Conjoined Water Sampling and Flow Detection Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current groundwater production well technologies face challenges in accurately sampling water and detecting flow rates within the well without disrupting operations, due to the large size of existing sensors and samplers, which require multiple trips and can lead to errors and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A water sampling assembly that includes a miniaturized multilevel bailer and a conjoined flow detection system, allowing for simultaneous water sampling and flow detection at multiple depths without removing the primary pump, using a single trip and minimizing the risk of errors and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional water sampling technologies are used, then water samples can be collected, but multiple trips into and out of the well are required, increasing time, cost, and error risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sampling functions and flow detection capabilities into a single integrated tool assembly that can perform all required operations during one trip into the well. The multi-level sampler includes multiple bailers at different depths, a flow detection system with tracer injection and detection capabilities, and a counter mechanism, all integrated into one unit that can sample multiple depths and detect flow rates without requiring removal or reinstallation between functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling tool is designed as a universal multi-functional device that can perform water sampling at multiple depths, detect flow rates through tracer methods, track vertical position with a counter, and retrieve samples from various locations within the well annulus. This single tool replaces what previously required multiple specialized tools and multiple trips, reducing time loss and maintaining measurement precision through integrated sensors and mechanisms.
2Volume of moving object
If conventional sampling tools are used, then water samples can be obtained, but the tools are too large to pass through the pump annulus without removing the pump
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling tool is designed with a nested structure where the multi-level sampler, flow detection system, and other components are arranged concentrically within the pump annulus space. The tool fits inside the narrow gap between the pump column and well casing, with components nested within each other to minimize the overall external diameter while maintaining all required functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from using large conventional samplers that require pump removal to a miniaturized tool that operates in the vertical dimension within the constrained radial space of the pump annulus. The tool leverages the vertical length of the annulus to accommodate multiple sampling levels and functional components without increasing the radial footprint, enabling operation within the existing pump configuration.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple trips are made to collect samples, then comprehensive depth coverage is achieved, but sampling depth errors occur due to counter slip from water and debris buildup
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous sampling action during a single trip by deploying multiple bailers at different depths simultaneously and continuously tracking vertical position with an integrated counter. The system maintains continuous measurement capability throughout the sampling process, eliminating the stop-start nature of multiple trips that allows water and debris to accumulate on counter rollers. The continuous operation ensures depth measurement accuracy is maintained throughout the entire sampling sequence.
4Measurement precision
If the pump is removed to install sampling tools, then accurate measurements can be taken, but production operations are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling tool acts as an intermediary device that can be inserted into the pump annulus space without removing the pump, using the existing pump structure as a guide and support. The tool navigates through the annulus between the pump column and well casing, utilizing the space already present in the production well configuration, thereby enabling measurements during ongoing production operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic sampling approach where the tool can be lowered, positioned, and operated within the moving production environment. The counter mechanism dynamically tracks vertical position, and the sampling system can operate at different depths and rates to match production conditions, allowing accurate measurements to be taken while the pump continues its normal cycling and production function.
Data Source
AI summary
A water sampling assembly for sampling water within a groundwater production well includes a primary pump and a water sampler. The primary pump is positioned within the groundwater production well. Additionally, the primary pump defines at least a portion of an annulus between the primary pump and one of the support casing and the well screen. The water sampler is configured to obtain a plurality of water samples from the groundwater production well without removal of the water sampler from the groundwater production well. Additionally, the water sampling assembly can further include a flow detection assembly that is conjoined with the water sampler within a single jacket to form a conjoined system. The flow detection assembly is configured to detect a flow, i.e. a dynamic flow and/or an ambient flow, of the water within the groundwater production well.