Patent ID: 6978840
Filing Date: 2005-12-27
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
1. A well screen assembly with a controllable variable flow area, the well screen assembly comprising: an outer tubular section having a first plurality of openings disposed in a pattern throughout a length of said outer tubular section; an inner tubular section disposed within said outer tubular section, said inner tubular section having a second plurality of openings disposed throughout a length of said inner tubular section so that said openings may align to form a plurality of passageways that vary in size from a maximum overall opening to a closed position depending on the amount of overlap between said first plurality of openings and second plurality of openings; an actuator operatively coupled to at least one tubular section; at least one transducer communicatively coupled to said actuator; and wherein said actuator imparts motion to said at least one tubular section to vary fluid flow through said passageways by moving said at least one tubular section to change the amount of overlap between said first plurality of openings and said second plurality of openings responsive to changes measured by said at least one transducer.