Guided Wave Attenuation Logging Excitation Optimizer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current well logging methods face challenges in accurately evaluating the properties of casing and cement in boreholes due to the multi-mode nature of guided waves, which leads to large errors in attenuation measurements, and do not effectively account for the source excitation effect.
Innovation Solution
The method involves calculating the dispersion relation of circumferential guided waves in the frequency domain using techniques like Semi-Analytical Finite Element and Perfectly Matched Layer (SAFE-PML), reconstructing time-domain waveforms, and optimizing excitation parameters to produce guided waves with optimal mixed modes, thereby improving the accuracy of attenuation responses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional well logging methods are used to measure guided wave attenuation, then the measurement process is simple, but large errors occur due to the multi-mode nature of guided waves and inadequate consideration of source excitation effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing waveform modeling and excitation parameter optimization before actual attenuation measurements. The system pre-calculates the expected waveforms for different excitation parameters and cement bond conditions, then uses these pre-computed models to interpret measured signals, improving accuracy without adding complexity to the measurement process itself
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by iteratively comparing measured waveforms with modeled waveforms and adjusting excitation parameters to optimize the match. The system uses the measured attenuation to refine the waveform model, which in turn improves the interpretation of subsequent measurements, creating a self-improving measurement system
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wave modes are excited in the casing, then comprehensive cement bond information can be obtained, but measurement errors increase due to mode interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by decomposing the complex multi-mode waveform into individual mode components through waveform modeling. Each wave mode is analyzed separately with its own attenuation characteristics, allowing the system to extract accurate information from each mode while eliminating interference from other modes in the measurement interpretation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by optimizing excitation parameters for specific wave modes based on their individual characteristics. Different excitation parameters are selected to preferentially excite certain modes that are most sensitive to specific cement bond conditions, allowing tailored measurement approaches for different evaluation objectives
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 provides more accurate attenuation measurements by considering the excitation source effect, reducing errors and enhancing the precision of cement bond logging and casing integrity evaluation.
Implementation Method 1
an acoustic excitation source to produce a guided wave of mixed multiple modes in the component
Implementation Method 2
generating a guided wave in the tubular using the at least one optimal excitation parameter; measuring at least one wave property of the guided wave
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for inspecting oilfield infrastructure components. Methods include estimating an optimal value for at least one excitation parameter for an acoustic excitation source to produce a guided wave of mixed multiple modes in the component; selecting at least one excitation parameter corresponding to an optimal simulated guided wave determined in dependence upon the application of waveform criteria to the time domain waveforms; and generating a guided wave in the tubular using the at least one optimal excitation parameter. Methods may include calculating a guided wave dispersion relation; modeling each of the plurality of simulated guided waves, wherein the modeling comprises generating a time domain waveform for each of a plurality of wave modes in dependence upon the acoustic excitation source; selecting the at least one excitation parameter corresponding to an optimal simulated guided wave determined in dependence upon the application of waveform criteria to the time domain waveforms.