Fracturing propping agent metering device and method

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of material metering, and particularly discloses a fracturing propping agent metering device and method.The device comprises a hollow box body, a top plate is arranged at the top end of the box body, and a sand inlet is formed in the top plate; a sand outlet is formed in the bottom end of the box body; a leveling unit is arranged on the inner side of the top plate, and when the metering device is used, the leveling unit can be close to or away from the fracturing propping agent in the box body; a distance monitoring assembly is arranged in the box body, and the distance monitoring assembly is arranged on the inner wall of the box body and is close to one end of the top plate. According to the sand storage device, the sand amount can be effectively and accurately metered under the condition that a weighing device is not used.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of material measurement technology and relates to a fracturing proppant metering device and method. Background Technology

[0002] Hydraulic fracturing is currently the most widely used single-well production enhancement technology, playing a crucial role in oil and gas well production enhancement measures. Among the components, fracturing proppant is the only material expected to remain in the reservoir after fracturing. The type and quantity of fracturing proppant are important standards for evaluating the quality of fracturing projects and key indicators affecting fracturing effectiveness. However, the measurement of proppant at the fracturing site faces many problems. The use of fracturing sand or ceramsite by trucks, coupled with the complexity of weighbridge installation and the need for leveling, makes it unsuitable for on-site needs. Currently, the traditional method of fracturing proppant measurement mainly involves manual recording, measuring the type and quantity of proppant, and reporting this data to the project client, while retaining a handwritten record. This method lacks intelligent counting, precise measurement, real-time statistics, and traceability, and is no longer sufficient for modern fracturing operations. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a method and corresponding device for accurately measuring fracturing proppant.

[0003] Chinese Patent Publication No. CN107283636B discloses an automatic metering and feeding system for concrete aggregates in multi-mixer setups. The system includes a feeding vehicle, a temporary storage bin, a weighing device, a belt conveyor, a lifting unit, a storage bin, a distributing valve, concrete mixers, and a control unit. The weighing device is located on the side of the temporary storage bin. The belt conveyor receives the aggregate from the weighing device and feeds it into the lifting unit. The lifting unit then lifts the aggregate into the storage bin. The lower part of the storage bin is connected to the distributing valve via a pipeline. This application uses a long-distance conveyor belt to feed the screened aggregate into the aggregate storage bin and then distributes it into different concrete mixers via the distributing valve. Additionally, Chinese Patent Publication No. CN104280101B discloses an automatic static metering system and automatic control method for continuous unloading of materials at a dock. This system includes a material distributor, a material weighing device, a metering operation station, a local metering server, a PLC controller, and a basic automation operation station. This application achieves static metering of materials through comprehensive automated control, improving the accuracy of material weighing while maintaining low metering costs. Therefore, currently there is no method for accurately measuring the quantity of quartz sand in a sand storage device without using a weighing device; that is, a weighing device is still needed to determine the weight of the proppant. Furthermore, weighing the proppant cannot guarantee the precision and accuracy of the test.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a device or method for accurately measuring the quantity of quartz sand without using a weighing device, so as to overcome the shortcomings of traditional measurement methods, such as lack of automated measurement, lack of accurate measurement, and the need for a weighing device. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the problems existing in the prior art, the present invention provides a fracturing proppant metering device and method, thereby solving the technical problem that the prior art requires a weighing device to determine the weight of the proppant, and that the weighing method cannot ensure the accuracy and precision of the test.

[0006] This invention is achieved through the following technical solution:

[0007] A fracturing proppant metering device includes a hollow box, a top plate at the top of the box with a sand inlet on the top plate, and a sand outlet at the bottom of the box.

[0008] The inner side of the top plate is provided with a leveling unit. When using the metering device, the leveling unit can be close to or away from the fracturing proppant inside the box.

[0009] The housing is equipped with a distance monitoring component, which is located on the inner wall of the housing and near the top plate.

[0010] Preferably, the leveling unit includes a horizontal adjustment component, a vertical adjustment component, and a first vibrating element disposed at the free end of the vertical adjustment component;

[0011] The first vibrating element can move horizontally and vertically inside the housing under the control of the horizontal adjustment component and the vertical adjustment component.

[0012] Preferably, the horizontal adjustment component includes a first drive motor and a lead screw connected to the first drive motor; the vertical adjustment component is slidably connected to the lead screw.

[0013] Preferably, the vertical adjustment assembly includes a base and a second drive motor disposed inside the base, the second drive motor being provided with a flexible connector, and the free end of the flexible connector being provided with the first vibrating element; the base is slidably connected to the lead screw.

[0014] Preferably, the top plate has a guide rail on its inner side, and the base is slidably connected to the guide rail.

[0015] Preferably, the interior of the housing is symmetrically provided with four distance monitoring components.

[0016] Preferably, the metering device further includes a control unit, which communicates with both the distance monitoring component and the leveling unit.

[0017] Preferably, the outer wall of the housing is symmetrically provided with a plurality of second vibrating elements, and the plurality of second vibrating elements communicate with the control unit.

[0018] A method for metering fracturing proppant, employing the aforementioned apparatus, includes the following steps:

[0019] S1: The box stops discharging and feeding sand; the distance monitoring component is used to obtain the distance between the distance monitoring component and the test point at continuous time.

[0020] S2: If the distance difference between adjacent units at any given time is not greater than a preset threshold, the fracturing proppant inside the box is in a flat state, and the amount of sand inside the box is calculated; otherwise, the leveling unit is activated to level the fracturing proppant inside the box until the distance difference between adjacent units at any given time is not greater than the preset threshold, and then the amount of sand inside the box is calculated.

[0021] Preferably, the preset threshold is 5%.

[0022] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial technical effects:

[0023] This invention discloses a fracturing proppant metering device. The device's main body is a hollow housing designed to hold the fracturing proppant, facilitating its storage, leveling, and metering. The housing not only provides storage space for the proppant but also supports the installation and operation of the leveling unit and distance monitoring components through its structural features. A top plate, located at the top of the housing, encloses and protects the interior. It also serves as the mounting base for the leveling unit. An inlet is located on the top plate for adding fracturing proppant into the housing, making the addition process simple, quick, and easy to control. An outlet is located at the bottom of the housing, serving as the channel for discharging the metered proppant. The leveling unit is installed inside the top plate and its position can be adjusted to be closer to or further away from the proppant inside the housing. Its main function is to level the surface of the proppant after it has been added, ensuring metering accuracy. Adjusting the leveling unit's position accommodates proppant layers of different heights, improving metering flexibility and precision. The distance monitoring component is installed on the inner wall of the housing, near the top plate. This location helps to accurately determine the distance between the monitoring component and the test point, thereby further calculating whether the surface of the fracturing proppant is flat. In summary, this fracturing proppant metering device, through its ingenious structural design and functional configuration, achieves precise metering and control of the fracturing proppant dosage, providing strong technical support for oil and gas field fracturing operations.

[0024] Furthermore, the leveling unit includes a horizontal adjustment component, a vertical adjustment component, and a first vibrating element disposed at the free end of the vertical adjustment component. The first vibrating element can move horizontally and vertically within the housing under the control of the horizontal and vertical adjustment components. In this configuration, through the synergistic effect of the horizontal and vertical adjustment components, the first vibrating element can move freely in both horizontal and vertical directions within the housing. This multi-dimensional adjustment capability allows the leveling unit to more precisely adapt to proppant layers of different shapes and heights, thereby achieving a higher precision leveling effect. This configuration enhances adaptability. Different fracturing operations may require proppant layers of different thicknesses and densities. The design of this leveling unit allows operators to adjust the position and vibration intensity of the vibrating element according to actual needs to adapt to the leveling requirements under different working conditions. This high degree of flexibility improves the adaptability and practicality of the device. Secondly, the effective operation of the leveling unit is crucial for subsequent proppant metering. Uneven proppant layer surfaces will lead to measurement deviations. The vibration of the first vibrator eliminates surface irregularities, making the proppant layer more uniform and smooth, thus improving metering accuracy. Simultaneously, the automated and adjustable leveling unit reduces the need for manual intervention, lowering operational difficulty and labor intensity. Furthermore, the rapid leveling speed shortens the work cycle and improves work efficiency. In summary, the leveling unit design in this fracturing proppant metering device significantly improves leveling accuracy, adaptability, metering accuracy, and work efficiency through multi-dimensional adjustability and vibration.

[0025] Furthermore, the horizontal adjustment component includes a first drive motor and a lead screw connected to the first drive motor; the vertical adjustment component is slidably connected to the lead screw. Firstly, the first drive motor, as a power source, can precisely control the rotational speed and direction of the lead screw. By adjusting the motor's output parameters, precise control of the leveling unit's position in the horizontal direction can be achieved, ensuring the accuracy and stability of the leveling operation. Secondly, the direct connection between the lead screw and the first drive motor reduces transmission links and improves transmission efficiency. Simultaneously, the lead screw drive has a self-locking function, maintaining the leveling unit's position unchanged when the motor stops working, preventing displacement due to external forces. Thirdly, this design makes the horizontal adjustment component relatively compact, occupying little space. Within the limited space of the fracturing proppant metering device, resources can be utilized more effectively, improving the overall integration and reliability of the equipment. Additionally, the lead screw and the first drive motor, as common mechanical and electrical components, are relatively easy to maintain and replace. When equipment malfunctions, problems can be quickly located and repaired, reducing maintenance costs and downtime. Screw drives offer high rigidity and stability, ensuring stable operation of the leveling unit during the leveling process. This helps reduce damage to the equipment caused by vibration and impact, improving its lifespan and reliability. Due to the sliding connection design between the screw and the vertical adjustment component, the leveling unit can move freely horizontally and work in conjunction with the vertical adjustment component to achieve multi-dimensional position adjustments. This design allows the leveling unit to adapt to proppant layers of different shapes and heights, enhancing the equipment's adaptability and flexibility.

[0026] Furthermore, the vertical adjustment assembly includes a base and a second drive motor disposed inside the base. The second drive motor has a flexible connector, and the free end of the flexible connector is fitted with the first vibrating element. The base is slidably connected to the lead screw. The first vibrating element can move vertically under the action of the second drive motor. The second drive motor drives the first vibrating element to vibrate through the flexible connector. This design helps reduce energy loss and mechanical stress during vibration transmission, making the vibration more uniform and stable. The flexible connector can also absorb the impact and noise generated by vibration to a certain extent, improving the working stability and comfort of the equipment. As the supporting structure of the vertical adjustment assembly, the stability of the base is crucial for the smooth operation of the leveling unit. Through its slidable connection with the lead screw, the base can maintain stability in the horizontal direction while making precise adjustments in the vertical direction. This design enhances the structural stability of the leveling unit and reduces displacement and swaying caused by vibration and impact. In addition, placing key components such as the second drive motor and the flexible connector inside the base helps protect these components from external environmental influences such as dust and moisture. This modular design also makes component replacement and maintenance more convenient, reducing maintenance costs and time. In addition, the precise control of the vertical adjustment component enables the first vibrating element to quickly and accurately reach the designated position of the proppant layer for leveling operations. Combined with the adjustment capability of the horizontal adjustment component, the leveling unit can efficiently complete the leveling work of the entire proppant layer, improving leveling efficiency and operation speed.

[0027] Furthermore, the inner side of the top plate is provided with a guide rail, and the base is slidably connected to the guide rail. First, the guide rail provides a stable moving track for the base, making the vertical movement of the base smoother and more controllable. This design reduces the impact of swaying and offset during movement on the accuracy of the leveling unit, enhancing the overall structural stability. Second, the sliding connection between the guide rail and the base allows the vertical adjustment component to be positioned more precisely at the designated location. By controlling the moving distance and speed of the base on the guide rail, precise vertical adjustment of the leveling unit can be achieved, thereby improving the accuracy of the leveling operation. Simultaneously, the guide rail simplifies the structural design of the vertical adjustment component. Compared with traditional complex transmission mechanisms, the sliding connection of the guide rail is more intuitive and easier to implement, reducing manufacturing costs and maintenance difficulty. In addition, as the sliding track of the base, the material and processing precision of the guide rail have a significant impact on sliding performance and service life. Selecting high-quality, wear-resistant guide rail materials and strictly controlling processing precision can significantly extend the service life of the guide rail and base, reducing replacement frequency and costs.

[0028] Furthermore, the metering device also includes a control unit, which communicates with both the distance monitoring component and the leveling unit. Adding a control unit increases the device's automation level. As the central hub of the entire metering device, the control unit can centrally receive information from various components and make corresponding control decisions accordingly. This centralized control and coordination ensures the collaborative work between components, improving the overall operating efficiency and stability of the device. Through communication with the distance monitoring component, the control unit can obtain real-time information on the height or distance of the proppant layer surface, thereby adjusting the operating parameters of the leveling unit in a timely manner to ensure the accuracy and efficiency of the leveling operation. In addition, the control unit can predict and prevent potential problems based on real-time monitoring data, improving the safety and reliability of the operation. The control unit typically possesses certain intelligent algorithms and processing capabilities, enabling it to process and analyze received data according to preset rules or learned experience, thereby making more intelligent control decisions. This intelligent decision-making not only improves the accuracy and efficiency of the leveling operation but also reduces the need for manual intervention, lowering the operational difficulty and cost.

[0029] Furthermore, the outer wall of the housing is symmetrically equipped with several second vibrating elements, all of which communicate with the control unit. Firstly, the designers of the second vibrating elements effectively improved the leveling efficiency of the fracturing proppant inside the housing, enabling rapid leveling. Secondly, the communication between the second vibrating elements and the control unit allows for automatic control of the second vibrating elements, increasing the automation level of the device.

[0030] Furthermore, this invention also discloses a method for metering fracturing proppant. This method first ensures that the proppant chamber stops both external and internal proppant injection operations to guarantee the stability of the proppant inside the chamber, facilitating subsequent monitoring. Then, a distance monitoring component continuously monitors and records the distance between the proppant and a preset test point. This test point can be any fixed location inside the chamber, reflecting changes in the height or position of the proppant surface. Finally, by comparing the distance difference between adjacent points at any given time with a preset threshold, it is determined whether to directly calculate the proppant volume inside the chamber or perform leveling work. When preset conditions are met, the proppant volume calculation is completed. This method ensures the accuracy of proppant volume calculation by real-time monitoring of the proppant surface's smoothness and performing leveling when necessary. This method not only improves metering efficiency but also reduces errors caused by uneven proppant surfaces, which is of great significance for material management in fracturing operations.

[0031] Furthermore, the preset threshold is 5%. Here, the 5% threshold sets a relatively precise standard for judging the smoothness of the fracturing proppant surface. When the distance difference between adjacent moments detected by the monitoring component does not exceed 5%, the fracturing proppant surface can be considered sufficiently smooth, thus enabling accurate calculation of the proppant quantity. This improved accuracy helps reduce measurement errors caused by surface unevenness. In addition, the threshold setting also affects the working efficiency and start-up timing of the leveling unit. If the threshold is set too high, it may cause the proppant quantity to be calculated when the fracturing proppant surface is still significantly uneven, thereby reducing measurement accuracy. If the threshold is set too low, it may cause the leveling unit to start frequently, wasting energy and time. The 5% threshold finds a balance between the two, ensuring the leveling effect while avoiding unnecessary energy waste and time consumption. Attached Figure Description

[0032] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of the present invention and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a fracturing proppant metering device according to the present invention from one perspective;

[0034] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a fracturing proppant metering device according to another perspective of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a fracturing proppant metering device according to the present invention;

[0036] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the leveling unit disposed on the inner side of the top plate in this invention;

[0037] Figure 5 This is a top view of a fracturing proppant metering device according to the present invention;

[0038] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart of a fracturing proppant metering method according to the present invention;

[0039] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the leveling principle in a fracturing proppant metering method of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart of a fracturing proppant metering method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] The components are as follows: 10. Box cover assembly, 11. Top plate, 12. Sand inlet, 20. Box body, 21. First box body section, 22. Second vibrating component, 23. Distance monitoring assembly, 30. Second box body section, 31. Frustum section, 32. Sand outlet, 33. Outlet valve, 40. Leveling unit, 41. First drive unit, 411. First drive motor, 412. Lead screw, 42. Guide rail, 43. Base, 44. First vibrating component, 45. Flexible connector, 50. Fracturing proppant. Detailed Implementation

[0042] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of the present invention described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0043] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the invention provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the invention.

[0044] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0045] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "horizontal," or "inner" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product of the invention is in use, they are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention. Furthermore, terms such as "first" and "second" are only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0046] Furthermore, the use of the term "horizontal" does not imply that the component must be absolutely horizontal, but rather that it can be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" simply means that its direction is more horizontal than "vertical," and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but can be slightly tilted.

[0047] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0048] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0049] Example 1

[0050] like Figures 1-4 As shown, this invention discloses a fracturing proppant metering device, including a hollow box 20. The top of the box 20 is provided with a top plate 11, and the top plate 11 is provided with a sand inlet 12. The bottom of the box 20 is provided with a sand outlet 32. The inner side of the top plate 11 is provided with a leveling unit 40. When using the metering device, the leveling unit 40 can be close to or away from the fracturing proppant 50 inside the box 20. The box 20 is provided with a distance monitoring component 23. The distance monitoring component 23 is located on the inner wall of the box 20 and close to one end of the top plate 11.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the leveling unit 40 includes a horizontal adjustment component, a vertical adjustment component, and a first vibrating element 44 disposed at the free end of the vertical adjustment component; the first vibrating element 44 can move horizontally and vertically inside the housing 20 under the control of the horizontal adjustment component 41 and the vertical adjustment component.

[0052] More specifically, such as Figures 5-6 As shown, in a preferred embodiment, the horizontal adjustment component 41 includes a first drive motor 411 and a lead screw 412 connected to the first drive motor 411; the vertical adjustment component is slidably connected to the lead screw 412. The vertical adjustment component includes a base 43 and a second drive motor disposed inside the base 43. The second drive motor is provided with a flexible connector 45, which can be rolled up or straightened under the drive of the second drive motor. Here, the flexible connector is three special steel rulers that can extend and retract like a measuring tape. The principle is as follows: when the three steel rulers are stacked flat, they can extend and retract freely; when support is needed, the three steel rulers are connected by the principle of electromagnetic electrode adsorption and the engagement of a snap fastener to form a triangular prism, exhibiting rigid characteristics. The free end of the flexible connector 45 is provided with the first vibrating element 44; the base 43 is slidably connected to the lead screw 412.

[0053] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in order to fix the base 43, a guide rail 42 is provided on the inner side of the top plate 11, and the base 43 is slidably connected to the guide rail 42.

[0054] Furthermore, in order to improve the smoothness of the surface of the fracturing proppant 50 inside the housing 20, four distance monitoring components 23 are symmetrically arranged inside the housing 20 to effectively improve the accuracy of the detection.

[0055] In addition, in order to realize the intelligent control board of the device, the metering device also includes a control unit, which communicates with the distance monitoring component 23 and the leveling unit 40.

[0056] Furthermore, such as Figure 7 As shown, in another more preferred embodiment, in order to improve the efficiency of vibration and speed up the testing process, the outer wall of the housing 20 is also symmetrically provided with a plurality of second vibration elements 22, and the plurality of second vibration elements 22 communicate with the control unit.

[0057] Example 2

[0058] To further illustrate the measuring device of the present invention, the following embodiments are provided:

[0059] like Figures 1-2 As shown, this metering device includes a box cover assembly 10, which is plate-shaped. The box cover assembly 10 includes a top plate 11 and a sand inlet 12. The sand inlet 12 penetrates the box cover plate 11 to allow the fracturing proppant 50 to enter the box body 20.

[0060] like Figures 3-4 As shown, the housing 20 includes a first housing part 21 and a distance monitoring component 23; the first housing part 21 is configured as a hollow housing with openings at both ends; the distance monitoring component 23 is disposed on the inner edge of the first housing part 21; one end of the first housing part 21 of the housing 20 is fixedly connected to the housing cover assembly 10.

[0061] like Figure 4 As shown, the housing 20 also includes a second housing section 30, which includes a frustum section 31, a sand outlet 32, and an outlet valve 33. The frustum section 31 is generally frustum-shaped, and the large end face of the frustum section 31 is fixedly connected to the first housing section 21. The small end face of the frustum section 31 is provided with the sand outlet 32. The outlet valve 33 is provided at the end of the sand outlet 32 ​​that is away from the first housing section 21.

[0062] like Figure 5As shown, a leveling unit 40 is provided on the inner side of the top plate 11. The leveling unit 40 includes a first driving device 41, a guide rail 42, a base 43, a first vibrator 44, a flexible connector 45, and a second driving device. The guide rail 42 is located on the inner side of the top plate 11. The base 43 is slidably connected to the guide rail 42. When leveling is required, the first driving device 41 drives the base 43 to move along the length of the guide rail 42. The flexible connector 45 can be a flexible line. One end of the flexible connector 45 is fixedly connected to the second driving device, and the other end is fixedly connected to the first vibrator 44. The flexible connector 45 can be expanded or contracted under the action of the second driving device to change the position of the first vibrator 44.

[0063] Example 3

[0064] Based on the aforementioned metering device, this invention also discloses a method for metering fracturing proppant, comprising the following steps:

[0065] S1: The box 20 stops discharging and feeding sand; the distance monitoring component 23 is used to obtain the distance between the distance monitoring component 23 and the test point at continuous time.

[0066] S2: If the distance difference between adjacent units at any given time is not greater than a preset threshold, the fracturing proppant 50 inside the box 20 is in a flat state, and the amount of sand inside the box 20 is calculated; otherwise, the leveling unit 40 is activated to level the fracturing proppant 50 inside the box 20 until the distance difference between adjacent units at any given time is not greater than a preset threshold, and then the amount of sand inside the box 20 is calculated.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the preset threshold is 5%.

[0068] Of course, in a more preferred embodiment, four distance monitoring components 23 are symmetrically arranged inside the housing 20. In this arrangement, four distance monitoring components 23 can be used to perform tests simultaneously. Each distance monitoring component 23 obtains the distance between the corresponding distance monitoring component 23 and the test point at consecutive times. Then, the distance difference between adjacent distance monitoring components 23 at any unit time at the test point is obtained. If none of them are greater than the set threshold, it fully demonstrates the flatness at the test point.

[0069] In another approach, for the same test point, several distance values ​​can be obtained at the same time. By judging the relationship between the variance of these distance values ​​and the corresponding threshold, it can be determined whether the surface of the sand and gravel is flat.

[0070] Example 4

[0071] To further illustrate the measurement method of the present invention, the following embodiments are provided in conjunction with... Figures 6-7Explanation:

[0072] like Figure 6 As shown in the figure, this embodiment discloses a method for metering fracturing proppant, specifically including:

[0073] Step S11, based on the sand storage device stopping sand discharge and stopping sand inflow, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the distance monitoring component 23 rotates around its rotation center and records the distance value L it measures. The distance value L is used to determine whether the fracturing proppant 50 inside the sand storage device is flat. The distance value L detected by the distance monitoring component 23 includes: the earlier distance value L1 and the later distance value L2; wherein, L1 and L2 are adjacent distance values ​​recorded by the distance monitoring component 23, and L1 is the value measured by the distance monitoring component 23 before L2 in its rotation direction; based on |L1-L2| / minL1, if L2>5%, the distance value L has a sudden change; based on |L1-L2| / minL1, if L2≤5%, the distance value L has not a sudden change.

[0074] Step S12: Based on the sudden change in the distance value L measured by the distance monitoring component 23, it is determined that the surface of the fracturing proppant 50 inside the sand storage device is uneven and the sand volume cannot be accurately measured. Therefore, the position of the highest point of the fracturing proppant 50 inside the box 20 and the height of the highest point of the fracturing proppant 50 are calculated.

[0075] Step S13: Based on the high point position and height of the fracturing proppant 50, control the leveling unit 40 to level the high point of the fracturing proppant 50, so that the fracturing proppant 50 is leveled again.

[0076] Step S14: Based on the arrival of the set time for leveling by leveling unit 40, distance monitoring component 23 rotates around its rotation center and records the measured distance value L.

[0077] Step S15: Based on the sudden change in the distance value L measured by the distance monitoring component 23, steps S12 to S13 are executed to re-level the proppant 50.

[0078] Step S16: Based on the fact that the distance value L measured by the distance monitoring component 23 has not changed abruptly, calculate the sand capacity of the sand storage device.

[0079] Example 5

[0080] To further illustrate the measurement method of the present invention, the following embodiments are provided in conjunction with... Figure 8 Explanation:

[0081] Step S10: Based on whether the sand storage device is discharging or inletting sand, control the leveling unit 40 to move to one end of the leveling unit 40's stroke, and control the leveling unit 40 to retract the first vibrator 44 to the highest position of the first vibrator 44's stroke, to prevent the detector from detecting the vibrator's position at this time and making a misjudgment of the flatness of the fracturing proppant 50 in the sand storage device.

[0082] Step S11: Based on the sand storage device stopping sand discharge and stopping sand inflow, the distance monitoring component 23 rotates around its rotation center and records the measured distance value L. The same method is used to determine whether the fracturing proppant 50 inside the sand storage device is flat by using the distance value L.

[0083] Step S121: Based on the multiple abrupt changes in the distance value L measured by the distance monitoring component 23, the abrupt changes caused by the height change of the proppant 50 are screened among the multiple abrupt changes; wherein, the abrupt changes include: abrupt changes caused by the height change of the fracturing proppant 50, abrupt changes caused by the obstruction of the leveling unit 40, and abrupt changes caused by the obstruction of other distance monitoring components 23;

[0084] Step S122: Based on the abrupt change caused by the height change of the fracturing proppant 50, calculate the position and height of the highest point of the fracturing proppant 50 inside the sand storage device;

[0085] Step S131: Based on the height of multiple proppant 50 high points, determine the maximum, median, and minimum height of the proppant 50 high points;

[0086] Step S132: Based on the minimum height of the high point of the fracturing proppant 50 and the position of the minimum height of the high point of the fracturing proppant 50, control the leveling unit 40 to level the minimum height of the high point of the fracturing proppant 50.

[0087] Step S133: Based on the arrival of the first set time for leveling the minimum value of the high point of the fracturing proppant 50 by the leveling unit 40, control the leveling unit 40 to level the middle value of the high point of the fracturing proppant 50.

[0088] Step S134: Based on the arrival of the second set time for leveling the middle value of the high point of the fracturing proppant 50 by the leveling unit 40, control the leveling unit 40 to level the maximum value of the high point of the fracturing proppant 50.

[0089] Step S135: Control the leveling unit 40 to level the maximum value of the high point of the fracturing proppant 50 for a third set time, wherein the third set time is greater than the first set time and the third set time is greater than the second set time.

[0090] Step S136: Based on the arrival of the third set time for leveling the highest point of the fracturing proppant 50 by the leveling unit 40, control the leveling unit 40 to move to one end of the stroke of the leveling unit 40, and control the leveling unit 40 to retract the first vibrator 44 to the highest position of the stroke of the first vibrator 44.

[0091] Step S14: Based on the arrival of the set time for leveling by leveling unit 40, distance monitoring component 23 rotates around its rotation center and records the measured distance value L.

[0092] Step S15: Based on the sudden change in the distance value L measured by the distance monitoring component 23, step S12 is executed to re-level the proppant 50;

[0093] Step S161: Based on the fact that the distance value L measured by the distance monitoring component 23 did not change abruptly, calculate the difference between the height of the vertical support 50 detected by the distance monitoring component 23 and the height of the support 50 at the point of change.

[0094] Step S162: Based on the difference being greater than the height difference threshold, control the second vibrator 22 to vibrate for a fourth set time.

[0095] Step S163: Calculate the sand capacity of the sand storage device based on the difference being less than or equal to the height difference threshold.

[0096] This invention relates to the field of material measurement technology, specifically to a method and apparatus for accurately measuring the quantity of fracturing proppant. The method includes the following steps: Step S11, based on the cessation of sand discharge and sand inflow in the sand storage device, a distance monitoring component rotates around its rotation center and records the measured distance value L; Step S12, based on a sudden change in the distance value L measured by the distance monitoring component, the position and height of the proppant high point within the sand storage device are calculated; Step S13, based on the proppant high point position and height, a leveling unit is controlled to level the proppant high point; Step S14, based on the leveling unit reaching its set leveling time, the distance monitoring component rotates around its rotation center and records the measured distance value L; Step S15, based on the sudden change in the distance value L measured by the distance monitoring component, step S12 is executed; Step S16, based on the absence of a sudden change in the distance value L measured by the distance monitoring component, the sand capacity of the sand storage device is calculated. This effectively solves the problem that sand storage devices cannot accurately measure the quantity of quartz sand without using a weighing device.

[0097] When calculating the volume of proppant in the sand storage device, the volume of the fracturing proppant inside the tank can be obtained by subtracting the volume of the empty part inside the tank from the total volume of the tank.

[0098] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A fracturing proppant metering device, characterized in that, The box includes a hollow box (20), the top of which is provided with a top plate (11), and the top plate (11) is provided with a sand inlet (12); the bottom of the box (20) is provided with a sand outlet (32). The top plate (11) is provided with a leveling unit (40) on its inner side. When using the metering device, the leveling unit (40) can be close to or away from the fracturing proppant (50) inside the box (20). The housing (20) is equipped with a distance monitoring component (23) inside. The distance monitoring component (23) is located on the inner wall of the housing (20) and near one end of the top plate (11).

2. The fracturing proppant metering device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The leveling unit (40) includes a horizontal adjustment component, a vertical adjustment component, and a first vibrating element (44) disposed at the free end of the vertical adjustment component; The first vibrating element (44) can move horizontally and vertically inside the housing (20) under the control of the horizontal adjustment assembly (41) and the vertical adjustment assembly.

3. The fracturing proppant metering device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The horizontal adjustment component (41) includes a first drive motor (411) and a lead screw (412) connected to the first drive motor (411); the vertical adjustment component is slidably connected to the lead screw (412).

4. The fracturing proppant metering device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The vertical adjustment assembly includes a base (43) and a second drive motor disposed inside the base (43). The second drive motor is provided with a flexible connector (45), and the free end of the flexible connector (45) is provided with the first vibrating element (44). The base (43) is slidably connected to the lead screw (412).

5. The fracturing proppant metering device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The top plate (11) is provided with a guide rail (42) on its inner side, and the base (43) is slidably connected to the guide rail (42).

6. The fracturing proppant metering device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing (20) is symmetrically equipped with four distance monitoring components (23).

7. The fracturing proppant metering device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The metering device also includes a control unit, which communicates with both the distance monitoring component (23) and the leveling unit (40).

8. The fracturing proppant metering device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer wall of the housing (20) is also symmetrically provided with a number of second vibrating elements (22), and the number of second vibrating elements (22) communicate with the control unit.

9. A method for metering fracturing proppant, characterized in that, Using the apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and comprising the following steps: S1: The box (20) stops discharging sand and stops feeding sand; the distance monitoring component (23) is used to obtain the distance between the distance monitoring component (23) and the test point at continuous time. S2: If the distance difference between adjacent units at any given time is not greater than a preset threshold, the fracturing proppant (50) inside the box (20) is in a flat state, and the amount of sand inside the box (20) is calculated; otherwise, the leveling unit (40) is activated to level the fracturing proppant (50) inside the box (20) until the distance difference between adjacent units at any given time is not greater than a preset threshold, and then the amount of sand inside the box (20) is calculated.

10. The method for metering fracturing proppant according to claim 9, characterized in that, The preset threshold is 5%.

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