Optimization system for valve control in intelligent wells under uncertainties

This paper presents an evolutionary algorithm-based decision support system able to optimize intelligent well control, in intelligent oil fields, under technical and geological uncertainties. In addition, the system aims to support decision-making on whether or not to deploy intelligent well technology, which is very costly and often difficult to obtain approval for its implementation. Intelligent well control refers to open and close operations of a valve in wells of this type. A genetic algorithm is used for obtaining a pro-active control strategy and determining an operation that maximizes the net present value (NPV). The system was evaluated in three oil reservoirs and results indicate that it is able to obtain good strategies with an increase in NPV. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.