Acoustic Transducer Array for Casing Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional acoustic tools face challenges in accurately measuring fluid velocity and defining the cement/formation boundary due to varying sound velocities and difficulties in separating reflector signals from casing reverberation, leading to poor imaging through wellbore casing.
Innovation Solution
A unique arrangement of acoustic sensors, including a single transducer operating at different path lengths and a pitch-catch transducer array, is used to enhance imaging behind the casing by minimizing unwanted noise and improving signal resolution, allowing for more accurate fluid property determination and cement evaluation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional acoustic tools are used to measure fluid velocity and imaging behind casing, then basic acoustic measurements can be obtained, but measurement precision deteriorates due to varying sound velocities and signal interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the acoustic measurement system into multiple transducers arranged in an array, each operating at different path lengths. This segmentation allows the system to measure acoustic travel times at multiple distances, enabling more accurate fluid velocity determination through differential measurements, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the acoustic path length parameter by using transducers at different distances from the casing. By measuring acoustic properties at multiple path lengths and analyzing the differences, the system can compensate for varying sound velocities and improve both measurement precision and reliability
2Measurement precision
If conventional acoustic tools are used for imaging behind casing, then basic acoustic signals can be received, but imaging quality deteriorates due to inability to separate reflector signals from casing reverberation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses multiple transducers segmented into different positions and orientations. By receiving acoustic signals from multiple angles and path lengths, the system can separate reflector signals from casing reverberation through signal processing, improving interface definition accuracy while preserving signal information
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the dimensional aspect of multiple transducer positions and orientations to the acoustic measurement system. This multi-dimensional approach enables the system to distinguish between signals from different directions and paths, separating reflector signals from reverberation and improving imaging quality
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 solution provides improved imaging and measurement accuracy of fluid velocity and cement integrity, reducing errors and enhancing the ability to define the interface behind the casing, thereby improving the effectiveness of wellbore exploration and drilling operations.
Implementation Method 1
transmitters to create pressure waves inside the borehole fluid, which in turn create several types of waveguide modes in the borehole
Implementation Method 2
corresponding modes of propagation occur in the formation surrounding the borehole
Implementation Method 3
determine fluid velocity with greater accuracy
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, apparatus and systems, as well as method and articles, may operate to launch acoustic waves along a first acoustic path length from an acoustic transducer toward an axis of rotation, to impinge on a first front surface of a target substantially fixed with respect to the axis, and to receive a reflection of the acoustic waves from the first front surface at the acoustic transducer. After rotating the acoustic transducer about the axis along a substantially circular path, additional activities may include launching acoustic waves along a second acoustic path length, different from the first acoustic path length, from the acoustic transducer toward the axis to impinge on a second front surface of the target, and receiving a reflection of the acoustic waves from the second front surface at the acoustic transducer. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed.