Multi-Spectroscopy Rock Imaging for Objective Hydrocarbon Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Characterization of rock cuttings for hydrocarbon presence is subjective and inconsistent, relying heavily on human observations, which can lead to suboptimal drilling decisions.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a white light source and ultraviolet light source, combined with a digital machine vision camera, captures and characterizes rock cuttings based on physical characteristics and fluorescent emissions, enabling automated and objective analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If human observation is used to characterize rock cuttings, then the process is simple and requires minimal equipment, but the characterization becomes subjective and inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the human visual observation system with an automated imaging system consisting of multiple light sources (white light, UV light) and a digital machine vision camera. This substitution eliminates human subjectivity while providing consistent, quantifiable measurements of rock cuttings characteristics and hydrocarbon presence through captured imagery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces calibrated imagery as an intermediary between the rock cuttings sample and the characterization result. The imaging system captures physical characteristics and fluorescent emissions, which are then processed by circuitry to generate calibrated imagery that objectively represents the sample properties, serving as a reliable mediator for analysis.
2Reliability
If automated imaging system is implemented, then characterization consistency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the characterization task into distinct functional components: white light source for physical characteristic illumination, UV light source for fluorescent emission excitation, digital machine vision camera for imagery capture, and circuitry for calibrated imagery generation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system reliability and consistency.
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
Provides accurate and consistent characterization of rock cuttings for hydrocarbon presence, improving drilling efficiency by reducing human subjectivity and enhancing decision-making.
Implementation Method 1
capturing imagery of the rock cuttings sample with a digital machine vision camera... based at least in part on fluorescent emissions derived from the imagery
Data Source
AI summary
A system can include a white light source; an ultraviolet light source; a digital machine vision camera for capture of imagery of rock cutting samples illuminated by the white light source and the ultraviolet light source; and circuitry operable to generate calibrated imagery of rock cuttings samples with contrast between rock cuttings samples with hydrocarbons and rock cuttings samples without hydrocarbons.