Multiphase Flow Meter Model Update Using Simulated Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiphase flow meters struggle to accurately determine flow regime information and phase distribution in field conditions due to limitations in laboratory-based data.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a computer processor to generate and update a flow model using acquired sensor data, simulated flow data, and simulated sensor data, enabling more accurate determination of flow rates and phase fractions in multiphase flows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a multiphase flow meter is built using laboratory data, then the device can be manufactured and deployed, but it cannot accurately determine flow regime information or phase distribution information in field conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-training the neural network model using simulated field data before actual deployment. The simulated data encompasses various field conditions including different flow regimes, phase distributions, and environmental variations. This pre-training enables the model to adapt to field conditions in advance, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and adaptability by preparing the system beforehand for real-world variability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by adjusting the neural network model parameters through training with simulated data that represents field conditions. The model learns optimal parameter configurations for accurately determining flow regime information and phase distribution under various field scenarios. This allows the system to maintain high measurement precision while adapting to different field conditions through parameter optimization rather than structural changes.
2Measurement precision
If simulated data is used to update the flow model, then the accuracy for field conditions improves, but the complexity of the modeling process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies copying by creating simulated copies of field data and sensor responses that mirror actual operating conditions. Instead of directly measuring all possible field scenarios, the system generates virtual copies of data representing various flow regimes, phase distributions, and environmental conditions. These simulated copies are used to train and update the flow model, improving accuracy while avoiding the complexity of obtaining and processing actual diverse field data for every scenario.
Data Source
AI summary
A method may include obtaining, from various sensors, acquired sensor data regarding various multiphase flows in a multiphase flow meter that are sampled at a predetermined sampling frequency. The acquired sensor data may describe various transient signals that correspond to various gas droplets. The method may further include generating, based on the acquired sensor data, a flow model for the multiphase flow meter. The method may further include updating the flow model to produce a first updated flow model using simulated flow data. The method may further include updating the first updated flow model to produce a second updated flow model using simulated sensor data. The second updated flow model may be used to determine one or more flow rates within a multiphase flow.