Wellbore Probe Position Detection Using Pressure And Timers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wellbore probe systems rely on linear potentiometers for position sensing, which increase machining and wiring complexity, particularly in smaller tools, and do not efficiently determine proper probe sealing or identify oversized boreholes.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing motor rpm and pressure signals, combined with timers and existing motor-pump and pressure transducer relationships, to determine probe position without the need for linear measurement sensors, allowing for accurate sealing detection and identification of oversized boreholes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If linear potentiometers are used for position sensing, then probe position can be determined, but machining and wiring complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the linear potentiometer (position sensing device) from the probe system entirely. Instead, it uses the existing motor-pump system's pressure signals and timing information to determine probe position, thereby extracting the unnecessary complex component while retaining position determination capability through alternative means
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical position sensing system (linear potentiometer) with an integrated hydraulic-electronic system. By utilizing pressure transducer readings from the existing motor-pump hydraulic system and combining them with timing data, the system substitutes mechanical measurement with a integrated field-based measurement approach
2Measurement precision
If linear sensors are installed, then probe position can be measured, but tool complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing motor-pump system multi-functional by using its pressure transducer not only for hydraulic control but also for position sensing. This universal use of existing components eliminates the need for dedicated linear sensors, reducing tool complexity while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own existing components (motor-pump pressure signals and timing mechanisms) to determine probe position, rather than relying on external sensing devices. This self-service approach leverages already-installed infrastructure to provide position measurement functionality
3Loss of information
If traditional position sensing is used, then probe location can be tracked, but sealing detection efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges position determination and sealing detection functions into a single integrated process. By combining pressure transducer readings with timing information from the motor-pump system, the method simultaneously determines probe position and detects sealing status, eliminating the need for separate measurement steps and improving overall efficiency
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 method reduces complexity and cost by eliminating the need for linear sensors, saving time and resources by ensuring proper sealing before performing sampling and measurement processes, and reducing maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
pressing the piston assembly with the motor pump while monitoring a pressure signal of the hydraulic fluid in the piston assembly
Implementation Method 2
monitoring a pressure signal of the hydraulic fluid in the piston assembly
Data Source
AI summary
In various wellbore test systems, a probe mechanism that is extended to contact the formation within a wellbore, and retracted to allow movement of the test system, both rotationally and longitudinally, within the wellbore. A combination including monitoring an actuation fluid pressure used to actuate the probe mechanism to extend and to retract, and the use of one or more timers, provide information used to determine the position of the probe mechanism during the extension and retraction movements.