Entropy-Based Multiphase Flow Detection in Pipes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for characterizing multiphase fluid flow in pipes face challenges such as continuous and random background noise, low signal-to-noise ratios, and the inability to accurately measure flow regimes and solid content, which hinders efficient hydrocarbon production and reservoir management.
Innovation Solution
The use of approximate entropy calculations and principal component analysis to segment and analyze acoustic signals from multiphase fluid flows, allowing for real-time, non-invasive, and computationally efficient measurement of flow parameters, including the presence of solids like sand, without impeding the flow and using non-radioactive methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If acoustic emission sensors and traditional analysis methods are used, then flow regime detection is attempted, but measurement precision deteriorates due to continuous and random background acoustic noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the acoustic signal analysis into multiple frequency bands using Fourier transforms and spectral analysis. By dividing the continuous acoustic signal into discrete frequency components, the system can identify and isolate flow regime-specific frequencies from background noise, thereby improving measurement precision despite noisy conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the acoustic signal from time domain to frequency domain using Fourier transforms, changing the parameter representation from temporal amplitude to spectral frequency content. This parameter transformation enables the detection system to identify flow regimes based on characteristic frequency signatures rather than raw acoustic amplitude, effectively filtering out random background noise
2Measurement precision
If active acoustic systems are used to convey acoustic frequencies through the flow, then flow regime measurement is attempted, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs passive acoustic emission sensing that utilizes the natural acoustic signals generated by the multiphase flow itself, rather than requiring external acoustic sources. The flow regime characteristics naturally modulate the acoustic emissions, allowing the system to self-characterize without additional active components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision
3Measurement precision
If thresholding and template matching techniques are used for flow regime identification, then processing speed is reduced, but measurement precision is maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical signal processing methods (thresholding and template matching) with spectral analysis-based frequency domain processing. By using Fast Fourier Transforms and spectral feature extraction, the system achieves both real-time processing speed and accurate flow regime identification through characteristic frequency pattern recognition rather than time-domain threshold comparisons
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 enables accurate, real-time characterization of multiphase fluid flow regimes and parameters, improving monitoring and production efficiency in hydrocarbon retrieval applications by distinguishing between different flow regimes and reducing noise interference.
Implementation Method 1
an acoustic emission sensor disposed proximate to the segment of pipe and operable to receive an acoustic emission from a MPF
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, computer-implemented methods, and non-transitory computer-readable medium having a stored computer program provide characterization of multiphase fluid flow (MPF) using approximate entropy calculation techniques to enhance measuring and monitoring of a flow regime in a segment of pipe for hydrocarbon-production operations. The systems and methods can be optimized using principal component analysis.