Sonic Fluid Level Measurement in Wells Using Compressed Gas
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for determining fluid levels in wells are costly, complex, unreliable, and inefficient, particularly for deep downhole systems, and often require shutting down production for measurements, which is not suitable for continuous operation.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a T-Head connector, microphone, gas compression chamber, and computer controller that generates sonic events to measure fluid levels without shutting down the well, using compressed gas to create a sonic event and process data for pump control, allowing continuous operation and accurate fluid level determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If deep downhole fluid level measurement systems are implemented, then fluid level measurement capability is improved, but system cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (fluid level indicator) that floats on the fluid surface and carries reflective elements. This intermediary translates the invisible fluid level into detectable optical signals that can be measured from the surface, avoiding the need for complex deep-downhole measurement systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical/electronic deep-downhole measurement systems with a simple optical detection system. By using reflective elements on a floating indicator and surface-level optical sensors, the system substitutes sophisticated subsurface instrumentation with straightforward optical physics.
2Productivity
If pump operates constantly to maximize production, then production rate is improved, but energy consumption and equipment wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where fluid level measurements continuously inform pump operation decisions. The system automatically adjusts pump runtime based on actual fluid levels, stopping the pump when levels are low and restarting when levels are high, thereby optimizing energy use while maintaining production.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from static constant-speed pumping to dynamic variable-speed operation. The pump operates at varying speeds and durations based on real-time fluid level conditions, maximizing productivity during high-level periods and conserving energy during low-level periods.
3Productivity
If pump runs at high speed to maximize fluid removal, then production is improved, but risk of pumping dry and equipment damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses continuous fluid level monitoring with feedback control to adjust pump operation. When fluid levels approach dangerous lows, the system automatically reduces or stops pump operation, preventing dry-running conditions that would damage equipment while maintaining high-speed operation during safe conditions.
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
Enables cost-effective, reliable, and continuous fluid level measurement in wells, optimizing pump operation while minimizing energy consumption and reducing wear on equipment, applicable to various well types and depths up to 10,000 feet.
Implementation Method 1
a gas compression chamber connected with said T-Head connector... to compress gas from the wellhead to obtain a compressed gas at a greater pressure than that of the wellhead
Data Source
AI summary
A device for employing sonic transmissions is utilized to determine fluid level in a well or a container. The device may be utilized while the well is operating. It is known that wells replenish fluid at different rates even in the same formation or well field. Increased well production at minimum pumping cost is achieved for a given well. The device generates a sonic event through the use of a compressed fluid that is obtained from within a well. A fluid level measurement system is obtained in a well in which gas is produced under vacuum.