Optical Fiber Bundle for Downhole Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole measurement techniques face challenges in space-limited and harsh environments, such as small annulus diameters and extreme temperatures/pressures, where conventional optical tools are ineffective.
Innovation Solution
The development of optical cables with image fiber bundles that include both imaging and illumination fibers, allowing for remote sensing and illumination of downhole areas, along with a fluid conveying region and nozzles to facilitate data transmission and improve imaging quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional optical tools are used for downhole measurement, then measurement capability is provided, but they cannot operate in space-limited and harsh environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical/optical downhole tools with an optical fiber-based system. The image fiber bundle and illumination fibers transmit optical signals through the optical cable to the remote sensing end, enabling measurement in harsh environments where conventional tools fail. This substitution of mechanical systems with optical fiber technology provides both adaptability to harsh conditions and reliable operation.
2Volume of moving object
If optical cable diameter is reduced to fit space-limited areas, then access to small annulus is enabled, but imaging quality may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The optical cable is segmented into distinct functional components: image fiber bundle for imaging, illumination fibers for lighting, and fluid conveying region for cleaning/flushing. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the image fiber bundle uses sufficiently large diameter fibers to maintain imaging quality while the overall cable diameter remains small enough for space-limited applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible optical cable structure with thin-walled construction that minimizes overall diameter while protecting the internal fiber bundle. The flexible design allows the cable to navigate tight spaces and small annulus configurations without compromising the imaging capability of the fiber bundle.
3Length of stationary object
If image fiber bundle is used for remote sensing, then access to remote areas is achieved, but light transmission distance and quality may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an illumination system as an intermediary element that actively provides light at the remote sensing end. The illumination fibers deliver strong light source directly to the field of view, compensating for light loss during transmission through the image fiber bundle. This intermediary lighting system maintains high-quality imaging information even over long transmission distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical cable employs composite construction combining image fibers, illumination fibers, and protective materials with optimized optical properties. The composite structure minimizes light attenuation and maintains signal quality over long distances by selecting materials with appropriate refractive indices, low absorption coefficients, and protective coatings.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functions are integrated into the optical cable, then system capability is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical cable is designed as a multi-functional universal platform that integrates image fiber bundle for imaging, illumination fibers for lighting, and fluid conveying region for cleaning and flushing operations. This universal design allows a single cable to perform multiple functions that would otherwise require separate tools, enhancing system capability while actually reducing overall complexity by consolidating functions into one integrated system.
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
Enables effective downhole measurement in space-limited and harsh environments by conveying imaging information and illuminating remote areas, enhancing data quality and reliability of measurements.
Implementation Method 1
The optical fiber bundle includes a bundle of imaging fibers to convey the imaging information from a sensing end of the optical cable, along a length of the optical cable, to the imaging system
Implementation Method 2
The optical fiber bundle also includes a plurality of illumination fibers, positioned outside the bundle of imaging fibers, to convey the source light from the tool, along the length of the optical cable, to the sensing end of the cable
Data Source
AI summary
An example system for downhole measurement disclosed herein comprises a tool to be positioned downhole in a formation, the tool comprising an imaging system to determine measurement information from imaging information obtained by sensing light, and an illumination system to control source light to be emitted by the tool. The system also comprises an optical cable to sense an optical field of view that is remote from the tool, the optical cable including an optical fiber bundle comprising a bundle of imaging fibers to convey the imaging information from a sensing end of the optical cable to the imaging system, and a plurality of illumination fibers positioned outside the bundle of imaging fibers, the illumination fibers to convey the source light from the tool to the sensing end of the cable, the illumination fibers to emit the source light to illuminate the optical field of view.