Solid Core Sample Analysis for Hydrocarbon Property Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for determining hydrocarbon properties in hydrocarbon reservoirs, such as fluid type, GOR, and CGR, are costly and inefficient due to the need for multiple fluid samples, and the vertical isolation in unconventional shale reservoirs complicates the determination of zones connected to horizontal wells via hydraulic fractures.
Innovation Solution
Determine hydrocarbon properties using solid core sample data through modules for oil formation volume factor, fluid type, gas/oil ratio, and condensate/gas ratio, utilizing a hydrocarbon property tool to analyze solid core samples from hydrocarbon reservoirs, including rock, tar, and mud, and generate accurate hydrocarbon property outputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional methods are used to determine hydrocarbon properties (fluid type, GOR, CGR), then accurate measurements can be obtained, but multiple fluid samples are required which increases cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the necessary information for determining hydrocarbon properties from solid core sample data rather than requiring multiple fluid samples. By analyzing solid core samples, the system extracts oil formation volume factor and gas/oil ratio information directly from the solid matrix, eliminating the need for multiple fluid sample collections while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional system that can determine multiple hydrocarbon properties (fluid type, GOR, CGR, oil formation volume factor) from a single solid core sample analysis. This universal approach allows one sample to provide comprehensive reservoir fluid characterization that previously required multiple specialized fluid samples.
2Loss of information
If multiple fluid samples are collected to determine hydrocarbon properties, then comprehensive data can be obtained, but the cost and time for exploration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary analysis by determining oil formation volume factor and gas/oil ratio from solid core sample data before conducting full hydrocarbon property characterization. This preliminary action using readily available solid core data prepares the foundation for accurate fluid type, GOR, and CGR determination, reducing the need for extensive additional sampling and analysis time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses solid core sample data as a proxy or copy that contains the necessary information to infer fluid properties. By analyzing the solid matrix characteristics and using established relationships, the system copies the essential hydrocarbon property information that would otherwise require direct fluid sample measurement, significantly reducing time and cost.
3Productivity
If solid core sample data is used to determine hydrocarbon properties, then cost and sample requirements are reduced, but new methods for analysis are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of collecting and analyzing multiple fluid samples with a computational approach using solid core sample data. Instead of physical fluid handling and laboratory analysis of multiple samples, the system uses data processing and calculation methods to determine hydrocarbon properties, significantly improving productivity while the computational complexity is managed through systematic algorithms.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of determining an oil formation volume factor based on solid core sample data; and determining a gas/oil ratio based on the oil formation volume factor. Also, non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by a processor of an electronic device, cause the electronic device to: determine an oil formation volume factor based on solid core sample data; and determine a gas/oil ratio based on the oil formation volume factor