Seismic Interface Box for Multi-Sensor Fracture Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for evaluating fracture geometry in subterranean formations are inefficient due to their reliance on single sensor-based approaches, which require extensive time for data collection and are prone to interference from environmental changes, such as magnetic fields and surface movements, limiting the accuracy of fracture visualization and production prediction.
Innovation Solution
A seismic interface box that converts data from various sensors, including electromagnetic, electrical, gravimetric, and magnetic sensors, into voltage-based signals compatible with conventional seismic recorders, allowing for simultaneous, real-time measurements across multiple stations, and the use of electrically active proppants to track fracture characteristics, enabling accurate 3D and 4D mapping of fracture geometry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If single sensor-based approaches are used to measure fracture geometry data, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to environmental interference and time-consuming individual measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensors (electromagnetic, electrical, gravimetric, and magnetic sensors) into a single integrated measurement system. This merging of sensors allows simultaneous collection of multiple types of geophysical data, improving measurement precision and reliability while reducing the overall time required for data collection compared to individual sensor approaches.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is designed to perform multiple functions by incorporating various sensor types that can detect different physical phenomena (electromagnetic fields, electrical potentials, gravitational variations, magnetic fields). This multi-functional approach enables comprehensive fracture geometry evaluation through a single deployed system, enhancing both precision and efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If single sensor-based approaches are used to collect fracture data, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to extensive time required for individual measurements and grid-like data collection
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple sensors into one integrated system, the patent enables simultaneous data collection across different physical domains. This eliminates the need for sequential deployment and measurement with individual sensors, dramatically improving productivity while maintaining operational simplicity through a unified control interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous and simultaneous measurement of multiple geophysical parameters throughout the fracture monitoring process. Rather than performing discrete, time-separated measurements with single sensors, the integrated system continuously collects all types of data concurrently, maximizing productivity without complicating the operational workflow.
3Adaptability or versatility
If individual sensors are moved back and forth in a grid pattern to map fracture data, then adaptability to different measurement locations is improved, but loss of time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple sensor capabilities into a single deployable unit that can simultaneously measure electromagnetic, electrical, gravimetric, and magnetic fields. This allows the system to adapt to different measurement locations and fracture geometries without requiring sequential deployment of multiple individual sensors, significantly reducing the time lost to repeated setup and measurement cycles.
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
This solution enables precise and efficient evaluation of fracture geometry, reducing measurement time and environmental interference, allowing for more accurate prediction of production rates and successful fracturing outcomes by providing detailed, real-time data on fracture dimensions and flow characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
a circuit disposed in the housing for converting data from the sensor to a seismic data compatible format
Implementation Method 2
energizing the fracture fluid while the fracture propagates; and measuring the inducted electromagnetic field parameters
Implementation Method 3
injecting conductive fracture fluid into the formation to initiate and propagate the fracture; energizing the fracture fluid
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for evaluating the geometry of a fracture.