Automated Light Scanning Demulsifier Testing System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current in-field demulsifier testing methods are time-consuming and operator-dependent, lacking real-time digital data for evaluating demulsifier performance effectively.

Innovation Solution

An automated system utilizing light scanning technology for monitoring phase separation, including a temperature-controlled housing, a bottle holder with integrated light scanning components, and an extraction unit for consistent sample collection, providing real-time digital data on oil/water separation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If automated light scanning technology is implemented, then measurement precision and productivity are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedemulsifier performance evaluation accuracyVSAvoidtesting system structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical observation and measurement with automated optical scanning technology. Light scanning components automatically monitor phase separation in test bottles, eliminating the need for manual sampling and visual inspection, thereby improving measurement precision while reducing operator dependency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service operation where the automated light scanning components continuously monitor and record demulsifier performance without requiring operator intervention. The system automatically evaluates separation rates and generates results, reducing both time and complexity despite the advanced technology employed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If manual bottle testing is used, then device complexity is low, but loss of time and productivity are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetesting speedVSAvoidtesting duration

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The automated light scanning system enables continuous monitoring of phase separation processes in multiple test bottles simultaneously. Unlike manual methods that require periodic sampling, the system continuously tracks separation rates in real-time, dramatically reducing total testing time while maintaining high productivity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The system divides the testing process into independent parallel channels by placing multiple light scanning components on the sleeve, each monitoring a separate test bottle. This segmentation allows simultaneous evaluation of multiple demulsifier concentrations, accelerating overall productivity without increasing per-sample complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If automated systems are implemented, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation may be worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata consistencyVSAvoidsystem setup and use

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The sleeve design provides universal functionality by accommodating multiple light scanning components that can monitor various test bottles with different demulsifier concentrations using the same structural platform. This multi-functional design ensures consistent, reliable data across all tests while maintaining operational simplicity through standardized procedures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

The system enables efficient, real-time monitoring of demulsifier performance, reducing testing time and variability, and providing reliable digital data for improved evaluation of demulsifier effectiveness.

Implementation Method 1

a first light scanning component mounted on the back surface of the recess; a sleeve having a plurality of second light scanning components mounted thereon

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight scattering: Scattering

Data Source

PatentUS10913011B2Method and system for demulsifier testing

Publication Date: 2021.02.09 BAKER HUGHES CO

AI summary

A system for monitoring phase separation is disclosed. The system includes a temperature control housing having an inlet and an outlet connection for a circulator; a bottle holder positioned inside the housing, the bottle holder having a body with a plurality of recesses for receiving test bottles, each recess having a back surface, a front opening, and a first light scanning component mounted on the back surface of the recess; a sleeve having a plurality of second light scanning components mounted thereon, the sleeve being disposed between the housing and the bottle holder, and each second light scanning component being aligned with one of the first light scanning components; and a lid latched onto the housing to hold the test bottles in place during testing.