Depth-Based Borehole Steering With Closed-Loop Trajectory Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current drilling technologies face challenges in achieving precise control over borehole trajectory, particularly in terms of depth, inclination, and azimuth, due to uncertainties in rate of penetration (ROP) and difficulties in real-time feedback and control systems.
Innovation Solution
A drilling system equipped with a drill tubular, disintegrating device, and a steering system, coupled with a control unit that provides depth-based control outputs to steer the drilling system, utilizing sensors for real-time data feedback and actuator control to maintain a planned trajectory.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional drilling control systems are used, then drilling operations can proceed, but trajectory accuracy and precision deteriorate due to uncertainties in rate of penetration and lack of real-time feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop control system that continuously measures actual borehole trajectory parameters (depth, inclination, azimuth) and compares them with planned trajectory parameters. The control unit processes this feedback information and dynamically adjusts drilling parameters to maintain trajectory accuracy, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing precision and system reliability by enabling real-time corrections based on actual performance
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calculations of expected borehole trajectory based on planned drilling parameters and rate of penetration models before actual drilling occurs. This allows the control unit to anticipate trajectory deviations and adjust drilling parameters proactively, improving both trajectory accuracy and control reliability by preparing correction strategies in advance
2Manufacturing precision
If depth-based control algorithms are implemented, then trajectory control accuracy improves, but system complexity increases due to real-time feedback requirements and control computations
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into distinct functional modules: measurement units for collecting trajectory data, a control unit for processing information and executing algorithms, and actuation systems for implementing corrections. This modular segmentation manages system complexity by organizing complex functions into manageable, independent components that can be developed and maintained separately while achieving high trajectory control accuracy
3Productivity
If real-time feedback and control systems are used, then drilling efficiency improves through reduced oscillations and deviations, but operational costs increase due to additional sensors, actuators, and control infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The control system applies partial correction actions rather than continuous maximum adjustments. By making small, targeted modifications to drilling parameters only when trajectory deviations exceed acceptable thresholds, the system improves drilling efficiency by reducing oscillations and deviations while minimizing the energy consumption and operational costs associated with excessive actuation and continuous high-level system operation
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatuses for controlling a trajectory of a borehole being drilled into the earth are provided. The apparatus includes a drilling system including a drill tubular, a disintegrating device, and a steering system coupled to the drill tubular configured to steer the drilling system, the drilling system configured to drill the borehole by receiving control outputs from at least one control unit for controlling parameters of the drilling system, the at least one control unit configured to provide the control outputs to the steering system, the at least one control unit being configured to provide a depth-based control output.