Concentric Sampling Containers for Downhole Fluid Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subterranean fluid sampling containers are prone to sagging and bending due to their fragile geometry, limiting storage capacity and space for sensor integration, which hampers effective fluid sampling and monitoring during well operations.
Innovation Solution
A concentric arrangement of sampling containers with a larger cylindrical diameter, incorporating one-way check valves and sensors, allows for improved bending resistance, increased storage capacity, and real-time monitoring of the sampling process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple long and slim sampling containers are arranged in a circular manner to optimize storage capacity, then the number of samples that may be obtained downhole is improved, but the containers are prone to sagging and bending under downhole forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where multiple sampling containers are positioned concentrically within a common cylindrical housing. The containers are arranged in nested circles, with some containers positioned inside others, maximizing the use of available space within the housing while maintaining structural integrity through the supportive housing structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional circular arrangement to a three-dimensional nested configuration. Containers are arranged not only in concentric circles but also at different radial positions and orientations within the cylindrical housing, utilizing the third dimension to maximize storage capacity while distributing mechanical loads.
2Length of moving object
If sampling containers have a small diameter to fit within borehole size limits, then the containers can be deployed in the wellbore, but they do not provide sufficient space to incorporate sensor mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The nested arrangement of multiple containers within a common housing creates interstitial spaces and utilizes the housing volume that would be wasted in a single-container design. This nested configuration allows integration of sensors, valves, and control mechanisms within the housing and between containers, providing sufficient space for monitoring equipment while maintaining a compact overall diameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The common cylindrical housing serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the nested containers, houses sensor mechanisms for monitoring sampling, contains one-way check valves for fluid control, and maintains the required outer diameter for wellbore deployment. This multi-functional design resolves the space constraint by combining several functions within the housing structure.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple sampling containers are arranged in a circular manner, then storage capacity is optimized, but the arrangement is prone to failure and poses significant engineering challenges
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling system is segmented into multiple independent containers, each capable of holding separate samples. This segmentation allows independent operation and failure isolation, where failure of one container does not necessarily compromise the entire sampling system. Each container can be individually sealed and accessed.
Solution Approach 2:
The nested arrangement within a robust common housing provides structural support and protection for the individual containers. The housing acts as a protective envelope that distributes mechanical loads and protects the fragile container geometry, thereby improving overall system reliability while maintaining optimized storage capacity.
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
The concentric design enhances structural integrity, facilitates efficient fluid sampling, and enables precise monitoring, reducing tool downtime and improving sampling process performance.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating one-way check valves
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods for improved fluid sampling are disclosed. A sampling bottle for collection of a fluid sample comprises concentrically arranged first, second and third sampling containers (304A, 304B, 304C). First, second and third check valves (311, 312, 314) regulate flow of the sampling fluid from outside the sampling bottle into the first sampling container, and into the second and third sampling container.