Orienting Geologic Core Samples Using Marked Indicators
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Solution Overview
Problem
The orientation of core samples retrieved from geologic formations is often lost during the coring process, making it difficult to determine the directional properties of the samples and the formations they represent, which is crucial for evaluating properties like porosity and permeability.
Innovation Solution
A method is described where core samples are oriented based on the presence and orientation of geologic indicators such as graded bedding or trough cross bedding, allowing the core to be rotated and marked to maintain the correct orientation, enabling accurate retrieval of vertical and horizontal plugs and facilitating alignment of core segments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If core samples are retrieved during the coring process, then geologic formation properties can be evaluated, but the orientation of the core samples is lost making directional properties difficult to determine
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by marking the core sample with orientation indicators (such as colored bands or written marks) immediately after retrieval from the wellbore, before the core is processed or oriented in the laboratory. This preliminary marking preserves the directional information that would otherwise be lost during the coring and handling process, enabling accurate orientation determination later without requiring complex reorientation equipment.
2Measurement precision
If extensive reorientation processes are used to determine core sample orientation, then accurate directional properties can be obtained, but significant time is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies copying by creating a simplified representation of the core sample's orientation through marks or indicators that are applied directly to the core. Instead of performing extensive physical reorientation processes to determine orientation, the marked core provides a direct visual copy of the directional information, allowing laboratory technicians to quickly identify the top, bottom, and lateral directions without time-consuming mechanical reorientation procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A horizontal or deviated core sample is received from a wellbore. A presence of geologic indicators within the horizontal or deviated core sample is determined. The horizontal or deviated core sample is rotated to a position based on the presence and orientation of the geologic indicators. A top of the horizontal or deviated core sample is marked after the core has been rotated.