Optical Surface Profile Measurement in High-Temperature Downhole Pipes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current surface profiling systems face challenges in accurately measuring surface profiles in harsh downhole environments, such as high pressures and temperatures, within pipes and tubes, particularly in oil and gas wells, where existing technologies are inadequate for reliable and efficient data collection.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained surface profile measurement apparatus equipped with an optical scanning system, temperature control, and data logging capabilities, capable of operating autonomously and simultaneously measuring surface profiles, pressure, temperature, and borehole trajectory, using a novel optical arrangement and video recording, to provide accurate and reliable data in extreme conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional surface profiling systems are used in downhole environments, then they can operate in harsh conditions, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to high pressure and temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical contact-based measurement systems with an optical measurement system that uses light to measure surface profiles. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear and sensitivity to harsh environmental conditions while maintaining measurement precision, as the optical system can accurately measure surfaces despite high pressure and temperature downhole environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary (light) between the measurement apparatus and the surface being measured. This intermediary allows indirect measurement that is not affected by the harsh physical conditions, enabling accurate surface profile measurement without direct mechanical contact that would be compromised by high pressure and temperature.
2Measurement precision
If optical triangulation systems are used for surface profiling, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the optical measurement apparatus to perform multiple functions: measuring surface profiles, withstanding high pressure, tolerating high temperature, and operating autonomously in downhole environments. By integrating these functions into a single unified device, the patent reduces overall system complexity compared to using separate specialized systems for each function.
3Loss of information
If downhole surface profiling is performed, then data collection capability is improved, but temperature control becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement apparatus into distinct functional components, including temperature control mechanisms separate from the optical measurement system. This segmentation allows independent optimization of temperature control without compromising measurement capabilities, enabling the collection of accurate surface profile data while maintaining precise temperature control in the harsh downhole environment.
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
The apparatus enables precise and efficient surface profile measurement in high-pressure and high-temperature environments, allowing for the identification of corrosion, wear, and other issues, with the ability to maintain accurate temperature control and provide detailed visual depictions of surface conditions, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of data collection.
Implementation Method 1
Some surface profilers operate using optical triangulation. Examples of surface profilers that operate using the principle of optical triangulation are described in commonly owned US patent Keightley et al. 8035823
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for measuring surface profiles within passages such as the interiors of pipes, tubing, casing or the like includes an optical scanning system that acquires digital data that directly identifies the surface profiles. A temperature control system facilitates operation in high temperature environments. The optical scanning system may include a camera located between a light source and a conical mirror. Light deflecting elements may guide light from the light source to the conical mirror along a path that reverses direction.