Optical Sensor Bridge Structure for Multiphase Fluid Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical measurements in well drilling are hindered by multiphase flows and particulates, particularly in water sampling, leading to unreliable results and extended measurement times.
Innovation Solution
A bridge design in an optical sensor with a substrate coated with a contrast agent, supported by an exoskeleton, that allows fluid flow while channeling optical energy, mitigating interference from multiphase flows and particulates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical measurements are performed on fluid samples collected during sampling operations, then fluid properties can be detected, but measurement reliability deteriorates due to multiphase flows (oil, water, gas), particles, and light fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path is divided into multiple sections including a first flow path section, a measurement section, and a second flow path section. The measurement section is specifically designed to be free of multiphase flows and particulates, separating the measurement function from the sampling function. This segmentation allows optical measurements to be performed in a clean environment while still processing complex multiphase samples.
Solution Approach 2:
A diverter is introduced as an intermediary component that redirects fluid flow between different flow path sections based on measurement needs. The diverter enables selective routing of single-phase fluid to the measurement section while excluding multiphase flows and particulates, acting as a mediator between the complex sample and the sensitive optical measurement system.
2Measurement precision
If optical measurements are performed on water samples, then water properties can be analyzed, but measurement time extends due to interference from multiphase measurements and particles
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path is divided into multiple sections including a first flow path section, a measurement section, and a second flow path section. The measurement section is specifically designed to be free of multiphase flows and particulates, separating the measurement function from the sampling function. This segmentation allows optical measurements to be performed in a clean environment while still processing complex multiphase samples.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary separation of phases and removal of particulates before the fluid reaches the measurement section. By pre-conditioning the sample to be single-phase and particle-free, the measurement can proceed immediately without requiring extended measurement times to account for interference, thus reducing overall measurement time while maintaining accuracy.
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
Enhances the reliability and speed of optical measurements by accurately detecting fluid properties, such as pH, despite the presence of water, oil, or gas, and particulates.
Implementation Method 1
channeling optical energy along a flow path from a light source to an optical detector
Implementation Method 2
a substrate, a contrast agent, and optionally a mechanical support, that is connected on one side of the viewing region and is further connected to a second side of the viewing region along the flow path
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole fluid sampling tool may include an optical measurement tool and a viewing region disposed in the optical measurement tool. In examples, a bridge may be disposed in a transparent portion of the flow path between a light source and a light modifier and an optical detector. The bridge includes a structure comprising a substrate and a contrast agent, wherein the contrast agent is any molecule configured to interact with an analyte and alter a property of the analyte and/or contrast agent, wherein the property is detectable by the optical measurement tool.