Magnetic Induction Sensor Nodes for Underground Fracture Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional localization methods for wireless underground sensor networks in underground environments, such as hydraulic fractures, face challenges due to short communication ranges and unreliable channel conditions, making it difficult to determine the location of sensor nodes accurately.
Innovation Solution
A sensor node system that uses Magnetic Induction (MI) based communication and a reservoir simulator to estimate the location of sensor nodes in a rock formation by monitoring Received Magnetic Field Strengths (RMFS) and employing distance approximation and 3D triangulation algorithms, allowing for real-time mapping of hydraulic fractures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional localization methods (GPS triangulation or EM wave propagation) are used in underground environments, then location information can be obtained in open environments, but communication range becomes extremely short and channel conditions become highly unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electromagnetic wave-based localization methods with magnetic field-based methods. Specifically, it uses magnetic field strength measurements and magnetization parameters instead of EM wave propagation properties to determine sensor node locations, thereby achieving reliable communication and localization in underground environments where EM waves fail
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter used for localization from EM wave propagation characteristics to magnetic field strength and magnetization parameters. By measuring the strength of magnetic fields from magnetized rock formations and using these as localization parameters, the system overcomes the limitations of EM wave-based methods in underground environments
2Area of stationary object
If sensor nodes are randomly deployed in underground environments, then coverage area is maximized, but location information becomes difficult to determine
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where sensor nodes continuously measure magnetic field strength from surrounding rock formations and use these measurements to determine their locations. The system processes magnetization parameters and signal strength information to provide real-time location feedback, enabling accurate positioning even when nodes are randomly deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic field measurements and magnetization parameters as intermediary elements between the sensor nodes and the rock formations. These magnetic field characteristics serve as mediators that carry location information from the environment to the sensor nodes, enabling indirect localization without requiring direct line-of-sight or predefined node positions
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 accurate and efficient localization of sensor nodes in harsh underground environments, facilitating long-term operation with low power consumption and efficient data transmission, even in areas with high path loss, temperature, and pressure.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor node system that uses Magnetic Induction (MI) based communication and a reservoir simulator to estimate the location of sensor nodes
Implementation Method 2
The location information includes various magnetization parameters indicative of various signal strengths surrounding the sensor node device
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor node system for mapping hydraulic fractures may include a localization system that identifies location information of the sensor node device with respect to an area of interest in a rock formation. The location information may include various magnetization parameters indicative of various signal strengths surrounding the sensor node device. The sensor node device may include a transceiver that exchanges signals with a base station and at least one other sensor node device. The transceiver establishes a communication link between the base station and the sensor node device. The transceiver may monitor at least one other communication link between the at least one other sensor node device and the base station. The sensor node device may include a processor that identifies distance information based on the location information and a predetermined number of signals associated to the various signal strengths surrounding the sensor node device.