Asymmetric Probe Module for Reservoir Fluid Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole formation testing tools alter or damage reservoir fluid samples due to material absorption and prolonged residence time, leading to sample separation and compromised analysis.
Innovation Solution
A probe module with asymmetrically spaced shoes and component compartments positioned close to the probe to minimize residence time and maintain a seal, allowing for dynamic fluid flow and analysis near the borehole wall, incorporating sensors like H2S and CO2 sensors for accurate fluid characterization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If reservoir fluid samples are obtained using conventional formation testing tools, then fluid samples can be collected from the reservoir, but the samples are altered or damaged by material absorption and prolonged residence time in the tool
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions component compartments and sensors in close proximity to the probe before sampling occurs, preparing the system to immediately analyze fluid components as they enter, thereby minimizing residence time and preventing sample alteration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables rapid flow of reservoir fluid through the tool by positioning analysis components close to the probe, allowing the fluid to be analyzed quickly before material absorption or separation can occur, effectively rushing the sampling and analysis process through the tool
2Reliability
If component compartments and sensors are positioned close to the probe, then residence time is minimized and sample alteration is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests component compartments within the probe module structure, with sensors and analyzers positioned within or adjacent to the compartments, creating a compact nested arrangement that minimizes space while maintaining close proximity to the sampling point
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions (sampling, component separation, sensing, and analysis) into an integrated probe module where component compartments and sensors are positioned together in close proximity to the probe, reducing overall tool complexity while achieving minimal residence time
3Manufacturing precision
If asymmetric shoe positioning is used to maintain seal and stabilize the tool, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric positioning of shoes relative to the probe, with shoes located at different axial distances from the probe, creating an asymmetric configuration that provides stable tool positioning and maintains seal while accommodating the close-proximity component compartments
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for collecting high quality reservoir samples are disclosed. The systems and methods of the present invention are especially important in collecting samples of reservoir fluids in a manner that most closely resembles production fluids. The systems include an upper shoe and a lower shoe that are asymmetrically spaced along the axial length of probe module with respect to a sampling probe to allow for the placement of a component compartment proximate the probe. Sensors or modules for testing or analyzing reservoir fluids are positioned within the compartment.