Design optimization of hydraulic fracturing

The approach to the problem of hydraulic fracturing design optimization is proposed which combines three modules: a fracture geometry module, an oil production module and an economic module. The approach is based on the genetic algorithm - the universal multivariate and multiobjective optimization method. The optimization process involves subsequent determination of the fracture geometry, calculation of the oil production depending on the number of fractures, and description of the investment-return cash flows. Iterated by the genetic algorithm for different set of input parameters, this approach allows determination of the optimal design of a multiply fractured well for a given set of geological and economical information. The results show that the proposed method is plausible and can be useful for achieving projected objectives.