Downhole Density Determination via Sonic Ultrasonic Merging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining geological formation density using sonic measurements are unreliable due to borehole irregularities, which affect the accuracy of results.
Innovation Solution
A combination of sonic and ultrasonic measurements is used, with sonic frequencies below 50 kHz and ultrasonic frequencies above 100 kHz, to calculate formation density by determining wave velocity and impedance, allowing for accurate azimuthal density determination through the use of transmitters and sensors in a downhole tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sonic measurements are used to determine formation density, then density information can be obtained, but the results are unreliable due to borehole irregularities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines sonic measurements with ultrasonic measurements to determine formation density. By merging two different measurement approaches (sonic and ultrasonic), the system overcomes the limitations of using either method alone, particularly the sensitivity to borehole irregularities that plagues sonic-only measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes measurements at different frequency parameters (sonic frequencies below 50 kHz and ultrasonic frequencies above 100 kHz) to determine density. By changing the measurement parameter from a single frequency range to multiple frequency ranges, the system can differentiate between formation properties and borehole condition effects.
2Device complexity
If sonic measurements alone are used, then the measurement process is simple, but borehole irregularities greatly affect the final result
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges sonic and ultrasonic measurement systems into a single logging tool. This combination allows the system to maintain relatively simple operation while incorporating multiple measurement capabilities that compensate for each other's weaknesses, particularly regarding borehole irregularity sensitivity.
3Measurement precision
If a combination of sonic and ultrasonic measurements is used, then accurate density determination is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a logging tool that performs multiple functions: sonic measurements, ultrasonic measurements, and density calculations. By making the tool universal and multi-functional, the system achieves high measurement precision without requiring separate tools for each measurement type, thereby managing complexity through integration.
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 provides reliable and accurate determination of geological formation density, minimizing the impact of borehole irregularities and improving the precision of hydrocarbon reserve identification and recovery.
Implementation Method 1
exciting transmitters to transmit sonic and ultrasonic waves into a geological formation
Implementation Method 2
exciting transmitters to transmit sonic and ultrasonic waves into a geological formation
Implementation Method 3
receiving reflected waves from the formation
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, an apparatus and a system, as well as a method and an article, may operate to determine a compressional velocity (CV) of a geological formation, to determine a reflection coefficient (RC) associated with the geological formation, and to determine a density of the geological formation based on the CV and the RC. The CV and RC may be determined from values associated with sonic and ultrasonic velocity measurements. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are described.