Ellipsoid Buoyant Probe for Drilling Fluid Density Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring the density of drilling fluids in static conditions are inadequate, as they often require expensive equipment, are destructive, or provide inaccurate results due to dynamic conditions and the presence of solid particles like clays and polymers.
Innovation Solution
A measurement method and assembly that uses a high-density, ellipsoid-shaped probe with a coating to minimize particle adhesion, suspended in a fluid chamber at in-situ temperatures, allowing for time-dependent density calculations through buoyant force measurements, preventing vertical oscillation and ensuring accurate, non-destructive monitoring of density changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If acoustic, laser or nuclear magnetic resonance methods are used to measure drilling fluid density, then measurement capability is provided, but the equipment cost increases and expert operation is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a simple buoyant weight object that can be easily manufactured and replaced, eliminating the need for expensive acoustic, laser, or nuclear magnetic resonance equipment. This disposable-like approach uses a basic weighted element that provides accurate density measurements through buoyancy principles without requiring complex instrumentation or expert operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex acoustic, laser, or nuclear magnetic resonance systems with a simple mechanical buoyancy-based measurement system. The buoyant weight provides direct mechanical measurement of drilling fluid density, substituting sophisticated physical fields with elementary mechanical principles that are easier to implement and operate.
2Measurement precision
If weights are used in dynamic circulation line conditions, then density monitoring is enabled, but centrifugal force and flow movement affect measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of measuring density in the dynamic circulation line where centrifugal forces interfere, the patent inverts the approach by measuring density in a static condition using a buoyant weight in a controlled environment. This reversal from dynamic to static measurement eliminates the harmful effects of flow movement and centrifugal force on measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the measurement function from the dynamic circulation line and places it in a separate static measurement setup. By taking the buoyant weight measurement out of the flowing drilling fluid environment, the system eliminates interference from flow movement and centrifugal forces that would otherwise compromise measurement reliability.
3Measurement precision
If conventional weights are used in drilling fluid, then density measurement is possible, but solid particles like clays and polymers cause adhesion and measurement errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by giving the buoyant weight a specific smooth surface characteristic that is different from conventional weights. This localized surface property reduces adhesion of solid particles like clays and polymers to the weight surface, ensuring that the measurement is not compromised by particle accumulation while maintaining the overall buoyancy measurement capability.
4Measurement precision
If drilling fluid density is monitored in static conditions, then precipitation behavior can be studied, but existing methods are destructive or inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The buoyant weight performs dual functions: it serves as both the measurement instrument and the object that experiences the precipitation effects. As solids precipitate in the static drilling fluid, they naturally accumulate on the buoyant weight surface, and this self-accumulation process is directly measured as density change, eliminating the need for separate sampling or destructive analysis methods.
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 precise, non-destructive measurement of drilling fluid density variations and solid precipitation over time, providing reliable predictions of fluid behavior under static conditions, even with challenging materials like bentonite and API barite.
Implementation Method 1
measuring the time-dependent change of the buoyant force acting on a probe suspended in a drilling fluid
Implementation Method 2
A coating is applied to the surface of the probe to prevent the adhesion of solid particles
Implementation Method 3
The probe is made of a high-density material, for example, lead, to sink in the drilling fluid and prevent vertical oscillation
Data Source
AI summary
A measurement method and a measuring assembly are provided, and the measuring assembly enables the measurement of the non-destructive and time-dependent change of solid precipitation in drilling fluid (mud) in static conditions. A measurement method and measuring assembly suitable for use in both in the laboratory and in the field, which is low cost and provides ease of application, has been developed. This method and assembly allow reliable temperature-dependent measurements of the change in the densities of drilling fluids of various densities, containing clays, some chemicals polymers and inert solids like barite (BaSO4).