Automated Rock Sample Analysis via Optical Image Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
The analysis of rock samples from drilling operations is time-consuming and subjective, relying on human observation, which hinders real-time lithology identification and is costly.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that analyze optical images of rock samples by defining windows, extracting rockprint values, and classifying them into rock categories based on reference images, enabling automated identification of rock types without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If human observation and manual analysis are used to determine lithology, then the analysis can be performed with simple equipment, but the process is time-consuming and subjective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of manual human observation with an automated image processing system that uses optical images and computer algorithms to extract rockprint values and classify rock types, thereby eliminating subjectivity and dramatically reducing analysis time while maintaining or improving accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates digital copies of rock samples through optical imaging, then analyzes these copies using automated image processing to extract rockprint values. This allows multiple analyses of the same sample without physical manipulation, saving time and enabling objective comparison against reference databases
2Productivity
If automated image analysis is implemented, then analysis time is reduced and objectivity is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex task of lithology analysis into distinct modules: image acquisition, window definition, rockprint value extraction, classification against reference database, and result output. This modular approach enables automated high-speed analysis while making the system manageable and maintainable
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms visual rock characteristics into quantitative rockprint values through parameter extraction from image windows. By converting qualitative visual information into measurable parameters that can be compared against reference values, the system achieves automated objective analysis with controlled complexity
3Measurement precision
If detailed sample preparation is performed to separate cuttings, then analysis accuracy may be improved, but the preparation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by capturing optical images of rock samples in their natural mixed state without requiring physical separation of cuttings. The image processing system then separately identifies and quantifies different rock types within the mixed sample images, eliminating time-consuming manual preparation while maintaining accurate rock type quantification
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a property of a geological formation based on an optical image of rock samples taken from the formation is presented therein. The image comprises a plurality of pixels and the method comprises defining windows in the image, each window comprising predetermined number of pixels and being of a predetermined shape. The method also includes, for each window, extracting a rockprint value representative of the window. A rockprint comprises indicators for characterizing a texture of the window. The method also includes classifying the windows into categories of a predetermined set. Each category is representative of one type of rock and the classification is based on a comparison of the rockprint value of each window with rockprint values of images of reference rock samples for each category. Based on the classification, the method then includes determining the at least one property of the geological formation, ie the quantification of each type of rock in the sample.