Bore Sensor Coils for Axial and Lateral Position Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor systems for detecting the axial and lateral position of elongate elements within a bore, such as drill strings, face challenges in accurately sensing positions due to lateral displacement and varying conditions like temperature and pressure, which can affect the effectiveness of blow-out preventers in oil and gas extraction.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system comprising plural electromagnetic coils arranged around the bore to generate and detect oscillating electromagnetic fields, allowing for the derivation of both axial and lateral positions of elongate components by analyzing changes in interaction with the fields, using a processing circuit to interpret the detected parameters and provide measures of position and electromagnetic properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electromagnetic sensor systems are used to sense axial position of joint sections, then axial position detection is enabled, but lateral position sensing capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system divides the sensing function into multiple electromagnetic coils positioned at different angular locations around the bore. Each coil independently measures axial position, and by segmenting the sensing capability across multiple spatial locations, the system gains additional information needed to determine lateral position through comparison of the segmented measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from one-dimensional axial sensing to two-dimensional position sensing (axial + lateral) by adding electromagnetic coils arranged in different angular positions around the bore. This dimensional expansion allows the system to capture position information in both axial and lateral directions using the same basic sensing technology.
2Productivity
If sensor systems operate in varying temperature and pressure conditions, then oil and gas extraction operations can proceed, but measurement stability and sensitivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the electromagnetic field interactions and uses the detected parameters to determine both axial and lateral positions. This continuous feedback allows the system to adapt to changing conditions and maintain reliable measurements by comparing expected versus actual field interactions, identifying deviations caused by lateral displacement or environmental changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic coil system performs multiple functions: it senses axial position, detects lateral displacement, and characterizes electromagnetic properties of bore contents. This multi-functionality allows a single sensor system to provide comprehensive monitoring that remains reliable across varying temperature and pressure conditions by cross-validating measurements across different sensing modalities.
3Ease of operation
If shear rams operate without accurate lateral position sensing, then blow-out preventer operation is simplified, but sealing effectiveness decreases due to off-center pipe positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system determines lateral position and axial position of joint sections before the shear rams are activated. This preliminary sensing allows the control system to assess whether the drill string is properly positioned for successful shearing and sealing, enabling preventive action or adjustment before the critical shearing operation occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback on lateral position to the BOP control system, allowing operators to monitor drill string alignment and make necessary adjustments before activating shear rams. This feedback loop ensures that the shear rams operate under optimal conditions for achieving complete sealing.
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
The system enables reliable sensing of axial and lateral positions of elongate components within the bore, enhancing the effectiveness of blow-out preventers by ensuring accurate alignment and position detection, even in conditions of lateral displacement and varying fluid properties.
Implementation Method 1
plural electromagnetic coils arranged facing the bore for generating an electromagnetic field directed laterally into the bore; a drive circuit arrangement arranged to generate electrical oscillations in the coils for producing oscillating electromagnetic fields that interact with the contents of the bore
Data Source
AI summary
An elongate component such as a drill string of drill pipes connected by joint sections inside a bore is sensed using at least one set of electromagnetic coils, the coils within the set being arranged at different angular positions around the bore facing the bore. There may be at least two sets of coils separated along the axial direction of the bore. Electrical oscillations are generated in the coils to produce oscillating electromagnetic fields that interact with the contents of the bore. A parameter of the electrical oscillations generated in each coil is detected. The detected parameters may be used to derive both (1) a measure of the axial position along the bore, and (2) a measure of the lateral position. The detected parameters may be used to derive a measure of electromagnetic properties of the contents of the pipe in a region adjacent each coil, thereby imaging the contents of the pipe.