Acoustic Array Beamforming for Annular Material Evaluation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Acoustic logging tools face interference and complexity in data analysis due to various wave modes created when detecting annular materials in wells, and the accuracy of parameter interpretation is crucial for determining material properties like cement installation and corrosion.
Innovation Solution
The use of beamforming from acoustic arrays, which includes placing a logging tool with transmitter and receiver arrays into a cased well to emit and receive acoustic signals at different angles, allowing for the determination of properties associated with the annulus between the casing and the formation, such as shear-wave velocity to compressional-wave velocity ratios, using techniques like pitch-catch measurements and pulse-echo analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If acoustic logging tools are used to detect annular materials, then material detection capability is improved, but wave mode interference and data analysis complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the acoustic signal analysis by separating different wave modes (Stoneley waves, casing waves, formation waves) and processing them through distinct analytical pathways. This segmentation allows each wave type to be evaluated independently, reducing the overall complexity of data analysis while maintaining comprehensive material detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer that transforms raw acoustic signals into standardized wave mode components. This intermediary step involves signal filtering, wave separation algorithms, and parameter extraction that simplifies subsequent analysis by presenting processed, organized data rather than raw complex waveforms.
2Measurement precision
If multiple wave modes are created in materials and fluids, then material characterization capability is improved, but interference and analysis complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful interference between multiple wave modes into a beneficial feature by using the interactions and relative amplitudes of different wave modes as additional diagnostic information. The interference patterns themselves become characteristic signatures that help identify and characterize annular materials, transforming a problem into a solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by varying acoustic frequency, amplitude, and wave mode composition to optimize the balance between material characterization capability and interference levels. By adjusting these parameters, the system can enhance desired signal characteristics while suppressing unwanted interference for different material evaluation scenarios.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method enhances the accuracy of material property determination by reducing interference and improving the characterization of annular materials, enabling effective evaluation of cement installation and casing conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The method includes insonifying, by a first set of transmitters of the array of acoustic transmitters, a casing of the well with a first acoustic signal at a first angle relative to a normal of the casing
Implementation Method 2
receiving, by a first set of receivers of the array of acoustic receivers, a first response signal corresponding to the insonification with the first acoustic signal
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for evaluating annular material using beamforming from acoustic arrays are provided. A logging tool may include one or more acoustic phased arrays, such as one or more transmitter arrays and one or more receiver arrays each having multiple transducer elements. The acoustic signals may be beamformed by independently pulsing array elements of the arrays to excite and detect desired wave modes in a casing or other material in a well. Parameters of the casing or other material in the well may be determined using the received acoustic signal.