Retroreflected Optical Spectroscopy for Gas Source Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current leak detection and repair (LDAR) practices in the oil and gas sector rely on snapshot infrared camera measurements, which are uncertain and not amenable to continuous monitoring, failing to accurately determine leak rates and locations.
Innovation Solution
An optical gas detector using retroreflected optical beams for path-integrated absorption signal analysis, combined with environmental data, to determine gas source locations and emission characteristics, enabling sub-pad localization for improved spatial resolution and rapid identification of leak sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If snapshot infrared camera measurements are used for leak detection, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but measurement precision and continuous monitoring capability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical infrared camera measurements with optical spectroscopy using laser beams to detect gas emissions. This substitution enables continuous monitoring and precise leak rate measurements while maintaining operational simplicity through automated optical detection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous monitoring capability by using optical beams that can continuously scan and detect gas emissions from equipment. This continuous action replaces intermittent snapshot measurements, providing ongoing data for leak detection and rate calculation.
2Productivity
If snapshot measurements are used, then operational simplicity is maintained, but productivity and leak identification speed are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous monitoring that rapidly identifies leaks through ongoing optical detection, eliminating the time loss associated with intermittent snapshot measurements and subsequent manual investigation of potential leak sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback on leak detection through continuous optical measurements, allowing rapid identification and response to emission events, thereby reducing the time required for equipment testing and repair operations.
3Measurement precision
If retroreflected optical beams are used for path-integrated absorption analysis, then measurement precision and spatial resolution are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses retroreflectors as intermediary elements to redirect optical beams along specific paths for absorption analysis. This intermediary component enables precise path-integrated measurements and spatial localization while simplifying the overall system architecture by using standard optical components.
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 accuracy and speed of gas leak identification by reducing the need for extensive equipment testing and fixing, allowing for continuous monitoring and efficient repair of gas leaks.
Implementation Method 1
optical beams (e.g., laser beams or incoherent light beams) propagate along various paths, after which they are detected to obtain path-integrated absorption signals
Implementation Method 2
Many of the present embodiments use retroreflected optical beams, which advantageously allows an optical beam to be detected at a location near where it is transmitted
Data Source
AI summary
A method for characterizing gas emissions includes measuring a first optical beam to generate a first time series representing a concentration of a gas species. The first optical beam is transmitted from a geographic center point and retroreflected at a first retroreflection location. The first optical beam defines a first boundary of a sector. The method also includes measuring a second optical beam to generate a second time series representing the concentration of the gas species. The second optical beam is transmitted from the geographic center point and retroreflected at a second retroreflection location. The second optical beam defines a second boundary of the sector. The method also includes determining a location of an emission source within the sector. The location is determined based on temporal variability of the first time series and temporal variability of the second time series.