Variable Size Sampling Apparatus for Downhole Fluid Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of reservoir characterization requires a growing number of samples, which contradicts the expense of redesigning downhole sampling tools to accommodate varying sample volumes, necessitating a solution to enhance existing sampling capabilities without full tool redesign.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a variable size sample container system that allows existing downhole sampling tools to be retrofitted with multiple, sized sampling chambers, enabling flexible sampling volume configurations through actuated valves and pressure/pulse-activated mechanisms for efficient fluid sampling and sequencing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If downhole sampling tools are redesigned to accommodate varying sample volumes, then sampling versatility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling tool is divided into multiple independent sampling chambers of different sizes that can be selectively activated. Each chamber is a separate module that can be independently controlled through valve mechanisms, allowing the tool to provide different sample volumes (e.g., 200 mL, 40 mL, or 1 mL) without requiring a completely redesigned tool for each volume requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling tool incorporates dynamic valve control mechanisms that can be actuated from the surface to selectively open or close specific sampling chambers. This dynamic control system allows the tool to adapt its sampling capacity in real-time based on the specific sampling requirements, transitioning between different operational modes without physical reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sampling chambers of different sizes are implemented, then sampling flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single downhole sampling tool is designed to perform multiple sampling functions by incorporating various chamber sizes (e.g., 200 mL, 40 mL, 1 mL) within the same tool body. The universal tool design uses common valve control mechanisms and flow paths that can serve all chamber types, eliminating the need for separate specialized tools for different sampling volume requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sampling chambers of different sizes are nested within the same tool housing, with smaller chambers positioned within or adjacent to larger chambers. This nested arrangement allows compact integration of multiple sampling capacities in a single tool, where the 1 mL chamber can be positioned within the 40 mL or 200 mL chamber structure, maximizing space utilization while maintaining operational independence.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing sampling tools are retrofitted with variable size chambers, then sampling adaptability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retrofitting process divides the sampling tool into modular chambers that can be independently manufactured and then assembled into the existing tool body. Each chamber module (200 mL, 40 mL, or 1 mL) can be produced separately using standardized components, and then integrated into the existing tool through predetermined connection interfaces, simplifying the manufacturing process compared to custom tool fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The retrofitting approach uses standardized chamber designs that can be configured in different size parameters within the same tool platform. By maintaining consistent connection protocols, valve actuation mechanisms, and flow path configurations across all chamber sizes, the manufacturing process becomes highly parameterizable, allowing the same production line to create different chamber configurations without requiring complete tool redesign.
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 approach allows for efficient and flexible sampling operations, enabling multiple sample sizes to be obtained without tool redesign, improving sampling efficiency and reducing costs by utilizing existing tool modules with enhanced sampling chamber configurations.
Implementation Method 1
Pressure differential may be used to activate the valves and control the flow of fluid into the selected sampling chambers
Implementation Method 2
Pulse pressure or electrical signals, or both, can be used to sequentially activate the valves
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, an apparatus and a system, as well as a method and an article, may operate to terminate sampling of fluid into one of a set of fluid sampling chambers sharing a common inflow sampling line by operating a set of closure mechanisms. Further activity may include initiating sampling of the fluid into another one of the set of fluid sampling 5 chambers, wherein the fluid sampling chambers are configured to sample the fluid in the sampling line in a selected sequence, such that filling a prior fluid sampling chamber as part of the sequence enables sampling in the next fluid sampling chamber as part of the sequence, and wherein the closure mechanisms comprise individual check valves 10 and a common diversion valve or individual diversion valves. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed.