Systems and methods to control drilling operations based on formation orientations

Abstract

Systems and methods for controlling drilling operations are provided. The methods include performing a drilling operation using a bottomhole assembly having a disintegrating device located at an end of a drill string. Detecting and monitoring formation layer orientations with one or more sensors is performed to obtain formation layer orientation information indicative of a formation layer orientation. Monitoring of a drilling operational performance of at least one of the disintegrating device and the bottomhole assembly is performed. A change in the drilling operational performance is detected and adjustment of a steering command is performed to set an angle of attack by the disintegrating device to the formation layer orientation based on the formation layer orientation information.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of an earlier filing date from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62 / 778,360 filed Dec. 12, 2018, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND1. Field of the Invention[0002]The present invention generally relates to subsurface operations and more particularly to controlling drilling operations based on formation orientations.2. Description of the Related Art[0003]Boreholes are drilled deep into the earth for many applications such as carbon dioxide sequestration, geothermal production, and hydrocarbon exploration and production. In all of the applications, the boreholes are drilled such that they pass through or allow access to energy or a material (e.g., heat, a gas, or fluid) contained in a formation located below the earth's surface. Different types of tools and instruments may be disposed in the boreholes to perform various tasks and measurements.[0004]Changes in ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes systems and methods for controlling a drilling operation using a bottomhole assembly with a disintegrating device. The system monitors the orientation of the formation layers using sensors located remote from the disintegrating device to obtain formation layer orientation information. The system also monitors the performance of the disintegrating device and detects any changes in the drilling operational performance. Based on the formation layer orientation information and the detected changes, the system adjusts the drilling trajectory to set an angle of approach by the disintegrating device to the formation change. Overall, this technology allows for better drilling performance and formation evaluation during drilling operations.

Problems solved by technology

Changes in rock properties, in particular hardness, may cause complications with drilling operations (e.g., rates of penetration).

In particular, unexpected, thin layers of harder rocks can slow rates of penetration, impact wear on bits, or cause other issues during drilling.

During a drilling operation, contact with the stringers may drastically reduce the rate of penetration (ROP) and cause inappropriate drilling parameters.

Such inappropriate drilling parameters (e.g., unfavorable conditions) can deteriorate the bit, reamers, and the performance of a bottomhole assembly.

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