Optical Multiplexer Spectroscopy for High-Resolution Formation Fluid Data
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current spectroscopic instruments for oil and gas exploration, such as FTIR spectrometers, are complex and not suitable for field operations due to low optical throughput and high detector sensitivity requirements, leading to loss of valuable information when using less-than-ideal sensors.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of optical computing devices using compressive sensing principles to obtain high-resolution spectral data of formation fluids, enabling simplified and rugged spectrometers that can operate in harsh environments while providing accurate measurements of complex compositions and properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If FTIR spectrometers with high resolving power are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and they become unsuitable for field operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spectral measurement process into two parts: (1) acquisition of lower-resolution measurements using simple, robust sensors in the field, and (2) post-processing reconstruction of high-resolution spectral data using computational algorithms. This segmentation allows the use of simple sensors while achieving high-resolution results through data processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical/optical spectral dispersion systems (such as diffraction gratings, prisms, and narrow band filters) with computational methods. Instead of using physical devices to separate wavelengths, the system uses algorithms to reconstruct high-resolution spectra from lower-resolution sensor measurements, substituting mechanical complexity with computational processing.
2Measurement precision
If high-resolution spectrometers with dispersive devices are used, then measurement precision is improved, but optical throughput decreases requiring high detector sensitivity and long collection time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spectral measurement process into two parts: (1) acquisition of lower-resolution measurements using simple, robust sensors in the field, and (2) post-processing reconstruction of high-resolution spectral data using computational algorithms. This segmentation allows the use of simple sensors while achieving high-resolution results through data processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by acquiring spectral measurements at fewer wavelength points than would be required for full high-resolution spectral dispersion. The system collects data at reduced resolution and uses computational methods to reconstruct the missing spectral information, thereby reducing the optical path requirements and improving throughput.
3Ease of operation
If measurement resolution is sacrificed for compactness and robustness of sensors, then ease of operation is improved, but loss of information occurs precluding post-production data analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by collecting raw spectral measurements at reduced resolution during field operations using robust, simple sensors. These preliminary measurements are then processed post-production using computational algorithms to reconstruct high-resolution spectral data, ensuring that no valuable spectral information is lost despite the initial lower-resolution acquisition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces computational algorithms as an intermediary between the simple sensor measurements and the final high-resolution spectral data. These algorithms act as a mediator that transforms the limited raw measurements into comprehensive high-resolution spectral information, preserving all valuable spectral data for post-production analysis.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes an optical computing device having an optical multiplexer that receives a sample light generated by an optical interaction between a sample and an illumination light is provided. The system includes sensing elements that optically interact with the sample light to generate modified lights, and a detector that measures a property of the modified lights separately. Linear and nonlinear models for processing data collected with the above system to form high-resolution spectra are also provided. Methods for designing optimal optical multiplexers for optimal reconstruction of high-resolution spectra are also provided.