CT Imaging for Core Analysis Planning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Core analysis planning in hydrocarbon reservoir production often lacks accurate information about the state of core samples, leading to inaccurate estimations of plug or whole core rock samples due to unidentified fractures and rubble sections, which are only recognizable after the samples are removed from their protective barrels and examined.
Innovation Solution
Integration of computerized tomography (CT) scanning images into the core analysis planning process to visualize the state of core samples within their protective barrels, enabling virtual marking of sample locations and simulation of planned testing samples, thereby enhancing speed and accuracy in decision-making.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If core samples are examined only after removal from protective barrels, then accurate identification of fractures and rubble sections is achieved, but the time required for core analysis planning increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing CT scanning of core samples while they are still encased in protective barrels, before the actual core analysis planning takes place. This allows fractures and rubble sections to be identified in advance, enabling accurate sample location planning without waiting for physical examination. The CT images provide preliminary visual information that guides subsequent planning decisions, resolving the time-accuracy tradeoff.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces CT scanning as an intermediary technique between core sample storage and physical examination. The CT scanner acts as a mediator that penetrates the protective barrel casing to provide internal visualization of core sample conditions. This intermediary step allows planners to assess core quality and identify fractures/rubble without direct physical contact or barrel removal, significantly reducing planning time while maintaining identification accuracy.
2Reliability
If core samples are transported and stored in protective barrels, then sample integrity is maintained, but visualization of internal core structure becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses CT scanning as an intermediary detection method that can penetrate the protective barrel casing to visualize internal core structure. The CT scanner serves as a mediator between the enclosed core samples and external observers, providing cross-sectional images that reveal fractures, rubble, and other internal features without compromising the protective barrier or sample integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical examination methods with non-contact CT scanning technology. Instead of manually handling and visually inspecting core samples (which would require barrel removal and risk sample damage), the system uses electromagnetic radiation-based CT imaging to detect internal structures, substituting a non-invasive physical method for traditional mechanical inspection.
3Measurement precision
If physical examination of core samples is performed on viewing tables, then detailed assessment is possible, but the process requires lengthy handling and marking procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary visualization and assessment through CT scanning before physical handling begins. By obtaining detailed internal images in advance, the planning process can proceed with pre-identified sample locations and fracture zones, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual examination and marking procedures on viewing tables. This preliminary digital assessment maintains accuracy while dramatically improving planning speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates digital copies (CT images) of the core samples that can be examined, analyzed, and marked up without physically handling the actual samples. These digital replicas serve as substitutes for physical viewing table examination, allowing detailed assessment and planning to be performed on screens rather than requiring lengthy manual handling and physical marking procedures.
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
This approach allows for more precise and efficient core sample planning, reducing the time and cost associated with core analysis by providing non-destructive, non-invasive visualization of core samples, enabling better optimization of testing samples and locations before they are physically extracted.
Implementation Method 1
computerized tomography (CT) scanning images
Implementation Method 2
computerized tomography (CT) scanning images
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the disclosure include methods, machines, and non-transitory computer-readable medium having one or more computer programs stored therein to enhance core analysis planning for a plurality of core samples of subsurface material. Embodiments can include positioning electronic depictions of structure of encased core samples of subsurface material on a display and determining portions of each of the images as different planned sample types thereby to virtually mark each of the images. Planned sample types can include, for example, full diameter samples, special core analysis samples, conventional core analysis samples, and mechanical property samples. Embodiments further can include transforming physical properties of encased core samples of subsurface material into images responsive to one or more penetrative scans by use of one or more computerized tomography (CT) scanners.