Patent ID: 8700371
Filing Date: 2014-04-15
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
1. An integrated production control unit for controlling an advancing fluid front of fluid in a reservoir toward a wellbore at a wellsite, the production control unit comprising: a reservoir model unit for producing a reservoir model; a production path unit for producing a production path model that determines at least one pressure parameter about the wellbore during a life of the wellbore; and a processor that executes a production optimizer unit for producing a well plan that optimizes at least one function of the wellsite and defines a production path based on the reservoir model and the production path model, the production optimizer unit controlling the advancing fluid front in the reservoir along horizontal portions of the wellbore with a plurality of control devices and a plurality of flow controllers optimally positionable along a plurality of vertical slices defining permeability zones, such that a line defining a leading edge of the advancing fluid front is maintained substantially flat and parallel to an axis of the horizontal portions of the wellbore along the zones as the advancing fluid front approaches the wellbore whereby premature breakthrough of the fluid into the wellbore is prevented.