Autonomous Robotic Diver for Well Logging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current well logging technologies face challenges in effectively measuring and communicating various parameters, such as cement cure stage, cement-to-casing bond quality, and defect detection, due to interference from flowing fluids and ferrous materials, which complicates data transmission over long distances in noisy well environments.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous robotic diver apparatus is deployed in wellbores, equipped with articulated segments, buoyancy control devices, and communication devices, allowing it to adapt configurations and positions to maintain effective communication and sensor data transmission, using motorized wheels and magnetic engagement for surface contact, and buoyancy adjustments to navigate and park within the well.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional well logging methods are used with flowing fluids and ferrous materials present, then data transmission over long distances is attempted, but measurement precision and data reliability deteriorate due to interference from flowing fluids and ferrous materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the logging apparatus from the harmful environment by using a robotic diver that can be deployed and retrieved, isolating the sensitive measurement equipment from continuous exposure to flowing fluids and ferrous materials while still enabling measurements in the wellbore
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic diver acts as an intermediary carrier that transports logging equipment through the challenging well environment. The diver's hull and control systems mediate between the harmful external environment and the sensitive internal measurement equipment, protecting against interference while enabling data collection
2Adaptability or versatility
If tethered logging apparatus are used for data transmission, then continuous communication is maintained, but device complexity and operational flexibility increase due to tether requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the tether constraint entirely by using an autonomous robotic diver that operates independently. This extraction of the tether requirement simplifies the overall system architecture while dramatically increasing operational flexibility, allowing the diver to navigate freely and position itself optimally for measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic diver is self-contained with its own propulsion, power, and control systems, enabling it to operate autonomously without external tether connection. This self-service capability eliminates the complexity of tether management while maintaining full operational versatility in navigating and positioning within the wellbore
3Adaptability or versatility
If autonomous robotic diver with articulated segments is deployed, then adaptability to different well configurations is improved, but device complexity increases due to articulated segments and buoyancy control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic diver is divided into articulated segments that can flex and adjust relative to each other, allowing the diver to adapt to different wellbore diameters and configurations. This segmentation enables versatility in navigating various well environments while distributing the complexity across modular, manageable sections rather than a single complex structure
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated segments and buoyancy control systems provide dynamic adaptability, allowing the diver to change its configuration and positioning in real-time based on well conditions. This dynamic capability enables the diver to optimize its shape and buoyancy for different operational phases, achieving versatility through controlled movement rather than fixed complex structures
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables reliable and efficient data transmission and measurement of well parameters, including cement quality and casing integrity, with improved resolution and coverage, even in challenging well environments, without the need for tethers, and allows for autonomous operation.
Implementation Method 1
the segments including at least one buoyancy control device (56)
Implementation Method 2
using motorized wheels and magnetic engagement for surface contact
Data Source
AI summary
A logging apparatus for use in a well can include at least one sensor that senses a well parameter, at least one buoyancy control device, and the logging apparatus extending helically between opposite ends of the logging apparatus. A method of logging in a subterranean well can include installing at least one logging apparatus in the well, and the logging apparatus helically displacing in the well as a sensor of the logging apparatus senses a well parameter. A well system can include at least one logging apparatus disposed in a wellbore, the logging apparatus including multiple segments, the segments including at least one buoyancy control device and at least one sensor that senses a well parameter, and the segments being helically arranged in the wellbore.