3D Pore Structure Permeability via Digital Core Models
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laboratory analysis of core samples for determining relative permeability is time-consuming and expensive, hindering efficient wellbore management and production processes in subterranean rock formations.
Innovation Solution
A system that generates a computerized representation of the three-dimensional pore structure of core samples, allowing for the determination of relative permeability of oil and water through digital porous plate experiments, enabling rapid and cost-effective identification of permeability properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laboratory analysis is performed on core samples to determine relative permeability, then accurate permeability data is obtained, but the process becomes time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates digital copies (virtual models) of the core sample pore structures through imaging and 3D reconstruction. These digital copies are then used for virtual porous plate experiments, eliminating the need for physical laboratory analysis while maintaining measurement accuracy. The virtual model replicates the actual pore structure geometry, allowing permeability determination without handling physical samples.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical mechanical laboratory experiments with computational simulations. Instead of performing actual porous plate experiments on physical core samples in the lab, the system uses numerical algorithms to simulate fluid flow through the digitized pore structure, providing permeability data through computational rather than mechanical means.
2Measurement precision
If laboratory analysis is performed on core samples to determine relative permeability, then accurate permeability data is obtained, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates digital copies (virtual models) of the core sample pore structures through imaging and 3D reconstruction. These digital copies are then used for virtual porous plate experiments, eliminating the need for physical laboratory analysis while maintaining measurement accuracy. The virtual model replicates the actual pore structure geometry, allowing permeability determination without handling physical samples.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical mechanical laboratory experiments with computational simulations. Instead of performing actual porous plate experiments on physical core samples in the lab, the system uses numerical algorithms to simulate fluid flow through the digitized pore structure, providing permeability data through computational rather than mechanical means.
3Measurement precision
If traditional laboratory methods are used for core sample analysis, then permeability properties are identified, but the process hinders efficient wellbore management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary digitization and 3D reconstruction of the core sample pore structure before any permeability analysis is needed. This preliminary action creates a reusable virtual model that can be analyzed multiple times with different parameters without requiring additional physical sample preparation or laboratory setup, enabling rapid assessment for wellbore management decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical mechanical laboratory experiments with computational simulations. Instead of performing actual porous plate experiments on physical core samples in the lab, the system uses numerical algorithms to simulate fluid flow through the digitized pore structure, providing permeability data through computational rather than mechanical means.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the subject technology relate to systems, methods, and computer-readable media for identifying a relative permeability of a core sample through a computerized representation of a pore structure of the sample. Specifically, a computerized representation of a three-dimensional (3D) pore structure of a core sample can be accessed. A relative permeability of oil through the 3D pore structure can be determined in three dimensions. Further, a relative permeability of water through the 3D pore structure can be determined in the three dimensions. Average relative permeabilities of oil and water of the 3D pore structure can be identified based on the relative permeability of the oil in the three dimensions and the relative permeability of the water in the three dimensions.