Image-Based Proppant Settling Measurement for Friction Reducer Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for determining proppant settling properties in fracturing fluids lack quantitative data, making it difficult to optimize friction reducer formulations for efficient hydrocarbon recovery.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus and method using a transparent container, camera, and image analysis software to measure proppant settling velocities by capturing and analyzing images of proppant settling in fracturing fluids, allowing for the determination of optimal friction reducer concentrations and formulations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If visual observation methods are used to estimate proppant settling properties, then the method is simple and easy to perform, but quantitative data cannot be obtained

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of measurement methodVSAvoidquantitative measurement capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual visual observation with an automated image processing system using a camera and computer software to capture and analyze proppant settling. This substitution transforms qualitative visual estimates into quantitative measurements by automatically processing images to determine settling velocities and proppant distribution, thereby achieving both ease of operation and measurement precision simultaneously

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary image processing system that acts as a bridge between simple visual observation and complex quantitative measurement. The camera captures images and the computer software processes them to extract settling data, serving as an intermediary that converts simple observation into precise quantitative results without requiring complex direct measurement equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Loss of time

If proppant settling is measured without quantitative analysis, then the measurement process is quick and simple, but optimal friction reducer formulation cannot be determined

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement timeVSAvoidquantitative settling data

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces time-consuming manual measurement and analysis with an automated computer-based image processing system. The camera automatically captures images at set intervals and the software rapidly processes them to extract settling velocities, providing quantitative data quickly without manual intervention, thus reducing time loss while preventing information loss

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements continuous automated image capture and processing throughout the settling period. The camera takes images at predetermined intervals and the computer continuously analyzes them to track proppant settling progression, ensuring that useful measurement action continues without interruption and generates complete quantitative data for friction reducer optimization

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

Provides quantitative data for proppant settling velocities, enabling the selection of appropriate friction reducers and concentrations for improved proppant carrying capacity and hydrocarbon recovery.

Implementation Method 1

proppant settling in the carrying fluids

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSedimentation: Sedimentation

Implementation Method 2

The computer can further include image analysis software

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectImage analysis: Image Processing

Data Source

PatentUS20250354909A1Apparatus and method for determining the static proppant-settling-velocity in fracturing fluids

Publication Date: 2025.11.20 CNPC USA CORP

AI summary

A method to determine the velocity of static proppant settling in fracturing fluids. The proppant carrying capability of different friction reducer products can be compared, so the appropriate friction reducer product can be selected for hydraulic fracturing operations. The effect of friction reducer concentrations in the fracturing fluids, the salinity and hardness of the fracturing fluids, and the proppant size on the velocity of static proppant settling can be studied to optimize the chemical structures of the friction reducers in the process of synthesis and optimize the hydraulic fracturing operation, e.g. to determine the proper concentration of friction reducers according to the salinity and proppant size.