Method and system for enhanced access to a subterranean zone
US6598686B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 24, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jul 29, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 11, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21F7/00
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A system for enhanced access to subterranean zone from the surface includes a well bore pattern having a first well bore extending from a surface well bore substantially defining a first end of the area in the subterranean zone to a distant end of the area. The pattern also includes a plurality of lateral well bores extending outwardly from the first well bore. The distance from an end of a lateral well bore to the surface well bore may be configured to be substantially equal for each of the lateral well bores to facilitate forming the lateral well bores. The system and method may also include nesting two or more well bore patterns within the subterranean zone to provide uniform coverage of the zone. Additionally, the system and method may include multiple well bore patterns in communication with a common surface well bore to reduce the surface area required for accessing the subterranean zone.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.