Enhanced oil recovery using multiple sonic sources
US7628202B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 28, 2007 |
| Grant date | Dec 8, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 28, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B47/107
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus control a plurality of sonic sources to generate sound waves within at least one opening of an item. The “item” can comprise almost anything that has a percolation path (a path where solid particles are to be separated from liquid particles), such as the ground, aggregates, porous structures, porous materials, and a semi-solid structure. By controlling the sonic sources, the method transmits the sound waves to the percolation path. Further, the method regulates the amplitude and frequency of the sound waves such that the liquid particles oscillate out of phase with the solid particles. The method also regulates the phases of the sound waves generated by the different sonic sources so as to control locations within the percolation path where the liquid particles oscillate out of phase with the solid particles.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.