Deployment of wellbore patches to alleviate lost circulation

Abstract

Systems, methods, and apparatus for deploying a lost circulation fabric (LCF) to seal a lost circulation zone during a drilling operation. The LCF may be contained within a lost circulation fabric deployment system (LCFDS) coupled to a pipe of a drill string. The LCFDS may include a controller and a sensor to detect the presence of a lost circulation zone and deploy the LCF upon detection of the lost circulation zone. In some implementations, multiple LCFDS may be disposed on the pipe and work in concert to deploy multiple LCFs to form a seal along the lost circulation zone.

Description

[0001] Priority claim

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 708,872 filed on December 10, 2019, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to lost circulation mitigation, and more particularly to lost circulation mitigation during wellbore drilling. Background Art

[0004] During the drilling of a wellbore, it is possible to experience a reduction in or complete absence of drilling mud return. In these cases, drilling mud is lost to natural fractures, cracks, or other geological features. This reduction or complete loss of drilling mud returning to the surface is called lost circulation. Lost circulation leads to increased drilling costs and increased drilling time. Summary of the invention

[0005] Some LCF deployment systems (LCFDS) for deploying lost circulation fabrics (LCF) in a lost circulation area within a wellbore include: a first shell configured to be connected to a pipe, the shell defining a first cavity; an opening formed in the first shell, the opening providing communication between the first cavity and an exterior of the first shell; a door movable between a closed position covering the opening formed in the first shell and an open position exposing the opening formed in the first shell; an LCF located in the first cavity; an actuator coupled to the LCF and operable to deploy the LCF from the first shell; and a release system coupled to the LCF, the release system operable to move the door between the closed position and the open position to allow deployment of the LCF.

[0006] A system for deploying a leak-proof fabric (LCF), the system comprising: a plurality of leak-proof fabric deployment systems (LCFDS) configured to be coupled to a pipe, each of the LCFDS comprising: a shell configured to be coupled to the pipe, the shell defining a cavity; an opening formed in the shell, the opening providing communication between the cavity and an exterior of the shell; a door movable between a closed position covering the opening formed in the shell and an open position exposing the opening formed in the shell; an LCF disposed in the cavity; and a release system operable to move the door between the closed position and the open position to allow deployment of the LCF; and a plurality of actuators configured to be coupled to the pipe, the plurality of actuators being offset from the plurality of LCFDS along a longitudinal axis, each of the plurality of actuators being coupled to one end of two LCFs of the LCFDS that are angularly offset from the actuator with respect to the longitudinal axis, and the plurality of actuators being operable to deploy the LCFs from the shells.

[0007] Embodiments of the LCFDS may further include a second housing configured to be coupled to the tube and offset from the first housing, the second housing defining a second cavity and the actuator being located in the second cavity.

[0008] Embodiments of the LCFDS may further include a first actuator coupled to a first end of the LCF and a second actuator coupled to a second end of the LCF. In some cases, the position of the first actuator and the position of the second actuator are offset from the position of the first housing. In some cases, the first actuator and the second actuator are angularly offset from the first housing about the longitudinal axis. In some cases, the position of the first actuator and the position of the second actuator are such that when the first actuator and the second actuator operate to deploy the LCF, the first end of the LCF and the second end of the LCF are separated. In some cases, the first actuator is disposed in a first actuator housing, and wherein the second actuator is disposed in a second actuator housing.

[0009] Embodiments of the LCFDS may further include a controller and a sensor, the controller operable to receive data from the sensor to detect the presence of a lost circulation zone and to actuate the release system to deploy the LCF in response to detecting the lost circulation zone.

[0010] Embodiments of the LCFDS may further include an actuator that is or includes a bobbin and a motor, and the motor is operable to rotate the bobbin to deploy the LCF.

[0011] Embodiments of the LCFDS may further include an actuator configured to be coupled to the tube and move along the surface of the tube. In some cases, the actuator is configured to move along a path defined in the surface of the tube.

[0012] Embodiments of the LCFDS may further include a housing, the first housing being sized and shaped to be positioned in a wellbore within an annular space between the tube and a wall of the wellbore.

[0013] Embodiments of the LCFDS may further include adjacent LCFs that overlap each other when deployed.

[0014] Embodiments of the LCFDS may further include a plurality of LCFDSs arranged in an annular arrangement, and wherein the plurality of actuators are arranged in an annular arrangement.

[0015] Embodiments of the LCFDS may further include at least one of the plurality of LCFDSs including a controller and a sensor, and the controller is operable to receive data from the sensor to detect the presence of a lost circulation zone and actuate at least two of the plurality of actuators to deploy the LCF of the LCFDS in response to detecting the lost circulation zone.

[0016] Embodiments of the LCFDS may further include at least one of the plurality of actuators comprising a bobbin coupled to the LCFs, and a motor operable to rotate the bobbin to deploy the LCFs.

[0017] Embodiments of the LCFDS may further include the plurality of actuators operable to separate the first end and the second end of each LCF upon deployment of the LCFs.

[0018] The details of one or more implementations of the present disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, objects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary leak stopping fabric deployment system (LCFDS) according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 2 is an exemplary LCFDS attached to a tube according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 3 is another exemplary LCFDS according to some implementations of the present disclosure, wherein a housing of the LCFDS is attached to a tube, and the remainder of the LCFDS forms a unit that can be inserted into and removed from the attached housing.

[0022] Figure 4 is another exemplary LCFDS according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figures 5 to 7 is a view along the longitudinal axis of a tubular positioned within a wellbore and carrying a plurality of LCFDSs according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 8 is a perspective view of another exemplary LCFDS including a launching system for forcefully ejecting a leakproof fabric (LCF) according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0025] Fig. 9 and Fig.10 is a side view of another exemplary LCFDS including a launching system for forcefully ejecting the LCF according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0026] Fig.11 and Fig.12 is a side view of a plurality of LCFDSs arranged around a circumference of a tube, wherein LCFs of adjacent LCFDSs are coupled together, according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0027] Fig.13 and Fig.14 is a side view of a plurality of LCFDS arranged around a circumference of a tube having an actuator operable to deploy the LCFs according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0028] Fig.15A and Fig. 15B is a side view of another exemplary LCFDS coupled to a tube and having an actuator for deploying the LCF according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0029] Fig.16 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary electromechanical system for use with a leak-proof fabric deployment system according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0030] Fig.17 is a flow chart of an exemplary method for unfolding an LCF according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0031] Fig.18A , Fig.18B and Fig.18C are downhole images respectively illustrating unfolding an LCF or multiple LCFs from one LCFDS or multiple LCFDSs according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0032] Fig.19A , Fig.19B and Fig.19C are downhole images respectively illustrating unfolding an LCF or multiple LCFs from one LCFDS or multiple LCFDSs according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0033] Fig. 20 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary computer system for providing computing functions associated with the algorithms, methods, functions, processes, flows, and procedures described in the present disclosure according to some implementations of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] For the purpose of promoting understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the implementations shown in the accompanying drawings, and specific language will be used to describe these implementations. However, it is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. A person skilled in the art of the present disclosure will normally fully consider any changes and further modifications to any further application of the device, system, method, and principle of the present disclosure. In particular, it will be fully considered that the features, components, steps, or combinations thereof described in conjunction with one implementation may be combined with the features, components, steps, or combinations thereof described in conjunction with other implementations of the present disclosure.

[0035] The present disclosure relates to systems, methods and apparatus for reducing or preventing lost circulation during wellbore drilling. Systems, methods and apparatus for reducing or preventing lost circulation include deploying a lost circulation fabric (LCF) in a wellbore to repair a lost circulation zone. In some implementations, the LCF is coupled to a pipe, such as a drilling pipe, and released into the wellbore near a location along the wellbore where lost circulation (also referred to as a lost circulation zone) occurs. The pressure differential around the lost circulation zone presses the LCF into the lost circulation zone, thereby forming a seal to prevent or reduce lost circulation.

[0036] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary lost circulation fabric deployment system (LCFDS) 100. The LCFDS 100 includes a housing 102 coupled to a tube 104. In some implementations, the tube 104 may be a section of drill pipe or other tubular component disposed in a wellbore. The housing 102 defines a cavity 106 and includes an opening 108 at a first end 110 of the housing 102 and a door 112 that is movable to cover and expose the opening 108. In the example shown, the door 112 is disposed at the first end 110. In some implementations, when the LCFDS 100 is disposed in a well, the first end 110 corresponds to an uphole position in the wellbore. However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited in this regard, and the first end 110 of the LCFDS 100 may have another orientation in the wellbore.

[0037] The cavity 106 houses the LCF 114, the release system 116, the separation system 117, one or more sensors 118, a controller 120, and a power source 122. The LCF 114 is a flexible film, mesh, or net formed of a composite material such as a fiber reinforced polymer. The material selected to form the LCF 114 includes physical properties selected to withstand the downhole environment. The fabric can have a high elastic modulus, high tensile strength, high surface roughness, good toughness, and good thermal stability to withstand the harsh downhole environment. Specifically, harsh downhole conditions can refer to high temperatures up to 250 degrees Celsius, high pressures up to 20,000 pounds per square inch (psi), the presence of multiphase media (e.g., coexisting fluids, gases, and solid media), shocks and vibrations, restrictions, and loss of fluid circulation. In order to withstand these conditions, the tensile strength of the LCF 114 material can be between 10 and 10,000 megapascals (MPa), and the toughness can be between 1 and 100 kilojoules per square meter (kJ / m 2), and the thermal stability can be greater than or equal to 100 degrees Celsius. Polymers such as nylon, polycarbonate, polypropylene, and high temperature polyethylene can be used to form LCF 114 within the scope of the present disclosure. High temperature can refer to the ability of a material to maintain its thermal stability over a temperature range that is greater than the typical temperature range of the type that is commercially available. For example, these polymers and other polymers within the scope of the present disclosure can be used to form fiber reinforced polymers for making LCF 114. In other implementations, composite materials such as carbon reinforced polymers and glass fiber reinforced polymers can be used to form LCF within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0038] like Figure 1 As shown, the LCF 114 can be stored in the housing 102 in a folded configuration before deployment. Due to the folding, the LCF 114 can be stored in a compact size. Therefore, the LCFDS 100 obtains a compact size, which facilitates the use of the LCFDS 100 in the limited annular space formed between the drill string and the wellbore during drilling. Therefore, the LCFDS within the scope of the present disclosure forms a compact device that is operable to deploy an LCF with an increased surface area to cover and seal all or a portion of a lost circulation zone.

[0039] The LCF 114 includes a float 115 connected to an end 121 of the LCF 114 by a connector 119. In some implementations, the connector 119 may be, for example, a cable, a rope, a line or a cord. Although the LCF 114 is shown as having a pair of floats 115, other implementations may include additional floats or a single float. Further, in other implementations, the float 115 may be arranged on the LCF 114 in other orientations, quantities and configurations. The density of the float 115 may be less than the density of the circulating mud in the return mud flow traveling uphole along the outer surface 109 of the pipe 104. Therefore, the float 115 floats in the circulating mud. The buoyancy of the float 115 and the direction of the mud flow cause the LCF 114 to be removed from the cavity 106 defined in the housing 102. The float 115 is typically made of a material having a mass density less than the mass density of the mud and may have good mechanical strength and thermal stability. For example, the float 115 may be made of a polymer material or a metal foam.

[0040] The controller 120 may be or include a computer. Non-limiting examples of computers within the scope of the present disclosure are described in more detail below. In some implementations, the LCFDS 100 may also include one or more ports 124. Exemplary ports 124 may include a charging terminal for providing electrical power, such as recharging the power source 122, and a communication port for transmitting data to, from, or to the controller 120. In some cases, the communication port may be used to download data sensed by one or more sensors. In some cases, the communication port may be used to change the settings of the controller 120 to affect the function of the LCFDS 100. For example, the communication port may be used to load, change or remove the release strategy of the LCF 114, which may include the manner and conditions for unfolding the LCF. Moreover, the communication port may be used to download data from the controller 120 or upload data to the controller. In other implementations, the LCFDS 100 may include wireless communication capabilities to enable the LCFDS 100 to send data, receive data, or send and receive data wirelessly. For example, in some implementations, LCFDS 100 may communicate wirelessly with a computer or other electronic control device located, for example, on the surface of the Earth.

[0041] The controller 120 is connected to the release system 116, one or more sensors 118, and one or more ports 124 through a wired or wireless connection. The power supply 122 provides electrical power to the LCFDS 100, including the controller 120, the release system 116, one or more sensors 118, one or more ports 124, and any other components of the LCFDS 100 that use electrical power. In some implementations, the power supply 122 can be recharged, such as through a charging port, or can be removable and interchangeable with another power supply when the power level reaches a selected level. In the latter configuration, the power supply whose power level is exhausted can be replaced with another power supply to allow the LCFDS 100 to be quickly reused.

[0042] In some implementations, the housing 102 of the LCFDS 100 can be formed of metal, ceramic, composite materials (such as glass fiber or carbon fiber), or carbon fiber ceramic materials. The use of non-metallic materials can reduce friction between the pipe 104 and the surface of the wellbore, such as friction in a large displacement branch, thereby reducing or eliminating the risk of casing buckling. The housing of the LCFDS 100 can be directly applied to the outer surface of the pipe 104, or can be indirectly coupled to the outer surface of the pipe 104. Further, the LCFDS can be removed from the pipe or attached to the pipe as described in more detail later.

[0043] although Figure 1A single LCFDS 100 is shown coupled to a tube, but in other implementations, multiple LCFDS 100 can be coupled to a tube 104. For example, in some implementations, the LCFDS can be deployed circumferentially around the outer surface of the tube, such as Figures 5 to 7 As shown. Figures 5 to 7 As shown, four LCFDS 502 are angularly offset 90° from each other about the longitudinal axis 504 of the pipe 500. However, other arrangements may be used. For example, three LCFDS may be arranged circumferentially on the pipe, and each LCFDS may be angularly offset 120° from each other. However, the present disclosure is even broader in scope, and any number of LCFDS may be disposed on the pipe and arranged in any desired manner. Providing multiple LCFDS on a pipe or string of tubing, such as multiple sets of circumferentially arranged LCFDS, provides the ability to seal multiple lost circulation zones without having to remove the string of tubing from the wellbore. Thus, time is saved and the drilling process can be performed in a shortened period of time.

[0044] The circumferential arrangement of the LCFDS, in particular the circumferential arrangement of the shell of the LCFDS, can serve another purpose. The shell of the LCFDS can be used as a stabilizer on the pipe to improve the drilling operation. For example, Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the LCFDS can be useful for centering the pipe 500 within the wellbore 506. By centering the pipe 500 within the wellbore 506, the LCFDS 502 operates to define a uniform annular space between the inner wall of the wellbore 506 and the outer surface of the pipe 500. The uniform annular space promotes uniform flow of fluid around the drilling mud and formation cuttings pipe to the surface, which can improve drilling performance.

[0045] In some implementations, one or more LCFDS may be removable from the tube. In other implementations, one or more LCFDS may be permanently attached to the tube. In a permanently attached implementation, after deploying the LCF, a new LCF may be installed while other components of the LCFDS may remain permanently installed within the housing of the LCFDS.

[0046] Figure 2 An exemplary LCFDS 200 is shown attached to a tube 202. In another aspect, Figure 3 A modular implementation is shown, wherein a housing 306 of the LCFDS 300 is attached to a tube 302, and the remainder of the LCFDS 300 forms a unit 308 that can be inserted into and removed from the attached housing 306. The modular LCFDS 300 provides for rapid replacement of the LCFDS, which can reduce the amount of time the tube is out of service.

[0047] The size and shape of the LCFDS can be selected to be any desired size and shape. Further, any orientation of the LCFDS relative to the tube can be selected. For example, the length of the LCFDS, the orientation of the LCFDS relative to the longitudinal axis of the tube (such as longitudinal axes 201 and 301 (respectively at Figure 2 and Figure 3 The angular orientation of the LCFDS, the height or amount by which the LCFDS extends from the outer surface of the tubular, or the spacing between adjacent LCFDSs may be selected to be any desired value. For example, the size and configuration of the LCFDS may be selected to suit a particular well application, such as where a close tolerance annulus is formed between the wellbore and the tubular.

[0048] In some implementations, multiple LCFDSs may be arranged along the length of the tube, e.g. Figure 4 Although Figure 4 Two LCFDS 400 are shown, but any number of LCFDS may be disposed on the tube, linearly offset from one another along the longitudinal axis of the tube. Figure 4 The longitudinally offset LCFDS 400 are shown aligned with each other, but the scope of the present disclosure is not limited in this regard. Rather, the LCFDS can be offset longitudinally relative to the longitudinal axis and angularly offset from each other. Moreover, in other implementations, different groups of circumferentially arranged LCFDS can be longitudinally offset from each other along the length of the tube. Still further, any desired number of LCFDS can be disposed on the tube in any desired arrangement.

[0049] return Figure 1 , when in operation, the controller 120 receives data from one or more sensors 118 and uses the received data to identify the wellbore condition. In some implementations, the sensor 118 continuously measures, calculates, and identifies the condition in the wellbore. In other implementations, the sensor 118 can selectively measure within a selected time period or after one or more selected events occur. The determined wellbore condition can be used to identify and locate the well leakage area. In some implementations, the sensor 118 can include an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a magnetometer, a pressure sensor, a flow meter, a temperature sensor, or a combination of these sensors. Further, other types of sensors can be included. In some implementations, the accelerometer, gyroscope, and magnetometer can form an inertial sensing system that can be operated to detect the movement and orientation of the LCFDS 100. In some implementations, the temperature sensor, the pressure sensor, and the flow meter can be used to identify and locate the well leakage area.

[0050] When a leak zone is detected, the controller 120 causes the release system 116 to release the LCF 114 from the housing 102. In particular, the release system 116 is actuated to open the door 112 to form an opening 108. The LCF 114 is then released through the opening 108 into the annular space between the tube 104 and the inner wall of the wellbore. In some implementations, the release system 116 includes an actuator 126 and a linkage 128 connecting the door 112 to the actuator 126. In some implementations, the actuator 126 may include a motor. In some implementations, the actuator 126 may be a low-power linear actuator, such as a downhole linear solenoid actuator. However, the scope is not limited in this regard. Rather, the actuator may be any device, component, or apparatus operable to deploy the LCF from the LCFDS. Different release systems will be described later in the context of different LCFDS implementations. Figure 1 In the illustrated example, when controller 120 operates release system 116 (either automatically or by remote control), actuator 126 rotates, causing linkage 128 to pivot door 112 about hinged connection 130, thereby revealing opening 108. LCF 114 is deployed from housing 102 through opening 108.

[0051] When the LCF 114 is in a desired position relative to the lost circulation zone, the deployed LCF 114 can be released from the LCFDS 100. The deployed LCF 114 is separated from the LCFDS 100 by a separation system 117. In some implementations, the separation system 117 is controlled by the controller 120 to separate the LCF 114 at a desired time or upon detection of a predetermined event (e.g., detection of a selected force applied by the LCF 114). In other implementations, the separation system 117 can be a passive system. For example, the separation system 117 can release the LCF 114 when the force applied by the LCF 114 to the separation system 117 exceeds a predetermined value. In such an implementation, the separation system 117 can be one or more pegs that are received in corresponding holes formed in the housing 102. The holes can hold the pegs until a predetermined force applied to the pegs causes the pegs to be removed from the holes.

[0052] It should be noted that detection of a lost circulation zone may be determined by the controller 120 based on input received from one or more sensors 118. Further, determination of a lost circulation zone by the controller 120 may cause the controller 120 to automatically release the LCF 114. In other implementations, whether detection of a lost circulation zone is detected by the controller 120 or determined remotely, actuation of the release system 116 and deployment of the LCF 114 may be performed remotely, such as by a user or by a separate, remotely located controller.

[0053] Figures 4 to 7 An exemplary LCFDS 400 is illustrated. Figure 4 is a perspective view of a LCFDS 400 arranged on a tube 402, Figures 5 to 7 is a view along the longitudinal axis of a tube 402 carrying the LCFDS 400 and located within a wellbore. Figures 5 to 7 Different time points associated with the expansion of LCF are illustrated.

[0054] refer to Figure 4 , a LCFDS 400 is disposed on a tube 402. A mud flow 404 (identified by arrows indicating flow direction) is shown as passing downhole through a channel 406 of the tube 402, and a return mud flow 408 (identified by arrows indicating flow direction) is shown as flowing uphole along an outer surface 410 of the tube 402. As shown, an LCF 412 is released from a housing 414 of one of the LCFDSs 400 through an opening 416. The LCFDS 400 may include a door, which may be similar to the door 112 described above, and may be opened using a release system, which may be similar to the release system 116 described above. The LCF 412 is deployed through the opening 416 of the housing 414.

[0055] The LCF 412 includes a pair of floats 418 attached to opposite ends 420 of the LCF 412. In some implementations, the floats 418 can be attached using a connector 421. In some implementations, the connector 421 can be, for example, a cable, a rope, a line or a rope. The floats 418 are used to take out and spread out the LCF 412 during deployment. Although the LCF 412 is shown as having a pair of floats 418, other implementations can include additional floats or a single float. Further, in other implementations, the floats 418 can be arranged on the LCF 412 in other orientations, quantities and configurations. The density of the floats 418 can be less than the density of the circulating mud in the return mud flow 408. The floats 418 are typically made of a material having a mass density less than the mass density of the mud, and can have good mechanical strength and thermal stability. For example, the floats 418 can be made of a polymer material or a metal foam. The reduced mass density of the float 418 and the direction of the mud flow 408 cause the LCF 412 to be withdrawn from the cavity 422 formed in the housing 414. With the LCF 412 deployed, the LCF 412 is ready to be applied to a portion of the inner surface of the wellbore where a lost circulation zone exists. The deployed LCF 412 can be directed to the lost circulation zone by the mud flow 408 because all or a portion of the mud flow 408 is directed into the lost circulation zone and lost in the lost circulation zone.

[0056] Figure 5A tube 500 is shown having four LCFDS 502 arranged around the circumference of the tube 500. The LCFDS 502 can be similar to the LCFDS 400. As previously described, adjacent LCFDS 502 are angularly offset by approximately 90° about the longitudinal axis 504 of the tube 500. The tube 500 is disposed in a wellbore 506 at or near a lost circulation zone 508 formed by a plurality of fractures 510. The LCFDS 502 is in a pre-deployment configuration such that the LCFs of the LCFDS 502 are folded and stored within the housing. Figure 6 502. In the embodiment of the present invention, an LCF 512 has been deployed from each LCFDS 502. The LCF 512 can be deployed in the manner described in the present disclosure. The float 514 on each LCF 512 operates to release or assist in releasing the LCF 512 from the housing of the associated LCFDS 502. The flow of mud uphole through the annular region 516 formed between the wellbore 506 and the pipe 500 can also assist in deploying the LCF 512 from the LCFDS 502. Thus, each LCF 512 can be used to cover one quarter or nearly one quarter of the circumference of the wellbore 506. Figure 7 The LCF 512 is shown completely separated from the corresponding LCFDS 502 and fully engaged with the circumference of the wellbore 506 at the lost circulation area 508. The pressure differential around the lost circulation area caused by the mud flow from the annular area 516 and into the lost circulation area 508 acts to press the LCF 512 against the circumference of the wellbore 506. The installed LCF 512 forms a seal to reduce or prevent mud loss into the lost circulation area 508. Further, the surface roughness of the LCF 512 creates friction with the wellbore 506 to hold the LCF 512 in place in the lost circulation area 508. The LCF 512 and the expanded nature of the LCF 512 act to reduce or eliminate the forces applied to and interactions with the subsurface formation, thereby reducing or eliminating the risk of damaging the subsurface formation.

[0057] Figure 8 is a perspective view of another exemplary LCFDS 800 . Figure 8A pair of LCFDS 800 is shown disposed on an outer surface 807 of a tube 802, with an LCF 804 of one of the LCFDS 800 already deployed. A mud flow 801 is shown flowing downhole through a channel 803 formed in the tube 802. A return mud flow 805 is shown flowing uphole along the outer surface 807 of the tube 802. Except as described, the LCFDS 800 can be similar to the LCFDS 100, and the LCF 804 can be deployed as previously described. For example, one or more features of the LCFDS 800 can be controlled by a controller, which can be similar to the controller 120. In addition, the LCF 804 can be deployed automatically by the controller or in response to a remotely received command. When deployment is desired, a release system, which can be similar to the release system 116, can open a door to form an opening in the housing 806. The LCF 804 includes a float 808 disposed at an end 810 of the LCF 804. In some implementations, the float 808 can be attached via a connector 811. In some implementations, the connector 81 can be, for example, a cable, a rope, a line, or a cord. The float 808 can be similar to the float 418 described above, and the float 808 is at least partially operable to deploy and disperse the LCF 804 from the hull 806 of the LCFDS 800.

[0058] In addition, the LCFDS 800 also includes a launch system 812. The launch system 812 operates to forcefully eject the LCF 804 from the housing 806. The launch system 812 operates to eject the LCF 804 in a desired direction and, in conjunction with the float 808, to stretch and spread the LCF 804. In some cases, the launch system 812 may form part of a release system. In other implementations, the launch system 812 may be a separate system that communicates with a controller of the LCFDS 800, which may be similar to the controller 120 described above.

[0059] exist Figure 8In the illustrated example of the launch system 812, the launch system 812 includes a pair of springs 814 that are held in a compressed configuration when the LCF 804 is stored in the housing 806 (i.e., before the LCF 804 is deployed). The springs 814 can be angularly offset from each other so that the springs 814 guide the ends 810 of the LCF 804 out of the housing 806 and away from each other so that the LCF 804 is stretched and spread apart when the LCF 804 is deployed. During deployment, the float 808 and the LCF 804 are forcefully ejected by releasing the compressed configuration of the springs 814, thereby converting the stored potential energy of the springs 814 into the kinetic energy of the LCF 804. The actuator 816 can release the springs 814 from the compressed configuration, thereby allowing the springs 814 to expand. As previously described, deployment can be automatically performed by the LCFDS 800 or remotely performed. The mud flow 805 traveling uphole around the pipe 802 can help deploy the LCF 804. Once deployed, LCF 804 can be released from LCFDS 800 and pulled along the wellbore into contact with the lost circulation zone. As previously described, when all or a portion of mud flow 805 flows into the lost circulation zone, the fluid pressure associated with the returning mud flow 805 presses LCF 804 against the wall of the wellbore.

[0060] Fig. 9 and Fig.10 Another exemplary LCFDS 900 is shown that includes a launch system for forcefully ejecting the LCF during deployment. Except as described, the LCFDS 900 can be similar to the LCFDS 100. One or more features of the LCFDS 900 can be controlled by a controller, which can be similar to the controller 120. In other implementations, one or more features of the LCFDS 900 can be remotely controlled. For example, the LCFDS 900 can be operated automatically in response to commands received remotely or by a controller within the LCFDS 900. When deployment is desired, a release system, which can be similar to the release system 116, can open a door to form an opening within the housing 916.

[0061] Fig. 9 A tube 902 is shown that includes two LCFDS 900 on an outer surface 904 of the tube 902. A fluid stream 901 passes through a channel 905 formed within the tube 902, and a return fluid stream 907 passes along the outer surface 904 of the tube 902. The LCFDS 900 includes a launch system 906 and can be similar to the LCFDS 100 described previously in other respects. In some implementations, the launch system 906 can be a separate system within the LCFDS 900, while in other implementations, the launch system 906 can form part of a release system similar to the release system 116 described previously. The launch system 906 includes a movable platform 908 that is coupled to an actuator 911 via a rod 912.

[0062] During deployment, the opening 918 of the shell 916 can be opened as described above, and the actuator 911 of the launch system 906 displaces the platform 908 toward the opening 918 through the rod 912. In some implementations, the actuator 911 can be a linear actuator or a linear motor. In some implementations, the launch system 906 quickly displaces the platform 908 toward the opening 918. The displacement of the platform 908 toward the opening 918 ejects the LCF 914 from the cavity 917 formed in the shell 916. The ejection by the launch system 906 and the float 920 connected to the end 922 of the LCF 914 promote the extension and dispersion of the LCF 914. In some implementations, the ejection of the LCF 914 causes the LCF 914 to quickly extend and disperse. The float 920 can be similar to the float 418 described above, and in some implementations, the float 920 can be attached using a connector 921. In some implementations, connector 921 may be a cable, rope, line, cord, or other type of connector. One or more ends 924 of LCF 914 may be coupled to platform 908. A separation system, which may be similar to separation system 117 described above, may be included on platform 908 and may be operable to release LCF 914 at a desired time or after a predetermined event occurs (such as a selected time period has passed or a force applied to LCF 914 meets or exceeds a predetermined amount). In some implementations, launch system 906 may form part of the release system. In other implementations, the release system and launch system 906 may be separate systems.

[0063] The LCF 914 also includes a spring 926 extending between the ends 922 of the LCF 914. Fig. 9 As shown, the LCFDS 900 is in a pre-deployment configuration such that the LCF 914 is folded and stored within the housing 916 of the LCFDS 900. In the pre-deployment configuration, the spring 926 is compressed. Fig.10 The LCF 914 is shown deployed from the LCFDS 900. When the LCF 914 is released from the housing 916, the spring 926 expands to separate the end 922 of the LCF 914 and the float 920, thereby causing the LCF 914 to spread apart. Thus, the spring 926 operates to assist in the rapid deployment of the LCF 914. After release, the LCF 914 is ready to be positioned on a portion of the wellbore that defines a lost circulation zone.

[0064] Fig.11 and Fig.12Another exemplary LCFDS 1100 is shown in which the LCFs 1102 of adjacent LCFDSs 1100 are connected so that the LCFDSs 1100 define a composite plugging fabric system 1104. Except as described, the LCFDS 1100 can be similar to the LCFDS 100. In some implementations, multiple LCFDSs 1100 can be arranged so as to surround the entire circumference of a pipe 1107. In such an implementation, the released LCFs 1102 form an integral annular ring around the pipe 1107. In other implementations, the system 1104 can extend less than the entire circumference around the pipe 1107. Therefore, after the LCFs 1102 are released, the connected LCFs 1102 cannot surround the entire circumference of the pipe 1107. More than one system 1104 can be set at one or more circumferential locations along the pipe 1107, either completely surrounding the pipe or extending less than the entire circumference. Fig.11 and Fig.12 Two systems 1104 are shown extending at separate locations around the circumference of the tube 1107. A mud flow 1111 is shown flowing downhole through a channel 1113 formed within the tube 1107. A return mud flow 1116 is shown flowing uphole along an outer surface 1117 of the tube 1107.

[0065] One or more features of the LCFDS 1100 can be controlled by a controller, which can be similar to the controller 120. In other implementations, one or more features of the LCFDS 1100 can be remotely controlled. For example, the LCFDS 1100 can operate automatically in response to commands received remotely or by a controller within the LCFDS 1100. When deployment is desired, a release system, which can be similar to the release system 116, can open a door to form an opening within the housing 1106. In some implementations, the LCFDS 1100 can also include a launch system, similar to the launch system 812 or the launch system 906 described above. In some implementations, the launch system can form part of a release system, similar to the release system 116 described above.

[0066] Fig.11 The LCFDS 1100 is shown in a pre-deployment configuration, wherein the LCF 1108 of each LCFDS 1100 is in a folded configuration and stored within a corresponding housing 1106. Adjacent LCFs 1108 are connected using connectors 1110. In some implementations, the connectors 1110 can be, for example, cables, ropes, lines, or cords. Additionally, each LCF 1108 includes a float 1112. In some implementations, the float 1112 is centrally located along the length of the edge 1114 of the LCF 1108, which is preferably located in a substantially horizontal position. Fig.121108. The float 1112 can be coupled to the edge 1114 using a connector 1115. In some implementations, the connector 1115 can be, for example, a cable, a rope, a line, or a cord. The float 1112 can be similar to the float 418 described above. In other implementations, the float 1112 can have a different arrangement. For example, in some implementations, each edge 1114 of the LCF 1108 can include multiple floats 1112.

[0067] According to some implementations, the LCFDS 1100 of the system 1104 release the LCF 1102 simultaneously. In other implementations, one or more LCFs 1102 may be released at different times. For the remainder of the description of the system 1104, the LCFDS 1100 are caused to release the corresponding LCFs 1108 simultaneously. Further, the LCFDS 1100 of the system 1104 may be identical. In other implementations, one or more of the LCFDS 1100 may be different from another of the LCFDS 1100. For the remainder of this description of the system 1104, the LCFDS 1100 are described as being identical.

[0068] Fig.12 One of the systems 1104 is shown with the LCF 1102 deployed, while the other of the systems 1104 is still in the undeployed configuration. During deployment, one or more of the LCFs 1108 can be quickly ejected by the launch system. In some implementations, the LCFs 1108 can be released without the help of the launch system. After the LCF 1108 is released, the float 1112 interacts with the mud flow 1116 and helps to remove the LCF 1108 from the corresponding housing 1106. As the LCF 1108 is released, the LCF stretches out and spreads out, ready to be applied to the well leakage area. Additionally, the LCFDS 1100 can also include a separation system as described above. The separation system separates the deployed LCF 1108 from the LCFDS 1100 so that the LCF 1108 can be directed to the location of the well leakage area, such as by sucking part of the fluid flow 1116 into the well leakage area.

[0069] Fig.13 and Fig.14 Another exemplary LCFDS 1300 is shown. Fig.13 and Fig.14A plurality of LCFDS 1300 are shown arranged around the circumference of a tube 1302. Except as described, LCFDS 1300 can be similar to LCFDS 100. In some implementations, the plurality of LCFDS 1300 can be arranged so as to surround the entire circumference of the tube 1302. In other implementations, the plurality of LCFDS 1300 can be arranged to extend less than the entire circumference around the tube 1302. The circumferential arrangement of LCFDS 1300 can be provided at different locations along the longitudinal axis of the tube 1302.

[0070] Fig.13 and Fig.14 Actuators 1304 are also shown arranged around the circumference of the tube 1302 at locations longitudinally offset from the circumferential arrangement of the LCFDS 1300. A mud flow 1306 is shown flowing downhole through a channel 1308 formed within the tube 1302. A return mud flow 1310 is shown flowing uphole along an outer surface 1312 of the tube 1302.

[0071] The LCF 1314 is housed within a cavity 1315 formed within a housing 1316 of each LCFDS 1300. The LCFDS 1300 may include a removable door to cover and expose an opening 1301 formed in the housing 1316. The door may be similar to the door 112 or to any other door described or otherwise included in the present disclosure. The LCFDS 1300 may also include a release system to actuate the door between an open position and a closed position to expose and cover the opening 1301. The release system may be similar to the release system 116 or to any other release system described or otherwise included in the present disclosure.

[0072] The end 1318 of the LCF 1314 is coupled to one of the actuators 1304. A connector 1320 connects the end 1318 of the LCF 1314 to one of the actuators 1304. In some implementations, the connector 1320 may be, for example, a cable, a string, a line, or a rope. The opposite end 1318 of the LCF 1314 is coupled to a different actuator 1304. Additionally, the end 1318 of the LCF 1300 is coupled to the actuators 1304 that are angularly offset from the LCF 1314 relative to the longitudinal axis 1322. Due to this angular offset, when the actuator 1304 ejects the LCF 1314 from the housing 1316, the LCF 1314 may be moved as shown in FIG. Fig.14 In the illustrated implementation, each actuator 1304 is connected to two different LCFs 1314. In other implementations, there may be no angular offset.

[0073] Due to the arrangement between LCF 1314 and actuator 1304, adjacent LCF 1314 overlap each other after deployment. Overlapping LCF 1314 is combined to form a continuous plugging fabric for application in a lost circulation area. In some implementations, the overlap of adjacent LCF 1314 occurs around the entire circumference of pipe 1302. In other implementations, the overlap of adjacent LCF 1314 occurs on less than the entire circumference of pipe 1302.

[0074] like Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown, each actuator 1304 is contained within a housing 1324. In the example shown, the housing 1324 is longitudinally aligned with the housing 1316 of the LCFDS 1300. In other implementations, the housing 1324 may not be longitudinally aligned with the housing 1316.

[0075] In some implementations, the actuator 1304 may include a bobbin 1326 and a motor 1328. The connector 1320 is coupled to the bobbin 1326 such that the rotation of the bobbin 1326 by the motor 1328 causes the connector 1320 to be wound around the bobbin 1326 and, in the process, extract the LCF 1314 from the housing 1316. In other implementations, the actuator 1304 may have other forms. For example, the actuator 1304 may be similar to Fig.10 911 in which the actuator 911 drives a rod 912 which pushes the fabric out of the housing 916 using the launching system 906. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator 1304 can be similar to the actuator 816, the actuator 1304, or the actuator 1514, or any actuator disclosed in the specification.

[0076] The LCFDS 1300 may also include a separation system similar to that described previously. Thus, once deployed, the LCF 1314 may be separated from the LCF 1300 and directed into position by a portion of the mud flow 1310 directed into the lost circulation zone.

[0077] Fig.15A and Fig. 15BAnother exemplary LCFDS 1500 is shown. Two LCFDS 1500 are shown as being longitudinally offset from each other along an axis 1522 of the tube 1502. However, the LCFDS 1500 can be arranged as previously described. For example, in some implementations, multiple LCFDS 1500 can be arranged so as to surround the entire circumference of the tube 1502. In other implementations, multiple LCFDS 1500 can extend less than the entire circumference around the tube 1502. The circumferential arrangement of the LCFDS 1500 can be set at different locations along the axis 1522 of the tube 1502. Except as described, the LCFDS 1500 can be similar to the LCFDS 100. A mud flow 1504 is shown flowing downhole through a channel 1506 formed in the tube 1502. A return mud flow 1508 is shown flowing uphole along the outer surface 1510 of the tube 1502.

[0078] LCFDS 1500 includes Fig.15A 1512 is shown as deployed. The LCFDS 1500 includes an actuator 1514 for extracting the LCF 1512 from a housing 1516 of the LCFDS 1500. Each end 1518 of the LCF 1512 is coupled to an actuator 1514. The actuator 1514 can be coupled to the end 1518 via a connector 1520. In some implementations, the connector 1520 can be, for example, a cable, a rope, a line, or a cord. During deployment, the actuator 1514 extracts the LCF 1512 from the housing 1516, causing the LCF 1512 to stretch and spread out. In some implementations, the actuator 1514 moves diagonally along the surface 1510 relative to the longitudinal axis 1522 of the tube 1502. However, in other implementations, the actuator 1514 can move along the surface 1510 of the tube 1502 in any desired path.

[0079] The actuator 1514 travels along the surface 1510 of the tube 1502. In some implementations, the actuator 1514 is a linear actuator. In other implementations, the actuator 1514 includes wheels so that the actuator can roll along the surface 1510 of the tube 1502. In some implementations, the actuator 1514 can be driven by a motor such as a rotary motor, but in some implementations, the actuator 1514 can be ejected from the housing 1516. In some implementations, the wheels of the actuator 1514 can be made of or include a magnetic material so that the wheels can remain attached to the outer surface of the tube 1502, which is typically ferromagnetic.

[0080] LCFDS 1500 may also include a separation system that may be similar to the separation systems described previously. Thus, once deployed, LCF 1512 may be separated from LCF 1512 and directed into place by a portion of the return mud flow 1508 directed into the lost circulation zone.

[0081] Fig.16 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary electromechanical system 1600 for use with a leak-proof fabric deployment system within the scope of the present disclosure. System 1600 includes a controller 1602; a power source 1604; a communication system 1606; one or more sensors 1608; and one or more actuators 1610. Power source 1604 supplies electrical power to controller 1602 and other components of system 1600. In some implementations, power source 1604 can supply electrical power to other components of the LCFDS. In some implementations, power source 1604 can be a battery, a capacitor, or another device operable to store energy for later use.

[0082] The controller 1602 is communicatively coupled to the communication system 1606, one or more sensors, and actuators. The controller 1602 receives information from one or more of these components, sends information to one or more of these components, or both receives information from one or more of these components and sends information to one or more of these components. The controller 1602 is operable to control the functions of the system 1600. For example, in some implementations, the controller 1602 is operable to determine the position and orientation within the wellbore, locate the lost circulation zone, and deploy the lost circulation fabric when the LCFDS is in a predetermined position relative to the lost circulation zone. The controller 1602 receives information from one or more sensors and uses the information received from the sensors to operate the LCFDS to deploy the LCF. An exemplary method of operation of a controller such as the controller 1602 is described in more detail.

[0083] Controller 1602 includes a timer 1612, a processor 1614, a port 1616 (which may include a charging port and a communication port similar to those described above), an interrupt 1618, and a memory 1620. Processor 1614 may be or include a computer, which will be described in more detail later. The memory may be one or more different types of memory, which will also be described in more detail later. The timer 1612 of processor 1614 is used to add a time stamp to the measurements made by the sensor. In this way, processor 1614 is able to time stamp and record downhole events by sensing measurements. The timer is also used to create a time delay that triggers a sensing command or an actuation command. Interrupt 1618 is used as a trigger to wake up the processor from a power saving mode or a trigger for executing certain commands such as sensing and actuation.

[0084] The communication system 1606 provides communication between the system 1600 and a remote location. For example, the communication system 1606 can provide communication between the system 1600 and a computer located on the surface of the earth. In some implementations, the one or more actuators 1610 include a first actuator 1622 operable to actuate a release system 1624 of the LCFDS; and a second actuator 1626 operable to actuate a launch system 1628. In some implementations, the release system 1624 can be similar to the release systems described and included in the present disclosure, such as the release system 116. For example, the release system can include a system operable to open a door of the LCFDS to allow the LCF to be deployed. The release system can include an actuator that is operable to deploy the LCF from the housing. For example, an actuator for releasing and dispersing the LCF (such as a motor and a bobbin that can be similar to the motor 1328 and bobbin 1326 described above) can form part of the release system. Another type of actuator may be an actuator similar to actuator 1514 that moves along the outer surface of the tube to extract the LCF from the housing to deploy the LCF. However, the scope of the present disclosure includes other types of actuators operable to deploy the LCF from the LCFDS.

[0085] The firing system 1628 can be similar to the firing systems within the scope of the present disclosure, such as the firing system 812 or the firing system 906. Thus, the actuator 1626 associated with the firing system 1628 can include an actuator similar to the actuator 911 described above, a spring 926, or both an actuator and a spring. In some implementations, the actuator 1626 can be or include a spring that can be similar to the spring 814. In some implementations, the release system 1624 and the firing system 1628 can be part of an integral system. Thus, in some implementations, the first actuator 1622 and the second actuator 1626 can form part of a single system operable to release the LCF.

[0086] In other implementations, the system 1600 may include other actuators. For example, the system 1600 may include within the scope of the present disclosure a third actuator 1630 operable to actuate a separation system 1632, such as the separation system 117 described above. Although three actuators are described, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, additional or fewer actuators may be included. Further, the included actuators may form part of an overall system, or may be part of or associated with separate corresponding systems to provide actuation for those separate systems.

[0087] One or more sensors 1608 provide data to controller 1602 to allow controller 1602 to operate for deploying LCF. For example, one or more sensors 1608 can enable controller 1602 to determine the movement and orientation of LCFDS and the location of the detection leak zone. System 1600 can include sensors, such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers, pressure sensors, flow meters, temperature sensors, or combinations of these sensors. In other implementations, system 1600 can include sensors less than the described sensors, additional or different sensors. As previously described, accelerometers, gyroscopes and magnetometers can form an inertial sensing system operable to detect the movement and orientation of LCFDS. As previously described, temperature sensors, pressure sensors and flow meters can be used to identify and locate the leak zone. The data obtained from these sensors is received by processor 1614 and can be stored in memory 1620. The received information can be used when received, stored for later use, sent to a remote location, or a combination of these. The information stored in memory 1620 can be stored and downloaded later, such as after the LCFDS returns to the ground.

[0088] In some implementations, the communication system 1606 may include software, hardware, or both software and hardware to enable the LCFDS to communicate, such as via a wired or wireless connection. Further, the communication system 1606 may provide real-time communications during drilling. For example, in some implementations, the communication system 1606 may be operable to provide communications using mud pulse telemetry or electromagnetically. In some implementations, a portion of the data acquired during drilling is transmitted to a remote location, such as to the surface of the earth, while another portion of the acquired data is stored in a memory 1620 of the system 1600. In other implementations, all acquired data may be stored in the memory 1620, while all or a portion of the acquired data is transmitted to the remote location in a delayed or real-time manner. The stored data may be downloaded after the LCFDS returns to the surface of the earth via a communication port of port 1616, which may be similar to the communication port described above in conjunction with the system 1600. Figure 1 Describes the communications port.

[0089] Fig.171700 is a flow chart of an exemplary method 1700 for deploying an LCF. In particular, the method 1700 is applicable to sealing one or more lost circulation zones located in a wellbore during a drilling operation. At 1702, an LCFDS is configured before being introduced into the wellbore during a drilling operation. The LCFDS may be any LCFDS as previously described and other LCFDS within the scope of the present disclosure. Although a single LCFDS is mentioned in the context of describing the method 1700, it should be understood that the steps of the method 1700 may be applied to multiple LCFDSs. The configuration of the LCFDS may include installing information into the LCFDS, such as into a memory of the LCFDS. The information may include a profile of the wellbore, a predetermined zone depth, and a wellbore condition. The predetermined lost circulation zone depth may be an estimated depth of the lost circulation zone along the length of the wellbore. The wellbore condition may be a wellbore profile, such as a wellbore survey profile, a wellbore temperature relative to depth profile, a wellbore pressure relative to depth profile, and a wellbore depth profile. Other types of information may be pre-installed into the LCFDS before the LCFDS is introduced into the wellbore during a drilling operation. For example, sensor measurements that may be interpreted as indicative of the lost circulation zone and the location and pre-selected orientation of the LCFDS relative to the lost circulation zone prior to deploying the LCF may also be installed into the LCFDS during drilling operations prior to the LCFDS being introduced into the wellbore.

[0090] At 1704, the LCFDS is mounted on a pipe, such as a drill pipe. The LCFDS may include a housing mounted to an outer surface of the pipe. In some implementations, the housing is permanently fixed to the pipe. Thus, in some implementations, the LCFDS may be permanently attached to the pipe. In some implementations, the LCFDS may have a modular construction such that the LCFDS forms a unit that can be inserted into and removed from the housing as described above. In some implementations, the LCFDS may be positioned on the pipe near a bottom hole assembly. Further, when a plurality of LCFDSs are arranged on the pipe as described above, such as arranged around the circumference of the pipe, the LCFDS may be operable to stabilize the pipe within the wellbore, particularly during drilling operations.

[0091] At 1706, a tube is introduced into the wellbore. The tube may be a section of drill pipe. The tube may include a plurality of LCFDS. Further, in some implementations, multiple sections of drill pipe may be assembled. Thus, in some implementations, multiple tubes, each having a plurality of LCFDS, are introduced into the wellbore.

[0092] At 1708, when the tube or tubes are introduced into the wellbore, sensors included in the LCFDS measure conditions within the wellbore, including position and orientation measurements of the LCFDS. The LCFDS, such as a controller of the LCFDS, uses the sensor measurements to determine the extension depth of the LCFDS within the wellbore. Measurements that can be used to determine the extension depth can include pressure, temperature, accelerometer, magnetometer, and gyroscope measurements. The controller can be similar to controller 120 or any other controller within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0093] Some systems use sensors (e.g., flow sensors and accelerometers) to identify when the LCFDS reaches a lost circulation zone. The sensors of the LCFDS are used to determine the position of the LCFDS within the wellbore based on extended depth information, well profile data previously downloaded into the LCFDS, and other stored data. For example, the sensors can be used to determine when the LCFDS reaches a predetermined position in the wellbore relative to the lost circulation zone, as indicated at 1710. If the LCFDS has not yet reached the preselected position within the wellbore, the LCFDS continues to take measurements to detect when the LCFDS reaches the predetermined position within the wellbore, as indicated at 1712. If the predetermined position within the wellbore has been reached, the LCFDS can deploy the LCF, as indicated at 1714, allow the preselected time to elapse, as indicated at 1716, and remove the LCF from the LCDFS, as indicated at 1718. The preselected time period allows the LCF to be fully deployed (eg, fully removed from the LCFDS housing, fully extended and spread) and to be pressed against the wall of the wellbore in the lost circulation zone by fluid pressure in the annulus between the wellbore and the drill string.

[0094] At 1720, drilling operations are continued after the LCF is deployed. In some cases, the deployed LCF is unable to completely seal or isolate the lost circulation area. Therefore, in some cases, spot treatment with lost circulation material (LCM) can be used to form an improved seal in the lost circulation area. Spot treatment of the lost circulation area using LCM is performed to maintain positive downhole pressure and allow drilling to continue.

[0095] As previously mentioned, the drill string may include multiple LCFDSs. Each LCFDS may be deployed when the criteria cited above are met. In other implementations, one or more LCFDSs may be connected to another LCFDS such that one of the LCFDSs meets the criteria and deployment of the LCF from that LCFDS causes another one or more of the other LCFDSs to be deployed. In other implementations, each LCFDS may operate automatically such that each LCFDS deploys the associated LCF when one or more deployment criteria are met.

[0096] Fig.18A , Fig.18B and Fig.18C1 and 2 are downhole images respectively illustrating the expansion of one LCF or multiple LCFs from one LCFDS or multiple LCFDSs. Fig.18A , Fig.18B and Fig.18C Deployment of the LCF from an LCFDS similar to the LCFDS 400, 800, 900, 1100, or 1500 described above is illustrated. Fig.18A A tubing string is shown. For purposes of this description, the tubing string is described as a drill string 1800, but it should be understood that the tubing string may be another type of tubing string. The drill string 1800 is disposed in a wellbore 1802. A lost circulation zone 1804 exists in the wellbore 1802. The drill string 1800 includes a pair of LCFDS 1806. Although two LCFDS 1806 are shown, additional or fewer LCFDSs may be included, disposed on the drill string 1800 around a common circumference or disposed at different locations along the length of the drill string 1800, or both. Each LCFDS 1806 has an LCF 1808 stored in its housing 1810. Each of the LCFs 1808 includes one or more floats 1812 (which may be similar to floats 418, 808, 920, or 1112). However, in other implementations, LCF 1808 may include one or more actuators that may be similar to actuator 1514, in place of float 1812. The remainder of the description is in the context of a float, but it should be understood that actuators similar to actuator 1514 may be used to deploy or assist in deploying LCF 1808.

[0097] refer to Fig.18B , the drill string 1800 is moved to a downhole position of the lost circulation area 1804. When the LCFDS 1806 reaches a position near the lost circulation area 1804, the sensor carried by the LCFDS 1806 operates to detect the presence of the lost circulation area 1804. In the present implementation, when the LCFDS 1806 detects the presence of the lost circulation area 1804 and obtains the downhole position relative to the lost circulation area 1804, as shown in FIG. Fig.18BAs shown, LCFDS 1806 deploys LCF 1808. A period of time is allowed to elapse from the time of deployment of LCF 1808, thereby allowing LCF 1808 to expand and spread and be lifted uphole by the flow of drilling mud through annular space 1814. As LCF 1808 is lifted uphole, the pressure differential at the lost circulation area 1804 associated with the drilling mud flowing into the lost circulation area 1804 pulls LCF 1808 against the wellbore surface 1816. Thus, LCF 1808 covers at least portions of the lost circulation area 1804, forming a seal to reduce or prevent the flow of drilling mud into the lost circulation area 1804. After the period of time has elapsed, LCF 1808 is separated from the associated LCFDS 1806. With LCF 1808 in place and providing a barrier to lost circulation, drill string 1800 continues to move downhole, as shown in FIG. Fig.18C In some cases, spot treatment with LCM can be used to create a better seal in the lost circulation area. Spot treatment of the lost circulation area with LCM can maintain positive downhole pressure and allow drilling to continue.

[0098] Fig.18A , Fig.18B and Fig.18C The process shown in the embodiment can be performed automatically. In particular, the deployment of LCF 1808 can be automatically deployed by a controller disposed in LCFDS 1806. In some implementations, Fig.18A , Fig.18B and Fig.18C The entire process shown can be performed automatically, including the deployment of LCF 1808 and the movement of drill string 1800 to place LCFDS 1806 at a predetermined location relative to the lost circulation area 1804. For example, the movement of drill string 1800 can be automatically controlled by a controller located, for example, on the surface of the earth. The controller located on the surface of the earth can communicate with the controller included in each LCFDS 1806 to control the deployment of LCF 1808.

[0099] Fig.19A , Fig.19B and Fig.19C 1 and 2 are downhole images respectively illustrating the expansion of one LCF or multiple LCFs from one LCFDS or multiple LCFDSs. Fig.19A , Fig.19B and Fig.19C The diagram illustrates the deployment of an LCF from an LCFDS similar to the LCFDS 1300 described previously. Fig.19AA tubing string is shown. For purposes of this description, the tubing string is described as a drill string 1900, but it should be understood that the tubing string may be another type of tubing string. The drill string 1900 is disposed in a wellbore 1902. A lost circulation area 1904 exists in the wellbore 1902. The drill string 1900 includes a pair of LCFDS 1906. Although two LCFDS 1906 are shown, additional or fewer LCFDSs may be included, which are disposed on the drill string 1900 around a common circumference or at different locations along the length of the drill string 1900, or both. Each LCFDS 1906 has an LCF 1908 stored in a housing 1910. Each LCF 1908 is connected to at least one actuator 1912 via a connector 1914. The actuator 1912 is contained within a housing 1916. In some implementations, each LCF 1908 is provided in a housing 1910, such as a housing 1916. Fig.13 The illustrated manner is connected to a pair of actuators 1912. In some implementations, the actuators 1912 are bobbins coupled to motors, which bobbins and motors can be similar to and operate similarly to the bobbins 1326 and motors 1328 described previously, respectively.

[0100] refer to Figure 1 .9A, the drill string 1900 is moved in a downhole direction toward the lost circulation area 1904. When the LCFDS 1906 reaches a position near the lost circulation area 1904, the onboard sensor of the LCFDS 1906 operates to detect the presence of the lost circulation area 1904. When the sensor of the LCFDS 1906 detects the lost circulation area 1904, the movement of the drill string 1900 is stopped when the housing 1916 is located at an uphole position of the lost circulation area. If the downhole movement of the drill string 1900 has caused the housing 1916 to be positioned downhole of the lost circulation area 1904, the drill string 1900 is moved uphole until the housing 1916 is positioned uphole of the lost circulation area 1904.

[0101] In this implementation, when LCFDS 1906 detects the presence of a lost circulation area 1904 and housing 1916 is positioned above the well in the lost circulation area 1904, as shown in FIG. Fig.19BAs shown, the LCFDS 1906 deploys the LCF 1908. Specifically, the actuator 1912 extracts the LCF 1908 from the associated housing 1910 and stretches and spreads the LCF 1908 to extend along the length of the lost circulation area 1904. In some implementations, the LCF 1908 extends along the entire length of the lost circulation area 1904. Drilling mud flows through an annular space 1918 formed between the drill string 1900 and the wellbore surface 1920. The pressure differential at the lost circulation area 1904 associated with the drilling mud flowing into the lost circulation area 1904 draws the LCF 1908 against the wellbore surface 1820. Thus, the LCF 1908 covers at least portions of the lost circulation area 1904, forming a seal, thereby reducing or preventing the drilling mud from flowing into the lost circulation area 1904.

[0102] The LCFDS 1906 is programmed to allow a preselected time period to elapse after the deployment of the associated LCF 1908. This time period allows, for example, the LCF 1908 to be fully deployed and the LCF 1908 to be applied to the lost circulation area 1904 at the wellbore surface 1920. After the time period has elapsed, the LCF 1908 is separated from the associated LCFDS 1906. With the LCF 1908 in place and providing a barrier to lost circulation, the drill string 1900 continues to move downhole, as shown in FIG. Fig.19C In some cases, spot treatment with LCM can be used to create a better seal in the lost circulation area. Spot treatment of the lost circulation area with LCM can maintain positive downhole pressure and allow drilling to continue.

[0103] Fig.19A , Fig.19B and Fig.19C The process shown in can be performed automatically. In particular, the deployment of LCF1908 can be automatically deployed by a controller disposed in LCFDS 1906. In some implementations, Fig.19A , Fig.19B and Fig.19C The entire process shown may be performed automatically, including the deployment of LCF 1808 and the movement of drill string 1900 to place LCFDS 1906 at a predetermined location relative to lost circulation area 1904. For example, the movement of drill string 1900 may be automatically controlled by a controller located, for example, on the surface of the earth, which may communicate with a controller included in each LCFDS 1906 to control the deployment of LCF 1908.

[0104] Fig. 20It is a block diagram of an exemplary computer system 2000 for providing computing functions related to the algorithms, methods, functions, processes, flows and procedures described in the disclosure according to some implementations of the present disclosure. The computer 2002 shown is intended to cover any computing device, such as a server, a desktop computer, a laptop / notebook computer, a wireless data port, a smart phone, a personal data assistant (PDA), a tablet computing device, or one or more processors in these devices, including a physical instance, a virtual instance, or a physical instance and a virtual instance. The computer 2002 may include an input device that can accept user information, such as a keypad, a keyboard, and a touch screen. Moreover, the computer 2002 may include an output device that can transmit information related to the operation of the computer 2002. The information may include digital data, visual data, audio information, or a combination of information. The information may be presented in a graphical user interface (UI) (or GUI).

[0105] The computer 2002 can act as a client, a network component, a server, a database, a persistence, or a component of a computer system for performing the subject matter described in the present disclosure. The computer 2002 is shown to be communicatively coupled to a network 2030. In some implementations, one or more components of the computer 2002 can be configured to operate in different environments, including cloud computing-based environments, local environments, general environments, and combinations of environments.

[0106] At a high level, the computer 2002 is an electronic computing device operable to receive, send, process, store and manage data and information related to the subject matter described. According to some implementations, the computer 2002 may also include an application server, an email server, a web server, a cache server, a streaming data server, or a combination of servers, or may be communicatively connected to these servers.

[0107] Computer 2002 may receive a request from a client application (e.g., executing on another computer 2002) over network 2030. Computer 2002 may respond to the received request by processing the received request using a software application. Requests may also be issued to computer 2002 from internal users (e.g., from a command console), external (or third party), automated applications, entities, individuals, systems, and computers.

[0108] Each of the components of computer 2002 communicates using system bus 2003. In some implementations, any or all components of computer 2002, including hardware or software components, can be connected to each other or to interface 2004 (or a combination of the two) via system bus 2003. The interface can use an application programming interface (API) 2012, a service layer 2013, or a combination of API 2012 and service layer 2013. API 2012 can include descriptions of routines, data structures, and object classes. API 2012 can be independent of a computer language or can be related to a computer language. API 2012 can refer to a complete interface, a single function, or a set of APIs.

[0109] The service layer 2013 can provide software services to the computer 2002 and other components (whether or not shown) that are communicatively connected to the computer 2002. All service consumers using this service layer can access the functions of the computer 2002. For example, software services such as software services provided by the service layer 2013 can provide reusable defined functions through defined interfaces. For example, the interface can be software written in JAVA, C++, or a language that provides data in an extensible markup language (XML) format. Although shown as an integrated component of the computer 2002, in an alternative implementation, the API 2012 or service layer 2013 can be an independent component related to other components of the computer 2002 and other components that are communicatively connected to the computer 2002. In addition, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, any or all parts of the API 2012 or service layer 2013 can be implemented as a submodule or submodule of another software module, enterprise application or hardware module.

[0110] Computer 2002 includes interface 2004. Although Fig. 20 2004, but two or more interfaces 2004 may be used depending on the specific needs, expectations or specific implementations of the computer 2002 and the functions described. The computer 2002 may use the interface 2004 to communicate with other systems connected to the network 2030 (whether or not illustrated) in a distributed environment. In general, the interface 2004 may include or be implemented using logic encoded in software or hardware (or a combination of software and hardware) that is operable to communicate with the network 2030. More specifically, the interface 2004 may include software that supports one or more communication protocols associated with the communication. In this way, the network 2030 or the hardware of the interface may be operable to transmit physical signals inside and outside the computer 2002 shown.

[0111] Computer 2002 includes processor 2005. Although Fig. 202002, two or more processors 2005 may be used depending on the particular needs, desires, or specific implementation and described functionality of the computer 2002. In general, the processor 2005 may execute instructions and manipulate data to perform operations of the computer 2002, including operations using algorithms, methods, functions, processes, procedures, and procedures as described in this disclosure.

[0112] Computer 2002 also includes a database 2006 that can store data for computer 2002 and other components connected to network 2030 (whether or not illustrated). For example, database 2006 can be an in-memory, traditional, or a database that stores data consistent with the present disclosure. In some implementations, database 2006 can be a combination of two or more different database types (e.g., a hybrid in-memory and traditional database) depending on the specific needs, desires, or specific implementation of computer 2002 and the functionality described. Although in some implementations, database 2006 can be a combination of two or more different database types (e.g., a hybrid in-memory and traditional database). Fig. 20 Although illustrated as a single database 2006 in the computer 2002, two or more databases (of the same type, different types, or a combination of types) may be used depending on the specific needs, desires, or specific implementation of the computer 2002 and the functionality described. Although the database 2006 is illustrated as an internal component of the computer 2002, in alternative implementations, the database 2006 may be external to the computer 2002.

[0113] The computer 2002 also includes a memory 2007 that can store data for the computer 2002 or a combination of components connected to the network 2030 (whether or not illustrated). The memory 2007 can store any data consistent with the present disclosure. In some implementations, the memory 2007 can be a combination of two or more different types of memory (e.g., a combination of semiconductor and magnetic storage devices) depending on the particular needs, desires, or specific implementation of the computer 2002 and the described functionality. Although in Fig. 20 2002, two or more memories 2007 (of the same type, different types, or a combination of types) may be used depending on the specific needs, desires, or specific implementations of the computer 2002 and the described functionality. Although the memory 2007 is illustrated as an internal component of the computer 2002, in alternative implementations, the memory 2007 may be external to the computer 2002.

[0114] The application 2008 may be an algorithmic software engine that provides functionality, depending on the specific needs, expectations, or specific implementation of the computer 2002 and the described functionality. For example, the application 2008 may be implemented as one or more components, modules, or applications. Further, although illustrated as a single application 2008, the application 2008 may be implemented as multiple applications 2008 on the computer 2002. Additionally, although illustrated as being internal to the computer 2002, in alternative implementations, the application 2008 may be external to the computer 2002.

[0115] The computer 2002 may also include a power supply 2014. The power supply 2014 may include a rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery that may be configured to be user replaceable or non-user replaceable. In some implementations, the power supply 2014 may include power conversion and management circuitry, including recharging, standby, and power management functions. In some implementations, the power supply 2014 may include a power plug to allow the computer 2002 to be plugged into a wall outlet or power source to, for example, power the computer 2002 or charge a rechargeable battery.

[0116] There may be any number of computers 2002 associated with or external to the computer system containing computer 2002, each computer 2002 communicating via network 2030. Further, the terms "client," "user," and other appropriate terms may be used interchangeably as appropriate without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In addition, this disclosure contemplates that many users may use one computer 2002 and that one user may use multiple computers 2002.

[0117] The implementation of the subject matter and functional operations described in this specification can be implemented in digital circuits, in tangibly implemented computer software or firmware, in computer hardware (including the structure disclosed in this specification and its structural equivalents), or in a combination of one or more of them. The software implementation of the described subject matter can be implemented as one or more computer programs. Each computer program may include one or more computer program instruction modules, which are encoded on a tangible, non-temporary, computer-readable computer storage medium so that the operation of the data processing device is executed or controlled by a data processing device. Alternatively or additionally, the program instructions can be encoded in / on an artificially generated propagation signal. For example, the signal can be a machine-generated electrical signal, an optical signal, or an electromagnetic signal, which is generated to encode information so as to be sent to a suitable receiver device for execution by a data processing device. The computer storage medium can be a combination of a machine-readable storage device, a machine-readable storage substrate, a random or serial access memory device, or a computer storage medium.

[0118] The terms "data processing equipment", "computer" and "electronic computer device" (or equivalents understood by those of ordinary skill in the art) refer to data processing hardware. The term "data processing equipment" can cover all kinds of equipment, devices and machines for processing data, including (for example) programmable processors, computers, multiple processors or multiple computers. The equipment may also include dedicated logic circuits, including, for example, central processing units (CPUs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). In some implementations, the data processing equipment or dedicated logic circuits (or a combination of data processing equipment or dedicated logic circuits) may be hardware-based or software-based (or a combination of hardware-based and software-based). The equipment may optionally include code that creates an execution environment for a computer program, for example, code that constitutes a processor firmware, a protocol stack, a database management system, an operating system, or a combination of execution environments. The present disclosure contemplates the use of data processing equipment with or without a traditional operating system (e.g., LINUX, UNIX, WINDOWS, MAC OS, ANDROID or IOS).

[0119] A computer program that may also be referred to or described as a program, software, software application, module, software module, script or code may be written in any form of programming language. Programming languages ​​may include, for example, compiled languages, interpreted languages, declarative languages ​​or procedural languages. The program may be deployed in any form, including as an independent program, module, component, subroutine, or a unit for use in a computing environment. A computer program may but need not correspond to a file in a file system. The program may be stored in a portion of a file that stores other programs or data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup language document), in a single file dedicated to the program in question, or in multiple coordination files (e.g., multiple portions of storing one or more modules, subroutines, or codes). The computer program may be deployed to be executed on a single computer or on multiple computers located at, for example, a site or distributed on multiple sites interconnected by a communication network. Although the program portions shown in the various figures may be shown as individual modules that implement various features and functions by various objects, methods or processes, the program may alternatively include multiple submodules, third-party services, components, and libraries. On the contrary, the features and functions of various components may be combined into a single component when appropriate. The threshold used to make the computational determination may be determined statically, dynamically, or both.

[0120] The methods, processes or logic flows described in this specification can be performed by one or more programmable computers executing one or more computer programs to perform functions by operating on input data and generating output. These methods, processes or logic flows can also be performed by devices, and devices can also be implemented as special-purpose logic circuits, such as CPUs, FPGAs or ASICs.

[0121] Computers suitable for executing computer programs can be based on one or more of general and special microprocessors and other types of CPUs. The elements of a computer are a CPU for performing or executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Generally speaking, a CPU can receive instructions and data (and write data to a memory) from a memory. A computer can also include or be operatively connected to one or more large-capacity storage devices for storing data. In some implementations, a computer can receive data from a large-capacity storage device including, for example, a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, or an optical disk and transfer data to the large-capacity storage device. In addition, a computer can be embedded in another device, for example, a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile audio or video player, a game console, a global positioning system (GPS) receiver, or a portable storage device, such as a universal serial bus (USB) flash drive.

[0122] Computer-readable media (temporary or non-temporary) suitable for storing computer program instructions and data may include all forms of permanent / non-permanent and volatile / non-volatile memory, media and memory devices. Computer-readable media may include, for example, semiconductor memory devices such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), phase change memory (PRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) and flash memory devices. Computer-readable media may also include, for example, magnetic devices such as magnetic tapes, cassettes, cassettes and internal / removable disks. Computer-readable media may also include magneto-optical disks and optical memory devices and technologies, including, for example, digital video disks (DVD), CD ROM, DVD+ / -R, DVD-RAM, DVD-ROM, HD-DVD and BLURAY. Memory may store various objects or data, including caches, classes, frameworks, applications, modules, backup data, jobs, web pages, web page templates, data structures, database tables, repositories and dynamic information. The types of objects and data stored in the memory may include parameters, variables, algorithms, instructions, rules, constraints, and reference material. Additionally, the memory may include logs, policies, security or access data, and report files. The processor and memory may be supplemented by or incorporated in dedicated logic circuitry.

[0123] The implementation of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented on a computer with a display device, which is used to provide interaction with a user, including displaying information to the user (and receiving input from the user). The types of display devices may include, for example, cathode ray tubes (CRTs), liquid crystal displays (LCDs), light emitting diodes (LEDs), and plasma monitors. The display device may include a keyboard and a pointing device, including, for example, a mouse, a trackball, or a touchpad. User input may also be provided to the computer by using a touch screen, such as a pressure-sensitive tablet computer surface or a multi-touch screen using capacitance or electrical sensing. Other types of devices may be used to provide interaction with the user, including receiving user feedback, including, for example, sensory feedback, including visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback. Input from the user may be received in the form of sound, voice, tactile input. In addition, the computer may interact with the user by sending documents to and receiving documents from the device used by the user. For example, in response to a request received from a web browser, the computer may send a web page to a web browser on a user's client device.

[0124] The term "graphical user interface" or "GUI" may be used in singular or plural form to describe one or more graphical user interfaces and each display of a particular graphical user interface. Thus, a GUI may represent any graphical user interface, including but not limited to a web browser, a touch screen, or a command line interface (CLI) that processes information and efficiently presents the information results to a user. In general, a GUI may include a plurality of user interface (UI) elements, some or all of which are associated with a web browser, such as interactive fields, drop-down lists, and buttons. These and other UI elements may be associated with or represent the functionality of a web browser.

[0125] The implementation of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented in a computing system including a back-end component (e.g., as a data server) or including a middleware component (e.g., an application server). In addition, the computing system may include a front-end component, for example, a client computer with one or both of a graphical user interface or a web browser, and a user may interact with the computer through a graphical user interface or a web browser. The components of the system may be interconnected by wired or wireless digital data communication (or a combination of data communication) of any form or medium in a communication network. Examples of communication networks include local area networks (LANs), radio access networks (RANs), metropolitan area networks (MANs), wide area networks (WANs), world-wide interoperability for microwave access (WIMAX), wireless local area networks (WLANs) (e.g., using 802.11a / b / g / n or 802.20 or a combination of protocols), all or part of the Internet, or any other one or more communication systems (or a combination of communication networks) at one or more locations. The network may communicate with, for example, a combination of Internet Protocol (IP) packets, frame relay frames, asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) cells, voice, video, data, or communication types between network addresses.

[0126] A computing system may include clients and servers. Clients and servers may generally be remote from each other and may typically interact through a communication network. The relationship of client and server may arise by virtue of computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship.

[0127] A cluster file system can be any file system type that is accessible from multiple servers for reading and updating. Locking or consistency tracking may not be necessary, as locking of exchange file systems can be done at the application layer. In addition, Unicode data files can be handled differently than non-Unicode data files.

[0128] Although this specification contains details of many specific implementations, these should not be interpreted as limitations on the scope of any content that may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to a particular implementation. Certain features described in this specification in the context of separate implementations may also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, different features described in the context of a single implementation may also be implemented in multiple implementations individually or in any suitable sub-combination. In addition, although the aforementioned features may be described as working in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from the claimed combination may be deleted from the combination in some cases, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or a variation of the sub-combination.

[0129] Specific implementations of the subject matter have been described. Other implementations, variations, and permutations of the described implementations are within the scope of the following claims, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Although operations are depicted in a particular order in the drawings or claims, this should not be construed as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in a sequential order, or that all illustrated operations are performed (some operations may be considered optional) to achieve the desired results. In some scenarios, multitasking or parallel processing (or a combination of multitasking and parallel processing) may be advantageous and is performed when deemed appropriate.

[0130] In addition, the separation or integration of various system modules and components in the aforementioned implementations should not be understood as requiring such separation or integration in all implementations. Instead, it should be understood that the program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

[0131] Therefore, the above exemplary implementations do not define or limit the present disclosure. Other changes, substitutions and variations are also possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0132] Furthermore, any claimed implementation is considered applicable to at least one computer-implemented method; a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions to perform a computer-implemented method; and a computer system comprising a computer memory interoperably coupled to a hardware processor configured to perform the computer-implemented method or the instructions stored on the non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0133] A number of implementations of the present disclosure have been described. Therefore, it should be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A plugging fabric deployment system for deploying a plugging fabric in a lost circulation area in a wellbore, the plugging fabric deployment system comprising: a first housing configured to be coupled to the tube, the first housing defining a first cavity; an opening formed in the first housing, the opening providing communication between the first cavity and an exterior of the first housing; a door movable between a closed position covering an opening formed in the first housing and an open position exposing the opening formed in the first housing; A leak-proof fabric disposed in the first cavity; an actuator coupled to the plugging fabric and operable to deploy the plugging fabric from the first housing, wherein the actuator is configured to couple to a pipe and move along a surface of the pipe; as well as A release system is operable to move the door between the closed position and the open position to allow deployment of the plugging fabric.

2. The plugging fabric deployment system of claim 1, further comprising a second shell configured to be coupled to the tube and offset from the first shell, wherein: The second housing defines a second cavity, and wherein the actuator is disposed in the second cavity.

3. The leak-proof fabric deployment system according to claim 1, wherein: The actuator includes a bobbin and a motor, and wherein the motor is operable to rotate the bobbin to deploy the plugging fabric.

4. The leak-proof fabric deployment system according to claim 1, wherein: The first housing is sized and shaped to be positioned in a wellbore within an annular space between the tube and a wall of the wellbore.

5. A plugging fabric deployment system for deploying a plugging fabric in a lost circulation area in a wellbore, the plugging fabric deployment system comprising: a first housing configured to be coupled to the tube, the first housing defining a first cavity; an opening formed in the first housing, the opening providing communication between the first cavity and an exterior of the first housing; a door movable between a closed position covering an opening formed in the first housing and an open position exposing the opening formed in the first housing; A leak-proof fabric disposed in the first cavity; an actuator coupled to the plugging fabric and operable to deploy the plugging fabric from the first housing, wherein the actuator comprises a first actuator coupled to a first end of the plugging fabric and a second actuator coupled to a second end of the plugging fabric; as well as A release system is operable to move the door between the closed position and the open position to allow deployment of the plugging fabric.

6. The leak-proof fabric deployment system according to claim 5, wherein: The position of the first actuator and the position of the second actuator are offset from the position of the first housing.

7. The leak-proof fabric deployment system according to claim 6, wherein: The first actuator and the second actuator are angularly offset from the first housing about the longitudinal axis.

8. The leak-proof fabric deployment system according to claim 6, wherein: The position of the first actuator and the position of the second actuator are such that when the first actuator and the second actuator are operated to unfold the plugging fabric, the first end of the plugging fabric and the second end of the plugging fabric are separated.

9. The leak-proof fabric deployment system according to claim 6, wherein: The first actuator is disposed in a first actuator housing, and wherein the second actuator is disposed in a second actuator housing.

10. The leak-proof fabric deployment system according to claim 5, wherein: The actuator is configured to be coupled to a tube and move along a surface of the tube.

11. The leak-proof fabric deployment system according to claim 10, wherein: The actuator is configured to move along a path defined in the surface of the tube.

12. The plugging fabric deployment system of claim 5, further comprising a second housing configured to be coupled to the tube and offset from the first housing, wherein: The second housing defines a second cavity, and wherein the actuator is disposed in the second cavity.

13. The leak-proof fabric deployment system according to claim 5, wherein: The actuator includes a bobbin and a motor, and wherein the motor is operable to rotate the bobbin to deploy the plugging fabric.

14. The leak-proof fabric deployment system according to claim 5, wherein: The first housing is sized and shaped to be positioned in a wellbore within an annular space between the tube and a wall of the wellbore.

15. The leak-proof fabric deployment system according to claim 5, further comprising: Controller; as well as The controller is operable to receive data from the sensor to detect the presence of a lost circulation zone and to actuate the release system to deploy the lost circulation fabric in response to detecting the lost circulation zone.

16. The plugging fabric deployment system of claim 15, further comprising a second housing configured to be coupled to the tube and offset from the first housing, wherein: The second housing defines a second cavity, and wherein the actuator is disposed in the second cavity.

17. The leak-proof fabric deployment system according to claim 15, wherein: The first housing is sized and shaped to be positioned in a wellbore within an annular space between the tube and a wall of the wellbore.

18. The leak-proof fabric deployment system according to claim 15, wherein: The actuator includes a bobbin and a motor, and wherein the motor is operable to rotate the bobbin to deploy the plugging fabric.

19. A system for deploying a leak-proof fabric, the system comprising: A plurality of plugging fabric deployment systems configured to be coupled to a pipe, each of the plugging fabric deployment systems comprising: a housing configured to be coupled to the tube, the housing defining a cavity; an opening formed in the housing, the opening providing communication between the cavity and an exterior of the housing; a door movable between a closed position covering an opening formed in the housing and an open position revealing the opening formed in the housing; A leak-proof fabric disposed in the cavity; and a release system operable to move the door between the closed position and the open position to allow deployment of the plugging fabric; and A plurality of actuators are configured to be connected to the tube, the plurality of actuators are offset from the plurality of plugging fabric deployment systems along a longitudinal axis, each of the plurality of actuators is connected to one end of two plugging fabrics of the plugging fabric deployment system that are angularly offset from the actuator with respect to the longitudinal axis, and the plurality of actuators are operable to deploy the plugging fabrics from the shells.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein: When adjacent leak-proof fabrics are unfolded, these leak-proof fabrics overlap each other.

21. The system of claim 19, wherein: The plurality of plugging fabric deployment systems are arranged in an annular arrangement, and wherein the plurality of actuators are arranged in an annular arrangement.

22. The system of claim 19, wherein: At least one of the plurality of plugging fabric deployment systems includes a controller and a sensor, and wherein the controller is operable to receive data from the sensor to detect the presence of a lost circulation zone and to actuate at least two of the plurality of actuators to deploy a plugging fabric of the plugging fabric deployment system in response to detecting the lost circulation zone.

23. The system of claim 19, wherein: At least one of the plurality of actuators includes a bobbin coupled to the leak-proof fabrics, and a motor, wherein the motor is operable to rotate the bobbin to deploy the leak-proof fabrics.

24. The system of claim 19, wherein: The plurality of actuators are operable to separate the first end and the second end of each plugging fabric after the plugging fabrics are deployed.

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