Dual X-Ray Fluid Analysis for 3D Porous Media Phase Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for analyzing fluid flow in porous media, such as rock cores, are inefficient and require long acquisition times due to the need for punctual measurements and the use of medical imaging-based CT scanners, which are not adapted to small phase composition differences and alter fluid behavior with added contrast agents.
Innovation Solution
A device with two X-ray sources and detectors, positioned at specific angles, allows for bi-dimensional mapping without contrast agents, using a rotatable tray for three-dimensional imaging by rotating the sample relative to fixed X-ray sources and detectors, enabling clear phase discrimination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If punctual measurements are performed along the central axis of the sample, then the measurement can be carried out with a simple detector setup, but the acquisition time is long and the visualization is limited to a line
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional punctual measurements along the central axis to two-dimensional area measurements using a flat panel detector. This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous capture of multiple measurement points across a cross-sectional plane of the sample, dramatically reducing acquisition time while maintaining a relatively simple detector setup.
2Loss of information
If medical imaging-based CT scanners are used to obtain bi-dimensional or tri-dimensional images, then improved visualization of fluid content is achieved, but the device is not adapted to small differences in phase composition and contrast agents alter fluid behavior
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs two X-ray sources operating at different energy levels (first and second energy ranges) to selectively highlight different fluid phases. By tuning the energy levels to match the absorption characteristics of specific phases (oil, water, gas), the system achieves phase-specific imaging without requiring contrast agents, thereby maintaining fluid behavior accuracy while improving visualization quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the X-ray energy parameter by using two distinct energy ranges from two different X-ray sources. This parameter variation enables differential absorption measurement that enhances the contrast between fluid phases with small composition differences, achieving reliable phase discrimination without altering fluid properties through contrast agents.
3Measurement precision
If contrast agents are added to the fluid to increase signal to noise ratio, then phase discrimination is improved, but the physical-chemical properties of the fluid are changed and experimental results are skewed
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of changing the fluid composition by adding contrast agents, the patent changes the X-ray energy parameter by utilizing two different energy ranges from two X-ray sources. This approach achieves enhanced phase discrimination through differential absorption at different energies while keeping the fluid composition unchanged, ensuring reliable experimental results.
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 rapid, accurate three-dimensional visualization of fluid phases in porous media under controlled pressure and temperature conditions, without altering fluid properties, providing precise phase discrimination and reduced measurement time.
Implementation Method 1
X-rays are emitted by the source, go through the sample at a punctual position on the sample, and are recovered by the detector. The detector detects a photon count. Depending on the absorbance of the sample, the fluid content at the measurement point can be determined
Implementation Method 2
a second X-ray source, capable of illuminating the measurement cell with a second beam of X photons, the second beam extending along a second illumination axis; a second detector, placed opposite the second X-ray source along the second illumination axis
Implementation Method 3
The first detector and the second detector are arranged on a rotatable tray, which can be rotated around the cell axis to a plurality of successive angular measurement positions
Data Source
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AI summary
The device (10) comprises : - a first X-ray source (22A), capable of illuminating a measurement cell (14) with a first beam (62A) of X photons; - a first detector (24A), placed opposite the first X-ray source (22A) along a first illumination axis (B-B'); - a second X-ray source (22B), capable of illuminating the measurement cell (14) with a second beam (62B) of X photons simultaneously with the first X-ray source (22A); - a second detector (24B), placed opposite the second X-ray source (22B) along a second illumination axis (C-C'); - a tray (17B) carrying the first X-ray source (22A), the first detector (24A), the second X- ray source (22B), and the second detector (24B), the tray (17B) being rotatable around the cell axis.