Method and apparatus for safely operating radiation generators in while-drilling and while-tripping applications
AssigneeSchlumberger Technology Corporation
InventorsRobert A. Adolph, Loïc Vildé, Nancy S. Borkowski, Patrick J. Fisseler
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A method is disclosed for operating a well logging tool having a controllable radiation source operatively coupled to a power source. The method includes monitoring at least one condition in a wellbore, and operatively disconnecting the power source from the radiation source when the at least one condition changes. Also disclosed is a downhole measurement assembly, which includes a radiation source, a power source, and at least one interlock operatively connected between the power source and the radiation source, where the at least one interlock is adapted to selectively arm and disarm the radiation source.
Claims48
A downhole measurement assembly, comprising:
- a support adapted for disposal within a wellbore traversing a subsurface formation;
- a controllable radiation source mounted on the support;
- a power source mounted on the support;
- and
- at least one interlock operatively connected between the power source and the radiation source, the at least one interlock adapted to autonomously arm or disarm the radiation source based on the detection of a predetermined condition.
A downhole measurement assembly, comprising:
- a support adapted for disposal within a wellbore traversing a subsurface formation:
- a controllable pulsed neutron source mounted on the support, the neutron source comprising a neutron accelerator and a power source operatively coupled thereto;
- and
- at least one interlock operatively connected between the electric power source and the neutron accelerator, the at least one interlock adapted to autonomously arm or disarm the neutron accelerator based on the detection of a predetermined condition.
A method for operating a well logging tool adapted for disposal within a wellbore traversing a subsurface formation and having a radiation source operatively coupled to a power source therein, comprising:
- monitoring at least one condition in the wellbore or the tool;
- and
- the tool autonomously disconnecting the power source from the radiation source when the at least one condition changes from a predetermined condition.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.