Remote High Voltage Power Supply for Pulsed Neutron Generators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pulsed neutron generators in downhole environments face geometrical and high voltage constraints that limit the optimal placement of emitters and detectors, preventing effective measurement of earth formation properties.
Innovation Solution
A pulsed neutron measurement apparatus with a remote high voltage power source in an offset configuration, allowing detectors to be positioned proximate to the neutron tube, enabling enhanced measurement capabilities for properties like density and porosity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a linear coupling configuration between the high voltage power supply and the neutron generator tube is used, then the high voltage constraints are addressed, but the detectors cannot be positioned at optimal locations
Solution Approach 1:
The high voltage power supply is extracted from its traditional linear coupling position and relocated to an offset configuration. This separation allows the power supply to be positioned away from the direct measurement path between the neutron source and detectors, thereby enabling optimal detector placement while maintaining the necessary high voltage connection to the neutron generator tube
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional linear coupling arrangement to a multi-dimensional offset configuration. By positioning the power supply in an offset location rather than in direct line with the neutron source and detectors, the system gains spatial freedom to optimize detector placement at multiple locations around the borehole while maintaining electrical connection
2Measurement precision
If the high voltage power supply is positioned in linear coupling with the neutron tube, then the acceleration voltage is effectively delivered, but the detectors are constrained from optimal positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply is extracted from the direct measurement path and repositioned in an offset configuration. This allows detectors to be positioned at optimal locations for measuring formation properties such as density and porosity, while the power supply maintains its function of delivering acceleration voltage to the neutron tube from a separate location
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an asymmetric offset configuration where the power supply is positioned at an angle or offset from the direct line between the neutron source and detectors. This asymmetric arrangement breaks the linear constraint and enables detectors to be optimally positioned at multiple angular locations around the borehole for enhanced 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 configuration allows for improved placement of detectors, enhancing measurement accuracy and space for scintillation detectors, thereby improving the estimation of earth formation properties.
Implementation Method 1
The acceleration of the ions is generally accomplished by way of a power supply capable of providing sufficient voltage to efficiently accomplish the desired reaction
Implementation Method 2
means of generating ions in a portion of the tube
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for estimating at least one property of an earth formation is disclosed. The apparatus includes: a carrier configured to be disposed in the formation; a neutron tube disposed at the carrier and located on an axis; a high voltage power source disposed in the carrier and electrically connected to the neutron tube, the high voltage power source located remotely from the neutron tube; and at least one detector disposed in the carrier and located proximate to the neutron tube.