Gamma Ray Spectrum Deconvolution Using Compensation Standards

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing nuclear radiation measurement techniques face challenges in accurately estimating parameters of interest in volumes of matter due to non-elemental characteristic differences between the measurement volume and reference samples, which affect gamma ray interactions and lead to errors in deconvolution.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that deconvolve gamma ray spectra by using compensation standard spectra to account for non-elemental characteristic differences, employing linear or non-linear weighted least squared error minimization techniques to determine the best fit of the response spectrum, and utilizing modified standard spectra to improve the estimation of elemental concentrations and physical characteristics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If standard gamma ray spectra from reference samples are used for deconvolution, then the deconvolution process can be performed, but errors occur due to non-elemental characteristic differences between the measurement volume and reference samples

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of parameter estimationVSAvoidaccuracy of deconvolution

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating compensation standard spectra that account for non-elemental characteristic differences (density, porosity, lithology) before the actual deconvolution process. These compensation spectra are prepared in advance and then applied during measurement to correct for matrix effects, thereby improving the accuracy of parameter estimation without requiring real-time iterative corrections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces compensation standard spectra as an intermediary between the measured gamma ray spectrum and the reference spectra. This intermediary component accounts for the effects of non-elemental characteristics and allows for more accurate deconvolution by serving as a bridge that translates reference data into conditions matching the actual measurement environment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If compensation standard spectra are used to account for non-elemental characteristic differences, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of elemental concentration quantificationVSAvoidcomplexity of deconvolution process

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the deconvolution process into distinct components: (1) standard reference spectra for each element, (2) compensation standard spectra for non-elemental characteristics, and (3) the final deconvolution calculation. This segmentation allows each component to be processed and stored separately, making the overall complex process more manageable and implementable in practical measurement systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 enhances the accuracy of parameter estimation by compensating for non-elemental characteristic differences, effectively removing errors and improving the quantification of elemental concentrations in the analysis volume, spanning a continuous energy range from 100 keV to 10 MeV.

Implementation Method 1

The gamma ray interactions may include at least one of i) Compton scattering, ii) photoelectric effect, and iii) pair production.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompton scattering: Compton Scattering

Implementation Method 2

The gamma ray interactions may include at least one of i) Compton scattering, ii) photoelectric effect, and iii) pair production.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelectric effect: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 3

The gamma ray interactions may include at least one of i) Compton scattering, ii) photoelectric effect, and iii) pair production.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPair production:

Data Source

PatentUS8809798B2Methods to enhance nuclear spectroscopy analysis

Publication Date: 2014.08.19 BAKER HUGHES CO

AI summary

Methods, systems and devices for estimating a parameter of interest from a gamma ray spectrum relating to a volume of matter using standard gamma ray spectra from reference samples, wherein there is at least one non-elemental characteristic that is different between the volume and at least one of the reference samples, wherein the non-elemental characteristic difference affects gamma ray interactions. Methods may include deconvolving a gamma ray spectrum obtained from the analysis volume into a plurality of elemental spectral yields, wherein deconvolution includes compensating for effects of the non-elemental characteristic difference. Methods may include using at least one compensation standard spectrum configured to compensate for the effects of the non-elemental characteristic of the at least one of the reference samples.