Rock Sample Housing Alignment for Precise Scanner Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for aligning rock samples in scanners are inefficient, leading to inaccurate rock property measurements which affect hydrocarbon production forecasting.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for aligning rock samples using a rock sample housing, clamp system, and scanner control system, which includes a sliding main table and alignment apparatuses to precisely position the rock sample within a gantry for scanning, ensuring accurate data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual alignment methods are used to position rock samples in scanners, then the alignment process can be performed with simple equipment, but the measurement precision and productivity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning alignment markers on the rock sample housing before scanning. The housing includes a first end with alignment markers that are pre-configured to align with corresponding markers in the scanner gantry. This preliminary positioning enables automatic alignment during scanning without requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms, thus improving measurement precision while controlling device complexity.
2Productivity
If rock samples are scanned without precise alignment, then the scanning process is faster and simpler, but the accuracy of rock property measurements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service alignment where the rock sample housing itself carries the alignment markers that enable automatic positioning within the scanner gantry. The housing structure includes integrated alignment features that automatically engage with the scanner's positioning system during scanning, eliminating the need for separate alignment operations and maintaining both high productivity and measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If alignment markers and positioning systems are added to the rock sample housing, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity and preparation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the alignment functionality directly into the rock sample housing structure. The housing includes integrated alignment markers and positioning features that are combined with the housing itself rather than being separate components. This merging approach improves alignment precision while minimizing additional device complexity, as the alignment features are inherent to the housing design rather than external additions.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are disclosed herein. A method includes disposing a rock sample in a rock sample housing comprising a first end and a second end. The method includes placing the rock sample housing within a scanner. The method includes translating a sliding main table along a sliding main rail having a length of travel to locate the first end at a first stopping point along the length of travel. The method includes positioning, using a plurality of alignment apparatuses, the first end within a gantry of the scanner along a first planar orientation. The method includes translating the sliding main table along the sliding main rail to locate the second end at a second stopping point along the length of travel. The method includes positioning, using the plurality of alignment apparatuses, the second end within the gantry along the first planar orientation.