Multi-probe reservoir sampling device

Abstract

A tool insertable into a wellbore for sampling formation fluids includes a body, and sample probe assemblies that project radially outward from the body and into sampling contact with the wellbore wall. Packers are provided on the outer terminal ends of the sample probe assemblies and which are urged against the wellbore wall. Actuator driven linkage assemblies selectively deploy and retract the packers from and back into the body. The sample probe assemblies are disposed at substantially the same axial location on the body, and are angularly spaced about an axis of the body. Each sample probe assembly is independently actuated, so that a discrete azimuthal portion can be sampled, and each has a dedicated sample container for storing sampled formation fluid.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A downhole tool for sampling formation fluid in a wellbore comprising:
 a body;   articulated linkage assemblies, each of which having an end coupled with the body, and each of which selectively and independent from one another move between a stowed position to a deployed position;   pad assemblies on ends of the linkage assemblies that are distal from the ends that are coupled to the body and that are at substantially the same depth in the wellbore when the linkage assemblies are in the deployed position; and   ports on the pad assemblies that are in selective communication with formation fluid in a formation that is intersected by the wellbore when the linkage assemblies are in the deployed position.   
     
     
         2 . The downhole tool of  claim 1 , further comprising actuators coupled to the linkage assemblies for selectively and independently moving the linkage assemblies between the stowed and deployed positions. 
     
     
         3 . The downhole tool of  claim 1 , further comprising conduits and sample tanks that are in fluid communication with each of the ports through the conduits. 
     
     
         4 . A method of sampling formation fluid from a formation comprising:
 providing a downhole tool having a body and sample probe assemblies coupled with the body;   disposing the downhole tool into a wellbore that intersects the formation and defines a wellbore wall;   extending the sample probe assemblies to locations on the wellbore wall that are at the same measured vertical depth in the wellbore; and   providing communication between the body and the formation with the sample probe assemblies.   
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 4 , wherein the sample probe assemblies are operated independently of one another. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 4 , wherein fluid is injected into the formation from one of the sample assemblies, and wherein fluid is drawn from the formation into another one of the sample assemblies. 
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 4 , wherein fluid is simultaneously communicated through the sample assemblies. 
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 4 , wherein each of the sample probes comprise a pad assembly disposed on an end of an articulated linkage arm.