Sample Image Quality Control for Real-Time Lithology Analysis

Solution Overview

Problem

The analysis of sample images from geologic formations during drilling is time-consuming, subjective, and inefficient due to human observation, leading to less effective control of the drilling process.

Innovation Solution

An automated system and method that utilize image processing to detect and correct blurriness and saturation in sample images, including a processor-based system to analyze image quality, adjust imaging parameters, and identify lithology of rock samples, generating a detailed record for controlling drilling operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If automated image processing is implemented, then productivity and objectivity are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage analysis speedVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical analysis by geologists with automated electronic image processing systems. The system uses computer algorithms to automatically detect rock properties, replace human observation with machine-based automated detection systems that process images through programmed algorithms, eliminating manual analysis while extracting rock properties directly from digital images

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The image processing system performs self-analysis by automatically detecting rock properties without requiring external human intervention. The system uses self-contained algorithms that autonomously process images, identify lithology, and generate results, making the analysis process independent and self-sufficient

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If manual analysis by geologists is used, then measurement precision is maintained, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelithology identification accuracyVSAvoidanalysis time

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical analysis by geologists with automated electronic image processing systems. The system uses computer algorithms to automatically detect rock properties, replace human observation with machine-based automated detection systems that process images through programmed algorithms, eliminating manual analysis while extracting rock properties directly from digital images

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary automated processing of images to pre-identify rock properties before final analysis. By pre-processing images to detect basic characteristics and pre-classify rock types, the system reduces the time required for detailed analysis while maintaining accuracy through subsequent verification steps

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Manufacturing precision

If image quality requirements are enforced, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to reprocessing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage qualityVSAvoidprocessing throughput

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary automated processing of images to pre-identify rock properties before final analysis. By pre-processing images to detect basic characteristics and pre-classify rock types, the system reduces the time required for detailed analysis while maintaining accuracy through subsequent verification steps

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback mechanisms to monitor image quality metrics and automatically adjust processing parameters. When quality thresholds are not met, the system provides feedback to trigger reprocessing or parameter adjustment, ensuring consistent quality while minimizing unnecessary rework through intelligent decision-making

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20260044944A1Automated method to detect blurriness and saturated pixels from images

Publication Date: 2026.02.12 SCHLUMBERGER TECH CORP

AI summary

Systems and methods are provided for analyzing sample images, such as for cuttings obtained during drilling of a geologic formation. The system utilizes automated image processing to detect and correct blurriness and saturated pixels in the sample images and control related devices based on the detection. The system allows the acquisition of high quality logging curves for real-time and/or near real-time geologic formation evaluation and geosteering.