Helium-3 Neutron Detector with Gas Electron Multiplier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current downhole tools require multiple detectors or additional time to measure both epithermal and thermal neutrons, increasing costs and decreasing efficiency due to the need for separate measurements.
Innovation Solution
A Helium-3 detector with a gas electron multiplier (GEM) and a mesh plate, separating two volumes filled with Helium-3 gas, allows for the detection of both thermal and epithermal neutrons in a single detector by multiplying electrons from epithermal neutrons and shielding thermal neutrons, enabling simultaneous measurement and position determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single Helium-3 detector is used to detect both thermal and epithermal neutrons, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates because the detector cannot distinguish between the two neutron types
Solution Approach 1:
The detector volume is divided into two distinct regions: a first volume filled with Helium-3 gas for detecting thermal neutrons, and a second volume filled with a different gas (such as argon, carbon dioxide, or nitrogen) for detecting epithermal neutrons. This spatial segmentation allows each region to respond selectively to different neutron energy types, enabling simultaneous detection and discrimination of both neutron types within a single detector device.
2Measurement precision
If multiple detectors are used to detect both thermal and epithermal neutrons, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functionality of multiple separate detectors into a single integrated detector device. By combining a first detection volume with Helium-3 gas and a second detection volume with alternative gas, the system achieves the capability of multiple detectors while reducing overall device complexity, cost, and operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The single detector device is designed to perform multiple detection functions simultaneously. The first volume detects thermal neutrons while the second volume detects epithermal neutrons, allowing the device to serve as both a thermal neutron detector and an epithermal neutron detector without requiring separate specialized instruments.
3Measurement precision
If separate measurements are used for thermal and epithermal neutrons, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to additional time required
Solution Approach 1:
The detector enables continuous simultaneous detection of both thermal and epithermal neutrons through a single readout system. Both volumes operate concurrently, allowing the detection process to proceed without interruption or sequential switching, thereby maximizing productivity and eliminating the time loss associated with separate measurement protocols.
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 efficient and cost-effective detection of both thermal and epithermal neutrons in a single readout, improving the accuracy and efficiency of downhole operations by distinguishing between neutron types and determining their positions.
Implementation Method 1
a detector for thermal neutrons may include a Helium-3 tube having Helium-3 gas that reacts with thermal neutrons to cause electrons to be detected on an anode and cathode
Implementation Method 2
The GEM may multiply electrons in the second volume based on epithermal neutrons in the second volume
Implementation Method 3
The mesh plate creates an electric field that multiplies electrons of the second volume based on epithermal neutrons in the second volume
Implementation Method 4
The second volume of the detector may be shielded from thermal neutrons via a cadmium layer and Helium-3 gas of the first volume
Data Source
AI summary
A detector that detects properties of geological formation includes a first volume and a second volume each comprising Helium-3 gas. The detector includes a gas electron multiplier having a mesh plate disposed between the first volume and the second volume. The mesh plate creates an electric field that multiplies electrons of the second volume based on epithermal neutrons in the second volume. The detector includes at least one anode configured to receive electrons based on thermal neutrons in the first volume and epithermal neutrons in the second volume.