Core Orientation Detection from Continuous Drilling Data Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current core orientation methods for determining the in situ orientation of core samples cut from the ground are limited by reliance on trigger signals, time stamping, or mechanical markers, which can be inaccurate or inefficient, especially in real-time monitoring and data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that continuously acquire drilling data, including core orientation and rig operational data, to detect specific patterns indicative of the core sample breaking, allowing for precise determination of orientation before separation from the ground, using a data acquisition tool with sensors and a telemetry system for real-time data communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If trigger signals or time stamping are used to determine core orientation, then the system can identify orientation data, but the accuracy and timing precision deteriorate due to delays and uncertainty in identifying the correct measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by continuously acquiring and storing core orientation measurements at high frequency before the core breaking event occurs. This ensures that when the event is detected, the correct orientation data is already captured and stored, eliminating the need for post-event identification and time stamping.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous acquisition of core orientation data throughout the drilling process, rather than relying on discrete trigger signals. This continuous measurement approach ensures that no orientation data is missed and provides a complete time-series record for accurate correlation with the core breaking event.
2Reliability
If mechanical markers or trigger signals are used to mark core orientation, then orientation data can be identified, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential missed triggers or incorrect event identification
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical marker systems and complex trigger signal detection mechanisms with a simplified approach based on continuous electronic data acquisition and pattern recognition algorithms. The microprocessor automatically identifies the core breaking event by analyzing changes in drilling parameters, eliminating the need for mechanical markers or complex trigger circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the core breaking event through analysis of drilling parameter patterns and autonomously identifying the corresponding orientation measurements. This eliminates the need for external trigger signals or manual intervention, improving reliability while reducing system complexity.
3Measurement precision
If continuous data acquisition is implemented, then the precision of core orientation determination improves, but the quantity of data to be processed increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts only the essential information needed for core orientation determination by continuously monitoring drilling parameters and identifying specific patterns that indicate the core breaking event. Rather than processing all raw data, the microprocessor extracts key features such as changes in weight on bit, rotational speed, and vibration patterns to pinpoint the exact moment of interest.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary data processing and filtering during acquisition, organizing continuous measurements into structured formats that facilitate efficient later analysis. This preliminary organization reduces the computational burden of processing large volumes of raw continuous data while maintaining measurement precision.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method (60) of determining core orientation of a core sample (12) cut from the ground by a drill rig (10) having a drill string and a drill bit (20) coupled to a downhole end of the drill string. Drilling data (Cn, Rn) is continuously acquired while the drill rig (10) is operating to cut and retrieve the core sample (12). The drilling data is a combination of core orientation data Cn and rig operational data Rn, where the rig operational data is constituted by either one or both of: (a) near bit rig data Nn; and, (b) at surface rig data Sn. The drilling data is analysed for a specific pattern of rig operational data Rn indicative of the core sample being broken from ground by operation of the drill rig (10). On detection of the specific pattern, the orientation of the core sample prior to being broken from the ground is the acquired core orientation data Cn coinciding with that specific pattern of rig operational data Rn.