Abstract: An improved inflatable packer is provided. In one embodiment, the improved packer has a tubular mandrel with an outer diameter essentially equal to the deflated inner diameter of an inflatable element surrounding the mandrel and has fluid flow passages that are adapted to cause at least a portion of pressurized fluid for inflating the element to be introduced into the annular space between the packer and the mandrel in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tubular mandrel.

Abstract: The invention discloses methods of, as well as apparatus and systems for, perforating and treating multiple intervals of one or more subterranean formations intersected by a wellbore by deploying within said wellbore a bottom-hole assembly (“BHA”) having a perforating device and a sealing mechanism, wherein pressure communication is established between the portions of the wellbore above and below the sealing mechanism. The BHA is positioned within the wellbore such that the sealing mechanism, when actuated, establishes a hydraulic seal in the wellbore to positively force fluid to enter the perforations corresponding to the interval to be treated. A treating fluid is pumped down the wellbore and into the perforations created in the perforated interval. The sealing mechanism is released, and the steps are repeated for as many intervals as desired, without having to remove the BHA from said wellbore.