Borehole Trajectory Prediction Using Averaged Drilling Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining borehole trajectory in directional drilling are inaccurate due to variations in wellbore trajectory between survey points and misalignment of drilling tools, which are not adequately accounted for in existing curvature calculation methods.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that receives and averages drilling parameter data over increments between survey points, calculates predicted drill string responses, and generates a predicted wellbore trajectory by determining changes in inclination and azimuth, with iterative recalculations and corrections applied as necessary to align with measured trajectories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional curvature calculation methods (Minimum Curvature Method) are used to determine borehole trajectory, then the calculation process is simple and fast, but the accuracy of borehole position determination deteriorates due to unaccounted variations between survey points and tool misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the borehole trajectory into multiple small intervals between survey points. Instead of using a single curvature calculation across the entire interval, the method divides the trajectory into discrete segments and calculates curvature for each segment individually. This segmentation allows for more precise tracking of trajectory variations while maintaining computational efficiency through systematic processing of each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic correction factors that adjust the curvature calculation based on real-time drilling conditions and tool responses. The system dynamically modifies the trajectory model by incorporating measured deviations from the planned path, allowing the calculation to adapt to actual borehole conditions rather than relying on static minimum curvature assumptions.
2Device complexity
If discrete survey points are used to map borehole trajectory, then the measurement process is simple, but the accuracy deteriorates due to unaccounted variations in wellbore trajectory between survey points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary correction factors to the survey data before performing curvature calculations. By pre-adjusting the measured inclination and azimuth values based on expected tool responses and drilling conditions, the system compensates for potential errors before they propagate through the trajectory calculation, improving overall accuracy without adding complex measurement equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by comparing the calculated trajectory with the planned trajectory and using the deviations to refine subsequent calculations. The measured variations between survey points are fed back into the model to adjust curvature calculations for intermediate points, creating a self-correcting system that improves accuracy while maintaining simple discrete survey point measurements.
3Ease of operation
If drill string sag and misalignment are not corrected for, then the measurement and calculation process remains simple, but the borehole position determination becomes inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediary correction calculations that act as a bridge between the simple minimum curvature method and the complex reality of drill string sag and misalignment. These correction factors serve as mathematical intermediaries that adjust the raw survey data to account for tool responses without requiring complex physical models or additional sensors, maintaining calculation simplicity while improving accuracy.
Data Source
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AI summary
System, methods and devices for measuring and predicting complex borehole geometries are presented herein. A method is disclosed for determining a trajectory of a borehole that is generated by a drill string. The method includes: receiving data indicative of one or more drilling parameters between at least two survey points; averaging the received data over predetermined increments between the at least two survey points; calculating from at least the averaged data a predicted drill string response for each of the predetermined increments; determining from at least the predicted drill string response a change in inclination and azimuth for each of the predetermined increments; generating a predicted wellbore trajectory from the change in inclination and azimuth; comparing the predicted wellbore trajectory to a measured wellbore trajectory; and, if the comparison is favorable, determining a probable borehole position from the change in inclination and azimuth for each of the predetermined increments.