HFDT and Array Induction Tool Joint Inversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing resistivity logging tools, such as high-frequency dielectric tools (HFDT) and array induction resistivity tools (ART), face limitations in depth of evaluation and precision, leading to incomplete and inaccurate formation parameter estimation due to interference from mud and mud cakes in wellbore environments.

Innovation Solution

A method combining data from HFDT and ART tools to generate enhanced formation evaluation data sets, using joint inversion algorithms and iterative processing to refine estimates of resistivity and anisotropy, accounting for mud and invasion effects, and applying corrections for anisotropic and dipping effects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If HFDT is used to estimate formation resistivity, then the depth of evaluation is limited to shallow depths, but the tool can operate in certain wellbore conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedepth of evaluationVSAvoidaccuracy of resistivity estimation
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines HFDT and ART tools into a single logging system, allowing the HFDT to provide shallow depth information with high resolution while the ART provides deeper depth information, together covering a broader depth range with improved overall accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Length of stationary object

If ART is used to estimate formation resistivity, then the depth of evaluation is improved, but the precision and detail of the data logs are inferior

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedepth of evaluationVSAvoidprecision of resistivity measurement
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the data from ART and HFDT tools, using the ART data for deeper evaluation and the HFDT data for higher precision measurements at shallow depths, achieving both deep penetration and high precision simultaneously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If traditional resistivity logging is performed, then the process is simple, but the estimates are inaccurate due to mud and mud cake interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomplexity of logging processVSAvoidaccuracy of formation parameter estimation
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses an iterative joint inversion algorithm as an intermediary processing step that takes raw measurements from both HFDT and ART tools and produces corrected formation parameter estimates by accounting for mud and mud cake effects

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements an iterative processing approach where the joint inversion algorithm repeatedly refines the formation parameter estimates by comparing predicted responses with actual measurements and adjusting parameters to minimize differences, thereby improving accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 improves the accuracy and efficiency of formation property estimation by leveraging combined data from HFDT and ART tools, providing more precise resistivity and anisotropy measurements, and reducing the impact of mud and invasion interference.

Implementation Method 1

transmitting electrical signals into the formation, detecting returns of the electrical signals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic wave propagation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

array induction resistivity tool...transmitting electrical signals into the formation, detecting returns of the electrical signals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10012754B2Enhanced formation evaluation using high-frequency dielectric and array induction tools
Publication Date: 2018.07.03 HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES INC
  • US10012754B2 patent drawing
  • US10012754B2 patent drawing
  • US10012754B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In some aspects, systems and methods are provided for determining formation properties using data from both a high-frequency dielectric tool (HFDT) and an array induction tool (AIT). The system includes a controller in communication with at least one HFDT, at least one ART (which may be a multi-component AIT), and a processing unit. The acquired ART formation data can be processed and used to set constraints on the processing of the acquired HFDT formation data. In aspects, a set of processed HFDT data can be used to reinitialize the ART data processing, to allow for a repeated or iterative evaluation process. The system and method generate values used to determine one or more formation properties such as a resistivity of the formation, the presence of an invasion in the formation, mud resistivity or permittivity, anisotropy characteristics of the formation, and dipping characteristics of the formation.