Passive Micro-Vessel Acoustic Sampling for Harsh Subsurface Fluids
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies face challenges in acquiring and analyzing fluid samples in harsh subterranean environments due to high temperatures, pressures, and corrosive conditions, as well as the need for power in electronic sensors, which limits sampling capabilities in oil fields, geological formations, and other difficult-to-reach locations.
Innovation Solution
An electrically passive device with a microfluidic timing mechanism that uses a timing diaphragm or piston to rupture and allow fluid sampling, emitting an acoustic signal for position triangulation, and includes features like check valves and filters for precise sampling and measurement, capable of operating in extreme conditions without power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electronic sensors are used for fluid sampling and measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but use of energy increases and reliability decreases due to power requirements and electrical components in harsh environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic sensing systems with a purely mechanical passive micro-vessel device that uses mechanical timing mechanisms (diaphragms, pistons, springs) to control sampling and release operations, eliminating the need for electrical power while maintaining functional capability
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to be self-activating through mechanical means, where the micro-vessel automatically samples fluid and releases particles based on mechanical timing mechanisms without requiring external power sources or electronic control systems
2Reliability
If electronic sensors with power sources are deployed in subsurface formations, then sampling capability is improved, but reliability decreases due to harsh environmental conditions (high temperature, pressure, corrosion)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates all electronic components and replaces them with mechanical structures (diaphragms, pistons, springs, check valves) that are inherently more resistant to harsh environmental conditions such as high temperature, pressure, and corrosive fluids
Solution Approach 2:
The passive mechanical design creates an inert environment free from electrical sparks and electromagnetic interference, making the device inherently safe and reliable in explosive or corrosive subsurface conditions
3Use of energy by moving object
If passive mechanical timing mechanisms are used instead of electronic systems, then use of energy is reduced, but measurement precision and position determination capability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces acoustic emissions as an intermediary signal that enables external systems to precisely detect and time the mechanical operations of the passive device, allowing accurate position determination and timing measurement without requiring the device itself to have electronic sensing or power capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The acoustic emission signals provide feedback to external monitoring systems, enabling precise determination of device position and timing of sampling operations through acoustic detection and triangulation methods
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 precise and reliable sampling and measurement in extreme environments, reducing the risk of electrical sparks and maintaining sample integrity, while allowing for in-situ analysis and deployment in challenging conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the mechanical structure is shaped to emit a predetermined acoustic signal upon the mechanical structure collapsing
Data Source
AI summary
An electrically passive device and method for in-situ acoustic emission, and/or releasing, sampling and/or measuring of a fluid or various material(s) is provided. The device may provide a robust timing mechanism to release, sample and/or perform measurements on a predefined schedule, and, in various embodiments, emits an acoustic signal sequence(s) that may be used for triangulation of the device position within, for example, a hydrocarbon reservoir or a living body.