Core Orientation Tool Triggering on Downhole Events
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accurate orientation of core samples extracted from subsurface boreholes is challenging due to the lack of reliable methods for determining their in-situ orientation relative to the subsurface, which is crucial for interpreting geological data effectively.
Innovation Solution
A core orientation tool equipped with an electronic orientation system and a trigger system that logs orientation indications upon detecting specific downhole events associated with the core drill's operation, such as changes in motion or drilling cessation, allowing for precise recording of dip, roll, and azimuth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual orientation recording methods are used, then operator flexibility is maintained, but measurement precision and reliability of orientation data deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical orientation recording with an electronic orientation system that uses sensors (accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers) to automatically detect and record orientation data. This substitution of mechanical/manual methods with electronic sensing systems directly improves measurement precision while accepting increased device complexity as a necessary trade-off for accurate geological surveying.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic orientation system performs self-measurement and self-recording of orientation data without requiring manual intervention. The trigger system automatically activates the orientation logging based on detected downhole events, enabling the system to serve itself in capturing critical orientation information at the right moments without operator input, thereby improving both precision and operational efficiency.
2Reliability
If continuous orientation logging is performed, then complete orientation data is captured, but loss of time and energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous logging, the system employs periodic action by using a trigger mechanism that activates orientation data capture only at specific moments when downhole events are detected (such as core breakage, tool string movement, or drilling parameter changes). This selective periodic logging ensures critical orientation data is captured reliably while minimizing unnecessary continuous operation, thereby reducing time and energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger system is pre-configured to recognize specific downhole events that indicate when orientation data should be logged. By preparing the trigger conditions in advance and automatically activating logging only when these predetermined events occur, the system ensures reliable capture of critical orientation information without the need for continuous monitoring, thus optimizing time and energy utilization.
3Measurement precision
If automated trigger-based logging is implemented, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system is segmented into distinct functional modules: orientation sensing subsystem (accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers), trigger detection subsystem (sensors for downhole events), and data processing subsystem. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture by dividing the complex automated logging function into manageable, specialized modules that work together to achieve high measurement precision.
Data Source
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AI summary
A core orientation tool (10) for providing an indication of orientation of a core sample (112) comprises an electronic orientation device (20), which upon receipt of a trigger signal, logs one or more indications of orientation of the tool (10). A trigger system (24) provides trigger signals to the electronic device (20) based one or both of (a) detecting one or more downhole events and (b) the effluxion of time. The downhole events relate to the action of core breaking and may include detecting: uphole motion of the tool; and, cessation of drilling and commencement of drilling.