X-ray Source and Detector Array for Porous Medium Fluid Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for analyzing fluid in porous media are cumbersome and time-consuming, particularly when trying to measure dynamic fluid properties in opaque samples, as they require sequential punctual measurements and struggle with the low attenuating power of fluids compared to the solid matrix.
Innovation Solution
A device with a hyperstable X-ray source that illuminates a surface of the sample simultaneously, using a two-dimensional array detector to collect data from multiple points without moving the source or sample, along with a reference sample for signal calibration and controlled temperature/pressure units, allowing for simultaneous detection and analysis of fluid properties across the sample surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sequential punctual measurements are used to analyze fluid in opaque porous medium, then measurement precision can be achieved, but acquisition time becomes very long and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional sequential point measurements to two-dimensional simultaneous surface illumination and detection. The X-ray source illuminates an entire surface of the sample simultaneously, and the detector array captures signals from multiple points across the surface at the same time, converting a sequential 1D measurement process into a parallel 2D measurement process that dramatically reduces acquisition time.
Solution Approach 2:
The detector is divided into multiple sensing areas or pixels arranged in an array, where each sensing area independently detects X-rays from a specific region of the sample surface. This segmentation allows simultaneous measurement of multiple points across the sample, transforming a single-point sequential measurement system into a multi-point parallel measurement system.
2Measurement precision
If sequential punctual measurements are performed along the sample axis, then local fluid properties can be determined, but the method becomes cumbersome and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extends measurement capability from a single line along the sample axis to an entire two-dimensional surface of the sample. By illuminating the whole surface simultaneously and using an array detector to capture signals from multiple spatial positions, the system achieves comprehensive spatial coverage without requiring mechanical movement or complex positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The X-ray source and detector array combination serves multiple measurement functions simultaneously - it can determine fluid properties at multiple locations across the entire sample surface in a single measurement cycle, eliminating the need for separate measurements at each position and simplifying the overall measurement process.
3Loss of information
If X-ray measurements are performed through opaque porous medium, then fluid content information can be obtained, but the low attenuating power of fluids makes the measurement signal very weak
Solution Approach 1:
The detector is segmented into multiple sensing areas that can independently measure X-ray attenuation at different locations. This allows the system to collect and process signals from multiple regions simultaneously, improving the statistical quality of measurements and enabling better detection of weak fluid signals against the strong background of the opaque porous matrix.
Solution Approach 2:
By measuring across the entire sample surface simultaneously rather than at single points, the system accumulates signal information from a large number of detector elements. This spatial integration across two dimensions enhances the signal-to-noise ratio and improves the ability to detect weak fluid attenuation signals through the opaque porous medium.
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 fast and precise, dynamic analysis of fluid properties in porous media with reduced acquisition time, providing a global view of fluid proportions and evolution over time, improving sensitivity and efficiency compared to traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
The detector detects a photon count. Depending on the absorbance of the sample, the fluid content at the measurement point can be determined, for example using Beer-Lambert law.
Implementation Method 2
X-rays are emitted by the source, go through the sample at a punctual position on the sample, and are recovered by the detector. The detector detects a photon count. Depending on the absorbance of the sample, the fluid content at the measurement point can be determined
Data Source
AI summary
The device comprises: a measurement cell, configured for receiving a sample of porous medium containing a fluid comprising one or more phases; a X-ray source, configured for illuminating the measurement cell with X-rays; a detector, placed opposite the X-ray source with regards to the measurement cell, the detector being configured for receiving X-rays arising from the sample contained in the measurement cell. The X-ray source is configured for illuminating simultaneously at least a surface of the sample without relative movement between the X-ray source and the sample, the detector comprising a plurality of sensing areas configured for selectively detecting X-rays arising from different points on the surface of the sample.