Modular Sensor System for Wellbore Fluid Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid identification tools in the hydrocarbon exploration and recovery industry face challenges such as flow channel restriction, high costs, and the need for extensive design work due to their large size and specificity to tubing or casing string sizes, which hinders efficient monitoring and productivity.
Innovation Solution
A modular sensor system with a carrier, signal interface, feedthrough, and articulated sensor array that can be run separately into the wellbore, allowing for optimal positioning within the fluid flow pathway without occluding the channel, using a biasing arrangement to maintain sensor array position and enable full bore patency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sensor array is disposed within the fluid flow pathway to conduct fluid identification testing, then measurement precision is improved, but flow channel restriction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor array is made movable relative to the carrier through an articulated connection, allowing it to transition between a first position within the flow pathway for measurement and a second position outside the flow pathway to minimize restriction. This dynamic positioning enables the system to optimize both measurement precision and productivity based on operational needs.
2Measurement precision
If existing fluid identification tools are designed for specific tubing or casing string sizes, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate different sensor arrays and configurations through standardized mounting mechanisms. This allows the same carrier base design to be used across different well completion options and tubing/casing sizes, reducing design complexity while maintaining measurement precision through interchangeable sensor modules.
3Measurement precision
If a sensor array is permanently positioned in the flow path, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated connection enables the sensor array to be dynamically positioned and repositioned during tool operation. The biasing mechanism provides automatic return to the measurement position, eliminating the need for complex manual positioning procedures while ensuring consistent measurement accuracy. This dynamic system improves ease of operation compared to permanent fixed positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor system includes a carrier configured for a specific application; an electronics module mountable in a number of individual carriers; a feedthrough mountable in a number of individual carriers and in operable communication with the interface; a sensor mounting mountable in a number of individual carriers and in operable communication with the feedthrough; and a sensor array articulated to the sensor mounting.