Mudlogging Gas Volume Calibration Under Downhole Conditions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mudlogging outputs are inaccurate without proper calibration of algorithms used to analyze the components of return fluids during wellbore drilling operations.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for calibrating gas volume measurements by obtaining core sample measurements under downhole conditions, applying them to generate a calibrated algorithm for accurate mudlogging results.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If algorithms are used to analyze return fluids during mudlogging, then gas volume measurements can be obtained, but the outputs become inaccurate without proper calibration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegas volume measurement accuracyVSAvoidmudlogging output reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing calibration measurements on core samples under downhole conditions before using the algorithms for actual mudlogging operations. The calibration process measures gas volumes in core samples at known conditions and uses these pre-obtained data to adjust and calibrate the algorithms, ensuring accurate measurements during subsequent mudlogging operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by using the calibration measurements from core samples to correct and refine the algorithm outputs. The calibration engine compares measured gas volumes from core samples with algorithm predictions and adjusts the algorithms accordingly, creating a feedback loop that improves measurement accuracy and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If core samples are tested under downhole conditions to calibrate algorithms, then measurement accuracy improves, but the process complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegas volume measurement accuracyVSAvoidcalibration system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a calibration system that serves multiple functions: it calibrates algorithms for gas volume measurement, maintains core samples under downhole conditions, and provides reference data for algorithm validation. The same calibration engine handles both the measurement of core samples and the adjustment of algorithms, reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses core samples as an intermediary medium to bridge the gap between downhole conditions and surface measurement equipment. The core samples are encapsulated to maintain their original conditions and serve as a transfer medium that allows calibration measurements to be made at the surface while representing the downhole environment, simplifying the overall calibration process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12624626B2Calibration for mudlogging
Publication Date: 2026.05.12 CHEVRON USA INC
  • US12624626B2 patent drawing
  • US12624626B2 patent drawing
  • US12624626B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for measuring gas volume during mudlogging of a subterranean field operation may include obtaining measurements for a plurality of parameters associated with a core sample retrieved from a subterranean formation, where the plurality of parameters are measured while the core sample is under downhole conditions, and where the plurality of parameters comprises a volume of fluid in a gaseous state. The method may also include applying the measurements to an algorithm to generate a calibrated algorithm, where the calibrated algorithm is used to generate an output based on measurements made during the mudlogging.