Rock Wettability Analysis via Digital Image Segmentation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining wettability of rock samples from reservoirs are limited, as they typically analyze only a small number of samples, leading to incomplete data and affecting reservoir project economics, oil recovery, and flood performance.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing image analysis techniques to determine a wettability indicator by segmenting digital images of core samples into hydrocarbon, water-bearing, and rock phases, calculating the hydrocarbon and water wet fractions to assess wettability, which can be performed on a computer system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional methods are used to determine wettability, then the analysis is simpler, but the sample volume is limited and data completeness is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses digital image copies of rock samples instead of analyzing physical samples directly. Multiple digital images are captured from different locations and orientations, creating virtual representations that can be analyzed without handling additional physical material. This allows comprehensive analysis of larger effective sample volumes through imaging rather than physical examination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the wettability determination from a limited physical measurement to a multi-parameter digital analysis. By capturing images at different orientations (0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) and processing them through segmentation and fractal dimension calculations, the system analyzes multiple parameters simultaneously to comprehensively assess wettability across larger sample volumes.
2Measurement precision
If image analysis is used to determine wettability, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex image analysis process into distinct automated steps: image acquisition at multiple orientations, image segmentation to identify pore structures, fractal dimension calculation for each segment, and synthesis of wettability indicators. This segmentation allows precise measurement through systematic digital processing while managing complexity through automated workflows.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces digital image processing algorithms as intermediaries between the physical rock samples and the wettability measurement. The image analysis software acts as a mediator that translates visual information from multiple orientations into quantitative wettability indicators, enabling precise measurement without direct complex physical manipulation.
3Loss of information
If more samples are analyzed, then the data completeness improves, but the time required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous automated image acquisition and processing across multiple orientations and sample locations. Instead of discrete manual examinations, the system continuously captures images at 0°, 45°, 90°, and 135° orientations and automatically processes them through segmentation and fractal dimension calculations, maintaining useful action throughout to comprehensively assess wettability without manual intervention delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary digital processing of images from all orientations before final wettability determination. By pre-segmenting images, calculating fractal dimensions for all orientations, and preparing wettability indicators in advance, the system reduces the time required for final analysis while ensuring complete data from all sample locations is incorporated.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is disclosed for determining wettability in a subsurface reservoir. Embodiments of the method utilize image analysis techniques for determining wettability indicator values. Wettability indicator values may be determined based on a hydrocarbon wet fraction and a water wet fraction of pore linings, which may both be determined by image analysis of pore walls lined with hydrocarbons using images of sections obtained from core samples. Further details and advantages of various embodiments of the method are described in more detail herein.