Modular Sensor Assembly for In-Situ Phase Equilibrium Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reservoir fluid analysis systems face challenges with large equipment footprints, high sample volume requirements, and limited sensor capabilities, which hinder efficient phase behavior studies and sample validation, especially in high-pressure and high-temperature applications.
Innovation Solution
A modular sensor assembly with integrated density-viscosity sensors, an ultrasonic agitator, and a high-pressure, high-temperature optic sensor, allowing for in-situ measurements of thermodynamic properties and reducing sample volume and equipment size, while enhancing portability and automation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If flow-through type sensors (densitometer or viscometer) are incorporated into the cell, then density and viscosity measurements can be made, but the equipment footprint and sample volume requirement increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions (density measurement via densitometer and viscosity measurement via viscometer) into a single integrated cell assembly. The densitometer and viscometer are positioned to share the same sample chamber space, allowing both measurements to be performed on the same fluid sample without requiring separate external equipment, thereby reducing the overall equipment footprint while maintaining measurement capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The cell assembly is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform phase behavior analysis, density measurement, and viscosity measurement within a single apparatus. The sample chamber serves multiple purposes: containing the fluid sample for phase equilibrium studies, and providing the measurement medium for both the densitometer and viscometer sensors, eliminating the need for separate dedicated equipment for each function
2Measurement precision
If flow-through type sensors are used for density and viscosity measurements, then measurements can be made, but the sample volume requirement increases substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions (density measurement via densitometer and viscosity measurement via viscometer) into a single integrated cell assembly. The densitometer and viscometer are positioned to share the same sample chamber space, allowing both measurements to be performed on the same fluid sample without requiring separate external equipment, thereby reducing the overall equipment footprint while maintaining measurement capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The cell assembly is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform phase behavior analysis, density measurement, and viscosity measurement within a single apparatus. The sample chamber serves multiple purposes: containing the fluid sample for phase equilibrium studies, and providing the measurement medium for both the densitometer and viscometer sensors, eliminating the need for separate dedicated equipment for each function
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 modular system enables more efficient and reliable phase behavior studies and sample validation with reduced sample consumption, improved data quality, and increased portability, capable of operating in high-pressure and high-temperature conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The types of agitation mechanisms include magnetically coupled mechanical impeller type mixers, simple rocking mechanisms (with or without mixing rings), circulation pumps, and ultrasonic transducers
Implementation Method 2
a density-viscosity sensor located in-situ in the cell body to measure the density and viscosity of the fluid sample in the sample chamber
Implementation Method 3
The cells may also work in cooperation with measuring instruments and/or sensors for measuring total sample volume, phase volumes, saturation pressures, and other parameters
Data Source
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AI summary
A technique facilitates the monitoring of thermodynamic properties of reservoir fluids. The technique utilizes a modular sensor assembly designed to evaluate a sample of a hydrocarbon-containing fluid within a cell body. A variety of sensors may be selectively placed into communication with a sample chamber within the cell body to evaluate the sample at potentially high pressures and temperatures. The sensors may comprise a density-viscosity sensor located in-situ to efficiently measure both the density and viscosity of the sample as a function of pressure and temperature. Other sensors, such as an optic sensor, may also be positioned to measure parameters of the sample while the sample is retained in the sample chamber.