A device and method for simulating the evolution of a faulted hydrocarbon reservoir

Abstract

The application relates to a fault oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device and method, and relates to the technical field of oil and gas field exploration and development. The fault oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device comprises a visual box body, a fault simulation system fixed in the visual box body, a plurality of fault block units, a guide rail mechanism for controlling horizontal direction and vertical direction movement of the fault block units, a control unit connected with the fault block units and the guide rail mechanism and used for adjusting the inclination and tendency of the fault block units, and an oil and gas charging system used for injecting oil and gas into simulation reservoir material above the fault block units.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments in this specification relate to the field of oil and gas field exploration and development technology, specifically to a fault oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device and method. Background Technology

[0002] Fault-block oil and gas reservoirs are an important type of oil and gas reservoir in oil and gas basins. Their formation process is closely related to the fault activity and evolution process, and they are a key element in oil and gas exploration and resource evaluation. They are of great significance to improving the success rate of exploration and development of fault-block oil and gas reservoirs.

[0003] Currently, physical simulation experiments of fault-induced hydrocarbon reservoirs still have significant technical limitations—they cannot simulate the hydrocarbon migration, accumulation, and charging processes during the formation and evolution of faults, nor can they simulate the complex movements of fault blocks, resulting in insufficient accuracy in simulating the morphology of fault block traps. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of the embodiments in this specification is to provide a fault oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device and method to overcome the problems of existing methods that cannot simulate the oil and gas migration, accumulation and charging process during the fault formation and evolution process, and cannot simulate the complexity of fault blocks.

[0005] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this specification provides, in one aspect, a fault-based oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device, comprising: Visualized enclosure; A fault simulation system fixed within the visualization enclosure includes: multiple fault block units; a guide rail mechanism for controlling the horizontal and vertical movement of the fault block units; and a control unit connecting the fault block units to the guide rail mechanism for adjusting the tilt angle and inclination of the fault block units. An oil and gas injection system is used to inject oil and gas into the simulated reservoir material above the fault block unit.

[0006] Furthermore, the break block unit is installed at the interface reserved in the guide rail mechanism.

[0007] Furthermore, the guide rail mechanism includes a sliding guide rail for controlling the horizontal movement of the block unit and a lifting guide rail for controlling the vertical movement of the block unit; the control unit connects the block unit to the lifting guide rail.

[0008] Furthermore, the fault simulation system also includes a locking mechanism; the control unit is connected to the lifting guide rail via the locking mechanism; when the locking mechanism is in the locked state, the fault block unit is fixed to the lifting guide rail; when the locking mechanism is in the released state, the fault block unit can rotate around the connection point with the control unit to adjust the tilt angle and inclination.

[0009] Furthermore, the fault simulation system also includes an elastic connection unit, which is disposed between two adjacent fault block units and is sealed to the side edges of the two fault block units.

[0010] Furthermore, the side edge of the elastic connecting unit is provided with a groove; the end of the elastic connecting unit is formed with a wedge-shaped fitting structure that mates with the groove.

[0011] Furthermore, the oil and gas injection system includes an oil and gas injection port, a flow valve, and an oil and gas storage tank disposed on the block unit; the oil and gas injection port is connected to the flow valve and the oil and gas storage tank in sequence through a pipeline; the flow valve is used to control the oil and gas injection flow rate.

[0012] Furthermore, the inner wall of the visualization box is provided with scale markings.

[0013] Furthermore, the side or top of the inner wall of the visualization box is provided with an adjustable brightness lighting unit.

[0014] Furthermore, this specification provides a method for simulating the evolution of fault-related oil and gas reservoirs using a fault-based oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device, comprising: The control unit drives the fault block unit to generate horizontal displacement, vertical displacement and rotation to simulate the evolution of fault traps. During a preset stage in the simulated evolution process, the oil and gas injection system is controlled to inject simulated oil and gas into the simulated formation material; Acquire fault development data and trap formation data of simulated reservoir materials, as well as simulated oil and gas migration and accumulation data during the simulation evolution process.

[0015] As can be seen from the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this specification above, these embodiments, by integrating guide rail mechanisms for controlling the horizontal and vertical movement of fault block units, and control units for adjusting their dip angle and dip direction, endow each fault block unit with at least four degrees of freedom of movement: horizontal movement, vertical lifting and lowering, and changes in dip angle and dip direction. This allows for the high-fidelity reproduction of the complex three-dimensional movement of real geological fault blocks. This design breaks through the inherent framework of existing technologies, which are mostly limited to simulating simple two-dimensional movements such as lateral compression or tension. It significantly improves the realism of physical simulation and helps to achieve accurate reproduction of small-scale, multi-cycle complex structural morphologies. Furthermore, by organically integrating the oil and gas injection system into this movable fault block unit device, synchronous oil and gas injection is achieved during the dynamic evolution of fault activity and trap morphology. This fundamentally solves the inherent process disconnect problem in traditional simulation methods, where a static structural model is constructed first, followed by fluid injection. This enables the realistic and continuous observation of the complete geological process of oil and gas transport along active faults and migration and accumulation in dynamically growing traps. Furthermore, the transparent visualization enclosure, combined with the highly integrated motion-charge system, creates a fully visible observation environment. Subsurface processes traditionally difficult to observe directly—including fault formation and evolution, the spatiotemporal evolution of traps, and the dominant pathways and accumulation dynamics of hydrocarbon migration—can be visually presented and accurately recorded in the experiment. This not only greatly facilitates the real-time observation of experimental phenomena but also provides a visual research platform for a deeper understanding of the fault-controlled hydrocarbon accumulation mechanism. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments or prior art of this specification, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or prior art will be briefly introduced below.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structural composition of a fault-based oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device provided in the embodiments of this specification; Figure 2 This is a flowchart of a fault-based oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation method provided in the embodiments of this specification.

[0018] The reference numerals in the above figures are as follows: 1. Lighting unit; 2. Scale markings; 3. Visualized enclosure; 4. Fragment unit; 5. Sliding guide rail; 6. Oil and gas storage tanks; 7. Flexible connection unit; 8. Oil and gas injection port; 9. Lifting guide rails; 10. Flow valve; 11. Control unit. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this specification will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this specification, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this specification, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of this specification.

[0020] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in this specification, claims, and the foregoing drawings are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, apparatus, product, or device that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0021] Reference Figure 1 The diagram shown is a structural composition schematic of a fault-based oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device provided in an embodiment of this specification. In some embodiments, the fault-based oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device may include: a visualization box 3; a fault simulation system fixed within the visualization box 3, the fault simulation system including: multiple fault block units 4; a guide rail mechanism for controlling the horizontal and vertical movement of the fault block units 4; a control unit 11 connecting the fault block units 4 and the guide rail mechanism, for adjusting the dip angle and dip of the fault block units 4; and an oil and gas injection system for injecting oil and gas into the simulated reservoir material above the fault block units 4.

[0022] In some embodiments, a fault-controlled oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device is used to physically reproduce the formation and evolution process of oil and gas reservoirs under fault control. The device may include: a visualization enclosure 3, a fault simulation system, and an oil and gas charging system.

[0023] In some embodiments, the visualization enclosure 3 can provide a sealed, visible space for simulation experiments. It can be a rigid enclosure made of transparent or translucent materials, including but not limited to highly transparent polymethyl methacrylate (acrylic) or tempered glass. In some embodiments, the visualization enclosure 3 has an opening at the top to facilitate the layered filling of simulated geological materials. At least one sidewall and even the top of the visualization enclosure 3 are made of transparent material to allow external observation of internal structural deformation and fluid transport.

[0024] The transparent or semi-transparent enclosure enables full visualization of the experimental process, overcoming the shortcomings of traditional simulation devices that result in unclear observation.

[0025] In some embodiments, the fault simulation system can be fixedly installed inside the visualization enclosure 3, and is a mechanical motion module used to reproduce the formation and evolution of faults and their associated traps. The fault simulation system may include multiple fault block units 4, a guide rail mechanism, and a control unit 11.

[0026] In some embodiments, the fault block 4 can be a solid module simulating a geological fault block, whose movement directly simulates the displacement and rotation of the fault. The fault block 4 can be a block made of rigid materials (including but not limited to metals, high-strength engineering plastics, etc.).

[0027] In some embodiments, to further enhance simulation flexibility, the fault block unit 4 can adopt a modular design. Multiple fault block units 4 can be quickly installed or disassembled through standardized preset mechanical interfaces (including but not limited to slots and positioning pin arrays), allowing the number and arrangement of fault blocks to be configured according to specific experimental needs, thereby simulating various structural styles from simple single faults to complex grabens and horsts. This modular design enables the fault oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device to have high experimental flexibility and scenario adaptability, and one device can meet the simulation needs of multiple geological models.

[0028] In some embodiments, the guide rail mechanism can be a motion platform that provides guidance and drive for the block unit 4. It can provide independent control motion in at least two directions: horizontal and vertical.

[0029] In some embodiments, the guide rail mechanism may include a sliding guide rail 5 and a lifting guide rail 9, which are independent of each other. The sliding guide rail 5 may be fixed to the bottom of the housing, and the slider on it may move precisely in the horizontal direction (such as the X-axis); the lifting guide rail 9 may be mounted on the slider of the sliding guide rail 5, and its lifting rod may move in the vertical direction (Z-axis). By controlling the combined movement of sliding and lifting, the horizontal position and vertical height of the block unit 4 can be determined.

[0030] In some embodiments, the guide rail mechanism may also be an integrated multi-axis motion platform, including a cross slide structure or an electrically operated displacement stage with XY horizontal movement and Z-axis lifting functions. This platform directly supports and drives the block unit 4.

[0031] Separate guide rails can achieve motion decoupling and independent control, which facilitates the programming of complex motion trajectories; integrated platforms have the advantages of compact structure and integrated control.

[0032] In some embodiments, the control unit 11 may be an intermediate mechanism connecting the block unit 4 and the guide rail mechanism, and its function is to realize and lock the spatial attitude (at least including tilt angle and inclination) of the block unit 4.

[0033] In some embodiments, the control unit 11 may include a ball joint, with its ball seat portion connected to the lifting guide rail 9 and its ball head portion connected to the break block unit 4. The control unit 11 may integrate an electrically or manually operable locking mechanism (including but not limited to clamping sleeves and locking screws). When adjusting the posture, the locking mechanism is released, and the break block unit 4 can rotate arbitrarily around the ball center to set the tilt angle and inclination; after adjustment, the locking mechanism locks the ball head to achieve rigid fixation.

[0034] In some embodiments, the control unit 11 can be a dual-axis electric turntable, with its base connected to the lifting guide rail 9 and the movable surface of the turntable connected to the breaking unit 4. By controlling the rotation of the two orthogonal axes of the turntable, the tilt angle and inclination of the breaking unit 4 can be set, and its posture can be maintained by motor self-locking or an additional brake.

[0035] The control unit 11 achieves high-precision, repeatable digital adjustment and stable maintenance of the spatial attitude of the block unit 4, making it possible to simulate small-scale, complex rotating block motions and overcoming the limitation of traditional devices that can only translate in two dimensions.

[0036] In some embodiments, the oil and gas charging system can be used to inject simulated oil and gas fluids into simulated formations to study the hydrocarbon accumulation process.

[0037] In some embodiments, the oil and gas charging system may include a fluid storage container, a flow control device, and an injection port. The fluid storage container is used to hold simulated oil (including but not limited to dyed kerosene, silicone oil, etc.) or gas; the flow control device is used to adjust the injection flow rate and time; and the injection port is the outlet for the fluid to enter the simulated formation.

[0038] In some embodiments, the injection port, i.e., the oil and gas injection port 8, can be directly disposed on the body of the block unit 4. Micropipelines can be pre-embedded inside the top or side of the block unit 4, opening onto the surface of the stratum it supports.

[0039] In some embodiments, the injection port on each block unit 4 can be connected to a central multi-channel injection pump through a flexible pressure-resistant tube. The central multi-channel injection pump serves as a flow control device, and the opening and closing, flow rate, and injection timing of each channel are uniformly controlled by computer programming.

[0040] In some embodiments, for gas filling, a miniature valve control unit combining a solenoid valve and a pressure regulator can be used, with one miniature valve control unit corresponding to each injection port, to achieve faster response and independent control.

[0041] By integrating the injection port into the fault block unit 4, dynamic coupling between the oil and gas injection point and the tectonic movement location is achieved. This allows oil and gas to be injected from a geologically reasonable location at any preset stage of fault evolution, thereby realistically simulating the entire process of tectonic-driven migration and simultaneous dynamic accumulation. This overcomes the technical challenge of the disconnect between tectonic simulation and fluid injection in traditional methods.

[0042] In some embodiments, the block unit 4 is installed at the interface reserved in the guide rail mechanism.

[0043] In some embodiments, the fault simulation system can adopt a modular design, and the fault block units 4 can be installed and fixed through the interfaces reserved on the guide rail mechanism. This design allows the number and arrangement of the fault block units 4 to be flexibly adjusted according to experimental requirements.

[0044] In some embodiments, the interface may have continuous T-shaped guide grooves or dovetail grooves machined at equal intervals along its length on the contact surface of the guide rail mechanism. The bottom or back of the break block unit 4 is provided with a precisely matched slider or wedge-shaped retaining strip. Lateral constraint and longitudinal positioning can be achieved simply by pushing the retaining strip of the break block unit 4 along the guide groove. This interface structure is simple, has good rigidity, and can effectively withstand the loads applied by the simulated formation material.

[0045] In some embodiments, the interface may be a pre-set array of high-precision positioning holes on the guide rail mechanism, with corresponding positioning pins provided on the mounting surface of the break unit 4. The positioning pins can be inserted into the selected positioning holes and then tightened with quick-release screws. This method provides extremely high positioning accuracy and allows for flexible arrangement with non-equidistant spacing, making it suitable for simulating complex fracture combinations.

[0046] Based on the target geological model (including but not limited to single faults, grabens, complex intersecting fault systems, etc.), the fault block units 4 can be quickly added, removed, and rearranged, enabling a single device to simulate multiple tectonic scenarios, significantly improving the versatility and value of the equipment.

[0047] In some embodiments, the guide rail mechanism includes a sliding guide rail 5 for controlling the horizontal movement of the block unit 4 and a lifting guide rail 9 for controlling the vertical movement of the block unit 4; the control unit 11 connects the block unit 4 and the lifting guide rail 9.

[0048] In some embodiments, the guide rail mechanism can be a guiding and driving device that provides precise and controllable linear motion for the block unit 4. Its function is to convert the controller's commands into physical displacements of the block unit 4 in the horizontal plane (XY direction) and the vertical direction (Z direction).

[0049] In some embodiments, the sliding guide rail 5 can be a guiding and driving component for realizing the horizontal movement of the block unit 4. It can be fixed to the base of the visualization housing 3 or a separate rigid frame to provide a horizontal reference for the entire motion system.

[0050] In some embodiments, the sliding guide rail 5 may be composed of a linear module, which includes a fixed linear guide rail, a slider that slides along it, and a drive system. The drive system may be a servo motor or a stepper motor in conjunction with a ball screw pair, converting the rotational motion of the motor into precise linear movement of the slider. The block unit 4 is indirectly mounted on this slider via the lifting guide rail 9.

[0051] In some embodiments, the sliding guide rail 5 can be directly driven by a linear motor. This platform consists of a stator (magnetic rail) and a mover (coil), with the mover directly connected to the load. By controlling the current input to the mover, contactless, high-response linear motion can be achieved, avoiding backlash and friction caused by mechanical transmission.

[0052] In some embodiments, the lifting guide rail 9 can be a guiding and driving component for realizing the movement of the block unit 4 in the vertical direction (i.e., the direction of gravity). It directly supports and drives the block unit 4 to perform lifting and lowering movements.

[0053] In some embodiments, the lifting guide rail 9 can be an electric push rod or a miniature ball screw jack. Its body (cylinder or nut seat) is fixedly mounted on the slider of the sliding guide rail 5 via a connecting plate. When the internal motor drives the screw to rotate, the extension rod of the push rod or the lifting platform will generate vertical movement, thereby driving the connected components to rise and fall.

[0054] In some embodiments, the lifting guide rail 9 can be a lifting platform composed of crossed roller bearing guide rails. Its drive can also be achieved via a lead screw or synchronous belt. This structure has the advantages of high rigidity and smooth movement.

[0055] In some embodiments, the base of the lifting guide rail 9 may be fixedly mounted on a moving component (such as a slider) of the sliding guide rail 5. This means that the lifting guide rail 9 itself inherits the horizontal degree of freedom provided by the sliding guide rail 5, forming a composite kinematic chain of the horizontal moving platform lifting vertical lifting mechanism.

[0056] In some embodiments, the fault simulation system further includes a locking mechanism; the control unit 11 is connected to the lifting guide rail 9 via the locking mechanism; when the locking mechanism is in the locked state, the break block unit 4 is fixed to the lifting guide rail 9; when the locking mechanism is in the released state, the break block unit 4 can rotate around the connection point with the control unit 11 to adjust the tilt angle and inclination.

[0057] In some embodiments, the latching mechanism can be a mechanical locking device that can quickly switch between a locked state and a released state. Its function is to selectively establish or release the rigid connection between the break block unit 4 and the output end of the lifting guide rail 9.

[0058] In some embodiments, the latching mechanism may include three functional parts: (a) a locking element that directly applies a constraint force to the connection part; (b) a trigger element for manual or automatic operation to switch states; and (c) a fixing element that mounts the entire mechanism to the housing of the control unit 11 or the end of the lifting guide rail 9.

[0059] In some embodiments, when the latching mechanism is in the released state, its locking element releases the constraint on the internal kinematic pair (such as a ball joint or pivot) of the control unit 11. At this time, the break block unit 4 is only connected to the lifting guide rail 9 through this kinematic pair, thereby enabling it to rotate freely about the rotation center (i.e., the connection point) of the kinematic pair under external force or manual operation. This process allows setting the break block's tilt angle (angle with the horizontal plane) and inclination (azimuth angle of inclination).

[0060] In some embodiments, after attitude adjustment is completed, the operating trigger switches the latching mechanism to the locked state. The locking element applies a strong radial or axial locking force to the kinematic pair, eliminating all its rotational degrees of freedom, thereby rigidly connecting the block unit 4, the control unit 11, and the output end of the lifting guide rail 9 into a single unit. In this state, the pressure from the overlying simulated strata and the reaction force from tectonic movement are directly transmitted through the rigid connection, ensuring that the attitude of the block unit 4 remains stable during the simulation.

[0061] In some embodiments, the latching mechanism may include an eccentric cam or wedge as a locking element and an operating handle connected thereto as a trigger. In the released state, moving the handle returns the cam to its original position, releasing the pressure on the ball joint head or shaft. In the locked state, moving the handle rotates the cam, using its eccentric profile or wedge surface to press the ball joint head or shaft tightly into the corresponding socket, generating significant friction to achieve locking. This latching mechanism provides quick, tool-free manual operation, high locking force, and good self-locking performance, ensuring that it will not accidentally loosen under vibration or continuous load.

[0062] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism can be a miniature hydraulic clamping cylinder or a pneumatic locking chuck. Its locking element is a retractable jaw or a piston-driven clamping sleeve, and the trigger is an electrically controlled hydraulic or pneumatic valve. When the controller issues a release command, the valve opens to release pressure, and the jaw releases; when a locking command is issued, the valve closes, and system pressure drives the jaw to clamp or the clamping sleeve to press down, achieving rigid locking. This locking mechanism enables remote, programmed automatic control of the attitude adjustment and locking process, greatly improving experimental efficiency and repeatability. Simultaneously, hydraulic / pneumatic power can provide an extremely uniform and adjustable high locking force, suitable for large-scale, high-load simulation scenarios.

[0063] In some embodiments, the fault simulation system further includes an elastic connection unit 7, which is disposed between two adjacent fault block units 4 and is sealed to the side edges of the two fault block units 4.

[0064] In some embodiments, the elastic connecting unit 7 can be a sealing connector made of elastic material disposed between two adjacent segment units 4. Its function is to provide dynamic sealing: that is, while allowing expected relative displacement (such as horizontal displacement, vertical lifting or angular change) between adjacent segment units 4, it always fills and seals the gap between them, preventing the loose simulated material (such as quartz sand, clay) filled in the box from leaking out.

[0065] In some embodiments, the elastic connecting unit 7 can be elongated, with its length matching the height of the side of the break unit 4. It is directly disposed between adjacent side edges of adjacent break units 4 and forms a sealed connection with each of these two side edges, thereby forming a continuous sealing barrier along the entire fault line.

[0066] In some embodiments, during the initial laying and preparation phase, multiple block units are placed side-by-side. At this time, elastic connecting units fill the lateral gaps between adjacent block units. Due to their inherent structural strength and shape retention capabilities, and the fact that they may be slightly compressed during installation, they effectively eliminate physical gaps between units, allowing the top surfaces of all block units to smoothly connect into a continuous and complete bearing plane. This unified bottom plane provides a stable and uniform foundation for the subsequent layering of simulated reservoir and caprock materials such as quartz sand and clay, ensuring the correct construction of the initial geological model, approximating the original, undisturbed sedimentary strata underground.

[0067] In some embodiments, during the motion simulation phase, when the drive mechanism controls the individual segment units to perform independent or differential displacements (horizontal sliding, vertical lifting) and rotations (tilt angle, inclination changes), varying gaps or complex relative movements inevitably occur between adjacent segment units. At this time, the elastic connecting unit functions as a seal. Thanks to the high elasticity, fatigue resistance, and recoverable deformation capacity of its material, it can synchronously undergo tensile, compressive, or shear deformation as the segment units separate, coalesce, or shift, always adaptively filling and sealing the gaps generated by the motion.

[0068] This continuous and effective dynamic sealing prevents the loose simulated material filling the fault block units from leaking through the gaps between the units. This ensures that throughout the dynamic simulation, the simulated formation remains a sealed and confined whole, rather than a discrete, leaky accumulation. Furthermore, a fundamental condition for trap formation is the existence of a closed geological space capable of capturing fluids. The sealing effect of the elastic connecting units ensures that the potential trap shapes shaped by fault block movement (such as fault block traps and anticline flanks) are closed containers during fluid injection. It prevents oil and gas from escaping through unexpected paths from the tectonic side or bottom, allowing the injected simulated oil and gas to effectively accumulate within the trap, thus realistically simulating the oil and gas accumulation process. In addition, only by ensuring the sealing of the experimental system during dynamic deformation can the migration and accumulation responses of fluids (oil and gas) under tectonic deformation environments be reliably studied. Therefore, the elastic connecting units are an indispensable foundation for achieving seamless coupling of the two major functions of dynamic tectonic evolution and synchronous oil and gas injection.

[0069] Therefore, the elastic connecting unit is a flexible link connecting mechanical motion and geological simulation. In the initial state, it integrates discrete fault block units into a unified base; in the dynamic state, it seals dynamic gaps to ensure the realism and effectiveness of trap simulation.

[0070] In some embodiments, the elastic connecting unit 7 may be made of an elastomeric material with good resilience, fatigue resistance and a certain tensile strength.

[0071] In some embodiments, the elastic connecting unit 7 may be made of polyurethane (PU). This material has excellent wear resistance, tear resistance and high elastic recovery rate, and can withstand the shearing and compression caused by repeated relative movement of the block unit 4, resulting in a long service life.

[0072] In some embodiments, the elastic connecting unit 7 may be made of high-strength silicone rubber. This material has excellent flexibility, good resistance to high and low temperatures, and strong adhesion to a variety of materials, making it suitable for applications requiring higher elastic deformation or where ambient temperature varies.

[0073] The selection of specific elastic materials ensures that the connection unit does not undergo plastic deformation or breakage during long-term dynamic operation, maintaining durable sealing performance.

[0074] In some embodiments, the elastic connecting unit 7 can be fixed by interlocking or bonding its ends with complementary structures on the side edges of the block unit 4.

[0075] In some embodiments, continuous longitudinal semi-circular or rectangular grooves are machined on the adjacent side edges of the break unit 4. The cross-sectional shape of the elastic connecting unit is complementary to this. A strip-shaped elastomer can be embedded into the grooves of the two break units 4 and can be bonded and fixed with an elastic adhesive (such as silicone rubber adhesive). This method provides good sealing and is easy to assemble.

[0076] In some embodiments, a purely mechanical detachable connection is used to facilitate easier maintenance and replacement. In some embodiments, the side edge of the elastic connection unit 7 is provided with a groove; the end of the elastic connection unit 7 is formed with a wedge-shaped fitting structure that mates with the groove.

[0077] In some embodiments, the wedge-shaped fitting structure may consist of two parts: a groove located on the side edge of the block unit 4; and a wedge-shaped protrusion (wedge-shaped fitting structure) formed on the end of the elastic connecting unit 7, which is complementary in shape to the groove. By tapping or sliding the wedge-shaped protrusion into the groove, a tight fit and fixation between the two can be achieved.

[0078] In some embodiments, the groove is a trapezoidal groove with a large opening at one end and a small opening at the other end. Correspondingly, the wedge-shaped protrusion at the end of the elastic connecting unit 7 is a matching trapezoidal tenon. The tenon can be slid horizontally or vertically inserted from the end with the larger opening of the groove. Utilizing the self-locking effect of the trapezoidal inclined surface, it becomes increasingly tighter under the elastic action of the material, achieving fastening and sealing. It can be pulled out by applying reverse force during disassembly.

[0079] In some embodiments, the groove may be a dovetail groove, and the wedge-shaped protrusion may be a dovetail tenon. This structure has extremely strong resistance to pull-out in the direction perpendicular to the side of the broken block, ensuring that the elastic connecting unit 7 will not be pulled out when the broken block is pulled apart. The dovetail tenon of the elastic connecting unit 7 can be slid in from the top or bottom of the adjacent broken block unit 4 along the extension direction of the dovetail groove.

[0080] The wedge-shaped interlocking structure provides a quick and reliable detachable fixing solution without the need for adhesives. It ensures both connection strength and sealing, while greatly facilitating the independent maintenance and replacement of individual component 4 or the sealing strip itself, thus improving the maintainability and service life of the entire device.

[0081] In some embodiments, the oil and gas injection system includes an oil and gas injection port 8, a flow valve 10, and an oil and gas storage tank 6 disposed on the block unit 4; the oil and gas injection port 8 is connected to the flow valve 10 and the oil and gas storage tank in sequence through a pipeline; the flow valve 10 is used to control the oil and gas injection flow rate.

[0082] In some embodiments, an oil and gas charging system may be a device for injecting simulated oil or gas into simulated reservoir material on demand, in a quantitative and timed manner. Its purpose is to reconstruct the physical processes of oil and gas charging from source rocks or migration channels into traps during geological history.

[0083] In some embodiments, the oil and gas injection port 8 may be a physical outlet for fluid to enter the simulated reservoir medium, and it is located at a position that can be dynamically correlated with the tectonic evolution process.

[0084] In some embodiments, the oil and gas injection port 8 can be directly opened or fixed to the body of the fault block unit 4. The outlet end of the injection port can be located above the top surface of the fault block unit 4 that supports the simulated strata or above the side surface that forms a fault plane with the adjacent fault block unit 4.

[0085] In some embodiments, microchannels may be pre-embedded or fabricated inside the fragment unit 4, with inlets located on the side or back of the fragment unit 4 to connect to external pipelines, and outlets being micropores arrayed on the bearing surface. This method makes the injection more uniform, simulating planar hydrocarbon expulsion or fault-based permeation.

[0086] In some embodiments, the oil and gas injection port 8 can be a small nozzle mounted on the segment 4, and its injection direction can be finely adjusted within a certain angle. This allows for flexible setting of the preferred direction of oil and gas injection (such as along the inclined direction on the cross section) according to simulation requirements.

[0087] By integrating the injection port into the moving fault block 4, real-time synchronization between the injection point and the structural location is achieved, enabling accurate simulation of the geological process of oil and gas migration along active faults.

[0088] In some embodiments, the flow valve 10 may be a component for regulating the fluid injection rate, volume and time, and its control logic (such as start / stop timing, flow rate) may be linked to the construction motion program.

[0089] In some embodiments, the flow valve 10 may be a needle valve for regulating a stable flow rate, and in conjunction with a solenoid valve to control the start and stop of injection. By setting the needle valve opening and programming the switching sequence of the solenoid valve, time-segmented flow control can be achieved.

[0090] In some embodiments, the flow valve 10 can be a single or multi-channel injection pump. The pump's piston cylinder serves as a mobile phase storage unit (or may be connected to an external storage tank), driven by a stepper motor or a servo motor. The controller can be programmable to set complex injection curves (including but not limited to constant flow, pulsed injection, incremental flow, etc.) to achieve high-precision digital control of the flow rate.

[0091] Precise flow control enables the experiment to quantitatively simulate geological conditions with different hydrocarbon expulsion intensities and different charging periods, providing a possibility for quantitative research on hydrocarbon accumulation mechanisms.

[0092] In some embodiments, the oil and gas storage tank can be a container for storing simulated fluids, possessing characteristics such as corrosion resistance and good sealing performance. Pipelines can be channels connecting various components and transporting fluids.

[0093] In some embodiments, the oil and gas injection port 8 is connected in sequence to the flow control device and the oil and gas storage tank through pipelines to form a complete circuit.

[0094] In some embodiments, since the injection port moves with the breaking unit 4, the pipeline connecting the injection port can be a flexible pressure-resistant pipe (including but not limited to PTFE hoses, reinforced hydraulic hoses, etc.). The hose has sufficient slack and is fixed in a reasonable direction to ensure that no pulling, twisting or interference occurs during the full stroke of the breaking unit 4.

[0095] In some embodiments, during operation, the controller, according to a preset experimental plan, instructs the flow control device to activate at a specific stage (such as the initial trap formation stage) of the fault block evolution driven by the fault simulation system. This allows the simulated oil and gas in the storage tank to be transported through pipelines to the injection port of the target fault block unit 4 at a specific flow rate and duration, and then into the simulated reservoir above. The entire process can be observed and recorded in real time.

[0096] In some embodiments, the inner wall of the visualization box 3 is provided with scale markings 2.

[0097] In some embodiments, the scale markings 2 may be reference marks set at fixed intervals on one or more inner wall surfaces of the visualization enclosure 3 to indicate length, distance, or spatial position. The purpose of the scale markings 2 is to provide a built-in, stationary spatial coordinate reference system. During the simulation, geometric parameters such as the displacement of the fault block 4, the thickness variation of the simulated formation, the wavelength and amplitude of folds, and the position of the hydrocarbon migration front can be directly and in real time read and recorded without interrupting the experiment or introducing external measuring tools for interfering measurements.

[0098] In some embodiments, the scale markings 2 may be any form of visually identifiable markings attached to or formed on the inner wall of the housing.

[0099] In some embodiments, high-precision printing technology can be used to directly print the scale lines and numbers onto a transparent film, which is then tightly adhered to the inner wall of the enclosure. Alternatively, pre-printed scale stickers with high adhesion and solvent resistance can be used for adhesion. This method is low-cost, easy to implement, and easy to replace.

[0100] In some embodiments, the scale markings 2 can be scale lines and numbers directly etched onto the inner wall surface of the enclosure using a laser etching process. For glass enclosures, glaze sintering or inlaying metal / ceramic scale strips can be used. This method offers excellent durability, eliminates the risk of detachment, and ensures that the scale and the viewing surface are on the same plane, avoiding parallax.

[0101] In some embodiments, the scale markings 2 may include at least a linear scale along one direction (at least the vertical direction) for measuring formation thickness and vertical displacement.

[0102] In some embodiments, two-dimensional rectangular coordinate grids perpendicular to each other can be set on the inner walls of two adjacent side panels of the housing (such as the front panel and the side panel). The grid lines are distributed at fixed intervals (such as 1 cm or 5 mm) and labeled with coordinate values. This constitutes a complete two-dimensional reference plane, which can be used to accurately measure the displacement of the block unit 4 in any direction in the horizontal plane, as well as record the planar trajectory coordinates of oil and gas migration.

[0103] In some embodiments, a vertical linear scale (such as a millimeter scale) may be provided on the inner surface of the sidewall of the enclosure used for observing the profile. Simultaneously, a horizontal baseline is provided parallel to the bottom or top of the enclosure. This layout is specifically optimized for measuring stratigraphic thickness, fault vertical displacement, and structural undulation.

[0104] Orthogonal grids facilitate comprehensive, two-dimensional quantitative analysis; the profile depth scale is specifically optimized for accurate measurement of structural profile morphology, both of which greatly facilitate rapid data extraction.

[0105] In some embodiments, the side or top of the inner wall of the visualization box 3 is provided with an adjustable brightness lighting unit 1.

[0106] In some embodiments, the lighting unit 1 may be a general term for a light source and its associated components specifically designed to illuminate the interior space of the visualization enclosure 3. It operates independently of ambient light, providing controllable and stable internal lighting conditions for experiments. The purpose of the lighting unit 1 is to overcome the problems of shadows and uneven lighting caused by the enclosure structure and internal model obstruction, providing uniform, sufficient, and adjustable lighting for the experimenter or recording equipment (such as a camera) to ensure that structural deformation details and oil and gas migration processes (especially transparent or dyed fluids) can be clearly and accurately observed and captured.

[0107] In some embodiments, the lighting unit 1 may be disposed on the side and / or top of the inner wall of the enclosure to avoid occupying the observation window and to achieve the best lighting effect.

[0108] In some embodiments, a high color rendering index light-emitting diode (LED) soft light strip can be installed on the upper edge of the inner walls on both the left and right sides of the enclosure. The light shines from both sides in a direction approximately parallel to the stratigraphic profile, which can effectively delineate the structural morphology and reduce the deep shadows caused by the top light source, making it particularly suitable for observing profile deformation.

[0109] In some embodiments, LED panel lights or diffused light sources can be installed inside the peripheral frame of the opening at the top of the housing. The light shines evenly from top to bottom, which can best present the overall shape and color of the model surface, and is suitable for observing planar distribution or the accumulation of oil and gas on the surface.

[0110] Side-illuminated lighting optimizes the three-dimensionality and detail of the cross-sectional structure; top-illuminated lighting provides uniform illumination across the entire field. Both can be selected or used in combination depending on the main observation needs.

[0111] In some embodiments, the light source of the lighting unit 1 is a light-emitting device, the brightness of which can be adjusted as needed.

[0112] In some embodiments, the light source may be an LED, and its brightness may be adjusted via a pulse width modulation (PWM) circuit. The output light intensity can be changed steplessly or in stages via a knob or digital interface.

[0113] In some embodiments, a cold light source, such as a halogen lamp or a fluorescent lamp, can be used as the base light source, and the brightness can be controlled by a multi-level power switch. In addition, an insertable neutral density filter or a color filter can be added in front of the light source to further finely adjust the light intensity or create a specific observation environment (such as simulating fluorescence observation at a specific wavelength).

[0114] PWM dimming enables smooth and precise digital control of brightness; the combination of multi-level switches and filters provides an economical, reliable and scalable solution for brightness and spectral adjustment.

[0115] In the aforementioned fault-based hydrocarbon reservoir evolution simulation device, the formation of traps and hydrocarbon accumulation is a dynamically coupled and continuously evolving physical process. Geological dynamics are reproduced through precise mechanical movements, and hydrocarbon responses are simulated through controlled fluid injection.

[0116] In some embodiments, the formation of traps can be driven by a fault simulation system, and traps are essentially the result of tectonic movements shaping reservoir geometry.

[0117] In some embodiments, at the start of the experiment, simulated reservoir materials such as quartz sand are uniformly and horizontally layered on a continuous bearing plane composed of all active fault blocks, forming an undeformed and homogeneous sedimentary stratum.

[0118] In some embodiments, the controller instructs pre-defined active fault units to begin movement based on a geological model. This movement is differentiated and multi-dimensional, including but not limited to: Differential uplift and subsidence: When certain fault blocks are uplifted, adjacent subsidence can form anticlines (above the uplifted block) or fault bulges in the reservoir.

[0119] Horizontal slip and rotation: Lateral slip and rotation of fault blocks can create fault shielding and change the regional dip direction of strata, creating conditions for closure in the updip direction.

[0120] Complex deformation: The combination of the above movements can form more complex shapes, such as fault anticlines, fault nose structures, or graben-type depressions enclosed by multiple fault blocks (which can themselves become traps, while their edge faults form shields).

[0121] In some embodiments, as block movement shapes potential accumulation spaces (such as the top of an anticline or the updip direction of a block), the elastic connecting units expand and contract with the block movement, always sealing the gaps between adjacent blocks. This ensures that the shaped geological formation is a complete container with its top and sides sealed (achieved by the simulated caprock and the elastic connecting units, respectively). This effectively shielded, fluid-containing subsurface space thus becomes a physical enclosure.

[0122] In some embodiments, the hydrocarbon accumulation process can be triggered synchronously by the hydrocarbon injection system and tectonic movement to simulate the dynamic response of hydrocarbon fluids from migration to accumulation.

[0123] In some embodiments, during a predetermined stage of structural evolution (such as when a trap has initially formed but is still growing), the controller can activate the oil and gas charging system. Simulated oil and gas are pumped into a water-saturated simulated reservoir through injection ports located on active fault units. Due to buoyancy, the oil and gas migrate upwards and towards higher structural positions. The migration path is controlled by high-permeability channels formed by the structure, including but not limited to: The fault fracture zone (simulated by the contact surface of adjacent active fault block units) serves as a vertical or lateral high-speed channel.

[0124] The pores converge along the internal pore network of the reservoir (simulated by the intergranular pores of quartz sand) towards local structural highs (anticline ridges).

[0125] In some embodiments, when a migrating hydrocarbon front encounters a physical trap formed as described above, its path of continued migration is blocked by caprock and lateral sealing (faults or lithological changes). Since buoyancy cannot overcome the caprock, hydrocarbons begin to accumulate at the highest point of the trap and gradually displace the native water within it.

[0126] In some embodiments, if the injected oil and gas volume is less than the pore volume of the closed loop, the oil and gas will partially fill the loop.

[0127] In some embodiments, if the oil and gas supply continues until it exceeds the overflow point of the trap, the excess oil and gas will overflow and continue to search for the next higher trap along the migration path, simulating a differential oil and gas accumulation sequence.

[0128] In some embodiments, during subsequent tectonic movements (such as fault reactivation or trap morphology fine-tuning), the early-accumulated oil and gas reservoirs may be adjusted, redistributed, or even destroyed. This includes, but is not limited to, fault reactivation disrupting the sealing of existing traps, leading to oil and gas escape or redistribution to new traps. The aforementioned fault-induced oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device can simulate this dynamic process throughout, until the tectonic movement ceases and the oil and gas reach a stable equilibrium in the final trap, forming a simulated oil and gas reservoir.

[0129] In some embodiments, the trap is not a pre-existing static model, but rather grows and evolves synchronously with hydrocarbon charging. This realistically reproduces the geological reality that tectonic activity and hydrocarbon charging phases in oil and gas basins often overlap or intertwine in time. The injection point (active fault block unit) itself is a participant in tectonic movement, ensuring the homogeneity of transport and tectonic dynamics. From homogeneous strata to tectonic deformation, from hydrocarbon injection to accumulation, the entire source-to-sink chain is fully and intuitively reproduced on a transparent and quantifiable platform, providing unparalleled physical experimental evidence for understanding the fault-controlled reservoir mechanism. Therefore, the aforementioned fault-based oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device not only simulates the static results of traps and oil and gas reservoirs, but also reproduces their dynamic formation mechanisms and evolutionary history.

[0130] In some embodiments, the fault reservoir evolution simulation device may further include a controller. The controller may include a microcontroller unit (MCU) or a central processing unit (CPU). Alternatively, the controller may include other devices capable of control functions, such as desktop computers or laptops. The controller can control the components in the compressed energy storage and cyclic testing system by sending control commands. For example, the controller can drive fault block units to generate horizontal displacement, vertical displacement, and rotation to simulate the evolution of fault traps; during preset stages of the simulation evolution process, the controller can control the oil and gas injection system to inject simulated oil and gas into the simulated formation material; and it can acquire fault development data and trap formation data of the simulated reservoir material, as well as simulated oil and gas migration and accumulation data, during the simulation evolution process.

[0131] Corresponding to the above-mentioned fault-based oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device, this specification also provides a fault-based oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation method, referring to... Figure 2 As shown, the specific implementation may include the following steps: S201: The control unit drives the fault block unit to generate horizontal displacement, vertical displacement and rotation to simulate the evolution of fault trap.

[0132] S202: In a preset stage of the simulation evolution process, the oil and gas injection system is controlled to inject simulated oil and gas into the simulated formation material.

[0133] S203: Acquire fault development data and trap formation data of simulated reservoir materials, as well as simulated oil and gas migration and accumulation data during the simulation evolution process.

[0134] In some embodiments, the controller of the fault reservoir evolution simulation device issues commands to the control unit 11 and its associated sliding guide rail 5 and lifting guide rail 9, driving one or more fault block units 4 to generate a preset composite motion. This composite motion includes: Horizontal displacement: driven by sliding guide rail 5, simulating the horizontal displacement of the fault.

[0135] Vertical displacement: driven by lifting guide rail 9, simulating the lifting and lowering motion of the block.

[0136] Rotation: The control unit 11 drives the block unit 4 to rotate around the connection point to simulate the changes in the tilt angle and inclination of the block.

[0137] These three types of movements can be performed individually or in combination according to preset trajectories, rates, and time sequences, thereby accurately simulating various structural styles and their dynamic evolution sequences, such as normal faults, reverse faults, rotating blocks, grabens, and horsts.

[0138] In some embodiments, the first fault block unit 4 can be controlled to move as the hanging wall unit, the movement including a downward vertical displacement and a horizontal displacement along the fault dip away from the second fault block unit 4 as the hanging wall unit; the dip angle of the hanging wall unit is controlled to be consistent with the preset normal fault dip angle.

[0139] The controller can programmatically control two adjacent fault block units 4 (defined as the upper and lower plate units, respectively). Control commands drive the lifting guide rail 9 connected to the upper plate unit to produce a continuous, downward vertical displacement, while its sliding guide rail 5 produces a tensile displacement in the horizontal direction consistent with the fault dip. The guide rail connected to the lower plate unit remains fixed or produces a slight reverse movement. The dip angle of the upper plate unit is adjusted by the control unit 11 to match the preset normal fault dip angle. Throughout the entire movement, the upper plate unit undergoes a combined descent and pull-away motion relative to the lower plate unit, simulating the formation process of a normal fault under extensional stress.

[0140] In some embodiments, the first fault block 4 can be controlled to move as an upper plate unit, the movement including an upward vertical displacement and a horizontal compression displacement toward the second fault block 4 of the lower plate unit; the dip angle of the upper plate unit is controlled to be consistent with the preset reverse fault dip angle.

[0141] The controller can programmatically control two adjacent fault block units 4 (upper and lower plate units). The lifting guide rail 9 connecting the upper plate unit is driven to produce a continuous, upward vertical displacement, while its sliding guide rail 5 produces a horizontal compressive displacement towards the lower plate. The lower plate unit can be controlled to remain relatively stable or produce a slight downward displacement. The dip angle of the upper plate unit is adjusted by the control unit 11 to match the preset steep dip angle of the reverse fault. The entire movement simulates the structural process of the upper plate thrusting upwards along the fault plane under compressive stress.

[0142] In some embodiments, the target block unit 4 can be controlled to generate lifting and lowering motion, so that the vertical displacement of its first side and the second side are different; at the same time or afterward, the target block unit 4 can be controlled to rotate around its connection point with the lifting guide rail 9 to change its tilt angle.

[0143] The controller can programmatically control a specific fracture block unit 4. It controls its lifting guide rail 9 to cause one side (e.g., the side closer to the fault) to produce a greater vertical displacement than the other side, creating differential lifting. Simultaneously or shortly thereafter, the controller instructs its control unit 11 to drive the fracture block unit 4 to continuously rotate around its connection point with the lifting guide rail 9, thereby dynamically changing its tilt angle. This combined lifting and rotational motion simulates the tilting and rotational motion of a fracture block around a horizontal axis under torsional or compressive stress conditions.

[0144] In some embodiments, the left and right side-by-side break block units can be controlled to produce downward vertical displacements in opposite directions; the middle break block unit located between them can be controlled to remain in place or produce a relative upward displacement.

[0145] The controller can perform coordinated programming control on three adjacent fault blocks 4 (left, middle, and right blocks). Control commands drive the lifting guides 9 of the left and right blocks, causing them to simultaneously produce opposing, downward vertical displacements, possibly accompanied by outward horizontal tensional displacements. The controller controls the lifting guide 9 of the middle block to remain in place or to produce a relative upward displacement. The dip angle of the two side blocks can be adjusted via the control unit 11 to simulate the morphology of a boundary normal fault. The entire movement simulates a graben structural formation sequence where the two side blocks descend towards each other while the middle block is relatively uplifted.

[0146] In some embodiments, the left and right side-by-side break block units can be controlled to produce opposite upward vertical displacements; the middle break block unit located between them can be controlled to remain in place or produce a relative downward displacement.

[0147] The controller can perform coordinated programming control on three side-by-side block units 4 (left unit, middle unit, and right unit). Control commands drive the lifting guide rails 9 of the left and right units, causing them to simultaneously produce opposing, upward vertical displacements, possibly accompanied by inward horizontal compression displacements. The lifting guide rail 9 of the middle unit is controlled to remain in place or to produce a relatively downward displacement. The dip angle of the two side units is adjusted by the control unit 11 to simulate the morphology of a boundary reverse fault (or a high-angle normal fault). The entire movement simulates a horst structural formation sequence where the two side blocks rise in opposite directions while the middle block relatively subsides.

[0148] In some embodiments, before the experiment, the motion parameters (including but not limited to displacement, velocity, and rotation angle) of each fault block 4 are calculated based on the geological model and programmed into a time-motion command sequence, which is then input into the controller. During the experiment, the controller executes this program to achieve a highly reproducible and accurate evolution simulation.

[0149] In some embodiments, during exploratory experiments, subsequent motion parameters (such as changing the propulsion speed or rotation direction of a certain segment) can be adjusted based on the preliminary deformation results observed in real time, thereby realizing an interactive and adjustable simulation process.

[0150] Unlike static models or two-dimensional animations, high-precision, multi-dimensional, and dynamic physical reconstruction of the formation process of fault-trap systems can realistically produce the physical deformation of strata, providing a solid foundation for studying the mechanical mechanisms of tectonic deformation and the evolution of the three-dimensional geometric morphology of traps.

[0151] In some embodiments, during one or more preset stages of the structural evolution process simulated in step S201, the oil and gas charging system can be activated. Simulated oil and gas in the storage tank can be injected into the simulated reservoir material above it through the oil and gas injection port 8 located on the fault block unit 4 at a preset flow rate and pressure.

[0152] In some embodiments, the preset phase can be one or more specific time points after the start of the sculptural motion. Charging can begin at minute T1 of the simulation to simulate single-phase hydrocarbon accumulation. A first-phase charging can begin at minute T1 of the simulation, and a second-phase charging can begin at minute T2 to simulate multi-phase hydrocarbon accumulation.

[0153] In some embodiments, when real-time monitoring or the program determines that the closure degree of a certain trap reaches a preset threshold (such as the anticline amplitude reaching a certain scale value), the oil and gas injection into the trap can be automatically triggered to simulate the formation of the trap and the oil and gas injection being synchronized.

[0154] By dynamically coupling hydrocarbon charging with tectonic evolution in a spatiotemporal manner, this method overcomes the drawback of traditional methods that first create structures and then inject hydrocarbons. It can realistically simulate the dynamic and continuous process of hydrocarbon transport through active faults and accumulation in growth traps, which is crucial for understanding the timeliness of hydrocarbon accumulation.

[0155] In some embodiments, during and after steps S201 and S202, the following data, including but not limited to, can be obtained based on the visualization enclosure 3 and preset auxiliary equipment: Fault development data: including data on the changes in fault location, attitude (dip angle, dip direction), and fault displacement (horizontal and vertical) over time.

[0156] Trap formation data: including trap type, geometric shape (such as closure height and area), and data on the evolution of overflow point location over time.

[0157] Oil and gas migration data: including the advance path and velocity of the oil and gas migration front, and the identification data of the dominant migration channels (such as faults and high-permeability layers).

[0158] Oil and gas accumulation data: This includes data on the location, degree of filling, and amount of oil and gas accumulation in the trap, as well as data on possible subsequent adjustments or damage.

[0159] In some embodiments, the experimental process is continuously recorded by a high-definition camera based on the transparent wall of the visualization enclosure 3 and the lighting unit 1. The video or images are then digitally analyzed using the scale markings 2 on the visualization enclosure 3 to extract the aforementioned geometric and motion data.

[0160] In some embodiments, micro-displacement sensors, pore pressure sensors, etc., are integrated inside the housing or on the segment unit 4. Microscopic imaging can be used to observe particle-scale deformation, or a CT scan can be performed on the model after the experiment to obtain three-dimensional internal structural data.

[0161] By providing a complete, multi-dimensional dataset that is strictly synchronized with dynamic processes, it offers direct, high-fidelity experimental evidence for verifying geological theories, quantifying the relationships between hydrocarbon accumulation elements, and calibrating numerical simulation parameters, greatly enhancing the scientific rigor and reliability of the research.

[0162] As can be seen from the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this specification above, the embodiments of this specification, by integrating the guide rail mechanism for controlling the horizontal and vertical movement of the fault block unit 4, and the control unit 11 for adjusting its dip angle and dip direction, endow each fault block unit 4 with at least four degrees of freedom of movement: horizontal movement, vertical lifting and lowering, and changes in dip angle and dip direction, thereby enabling high-fidelity reproduction of the complex three-dimensional movement of real geological fault blocks. This design breaks through the inherent framework of existing technologies that are mostly limited to simulating simple two-dimensional movements such as lateral compression or tension, significantly improving the realism of physical simulation and helping to achieve accurate reproduction of small-scale, multi-cycle complex structural morphologies. Furthermore, by organically integrating the oil and gas injection system into the movable fault block unit 4 device, synchronous oil and gas injection is realized during the dynamic evolution of fault activity and trap morphology. This fundamentally solves the inherent process disconnect problem in traditional simulation methods that first construct a static structural model and then perform fluid injection, enabling real and continuous observation of the complete geological process of oil and gas transport along active faults and migration and accumulation in dynamically growing traps. Furthermore, the transparent visualization enclosure 3, combined with the highly integrated motion-charge system described above, creates a fully visible observation environment. Subsurface processes that are traditionally difficult to observe directly—including fault formation and evolution, the spatiotemporal evolution of traps, and the dominant pathways and accumulation dynamics of hydrocarbon migration—can be visually presented and accurately recorded in the experiment. This not only greatly facilitates the real-time observation of experimental phenomena but also provides a visual research platform for a deeper understanding of the fault-controlled hydrocarbon accumulation mechanism.

[0163] It should be understood that in the various embodiments of this specification, the sequence number of each process does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this specification.

[0164] It should also be understood that, in the embodiments of this specification, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this specification generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0165] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of the present invention can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, the present invention can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, the present invention can take the form of a computer program product embodied on one or more computer-usable storage media (including, but not limited to, disk storage, CD-ROM, optical storage, etc.) containing computer-usable program code.

[0166] This invention is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, generate instructions for implementing the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.

[0167] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means, which are implemented in a process Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The function specified in one or more boxes.

[0168] These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing equipment to cause a series of operational tasks to be performed on the computer or other programmable equipment to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby providing instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable equipment for implementing the process. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The task is a function specified in one or more boxes.

[0169] The specific embodiments described above further illustrate the purpose, technical solution, and beneficial effects of the present invention. It should be understood that the above descriptions are merely specific embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. 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 fault-based oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device, characterized in that, include: Visualized enclosure; A fault simulation system fixed within the visualization enclosure includes: multiple fault block units; a guide rail mechanism for controlling the horizontal and vertical movement of the fault block units; and a control unit connecting the fault block units to the guide rail mechanism for adjusting the tilt angle and inclination of the fault block units. An oil and gas injection system is used to inject oil and gas into the simulated reservoir material above the fault block unit.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The break block unit is installed at the interface reserved in the guide rail mechanism.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guide rail mechanism includes a sliding guide rail for controlling the horizontal movement of the block unit and a lifting guide rail for controlling the vertical movement of the block unit; the control unit connects the block unit and the lifting guide rail.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The fault simulation system also includes a locking mechanism; the control unit is connected to the lifting guide rail via the locking mechanism; when the locking mechanism is in the locked state, the break block unit is fixed to the lifting guide rail; when the locking mechanism is in the released state, the break block unit can rotate around the connection point with the control unit to adjust the tilt angle and inclination.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fault simulation system also includes an elastic connection unit, which is disposed between two adjacent fault block units and is sealed to the side edges of the two fault block units.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The side edge of the elastic connecting unit is provided with a groove; the end of the elastic connecting unit is formed with a wedge-shaped fitting structure that mates with the groove.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The oil and gas injection system includes an oil and gas injection port, a flow valve, and an oil and gas storage tank located on the block unit; the oil and gas injection port is connected to the flow valve and the oil and gas storage tank in sequence through pipelines; the flow valve is used to control the oil and gas injection flow rate.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner wall of the visualization box is marked with scale markings.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner wall of the visualization box is equipped with an adjustable brightness lighting unit on the side or top.

10. A method for simulating the evolution of fault-bounded oil and gas reservoirs, characterized in that, The method, applied to a fault-based oil and gas reservoir evolution simulation device, includes: The control unit drives the fault block unit to generate horizontal displacement, vertical displacement and rotation to simulate the evolution of fault traps. During a preset stage in the simulated evolution process, the oil and gas injection system is controlled to inject simulated oil and gas into the simulated formation material; Acquire fault development data and trap formation data of simulated reservoir materials, as well as simulated oil and gas migration and accumulation data during the simulation evolution process.

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