Wireless Charging of Subsurface Microsensors Using EM Contrast Agents
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current monitoring methods for subterranean reservoirs are intrusive and unable to provide long-term, high-resolution, in situ measurements inside fractures, limiting the optimization of reservoir performance in both conventional and unconventional oil and gas reservoirs.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising autonomous microsensors, contrast agents, and a control unit that enables remote wireless charging and data transmission, using electromagnetic contrast agents to modify EM properties and facilitate power harvesting in subsurface environments, allowing for long-term, unobtrusive monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional monitoring methods are used in subterranean reservoirs, then production optimization can be achieved, but the monitoring becomes intrusive and cannot provide long-term high-resolution in situ measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces intrusive mechanical monitoring systems with wireless autonomous microsensors that transmit data remotely. These sensors eliminate the need for physical connections and intrusive installation methods, allowing high-resolution measurements of pressure, temperature, and flow rates without interfering with reservoir production.
Solution Approach 2:
The autonomous microsensors are equipped with onboard power sources and self-contained electronics that enable them to operate independently for extended periods. The sensors autonomously monitor reservoir conditions, store data locally, and transmit information wirelessly without requiring external power or maintenance, achieving long-term high-resolution monitoring.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If autonomous microsensors are deployed for long-term monitoring, then unobtrusive high-resolution measurements are achieved, but power supply becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary charging of the microsensors before deployment into the reservoir. Sensors are charged externally to full capacity prior to insertion, providing initial power reserves that enable long-term operation. This preliminary action extends the operational lifetime of sensors in remote subsurface locations where recharging is not feasible.
Solution Approach 2:
The autonomous microsensors are designed to operate in periodic cycles, alternating between low-power measurement modes and higher-power transmission modes. Data is collected continuously at low power consumption, then transmitted in periodic bursts when energy is available, optimizing the balance between monitoring duration and power utilization.
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 reliable, long-term, high-resolution monitoring of subsurface conditions by providing power to embedded sensors through remote charging, enhancing the optimization of reservoir performance and extending sensor operational lifetimes.
Implementation Method 1
a control unit that includes a power source to energize the plurality of autonomous microsensors and contrast agent(s)
Implementation Method 2
one or more receivers for receiving information transmitted from one or more of the plurality of autonomous microsensors... electromagnetic contrast agents to modify EM properties
Data Source
AI summary
Autonomous wireless sensors in subsurface environments can be charged while present in the subsurface environment to allow the sensors to measure and wirelessly transmit measurements. The sensors rely upon a contrast agent to provide a power flow path to the sensors.