Axial Flow Viscometer for Downhole Fluid Viscosity Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring the rheological properties of fluids used in well drilling operations, such as viscosity, are inconsistent due to variations in downhole pressures and temperatures, which can differ from surface conditions, leading to inaccurate fluid behavior predictions.
Innovation Solution
A viscosity measurement system comprising an oscillation cylinder with a bob and stoppers, capable of simulating downhole conditions by applying axial shear forces and rotating, translating, and heating the fluid, while using sensors to detect forces and calculate viscosity, allowing for accurate measurements under simulated downhole environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If surface conditions are used for fluid measurement, then measurement simplicity is maintained, but measurement precision deteriorates due to pressure and temperature variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the measurement environment to match downhole conditions. The system varies pressure and temperature parameters within the measurement chamber to simulate actual downhole environments, ensuring that viscosity measurements reflect true downhole fluid behavior rather than surface conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating a simplified model of downhole conditions in the measurement system. The measurement chamber replicates key downhole parameters (pressure, temperature) without requiring actual downhole access, allowing accurate viscosity measurement through controlled simulation of the target environment.
2Measurement precision
If downhole conditions are simulated for accurate measurement, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the measurement system into distinct functional modules: a measurement chamber for fluid containment, separate heating elements for temperature control, pressure regulation components, and sensor systems. This modular segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system manageability.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system incorporates multi-functionality by integrating multiple measurement capabilities into a single device. The system can measure viscosity under varying pressure and temperature conditions, and potentially other rheological properties, making it a universal tool for downhole fluid characterization without requiring multiple separate instruments.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple rheological properties are measured under downhole conditions, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system incorporates multi-functionality by integrating multiple measurement capabilities into a single device. The system can measure viscosity under varying pressure and temperature conditions, and potentially other rheological properties, making it a universal tool for downhole fluid characterization without requiring multiple separate instruments.
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 measurement of fluid viscosity and other properties under conditions similar to those found downhole, improving the selection and optimization of drilling fluids by providing consistent and accurate data.
Implementation Method 1
oscillating the cylinder relative to a bob disposed within the chamber; sensing an axial shear force imparted to the bob
Implementation Method 2
a heating element 130 may be disposed adjacent to the oscillation cylinder 102. The heating element 130 may be capable of raising the temperature of the oscillation cylinder 102 and/or fluid within the chamber 103
Implementation Method 3
an oscillation motor 128 capable of axially translating the oscillation cylinder 102
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for measuring the viscosity of a fluid comprises an oscillation cylinder having an inner surface, wherein the oscillation cylinder includes a fluid; a fixed piston having a first stopper disposed within the oscillation cylinder and forming a seal with the inner surface; an adjustable piston having a second stopper disposed within the oscillation cylinder and forming a seal with the inner surface; a chamber defined between the first stopper and second stopper; a bob formed within the chamber having a sensor which measures an axial shear force induced by the oscillating cylinder which is indicative of the apparent viscosity of the fluid in the chamber; and a motor capable of linearly translating the oscillation cylinder.