A wellbore inspection device includes a radiation generation source operable to emit neutrons, and a radiation detector fixed relative to the radiation generation source and operable to detect backscattered neutron radiation from a surrounding environment. The radiation detector includes a plurality of individually addressable detector elements arranged in one or more concentric rings. Respective amounts of backscattered neutron radiation detected by the individually addressable detector elements within a ring is indicative of the azimuthal direction of the detected backscattered neutron radiation, and the respective amount of backscattered neutron radiation detected by the individually addressable detector elements of two or more concentric rings is indicative of an energy level of the backscattered neutron radiation. The inspection device determines whether a potential anomaly is present in or around the wellbore, based at least in part on the respective amounts of backscattered radiation detected by the individually addressable detector elements.
G01V 5/10 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging using primary nuclear radiation sources or X-rays using neutron sources
E21B 47/08 - Measuring diameters or related dimensions at the borehole
E21B 47/10 - Locating fluid leaks, intrusions or movements
E21B 47/12 - Means for transmitting measuring-signals or control signals from the well to the surface, or from the surface to the well, e.g. for logging while drilling
E21B 47/16 - Means for transmitting measuring-signals or control signals from the well to the surface, or from the surface to the well, e.g. for logging while drilling using acoustic waves through the drill string or casing
G01V 1/44 - SeismologySeismic or acoustic prospecting or detecting specially adapted for well-logging using generators and receivers in the same well
G01V 3/30 - Electric or magnetic prospecting or detectingMeasuring magnetic field characteristics of the earth, e.g. declination or deviation specially adapted for well-logging operating with electromagnetic waves
G01V 5/14 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging using primary nuclear radiation sources or X-rays using a combination of several sources, e.g. a neutron and a gamma source
G01V 8/16 - Detecting, e.g. by using light barriers using one transmitter and one receiver using optical fibres
G01V 11/00 - Prospecting or detecting by methods combining techniques covered by two or more of main groups
2.
Data fusion enhanced multi-modality wellbore integrity inspection system
A downhole multi-modality inspection system includes a first imaging device operable to generate first imaging data and a second imaging device operable to generate second imaging data. The first imaging device includes a first source operable to emit energy of a first modality, and a first detector operable to detect returning energy induced by the emitted energy of the first modality. The second imaging device includes a second source operable to emit energy of a second modality, and a second detector operable to detect returning energy induced by the emitted energy of the second modality. The system further includes a processor configured to receive the first imaging data and the second imaging data, and integrate the first imaging data with the second imaging data into an enhanced data stream. The processor correlates the first imaging data and the second imaging data to provide enhanced data for detecting potential wellbore anomalies.
E21B 47/16 - Means for transmitting measuring-signals or control signals from the well to the surface, or from the surface to the well, e.g. for logging while drilling using acoustic waves through the drill string or casing
G01V 5/10 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging using primary nuclear radiation sources or X-rays using neutron sources
E21B 47/13 - Means for transmitting measuring-signals or control signals from the well to the surface, or from the surface to the well, e.g. for logging while drilling by electromagnetic energy, e.g. of radio frequency range
E21B 47/085 - Measuring diameters or related dimensions at the borehole using radiant means, e.g. acoustic, radioactive or electromagnetic
E21B 47/117 - Detecting leaks, e.g. from tubing, by pressure testing
E21B 47/135 - Means for transmitting measuring-signals or control signals from the well to the surface, or from the surface to the well, e.g. for logging while drilling by electromagnetic energy, e.g. of radio frequency range using light waves, e.g. infrared or ultraviolet waves
G01V 1/44 - SeismologySeismic or acoustic prospecting or detecting specially adapted for well-logging using generators and receivers in the same well
G01V 3/30 - Electric or magnetic prospecting or detectingMeasuring magnetic field characteristics of the earth, e.g. declination or deviation specially adapted for well-logging operating with electromagnetic waves
G01V 5/14 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging using primary nuclear radiation sources or X-rays using a combination of several sources, e.g. a neutron and a gamma source
G01V 8/16 - Detecting, e.g. by using light barriers using one transmitter and one receiver using optical fibres
G01V 11/00 - Prospecting or detecting by methods combining techniques covered by two or more of main groups
3.
DATA FUSION ENHANCED MULTI-MODALITY WELLBORE INTEGRITY INSPECTION SYSTEM
A downhole multi-modality inspection system (300) includes a first imaging device (302) operable to generate first imaging data and a second imaging device (304) operable to generate second imaging data. The first imaging device (302) includes a first source operable to emit energy of a first modahty, and a first detector operable to detect returning energy induced by the emitted energy of the first modahty. The second imaging device (304) includes a second source operable to emit energy of a second modahty, and a second detector operable to detect returning energy induced by the emitted energy of the second modahty. The system (300) further includes a processor (808) configured to receive the first imaging data and the second imaging data, and integrate the first imaging data with the second imaging data into an enhanced data stream. The processor (808) correlates the first imaging data and the second imaging data to provide enhanced data for detecting potential wellbore anomahes.
A downhole inspection system includes a neutron imaging device operable to generate data for detecting potential wellbore anomalies and an electromagnetic imaging device operable to generate data for detecting potential wellbore eccentricity. The neutron imaging device includes a neutron generator operable to emit neutrons, and a neutron detector fixed relative to the neutron generation unit and operable to detect backscattered neutrons from a surrounding environment. The electromagnetic imaging device includes at least one transmitter for generating electromagnetic pulse, and at least one receiver for detecting returning electromagnetic pulse. Correlation of the neutron imaging data with the electromagnetic imaging data provides additional data regarding the potential wellbore anomalies.
G01V 1/40 - SeismologySeismic or acoustic prospecting or detecting specially adapted for well-logging
G01V 5/10 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging using primary nuclear radiation sources or X-rays using neutron sources
E21B 47/13 - Means for transmitting measuring-signals or control signals from the well to the surface, or from the surface to the well, e.g. for logging while drilling by electromagnetic energy, e.g. of radio frequency range
E21B 47/085 - Measuring diameters or related dimensions at the borehole using radiant means, e.g. acoustic, radioactive or electromagnetic
E21B 47/117 - Detecting leaks, e.g. from tubing, by pressure testing
E21B 47/135 - Means for transmitting measuring-signals or control signals from the well to the surface, or from the surface to the well, e.g. for logging while drilling by electromagnetic energy, e.g. of radio frequency range using light waves, e.g. infrared or ultraviolet waves
E21B 47/16 - Means for transmitting measuring-signals or control signals from the well to the surface, or from the surface to the well, e.g. for logging while drilling using acoustic waves through the drill string or casing
G01V 1/44 - SeismologySeismic or acoustic prospecting or detecting specially adapted for well-logging using generators and receivers in the same well
G01V 3/30 - Electric or magnetic prospecting or detectingMeasuring magnetic field characteristics of the earth, e.g. declination or deviation specially adapted for well-logging operating with electromagnetic waves
G01V 5/14 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging using primary nuclear radiation sources or X-rays using a combination of several sources, e.g. a neutron and a gamma source
G01V 8/16 - Detecting, e.g. by using light barriers using one transmitter and one receiver using optical fibres
G01V 11/00 - Prospecting or detecting by methods combining techniques covered by two or more of main groups
5.
WELLBORE DETECTOR WITH AZIMUTHAL AND SPECTRAL ENERGY RESOLUTION
A wellbore inspection device (200) includes a radiation generation source (202) operable to emit neutrons, and a radiation detector (204) fixed relative to the radiation generation source (202) and operable to detect backscattered neutron radiation (218) from a surrounding environment. The radiation detector (204) includes a plurality of individually addressable detector elements (206) arranged in one or more concentric rings (208, 210, 212). Respective amounts of backscattered neutron radiation (218) detected by the individually addressable detector elements (206) within a ring (206) is indicative of the azimuthal direction of the detected backscattered neutron radiation (218), and the respective amount of backscattered neutron radiation (218) detected by the individually addressable detector elements (206) of two or more concentric rings (208, 210) is indicative of an energy level of the backscattered neutron radiation (218). The inspection device (200) determines whether a potential anomaly is present in or around the wellbore, based at least in part on the respective amounts of backscattered radiation (218) detected by the individually addressable detector elements (206).
G01V 5/10 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging using primary nuclear radiation sources or X-rays using neutron sources
G01V 5/04 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging
6.
MULTI-BARRIER WELLBORE INTEGRITY INSPECTION SYSTEM WITH ECCENTRICITY CORRECTION
A downhole inspection system (300) includes a neutron imaging device (302) operable to generate data for detecting potential wellbore anomalies and an electromagnetic imaging device (304) operable to generate data for detecting potential wellbore eccentricity. The neutron imaging device (302) includes a neutron generator (402) operable to emit neutrons (416), and a neutron detector (404) fixed relative to the neutron generator (402) and operable to detect backscattered neutrons (418) from a surrounding environment. The electromagnetic imaging device (302) includes at least one transmitter (312) for generating electromagnetic pulse, and at least one receiver (314) for detecting returning electromagnetic pulse. Correlation of the neutron imaging data with the electromagnetic imaging data provides additional data regarding the potential wellbore anomalies.
G01V 5/08 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging using primary nuclear radiation sources or X-rays
G01V 5/10 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging using primary nuclear radiation sources or X-rays using neutron sources
G01V 5/12 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging using primary nuclear radiation sources or X-rays using gamma- or X-ray sources
G01V 5/14 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging using primary nuclear radiation sources or X-rays using a combination of several sources, e.g. a neutron and a gamma source
A drilling system (100) includes a sensor (110), an encoder (112) operably connected to the sensor and a pressure pulse generator (114) operably connected to the encoder. The pressure pulse generator is configured to produce a primary signal in response to input from the encoder. The drilling system further includes a primary transducer (122), a reference transducer (124) and a signal processor (126) connected to the primary transducer and the reference transducer. The signal processor includes a two-stage filter (128) that is configured to extract the primary signal from noise observed at the primary transducer.
E21B 47/18 - Means for transmitting measuring-signals or control signals from the well to the surface, or from the surface to the well, e.g. for logging while drilling using acoustic waves through the well fluid
8.
DOWNHOLE LOGGING SYSTEM WITH SOLID STATE PHOTOMULTIPLIER
A detector assembly for use in detecting radiation includes a scintillator and a solid state photomultiplier coupled to the scintillator. The detector assembly may include a light guide connected between the scintillator and the solid state photomultiplier. The detector assembly may be used within a receiver in a logging instrument for use downhole. The receiver is configured to detect radiation produced by an emitter or from naturally occurring sources.
A Y-tool (110) is configured for use with a pumping system (100) that includes an electric submersible pump (108) and bypass tubing (112). The Y-tool (110) includes a slave valve assembly (134) that controls access to the bypass tubing (112). The Y-tool (110) also includes a master valve assembly (132) driven by pressure from the electric submersible pump (108) and a linkage assembly (136) connected between the master valve assembly (132) and the slave valve assembly (134).
A Y-tool (110) is configured for use with a pumping system (100) that includes an electric submersible pump (108) and bypass tubing (112). The Y-tool (110) includes a slave valve assembly (134) that controls access to the bypass tubing (112). The Y-tool (110) also includes a master valve assembly (132) driven by pressure from the electric submersible pump (108) and a linkage assembly (136) connected between the master valve assembly (132) and the slave valve assembly (134).
A Y-tool is configured for use with a pumping system that includes an electric submersible pump and bypass tubing. The Y-tool includes a slave valve assembly that controls access to the bypass tubing. The Y-tool also includes a master valve assembly driven by pressure from the electric submersible pump and a linkage assembly connected between the master valve assembly and the slave valve assembly.
F04C 14/26 - Control of, monitoring of, or safety arrangements for, machines, pumps or pumping installations characterised by using valves controlling pressure or flow rate, e.g. discharge valves using bypass channels
F16K 5/06 - Taps or cocks comprising only cut-off apparatus having at least one of the sealing faces shaped as a more or less complete surface of a solid of revolution, the opening and closing movement being predominantly rotary with plugs having spherical surfacesPackings therefor
F16K 31/12 - Operating meansReleasing devices actuated by fluid
F16K 15/04 - Check valves with guided rigid valve members shaped as balls
E21B 34/00 - Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells
F04D 13/10 - Units comprising pumps and their driving means the pump being electrically driven for submerged use adapted for use in mining bore holes
An integrated nuclear sensor includes a scintillator (212) connected directly to the photocathode (208) of a photomultiplier tube (210). The scintillator may be thermally fused to the photocathode. The scintillator can be supported within a scintillator housing (218) by a potting layer (404) that is formed from an elastomer. The scintillator can include a reflector (214) or a reflective coating (302) applied to the outside surface of the scintillator. The reflective coating can be a vapor deposition coating applied to the scintillator.
A steam-assisted hydrocarbon recovery system includes a wellbore, a wellhead connected to the wellbore, and a steam plant. The steam plant includes a steam generator, one or more steam lines connected between the steam generator and the wellhead, and a sensor module configured to measure a steam characteristic in the steam line near the wellhead. The steam-assisted hydrocarbon recovery system may also include an artificial lift system. Measurements made by the sensor module can be used to optimize the production of steam and the operation of the artificial lift system.
A steam-assisted hydrocarbon recovery system includes a wellbore, a wellhead connected to the wellbore, and a steam plant. The steam plant includes a steam generator, one or more steam lines connected between the steam generator and the wellhead, and a sensor module configured to measure a steam characteristic in the steam line near the wellhead. The steam-assisted hydrocarbon recovery system may also include an artificial lift system. Measurements made by the sensor module can be used to optimize the production of steam and the operation of the artificial lift system.
A measurement while drilling (MWD) tool includes a sensor, an encoder operably connected to the sensor and a modulator operably connected to the encoder. The modulator includes a first stator, a rotor and a second stator. The rotor is optimally positioned between the first and second stator. The use of a second stator amplifies the pressure pulse signal produced by the modulator.
E21B 47/18 - Means for transmitting measuring-signals or control signals from the well to the surface, or from the surface to the well, e.g. for logging while drilling using acoustic waves through the well fluid
16.
Methods and systems for scan analysis of a core sample
System for analyzing scan data of a core sample includes an imaging system for obtaining images of a first segment and a second segment of the core sample, and one or more processors for receiving the images of the first segment and the second segment, and setting the images of the first segment adjacent to the images of the second segment coaxially in series to form a stacked image. The method includes receiving image data of segments of the core sample, determining values representative of one or more physical characteristics of the core sample, comparing the values to known reference information of a material similar to the material of the core sample, and determining the one or more physical characteristics of the core sample based at least in part on the comparison.
An automated system for handling core samples in and out of an imaging device retrieves the samples from a staging area. During handling, the identity of each core sample is known to the system so that the imaging results are correlated appropriately. The system positions the core sample so the vertical and slab side orientations of the core sample discernable during handling. Core samples are staged in a location, and the automated system includes a robotic arm, which senses the core sample to discern its vertical and slab slot orientations, and then loads the core sample into the imaging device. When imaging is complete, the automated system removes the core sample from the imaging device; and in designated circumstances, transfers the core sample to a location for further analysis. In one example the further analysis is based on analyzing areas of interest identified in the core sample.
G01N 21/3581 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light using far infrared lightInvestigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light using Terahertz radiation
G01N 21/359 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light using near infrared light
A method and system for analyzing a core sample from a wellbore, where the analysis takes place in the field and proximate the wellbore. The system includes trailers adjacent one another and on a drilling pad, so that real time analysis of the core sample can occur after being extracted from the wellbore. One of the trailers can include a scanning unit for scanning the core sample and obtaining information within the core sample. Other trailers can include units that further analyze the core sample, such as by grinding, laser induced breakdown spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and scanning the core material nano-structure. The core sample scanning involves a computed tomography (CT) scan, where a length of core sample is analyzed in the scanning unit.
G01N 23/04 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of wave or particle radiation, e.g. X-rays or neutrons, not covered by groups , or by transmitting the radiation through the material and forming images of the material
G01V 5/04 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging
G01V 5/08 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging using primary nuclear radiation sources or X-rays
G01V 5/12 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging using primary nuclear radiation sources or X-rays using gamma- or X-ray sources
G01V 5/14 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity specially adapted for well-logging using primary nuclear radiation sources or X-rays using a combination of several sources, e.g. a neutron and a gamma source
G01N 21/71 - Systems in which the material investigated is excited whereby it emits light or causes a change in wavelength of the incident light thermally excited
G01N 21/3563 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing solidsPreparation of samples therefor
G01V 5/00 - Prospecting or detecting by the use of ionising radiation, e.g. of natural or induced radioactivity
19.
Method for analyzing core sample from wellbore, involves analyzing zone of interest in core sample, and forming image of core sample to spatially represent characteristics of core sample
A method of analyzing a core sample from a wellbore by creating a visual composite image of the core sample that is based on a scan of the core sample. The scan directs radiation at the core sample, such as a computerized tomography (CT) scan, and obtains scan data by estimating radiation absorbed by material in the core sample. The composite image is made up of an arrangement of voxels, where each voxel represents a designated volume of the core sample, and is are assigned a value that corresponds to a measured value of radiation absorbed in the designated volume of the core sample.
