Core Barrel Head Assembly for Continuous Core Orientation Surveying

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional core sampling methods require additional drill string elements and frequent withdrawal of the drill bit for surveying, leading to inefficiencies and increased operational risks.

Innovation Solution

A core barrel assembly with integrated electronic instruments for orientation data acquisition, including sensors and a power source, allows for real-time orientation data collection without the need for additional equipment or frequent bit withdrawal, using wireless communication to transmit data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional core sampling methods use additional drill string elements and frequent bit withdrawal for surveying, then orientation data can be obtained, but drilling efficiency decreases and operational risks increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecore orientation data accuracyVSAvoiddrilling efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the surveying function with the drill bit by integrating electronic instruments (accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers) directly into the drill bit assembly. This merging eliminates the need for separate surveying operations and additional drill string elements, allowing continuous drilling while collecting orientation data, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and productivity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The drill bit is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it performs the primary drilling function while also acting as a surveying instrument platform. The electronic instruments integrated into the drill bit enable it to collect three-axis acceleration, rotational rate, and magnetic field data, making the drill bit a universal tool that combines cutting and measurement capabilities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If conventional methods frequently withdraw the drill bit for surveying, then orientation measurements can be taken, but operational risks increase and downtime increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveorientation dataVSAvoiddowntime

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated electronic instruments in the drill bit enable continuous data collection throughout the drilling operation. The system continuously measures three-axis acceleration, rotational rate, and magnetic field data without requiring interruption of the drilling process, eliminating downtime associated with frequent bit withdrawals while maintaining accurate orientation data

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Measurement precision

If additional drill string elements are used for surveying, then orientation data can be collected, but equipment complexity increases and handling time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecore orientation dataVSAvoidequipment complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the surveying instruments with the drill bit itself, eliminating the need for separate surveying tools and additional drill string elements. The electronic instruments (accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers) are integrated into the drill bit assembly, reducing equipment complexity while maintaining the capability to collect accurate orientation data

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The drill bit is designed as a multi-functional device that combines cutting capabilities with surveying instruments. This universal design eliminates the need for additional specialized equipment, reducing overall system complexity while enabling comprehensive orientation data collection through integrated sensors

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enhances drilling efficiency by reducing equipment handling time and minimizing downtime, while providing accurate core orientation data for three-dimensional mapping of subsurface mineral content.

Implementation Method 1

the at least one electronic instrument is configured to provide an indication of the orientation of a core sample relative to a body of material from which the core has been extracted

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravitation: Gravitation

Implementation Method 2

the at least one electronic instrument is configured to provide an indication of the orientation of a core sample

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS12467329B2Core barrel head assembly with an integrated sample orientation tool and system for using same

Publication Date: 2025.11.11 VERACIO LTD

AI summary

A core barrel head assembly having at least one electronic instrument that is configured to obtain orientation data; a power source; and a communication means to receive and/or transmit orientation data for use in a core sample down hole surveying and sample orientation system that is configured to provide an indication of the orientation of a core sample relative to a body of material from which the core has been extracted, and also to a method of core sample orientation identification.