Downhole Sample Channel with Resonator Cavity for Fluid Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices in underground drilling applications can only measure two out of three properties: sound speed, density, and viscosity of borehole fluids, lacking the capability to measure all three simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A downhole tool with a sample port and sample channel featuring three cylindrical chambers, including a middle resonator cavity surrounded by outer resonator cavities, allows for the measurement of fluid properties by using a piezoelectric transducer that does not directly contact the fluid, enabling the measurement of density, viscosity, and sound speed through impedance analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a piezoelectric transducer directly contacts the fluid to measure properties, then measurement capability is improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to fluid conductivity affecting the piezoelectric element
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sample chamber as an intermediary medium between the piezoelectric transducer and the borehole fluid. The transducer measures properties of the fluid sample contained in the chamber rather than直接接触 the formation fluid, eliminating the harmful effect of fluid conductivity on the piezoelectric element while maintaining measurement capability for density, viscosity, and sound speed
2Device complexity
If existing devices measure only two out of three fluid properties, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement completeness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the sample chamber and piezoelectric transducer system to perform multiple measurement functions simultaneously. By measuring changes in resonant frequency, quality factor, and impedance of the piezoelectric element while it vibrates in contact with the fluid sample, the system can determine all three fluid properties: density, viscosity, and sound speed, achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing complexity
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
Enables the simultaneous measurement of density, viscosity, and sound speed of borehole fluids, reducing inaccuracies associated with fluid conductivity and improving measurement precision by separating the piezoelectric element from the fluid.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric transducer that does not directly contact the fluid, enabling the measurement of density, viscosity, and sound speed through impedance analysis
Implementation Method 2
Fluid density is measured primarily by measuring changes in the vibrational frequency of the oscillator while viscosity is determined primarily by monitoring the decay time of the resonance
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole tool includes a body that includes a sample port through which a sample fluid can be drawn into the downhole tool and a sample channel passing through the body in fluid communication with the sample port and through which the sample fluid travels. The sample channel includes a sample chamber having an inlet and an outlet located along the sample channel, the sample chamber including three cylindrical chambers including a middle resonator cavity surrounded by two outer resonator cavities, one of the two outer resonator cavities including a sensor inlet for receiving a sensor and allowing it to fluidly contact the sample fluid as it travels through the sample channel.