The complete paper evaluates optimization techniques to develop, or support, business cases for intelligent or smart wells. Recommendations are made for the methods most appropriate for large or small numbers of flow-control valves (FCVs) and other parameters. Closed-loop and model-based methods are compared in terms of computational cost.
Introduction
Downhole FCVs that are surface or remotely controlled were introduced in the late 1990s to allow operators to control fluid flow downhole without the need for interventions. Their use and industry acceptance have grown to the point at which, in certain locations, a significant fraction of the wells completed include downhole flow control and are therefore considered to be intelligent or smart wells.
To determine whether a well is to be completed as an intelligent well can be a complex process.
