Neutron Generator Target Gas Loading Method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Neutron generators used in downhole logging tools experience reduced neutron yield over time due to target degassing in high-temperature wellbore environments, leading to shorter operational periods and increased maintenance costs, as the focused ion beam results in non-uniform target loading and sub-saturation of deuterium (D) and tritium (T) gas.
Innovation Solution
Operating the neutron generator in a loading mode with a defocused ion beam at a lower voltage to evenly load the target with D/T gas to saturation level, followed by a generating mode with a more focused ion beam at a higher voltage for neutron generation, ensuring uniform target saturation and extended operational periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a focused ion beam is used to load the target, then the neutron generation efficiency is improved, but the target loading uniformity deteriorates resulting in sub-saturation of D/T gas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by switching between two operational modes: a loading mode with defocused ion beam at lower voltage to achieve uniform saturation, and a generating mode with focused ion beam at higher voltage for efficient neutron production. This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction between uniformity and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by first saturating the target with D/T gas using a defocused ion beam before switching to focused beam mode for neutron generation. This preliminary saturation ensures uniform loading, which then enables efficient neutron production without degradation over time.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a focused ion beam is used for neutron generation, then the energy utilization is improved, but the operational duration deteriorates due to target degassing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary saturation of the target with D/T gas using a defocused ion beam before neutron generation. This preliminary action ensures the target is fully loaded, preventing degassing during operation and extending operational duration while maintaining high energy utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent cushions against target degassing by pre-saturating the target with excess D/T gas through defocused beam loading. This beforehand cushioning ensures the target maintains sufficient gas concentration during focused beam operation, preventing performance degradation.
3Productivity
If the ion beam voltage is increased for better neutron yield, then the productivity is improved, but the target gas saturation uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts ion beam voltage and focus based on operational mode: lower voltage with defocused beam for uniform saturation, and higher voltage with focused beam for maximum neutron yield. This dynamic parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction between productivity and uniformity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the operational process into two distinct phases: a loading phase with defocused low-voltage beam for uniform saturation, and a generating phase with focused high-voltage beam for maximum neutron yield. This segmentation allows each phase to optimize its parameters without compromising the other.
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
This approach results in higher neutron yield, increased stability, and longer periods between maintenance, enhancing the performance and reducing the operational costs of the neutron generator.
Implementation Method 1
ionizing ionizable gas within an ion source to create a plurality of ions
Implementation Method 2
accelerating the plurality of ions by providing a voltage to a target rod that supports the target to create an ion beam
Implementation Method 3
a first ion beam that bombards a target of the neutron generator
Implementation Method 4
generate a plurality of neutrons by accelerating the plurality of ions to create a second ion beam that bombards the target
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes operating a neutron generator in a loading mode by ionizing ionizable gas within an ion source of the neutron generator to create a plurality of ions, and accelerating the plurality of ions by providing a first voltage to a target rod that supports the target to create a first ion beam that bombards a target of the neutron generator. The method also includes operating the neutron generator in a generating mode to generate a plurality of neutrons by accelerating the plurality of ions by providing a second voltage to the target rod to create a second ion beam that bombards the target. The second voltage is greater than the first voltage.