Acoustic Triggering for Downhole Fluid Samplers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current downhole fluid sampling systems lack the ability to independently trigger multiple sampler devices from the surface, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to reliance on timer mechanisms and single telemetry receivers, which can result in premature activation and limited flexibility in sampling times.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method using acoustic modems to send messages down a tubing to independently control multiple sampler devices, allowing each device to be triggered individually with specific acoustic messages, providing redundancy and real-time feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If timer-controlled actuating mechanism is used, then automatic sampling is achieved, but controllability and flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the downhole sampler receives acoustic signals from the surface and can confirm sampling status. The system includes a receiver that detects acoustic signals and triggers the sampler, with the ability to provide feedback about sampling completion, enabling both automation and real-time control flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an acoustic signal intermediary that transmits triggering commands from the surface to the downhole sampler. This acoustic intermediary replaces the rigid timer mechanism with a flexible communication medium that allows operators to control sampling timing from the surface while maintaining automated operation
2Device complexity
If single telemetry receiver is used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different functional qualities to different components: the first receiver is optimized for receiving acoustic triggering signals from the surface, while the second receiver is optimized for receiving telemetry data from the downhole sampler. This local specialization of receiver functions improves overall system reliability without significantly increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements redundancy by providing multiple receivers before any sampling operation fails. This prior cushioning ensures that if one receiver fails, the other can still perform its function, maintaining sampling reliability without requiring complex real-time failure detection and switching mechanisms
3Quantity of substance
If multiple sampler devices are deployed, then sampling coverage is improved, but independent control capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into independent segments where each downhole sampler device has its own triggering mechanism and can be individually activated by separate acoustic signals. The surface system can send targeted acoustic signals to specific samplers based on their unique identifiers, enabling independent control of each device while maintaining a unified system architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control where the system can adaptively select which samplers to trigger based on real-time conditions. The acoustic signaling system allows flexible, dynamic assignment of sampling tasks to different devices, enabling the system to respond to changing operational requirements rather than following a fixed predetermined sequence
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
Enables precise and flexible control of downhole fluid sampling, reducing operational delays and costs by allowing independent activation of each sampler device, even in high-pressure and high-temperature environments, and providing confirmation of sampling operations.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the plurality of sampler assemblies (80a-h) may be independently triggered by an operator located at the surface using an acoustic modem (25M)
Data Source
AI summary
A method for capturing a sample from a wellbore, comprising the steps of introducing a first message and a second message into a tubing positioned within the wellbore. The first message is directed to a first modem connected to a first sampler device to cause the first sampler device to collect a first sample. The second message is directed to a second modem connected to a second sampler device to cause the second sampler device to collect a second sample.