Centerline Data Recorder for Precise BHA Drilling Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bottom hole assemblies (BHAs) in wellbores have limited sensor capabilities and data processing, making it difficult to monitor and analyze drilling dynamics effectively, which affects the operational life and performance of drill bits and other components.
Innovation Solution
An integrated data recorder system is positioned at the centerline of a sensor carrier within the BHA, incorporating drilling dynamics sensors, a processor, memory module, and an energy source, allowing for continuous data logging and analysis of drilling parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional BHA sensors and limited data processing are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and data processing capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple drilling dynamics sensors (accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers) along with processing units and memory into a single integrated data recorder assembly. This merging of components resolves the contradiction by achieving precise multi-parameter drilling dynamics measurement while containing the device complexity within a unified sensor carrier structure designed for downhole deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor carrier is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate various types of drilling dynamics sensors and be deployed in different BHA configurations. The integrated data recorder can measure multiple drilling parameters simultaneously (vibration, rotation, orientation), providing multi-functional capability that improves measurement precision without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Measurement precision
If multiple drilling dynamics sensors are added to the BHA, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where the integrated data recorder with multiple sensors is positioned within a sensor carrier that is itself coupled to the BHA. The sensors are nested within a protective housing, and the entire assembly is integrated into the downhole tool string. This nesting approach allows multiple sensors to be accommodated in a compact, organized manner, improving measurement precision while managing device complexity through hierarchical integration.
3Loss of information
If continuous data logging of drilling dynamics is implemented, then information completeness improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated data recorder is configured to log drilling dynamics data at specific intervals or under certain conditions rather than continuously at maximum resolution. The system can adjust sampling rates based on drilling conditions, storing high-resolution data when anomalies are detected and lower-resolution data during normal operations. This periodic or conditional data collection approach improves information completeness for critical events while reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous high-rate logging.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a sensor carrier and an integrated data recorder. The sensor carrier includes an outer sub body and an inner sub body. The inner sub body is coupled to the outer sub body by a support leg. The inner sub body includes a recess formed therein. The sensor carrier includes a flow path defined as the space between the outer sub body, the inner sub body, and the support leg. The integrated data recorder is positioned within the recess of the inner sub body such that the integrated data recorder is substantially at the centerline of the sensor carrier. The integrated data recorder includes a sensor package including one or more drilling dynamics sensors, a processor, a memory module, and an electrical energy source.