Increasing flow rates for deep treatment testing by reversing the reciprocating pump mechanism

Abstract

Embodiments of the disclosure provide for methods and apparatus related to downhole fluid testing. Aspects disclose methods and apparatus related to high-flow downhole fluid testing with downhole fluid analyzers. These methods and apparatus enable precise and efficient fluid characterization in extreme subsurface conditions. By having the ability to reverse flows within the testing apparatus, the disclosed embodiments ensure accurate real-time analysis of fluid properties, enhancing decision making in drilling operations and reservoir management.

Description

ATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000INCREASING FLOW RATES FOR DEEP TREATMENT TESTING BY REVERSING THE RECIPROCATING PUMP MECHANISMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 775142, filed March 20, 2025.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] Aspects of the disclosure relate to downhole fluid testing. More specifically, aspects of the disclosure relate to high-flow downhole fluid testing with downhole fluid analyzers.BACKGROUND

[0003] Hydrocarbons are used in many forms by society, from fuel for transportation to raw materials for the chemical industry. Historically, large hydrocarbon fields have provided ample supply to meet the demand. These large fields; however, are becoming increasingly scarce, presenting a significant challenge for the energy sector.

[0004] The remaining hydrocarbon fields are more challenging to develop for a variety of reasons. These fields are often located at greater depths, in remote or difficult-to-access locations, and are subjected to high temperatures and pressures. Developing these fields requires advanced technology and innovative methods to ensure efficient and safe extraction of hydrocarbons.

[0005] Field development costs play a major role in planning and decision making. Lower cost fields are typically given preference over higher cost fields, as they provide a more attractive return on investment. As a result, companies are constantly seeking ways to reduce costs and improve the economic viability of hydrocarbon field development.

[0006] Oil price fluctuations significantly impact the planning and development of hydrocarbon fields. The laws of supply and demand greatly influence oil prices, with various factors such as geopolitical events, economic conditions, and technologicalATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000advancements playing a role. As time progresses, the cost of hydrocarbons is increasing, leading to a greater emphasis on developing more technically challenging and economically borderline fields.

[0007] The field of downhole fluid testing is an essential aspect of hydrocarbon field development. This testing helps to gather critical data about the reservoir, allowing for better-informed decisions regarding extraction methods and field management. While downhole fluid testing is beneficial, it is not without its drawbacks. One significant issue is the presence of errors in the analysis of data related to decreased flow rates during testing. These errors may arise from a variety of factors. Also of importance are increased tool sizes in restricted downhole environments and the technical complexity of the testing process.

[0008] An additional drawback of downhole fluid testing is worker safety. In certain circumstances, the safety of workers may be compromised due to incorrect analysis of the hydrocarbon field. Ensuring accurate data analysis is crucial to maintaining a safe working environment and preventing potential hazards. In some geological formations, high-flow testing is needed to accurately perform analysis of local conditions. Current systems for downhole testing do not provide for such high-flow testing, thus incorrect analysis and assumptions may be made.

[0009] Another drawback of existing conventional technologies is the excessive time required to perform the testing and analyze the testing results. These lengthy processes can lead to delays in field development and increased costs. There is a constant need for more efficient and faster testing methods to keep projects on schedule and within budget. The time that is used to attempt to calculate properties where only properties for low-flow conditions are present in sampling can provide for decreased field activity, enhanced error from extrapolating data from what is currently measured and overall increased customer cost.

[0010] There is a need to provide a more econom ical way to develop hydrocarbon fields compared to conventional technologies. Innovations and advancements in technology can help reduce costs and make challenging fields more viable for development.ATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000

[0011] There is a need to provide additional worker safety compared to conventional technologies where high-flow testing can be achieved. Such high-flow testing may be used to ensure that the safety of workers is paramount.

[0012] There is a need to provide solutions to the drawbacks of conventional low-flow downhole fluid testing. Addressing issues such as data analysis errors, worker safety, and the time-consuming nature of conventional testing methods can lead to more efficient, safer, and cost-effective hydrocarbon field development. By focusing on these areas, the energy sector can continue to meet the growing demand for hydrocarbons while overcoming the challenges presented by increasingly scarce and difficult-to-develop fields.

[0013] There is a further need to provide apparatus and methods that are easier to operate than conventional apparatus and methods.

[0014] There is a further need to provide apparatus and methods that do not have the drawbacks discussed above and that have the advantage of real-time analysis for a variety of conditions, including high-flow geological systems, so that field activities may swiftly proceed.

[0015] There is a still further need to reduce economic costs associated with operations and apparatus described above with conventional tools and allow a greater number of geological fields, including fields that exhibit high-flow tendencies to be accurately examined.SUMMARY

[0016] So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present disclosure can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the disclosure, briefly summarized below, may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the drawings. It is to be noted that the drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the disclosure may admit to other equally effective embodiments withoutATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000specific recitation. Accordingly, the following summary provides just a few aspects of the description and should not be used to limit the described embodiments to a single concept.

[0017] In one example embodiment, an apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus may be configured to comprise a housing defining an interior volume. The apparatus may also comprise a downhole sampling device placed within the interior volume of the housing. The sampling device may comprise a reciprocating pump mechanism wherein the pump mechanism configured to accept a fluid and pressurize the fluid at a rate of over 60 cubic centimeters per second through positive displacement. The reciprocating pump mechanism may comprise a first piston configured to reciprocate along a cylinder axis and a second piston configured to reciprocate along the cylinder axis. The pump mechanism may also comprise a first flow line connected to a cylinder housing the first piston, the first flow line configured to provide a fluid to the cylinder housing at a first pressure and a first rate; a second flow line connected to the cylinder housing the second piston, the second flow line configured to provide the fluid to the cylinder housing at the first pressure and the first rate. The mechanism may also comprise a first output line connected to the first piston and a second output line connected to the second piston. The apparatus may also comprise a valve arrangement connected to the first output line and the second output line, the valve arrangement configured to direct flow of the fluid to a designated location.

[0018] In another example embodiment, an apparatus used for deep treatment testing of fluid of a geological stratum is disclosed. The apparatus may comprise a housing defining an interior volume and a sampling device configured to obtain the fluid from the geological stratum. The apparatus may further comprise a pump mechanism placed within the interior volume of the housing, the pump mechanism configured to accept the fluid and pressurize the fluid at a rate of over 60 cubic centimeters per second through positive displacement, the pump mechanism configured to receive the fluid from the sampling device, the pump mechanism comprising a pump arrangement, a first set of flow supply lines and a second set of outlet lines. The pump mechanism may alsoATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000comprise a valve arrangement connected to the first output line and the second output line, the valve arrangement configured to direct flow of the fluid to a designated location.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present disclosure can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the disclosure, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the drawings. It is to be noted; however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this disclosure and are; therefore, not be considered limiting of its scope, for the disclosure may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a conventional pump arrangement in a downhole testing apparatus.

[0021] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a pump arrangement with reverse flow capability in one example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0022] To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate identical elements that are common to the figures (“FIGS”). It is contemplated that elements disclosed in one embodiment may be beneficially utilized on other embodiments without specific recitation.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] In the following, reference is made to embodiments of the disclosure. It should be understood; however, that the disclosure is not limited to specific described embodiments. Instead, any combination of the following features and elements, whether related to different embodiments or not, is contemplated to implement and practice the disclosure. Furthermore, although embodiments of the disclosure may achieve advantages over other possible solutions and / or over the prior art, whether or not a particular advantage is achieved by a given embodiment is not limiting of the disclosure. Thus, the following aspects, features, embodiments, and advantages are merelyATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000illustrative and are not considered elements or limitations of the claims except where explicitly recited in a claim. Likewise, reference to “the disclosure” shall not be construed as a generalization of inventive subject matter disclosed herein and should not be considered to be an element or limitation of the claims except where explicitly recited in a claim.

[0024] Although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, components, region, layer or section from another region, layer, or section. Terms such as “first”, “second”, and other numerical terms, when used herein, do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed herein could be termed a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

[0025] When an element or layer is referred to as being “on”, “engaged to”, “connected to”, or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected, coupled to the other element or layer, or interleaving elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on”, “directly engaged to”, “directly connected to”, or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no interleaving elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed terms.

[0026] Some embodiments will now be described with reference to the figures. Like elements in the various figures will be referenced with like numbers for consistency. In the following description, numerous details are set forth to provide an understanding of various embodiments and / or features. It will be understood; however, by those skilled in the art, that some embodiments may be practiced without many of these details, and thatATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000numerous variations or modifications from the described embodiments are possible. As used herein, the terms “above” and “below”, “up” and “down”, “upper” and “lower”, “upwardly” and “downwardly”, and other like terms indicating relative positions above or below a given point are used in this description to more clearly describe certain embodiments.

[0027] In some embodiments, methods described may be stored in a non-volatile memory. In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory may be defined as an article of manufacture. In embodiments, the non-volatile memory is configured such that the methods may contain a list of instructions that may be read by a computing device and the list of instructions performed. The list of instructions may perform calculations, illustrate graphic results on a visual device, such as a monitor, print results or store data for further use, as non-limiting embodiments. The list of instructions may be executable in their own programming or may be executed using other programming. The list of instructions may be stored in various configurations, such as a compact disk, a floppy disk, a solid-state drive, a computer hard drive, a server, a web-oriented storage device, and a cloud-computing device or system. Embodiments of methods described may control other systems, such as machines, to perform specified functions. Operational control may be performed through additional programming and / or operation of other computing or control devices. Embodiments described may be implemented using wireless technologies to allow for computing and execution of the list of instructions from various locations. Computing may occur, for example, in various platforms, including a personal computer, a laptop computer, a computer server, a cloud-based computer, a mainframe computer, a cellular telephone and a cellular connected device.

[0028] Embodiments of the methods described may use other programming technologies to help implement the methods described. In some embodiments, machine learning programming may be used to evaluate data and provide results. In some embodiments, training datasets may be used to allow for convergence of needed results and thus using pretrained machine learning programming is considered within the scope of the disclosure. In other instances, artificial intelligence programming systems may beATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000implemented as part of the disclosure or may be incorporated within the methods described. Such artificial intelligence systems may be used in various capacities, including results generation, error detection, problem definition and problem convergence methods. Graphical representation of results obtained by artificial intelligence systems is also considered within the scope of the disclosure.

[0029] In embodiments using machine learning and / or artificial intelligence, a program may be altered by the programming based upon instructions provided. As such, in one non-limiting embodiment, different nodal layers of evaluation may be provided for analysis. The different nodal layers provided may incorporate modification techniques to allow for accurate reading and evaluation of large datasets. The large datasets may be designated training datasets or may be actual data that is desired to be evaluated. Coefficients used for corresponding different nodal layers may be developed within the methods described or may be pre-set according to training. Such coefficients may be altered by the computer programming itself or may be designated by a computer user. As a non-limiting embodiment, if possible results from analysis disclose too many potential outcomes or results, a computer operator may be asked or may alter the analysis protocol to achieve more focused results.

[0030] In embodiments, computer code may be any programming code that lists instructions to be followed. Programming codes may include instructions provided by a computer programmer with or without assistance by computers. Programming may occur through the use of a library of programs or subroutines to section programming tasks. Programming may be accomplished to run on different operating systems or may be included with internal executable files for stand-alone computer instructions.

[0031] Aspects of the disclosure allow for testing a variety of geological formations that have either a low-flow or high-flow environment. Aspects of conventional downhole fluid analysis platforms can only output flow rate up to 200cc / sec. This limitation comes from the architecture of the string as well as the chosen reciprocating pump mechanism. In such conventional apparatus, the reciprocating pump mechanism uses power (flow rateATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000and pressure) from a hydraulic pump to produce flow line flow rate and pressure. In these designs, the flow line area is smaller than hydraulic area in the reciprocating pump. This leads to the result of obtaining a higher fluid pressure. Conversely, the flow rate is diminished in such configurations. Aspects of the disclosure presented herein provide for a greater ability to control fluid flow as well as pressure of the fluid flows in downhole testing apparatus and solve these drawbacks in conventional apparatus and methods. In these embodiments, the reciprocating pump mechanism and associated piping and valves may gain advantage of higher flow rate at reduced pressure rating that was not previously achievable with conventional apparatus. As will be understood, high flow rates may be rates over 200cc / sec.

[0032] Conventional downhole analysis devices manage outputs at a flow rate between ,2-60cc / sec. In some geological environments, these flow rates are insufficient for engineering analysis. To increase flow rate for Deep Transient Testing (DTT), a larger displacement pump is used to replace other equipment within the tool string which increases the total flow rate of the DTT string to up to 200 cc / sec. Any further effort to increase the flow rate will either come from an even larger displacement pump or replacing the small pump with a large pump. The process will continue as the request for increased flow rate continues and becomes more and more challenging.

[0033] As illustrated in FIG. 1, conventional analysis apparatus and methods have a total flow rate limitation that is determined by two factors. One factor is the architecture of the downhole testing apparatus that only has two through flow lines. The second factor is that a reciprocating pump mechanism is placed in each flow line. To achieve a high pressure output, the flow line area in the reciprocating pump mechanism is smaller than the hydraulic area; therefore, the maximum flow rate is limited to either 60cc / sec for regular flow manager or 10Occ / sec for certain conditions. Also, the flow manager placed in the lines can only be in a serial construction flow line or a single flow line. Thus, the total flow rate is limited in each flow line. Flowrate will not be increased by adding more pumps due to these configuration restrictions. Embodiments of the present disclosure may increase flow rate through two mechanisms. A first embodiment may increase the number of flow lines, thus offering greater flow. A second embodiment increases the flowATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000rate in each flow line. One embodiment of the disclosure offers an alternative way to increase flow rate in each flow line without developing a new microhydraulic pump with higher displacement.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 1, the reciprocating pump mechanism 106 is shown with a conventional flow manager arrangement. The lines 102 represent hydraulic lines that provide hydraulic power (flow rate and pressure). The lines 104 are flow line fluid outputs. In this reciprocating pump mechanism 106, since the area of the outside piston faces are sometimes larger than the inside piston faces, this mechanism 106 offers flow line higher pressure output while the flow rate is reduced.

[0035] FIG. 2 illustrates one example embodiment of the disclosure that solves the problems associated with conventional apparatus and methods, of FIG. 1. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, a “reversed” reciprocating pump mechanism 200 has a new flow manager 202. The lines 204 represent hydraulic lines that provide hydraulic power (flow rate and pressure). A second set of lines 206, provide flow line fluid outputs. In this reciprocating pump mechanism 200, since the flow lines are at the outside piston area, the mechanism 200 offers flow line higher flow rate while the pressure is reduced.

[0036] By increasing the ratio of the outside and inside piston area, the flow rate of flow line output is proportionally increased. Table 1 gives examples of flow rate that can be achieved using flow manager drive units (FMDU) with max hydraulic pump rates at 5000rpm for single flow line and tool string:Conventional large pump New DesignSingle flow Max Single flow Max String flow Stringline flow pressure line flow pressure rate flow raterate output rate output (cc / sec) (cc / sec)(cc / sec) (psi) (cc / sec) (psi) 5k FMDU 78 156 3816 130 260 3509 8k FMDU 136 272 2186 227 454 2010 12k FMDU 190 380 1566 317 633 1440ATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000Table 1Flow rate can be achieved with a reversed Reciprocating Pump mechanism

[0037] The reciprocating pump 201 works as a positive displacement arrangement and is placed within an interior volume defined by a housing 200. In such a configuration, a piston 210 may move back and forth within a cylinder or pump chamber 214. In the illustrated embodiment, a second piston 212 is also positioned next to the piston 210 and configured to move along the same axis. Each of the pistons 210, 212 may be connected to a crankshaft through a connecting rod, wherein movement of the crankshaft moves a respective connecting rod and associated piston. A first outlet line 206 is positioned for the piston 210 to accept the fluid pushed by the piston 210. A first inlet line 202 is provided to the pump chamber 214 to provide the needed fluid. An arrangement of valving 230 is provided to control the flow from the first outlet line 206. In the arrangement of valving 230, ball check valves may be used to prevent backflow to the reciprocating pump chamber 214. The piston 210, 212, may be moved by a motor that is run by batteries. The motor may be located within the housing of the downhole tool. The motor itself may be run by a battery or battery arrangement that may be rechargable.

[0038] In a similar configuration, to the piston 210, the second piston 212 has an associated second flow line 204 that provides fluid to be pressurized by the pump mechanism. The second piston, through actuation of the crankshaft and connecting rod, is translated down the cylinder, thus pressurizing the fluid to second outlet line 208. The pressurized fluid travels through a second set of valving 240 controlling the flow.

[0039] Comparing FIG. 1 to FIG. 2, it will be observed that the inlet 202, 204 and outlet 206, 208 are reversed from each other. This modification allows for higher flow capabilities compared to low-flow configurations conventionally known.ATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000

[0040] In some embodiments, the reciprocating pump mechanism direction is switchable by valves in the flow manager. This design provides a flexibility to use either in regular (high pressure) mode or high-flow rate mode.

[0041] Aspects of the disclosure herein reduce the number of errors in conventional analysis related to downhole fluid testing as the testing accomplished may be performed in low-flow or high-flow environments. By implementing more of these advanced and accurate methods, the likelihood of inaccuracies is significantly diminished, resulting in more reliable data and improved decision making processes.

[0042] Worker safety is enhanced by the reduction in errors resulting from incomplete analysis of the geological stratum and the possibility of inaccurate engineering analysis. This reduction in error not only improves the quality of the analysis but also minimizes the risks associated with incorrect data, thereby protecting workers from potential hazards.

[0043] Aspects of the disclosure are superior to existing conventional technologies wherein less time is taken to perform analysis of complex field configurations and situations. The efficiency of the process allows for quicker assessments and responses, thereby improving overall operational productivity and effectiveness. Analysis can be performed for a greater variety of situations unlike conventional analysis.

[0044] Aspects of the disclosure solve the drawbacks of conventional analysis wherein efficient and economical ways to develop results are achieved that are not present with conventional technologies. By utilizing the disclosed methods, not only are results obtained faster, but they also incur lower costs, making the process more accessible and practical for widespread use.

[0045] Example embodiments of the claims are recited next. The embodiments disclosed should not be considered limiting of the disclosure. In one example embodiment, an apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus may be configured to comprise a housing defining an interior volume. The apparatus may also comprise a downhole sampling device placed within the interior volume of the housing. The sampling device may comprise a reciprocating pump mechanism wherein the pump mechanism isATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000configured to accept a fluid and pressurize the fluid at a rate of over 60 cubic centimeters per second through positive displacement. The reciprocating pump mechanism may comprise a first piston configured to reciprocate along a cylinder axis and a second piston configured to reciprocate along the cylinder axis. The pump mechanism may also comprise a first flow line connected to a cylinder housing the first piston, the first flow line configured to provide a fluid to the cylinder housing at a first pressure and a first rate; a second flow line connected to the cylinder housing the second piston, the second flow line configured to provide the fluid to the cylinder housing at the first pressure and the first rate. The mechanism may also comprise a first output line connected to the first piston and a second output line connected to the second piston. The apparatus may also comprise a valve arrangement connected to the first output line and the second output line; the valve arrangement configured to direct flow of the fluid to a designated location.

[0046] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may further comprise a piston position sensor configured along the axis, the piston position sensor configured to determine a piston position along the cylinder.

[0047] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may further comprise at least two connecting rods, a first connecting rod connected at a first end to the first piston and a second connecting rod connected to a second connecting rod, first end to the second piston and a crankshaft connected to the first connecting rod at a second end and the second connecting rod at a second connecting rod second end.

[0048] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may further comprise a motor connected to the crankshaft, the motor configured to rotate the crankshaft during rotary motion of a connected portion of the motor.

[0049] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may further comprise a battery connected to the motor, the battery configured to store electrical energy and provide the electrical energy to the motor for rotational movement of the connected portion of the motor to the crankshaft.ATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000

[0050] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may be configured wherein the battery is configured within the housing and is rechargable.

[0051] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may be configured wherein the valve arrangement is configured with at least four valves.

[0052] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may be configured wherein the valves are ball check valves.

[0053] In another example embodiment, an apparatus used for deep treatment testing of fluid of a geological stratum is disclosed. The apparatus may comprise a housing defining an interior volume and a sampling device configured to obtain the fluid from the geological stratum. The apparatus may further comprise a pump mechanism placed within the interior volume of the housing, the pump mechanism configured to accept the fluid and pressurize the fluid at a rate of over 60 cubic centimeters per second through positive displacement, the pump mechanism configured to receive the fluid from the sampling device, the pump mechanism comprising a pump arrangement, a first set of flow supply lines and a second set of outlet lines. The pump mechanism may also comprise a valve arrangement connected to the first output line and the second output line; the valve arrangement configured to direct flow of the fluid to a designated location.

[0054] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may be configured wherein the pump arrangement comprises a first piston configured along a cylinder axis and a second piston configured along the cylinder axis.

[0055] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may be configured wherein the first set of flow lines comprises a first flow line connected to a cylinder housing the first piston, the first flow line configured to provide a fluid to the cylinder housing at a first pressure and a first rate and a second flow line connected to the cylinder housing theATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000second piston, the second flow line configured to provide the fluid to the cylinder housing at the first pressure and the first rate.

[0056] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may be configured wherein the second set of outlet lines comprises a first output line connected to the first piston and a second output line connected to the second piston.

[0057] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may further comprise a piston position sensor configured along a cylinder axis, the piston position sensor configured to determine a piston position along the cylinder.

[0058] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may further comprise at least two connecting rods, a first connecting rod connected at a first end to the first piston and a second connecting rod connected to a second connecting rod’s first end to the second piston. The apparatus may also further comprise a crankshaft connected to the first connecting rod at a second end and the second connecting rod at a second connecting rod second end.

[0059] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may further comprise a motor connected to the crankshaft, the motor configured to rotate the crankshaft during rotary motion of a connected portion of the motor.

[0060] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may further comprise a battery connected to the motor, the battery configured to store electrical energy and provide the electrical energy to the motor for rotational movement of the connected portion of the motor to the crankshaft.

[0061] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may be configured wherein the battery is configured within the housing and is rechargeable.ATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000

[0062] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may be configured wherein the valve arrangement is configured with at least four valves.

[0063] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may be configured wherein the valves are ball check valves.

[0064] In another example embodiment, the apparatus may be configured wherein the pump mechanism is a reciprocating pump mechanism.

[0065] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

[0066] While embodiments have been described herein, those skilled in the art, having benefit of this disclosure, will appreciate that other embodiments are envisioned that do not depart from the inventive scope. Accordingly, the scope of the present claims or any subsequent claims shall not be unduly limited by the description of the embodiments described herein.

Claims

ATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An apparatus, comprising:a housing defining an interior volume;a downhole sampling device placed within the interior volume of the housing, the sampling device comprising:a reciprocating pump mechanism configured to accept a fluid and pressurize the fluid at a rate of over 60 cubic centimeters per second through positive displacement, the reciprocating pump mechanism comprising:a first piston configured to reciprocate along a cylinder axis; a second piston configured to reciprocate along the cylinder axis;a first flow line connected to a cylinder housing the first piston, the first flow line configured to provide a fluid to the cylinder housing at a first pressure and a first rate;a second flow line connected to the cylinder housing the second piston, the second flow line configured to provide the fluid to the cylinder housing at the first pressure and the first rate;a first output line connected to the first piston;a second output line connected to the second piston; and a valve arrangement connected to the first output line and the second output line, the valve arrangement configured to direct flow of the fluid to a designated location.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a piston position sensor configured along the axis, the piston position sensor configured to determine a piston position along the cylinder.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising:ATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000at least two connecting rods, a first connecting rod connected at a first end to the first piston and a second connecting rod connected to a second connecting rod’s first end to the second piston; anda crankshaft connected to the first connecting rod at a second end and the second connecting rod at a second connecting rod second end.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising a motor connected to the crankshaft, the motor configured to rotate the crankshaft during rotary motion of a connected portion of the motor.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a battery connected to the motor, the battery configured to store electrical energy and provide the electrical energy to the motor for rotational movement of the connected portion of the motor to the crankshaft.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the battery is configured within the housing and is rechargeable.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the valve arrangement is configured with at least four valves.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the valves are ball check valves.

9. An apparatus used for deep treatment testing of fluid from of a geological stratum, comprising:a housing defining an interior volume;a sampling device configured to obtain the fluid from the geological stratum; a pump mechanism placed within the interior volume of the housing, the pump mechanism configured to accept the fluid and pressurize the fluid at a rate of over 60 cubic centimeters per second through positive displacement, the pumpATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.1000mechanism configured to receive the fluid from the sampling device, the pump mechanism comprising:a pump arrangement;a first set of flow supply lines;a second set of outlet lines; anda valve arrangement connected to the first output line and the second output line, the valve arrangement configured to direct flow of the fluid to a designated location.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the pump arrangement comprises:a first piston configured along a cylinder axis; anda second piston configured along the cylinder axis.

11. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the first set of flow lines comprises:a first flow line connected to a cylinder housing the first piston, the first flow line configured to provide a fluid to the cylinder housing at a first pressure and a first rate; anda second flow line connected to the cylinder housing the second piston, the second flow line configured to provide the fluid to the cylinder housing at the first pressure and the first rate.

12. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the second set of outlet lines comprises:a first output line connected to the first piston; anda second output line connected to the second piston.

13. The apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising a piston position sensor configured along a cylinder axis, the piston position sensor configured to determine a piston position along the cylinder.ATTORNEY DOCKET IS24.100014. The apparatus according to claim 9, further comprisingat least two connecting rods, a first connecting rod connected at a first end to the first piston and a second connecting rod connected to a second connecting rod’s first end to the second piston; anda crankshaft connected to the first connecting rod at a second end and the second connecting rod at a second connecting rod second end.

15. The apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising a motor connected to the crankshaft, the motor configured to rotate the crankshaft during rotary motion of a connected portion of the motor.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15, further comprising a battery connected to the motor, the battery configured to store electrical energy and provide the electrical energy to the motor for rotational movement of the connected portion of the motor to the crankshaft.

17. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the battery is configured within the housing and is rechargeable.

18. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the valve arrangement is configured with at least four valves.

19. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the valves are ball check valves.

20. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the pump mechanism is a reciprocating pump mechanism.

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