Downhole Core Orientation Recording Using Random Time Intervals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing core orientation systems face inefficiencies due to continuous or frequent data recording during drilling, leading to battery waste, inaccurate data from vibrations, and the need for excessive spare equipment, as they rely on predetermined time intervals which result in unusable measurements and reduced battery life.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that record core sample orientation measurements at non-predetermined or random time intervals, time-stamped relative to an initial reference time, with data relevant to the orientation determined after drilling has stopped, allowing for accurate orientation indication with reduced power consumption and equipment needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If continuous or frequent data recording is performed during drilling at predetermined time intervals, then orientation measurements are captured, but battery power is wasted and measurement accuracy deteriorates due to vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from continuous periodic recording at fixed intervals to event-triggered periodic recording. Measurements are taken at regular intervals only when drilling has stopped and the core sample is ready for separation, eliminating energy waste during active drilling while ensuring accurate orientation data is captured at the critical moment.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful element of continuous recording during vibration-prone drilling operations is extracted and removed. The system selectively captures data only during stable periods when drilling has ceased, separating the useful measurement function from the energy-consuming continuous recording function.
2Quantity of substance
If measurements are taken at regular predetermined time intervals, then data is continuously recorded, but most measurements become unusable and battery life is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of recording all measurements continuously (excessive action), the system records only the necessary subset of measurements - specifically those taken when drilling has stopped and the core sample is ready for separation. This partial recording approach eliminates waste while ensuring sufficient data is captured for orientation determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The recording parameter changes from continuous fixed-interval sampling to event-based sampling. The system monitors drilling status and adjusts recording behavior accordingly, changing the fundamental parameter of when and how measurements are taken to match operational requirements.
3Reliability
If multiple spare downhole devices are kept on hand, then equipment reliability is maintained, but equipment costs and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potential harm of battery power waste into a benefit by implementing event-triggered recording. This extends battery life and device operational duration, reducing the need for spare equipment inventory while maintaining reliability. The harm of continuous recording is transformed into the benefit of extended device life.
Solution Approach 2:
The downhole device monitors its own operational status and autonomously adjusts its recording behavior based on drilling conditions. It determines when to record and when to conserve power without external intervention, optimizing its own resource usage and extending its service life.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for obtaining orientation of a core sample core drilled from underlying rock. A core orientation recording device (116) records its orientation at random and/or non-predetermined time intervals from a reference time during a drilling operation. The time intervals are generated to be within a range of minimum and maximum time intervals. After a time interval elapsed from the reference time plus a wait time of at least the minimum random or non-predetermined time interval, the core sample is separated from the underlying rock and brought to the surface and its original orientation is determined from orientation data recorded closest in time to the elapsed time plus the minimum time interval. A remote communicator (160) having the elapsed time interrogates the core orientation recordal device (116) to identify the required orientation data and requires the core orientation recordal device to identify a correct orientation of the core sample.