, the receivers (28) command the valves to open or close, or otherwise control downhole equipment. The infrasound waves (30) can also be used to probe well (10) geometry and to identify fluid properties within the well (10).