Optical Sensor Diagnostics Using Variable-Input Models
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical computing devices used in downhole applications often experience anomalous optical responses due to damage, temperature, and pressure changes, leading to inaccurate measurements and inconsistencies between manufacturing calibration and field deployment.
Innovation Solution
A variable-input-model based performance evaluation method for optical sensor diagnostics is introduced, which includes a calibration system using reference fluids to detect anomalies and adjust optical sensor responses, allowing for real-time software predictions and decision-making on recalibration or replacement of optical elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If optical computing devices are deployed in downhole environments, then real-time substance analysis capability is achieved, but optical response anomalies occur due to temperature and pressure changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by introducing temperature and pressure as variable parameters that affect optical sensor responses. The system dynamically adjusts measurements by incorporating T&P data to compensate for environmental changes, thereby maintaining measurement reliability in downhole conditions while preserving real-time analysis capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring temperature and pressure conditions and using this information to adjust optical sensor interpretations. The system feeds back environmental parameter data to correct optical responses in real-time, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability
2Measurement precision
If optical sensors are calibrated at manufacturing, then initial measurement accuracy is achieved, but inconsistencies arise between manufacturing calibration and field deployment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static manufacturing calibration to dynamic field calibration. The system continuously adapts calibration parameters based on actual downhole temperature and pressure conditions, allowing the calibration to evolve with environmental changes and maintain consistency between manufacturing and field deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by performing manufacturing calibration as a baseline before field deployment. This preliminary calibration is then refined and adjusted in the field based on actual environmental conditions, ensuring both initial accuracy and ongoing consistency
3Adaptability or versatility
If optical elements are subjected to high temperature and pressure, then downhole measurement capability is achieved, but damage and degradation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing direct mechanical/optical measurement with a computational approach. Instead of relying solely on optical element durability in harsh environments, the system uses temperature and pressure sensors combined with computational models to interpret optical data, reducing the burden on optical element strength while maintaining downhole measurement capability
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 method improves the accuracy of optical sensor measurements by detecting and addressing anomalies, reducing the need for complex uncertainty analysis and ensuring reliable data interpretation in downhole conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an integrated computational element (ICE) core, also known as a multivariate optical element (MOE), which is essentially an optical interference based device
Implementation Method 2
an output of the detector can be correlated to the physical or chemical property of the substance being analyzed
Data Source
AI summary
An example method includes performing validation testing on a tool using a plurality of reference fluids, the tool having a calibrated optical sensor installed therein that includes one or more optical elements. One or more tool sensor responses from the calibrated optical sensor may be obtained and pre-processed, and the one or more tool sensor responses may be compared with calibrated optical sensor responses derived from the calibrated optical sensor during calibration and thereby detecting one or more optical sensor anomalies. The one or more optical sensor anomalies may be evaluated through performance analysis with one or more candidate models, and an alternative candidate model may be selected to mitigate the one or more optical sensor anomalies. One or more remedial options may be pursued when the alternative candidate model fails to mitigate the one or more optical sensor anomalies.