Borehole Stress Module for Formation Characterization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for characterizing underground formations and borehole characteristics lack effective means to measure deformation and stress responses, which are crucial for evaluating reservoir viability and well maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that induce stress on the borehole wall using pressurized fluid or mechanical force applicators, allowing for the estimation of borehole deformation characteristics through dimensional measurement tools and data processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measurement methods are used to characterize underground formations, then the measurement process is simple, but the ability to measure deformation and stress responses is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-installing strain gauges and deformation measurement devices on the borehole wall before conducting stress measurements. This allows the system to capture deformation responses in real-time during stress application, rather than attempting to measure them after the fact. The measurement infrastructure is prepared in advance to enable precise deformation and stress response characterization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses strain gauges and deformation measurement devices as intermediary elements between the applied stress and the measurement system. These intermediaries convert mechanical deformation into electrical signals that can be processed and analyzed, thereby enabling indirect but precise measurement of stress responses without requiring direct contact with the stress source itself.
2Reliability
If stress is applied to the borehole wall to induce deformation, then formation mechanical properties can be evaluated, but the risk of borehole wall failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring borehole wall deformation using strain gauges and measurement devices during stress application. When deformation approaches critical thresholds that could indicate impending failure, the system provides feedback signals to reduce or stop stress application. This closed-loop control enables accurate formation evaluation while preventing borehole wall failure by dynamically adjusting stress levels based on real-time deformation responses.
3Loss of information
If detailed deformation measurements are taken to characterize formation properties, then reservoir viability evaluation improves, but the time required for measurements increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies continuity of useful action by implementing continuous deformation monitoring throughout the stress application process using strain gauges and real-time measurement devices. Rather than taking discrete intermittent measurements that require stopping and starting, the system continuously captures deformation data, enabling complete formation characterization to occur during the entire stress application duration without additional time penalties.
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
Enables accurate estimation of formation mechanical properties and in-situ stresses, improving well operation decisions on safety, production, and economics by measuring deformation responses to induced stresses.
Implementation Method 1
stressing a wall of a borehole formed in the formation
Implementation Method 2
induce stress on the borehole wall using pressurized fluid or mechanical force applicators
Implementation Method 3
estimation of borehole deformation characteristics through dimensional measurement tools
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure is directed to methods and apparatuses for estimating a response relating to a formation by stressing a wall of a borehole during either wireline or while drilling deployment. The response may be estimated by stressing the wall of a borehole formed in the formation; and estimating a response of the borehole wall to the stress. The response may be estimated using a force module configured to induce the stress around borehole and a tool configured to estimate the response of the borehole wall to the stress.