Switchable Magnetic Resonator Tines for Fouling Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing well fluid testing technologies face challenges in accurately determining fluid properties due to magnetic particle fouling, which affects measurement accuracy and requires time-consuming cleaning processes, especially in downhole environments where filtration is not possible.
Innovation Solution
The use of a resonator assembly with soft magnetic tine heads that are switchable between magnetic and non-magnetic states, allowing for self-cleaning by demagnetization and fluid flushing, minimizing particle accumulation and enabling continuous operation without maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnetic materials are used in the resonator assembly, then the sensor response and measurement capability are improved, but magnetic particle accumulation fouls the sensor and reduces measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the magnetic properties of the resonator dynamic rather than static. The resonator is designed with switchable magnetic characteristics, allowing it to transition between magnetized and demagnetized states. This dynamic capability enables the sensor to operate in a magnetized state for measurement and then switch to a demagnetized state to prevent magnetic particle accumulation, thereby resolving the contradiction between needing magnetic properties for measurement and avoiding magnetic fouling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by altering the magnetic field parameter of the resonator. By controlling the magnetization level of the resonator material, the system can adjust its magnetic properties to match operational requirements. During measurement, the resonator is magnetized to enhance sensitivity; during cleaning intervals, the magnetization is reduced or eliminated to prevent particle adhesion. This parameter switching resolves the technical contradiction between measurement precision and fouling prevention.
2Measurement precision
If the resonator is cleaned frequently to remove magnetic particles, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but operational time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the continuity principle by enabling the resonator to maintain measurement capability without interruption. The switchable magnetic property allows the sensor to perform measurements continuously by briefly switching to a demagnetized state to shed accumulated particles, then immediately returning to the magnetized state for continued measurement. This eliminates the need for extended cleaning downtime, maintaining both measurement accuracy and operational continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The resonator performs self-cleaning by utilizing its own magnetic field switching capability. When the resonator is demagnetized, magnetic particles that have accumulated on its surface are released and flushed away by the fluid flow. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external cleaning interventions, allowing the sensor to maintain accuracy while continuing operation without productivity loss.
3Ease of operation
If soft magnetic material is used for the tine head, then particle release is improved through demagnetization, but the structural strength and durability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining soft magnetic material with a structurally supportive matrix or coating. The soft magnetic material provides the necessary magnetic properties for particle release, while the composite structure or protective coating maintains the mechanical strength and durability required for harsh downhole environments. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between ease of particle release and structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by applying soft magnetic material specifically to the surface or active region of the tine head where particle interaction occurs, while the bulk material or underlying structure maintains high mechanical strength. This localized application of soft magnetic properties allows particle release functionality without compromising the overall structural integrity of the resonator assembly.
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 ensures accurate and continuous measurement of well fluid properties by preventing magnetic particle fouling, allowing for extended operation without maintenance and improved sensor response in harsh downhole conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a switchable biasing assembly that, when activated, generates a magnetic bias field that magnetizes the soft magnetic tine head
Implementation Method 2
acts on the magnetized soft magnetic head to cause resonant vibration of the magnetized soft magnetic head
Implementation Method 3
a switchable drive assembly that, when activated, acts on the magnetized soft magnetic head to cause resonant vibration
Implementation Method 4
soft magnetic material uncontained by a supporting surface... switchable between a magnetic state producing a magnetic field and a non-magnetic state producing substantially no magnetic field
Data Source
Figure 1A~1D
Figure 1E~1I
Figure 2A~2C
AI summary
Systems, devices and methods for determining a parameter of interest of a well fluid relating to a well intersecting a subterranean formation using resonant vibration. The apparatus may include a resonator assembly. The resonator assembly may comprise a plurality of resonant tines structurally coupled to behave as a single resonator. At least one resonant tine of the plurality of resonant tines may include a soft magnetic tine head comprising soft magnetic material uncontained by a supporting surface. Each corresponding tine of the plurality of resonant tines may be formed by at least the resonant tine head and a tine shaft. Each corresponding tine may have a cross section perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the corresponding tine, the cross section including a tine head, where the cross section has a substantially continuous material composition. Each tine shaft may terminate at the tine head.