Viscosity Measurement Using Magnetic Coupling and IMU
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring the rheological properties of fluids used in well drilling operations, such as viscosity, are inconsistent due to changes in downhole pressures and temperatures, making it difficult to predict how these fluids will behave in subterranean environments.
Innovation Solution
A viscosity measurement system comprising a rotor cup, a bob, and a magnetic coupling with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) that allows for rotation of the fluid under controlled pressure and temperature conditions, enabling accurate measurement of fluid viscosity by sensing the angular acceleration of the magnetic coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fluid viscosity is measured at surface conditions using known devices, then measurement can be performed easily, but the measured characteristics are inconsistent with downhole fluid behavior
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by controlling and adjusting temperature and pressure parameters within the rotor cup to simulate downhole conditions. The system varies these parameters to match specific downhole environments, allowing viscosity measurements to reflect actual downhole fluid behavior rather than surface conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection systems with a magnetic coupling system. The magnetic coupling transfers rotational motion from the drive shaft to the rotor cup without direct mechanical contact, reducing friction and wear while enabling precise control of the rotor under controlled temperature and pressure conditions.
2Reliability
If downhole conditions are simulated to achieve accurate viscosity measurements, then fluid behavior prediction improves, but measurement system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system controls temperature and pressure parameters within the rotor cup to simulate specific downhole conditions. By adjusting these parameters, the system reliably predicts fluid behavior at downhole temperatures and pressures, making the measurement system adaptable to various downhole environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotor cup is nested within the housing, creating a contained environment where temperature and pressure can be controlled independently. This nested structure allows the system to simulate downhole conditions within a compact configuration, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement reliability.
3Measurement precision
If magnetic coupling with IMU is used to measure angular acceleration, then viscosity measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical connection and measurement systems with a magnetic coupling system equipped with an inertial measurement unit (IMU). The magnetic coupling transfers rotation while the IMU measures angular acceleration, providing precise viscosity data without the complexity of direct mechanical linkages and their associated friction and wear issues.
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 precise measurement of fluid viscosity and rheological properties under downhole conditions, ensuring that fluids chosen for well operations can effectively suspend particulates and perform optimally in high-pressure, high-temperature environments.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic coupling with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) that allows for rotation of the fluid under controlled pressure and temperature conditions
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic coupling with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) that allows for rotation of the fluid under controlled pressure and temperature conditions, enabling accurate measurement of fluid viscosity by sensing the angular acceleration of the magnetic coupling
Implementation Method 3
A viscosity measurement system comprising a rotor cup, a bob, and a magnetic coupling with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) that allows for rotation of the fluid under controlled pressure and temperature conditions, enabling accurate measurement of fluid viscosity
Data Source
AI summary
A system for measuring the viscosity of a fluid comprises a rotor cup; a bob disposed within the rotor cup and having shaft rotatably coupled to the rotor cup; a bearing connecting the shaft of the bob to the rotor cup; a magnetic coupling comprising a first magnetic element connected to the shaft of the bob and a second magnetic element disposed outside the rotor cup adjacent to the first magnetic element; and an inertial measurement unit disposed adjacent to the second magnetic element which is capable of sensing rotation of the magnetic coupling.