Downhole Core Orientation Device Vibration Threshold
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current core orientation systems face issues with inaccurate data due to vibrations during drilling, inefficient power usage, and human error in marking core samples, leading to increased costs and time losses in mining and construction operations.
Innovation Solution
A downhole core orientation data recording device that activates only when drilling vibrations are below a certain threshold, recording orientation data after drilling has ceased, and using a hermetically sealed system with visual indicators to accurately mark the core sample orientation upon retrieval, reducing unnecessary data collection and enhancing reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If orientation data is recorded continuously during drilling, then complete orientation data is obtained, but power consumption increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from continuous recording to periodic recording based on vibration detection. Orientation sensors only record data when vibration levels indicate drilling has ceased, converting continuous power consumption into periodic operation that preserves battery life while capturing necessary orientation information at appropriate moments
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own vibration sensors to automatically detect when drilling has stopped and trigger orientation recording without external control. The device self-regulates its recording behavior based on detected vibration patterns, eliminating the need for continuous external monitoring or manual intervention
2Loss of time
If orientation data is recorded during drilling vibrations, then orientation information is captured early, but data accuracy decreases due to vibration interference
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses vibration sensors to continuously monitor drilling activity and provides feedback to the orientation recording system. When vibration levels exceed thresholds indicating active drilling, the system suppresses orientation recording. When vibrations subside below thresholds indicating drilling cessation, the system activates recording, ensuring data is captured only under stable conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary vibration detection and assessment before initiating orientation data recording. By pre-evaluating vibration levels and predicting stable conditions, the system prepares to record orientation data at the optimal moment just as drilling ceases, ensuring both timely and accurate capture without wasting power on premature recording attempts
3Ease of operation
If core samples are marked manually after retrieval, then orientation can be recorded, but human error increases and marking accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual visual inspection and marking with automated electronic sensors and digital recording. Orientation sensors, accelerometers, and magnetometers automatically capture and store orientation data in digital format, eliminating the need for manual marking operations and their associated human errors while maintaining ease of operation through automated processes
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates an electronic copy of the core sample's orientation data stored in digital memory, replacing the physical marking process. This digital copy preserves the exact orientation information without the inaccuracies of manual marking, and can be retrieved and analyzed later without degrading the original sample or requiring re-marking
4Speed
If orientation sensors remain powered on continuously, then they can detect orientation immediately, but battery life is limited and recharging frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its operational state based on detected conditions. Orientation sensors switch between active recording mode and low-power standby mode according to vibration detection results. This dynamic behavior allows the system to maintain fast response capability when needed while extending battery life through periods of reduced power consumption during active drilling operations
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system of validating orientation of a core obtained by drilling the core from a subsurface body of material, the method including: a) determining that vibration from drilling is below a nominated level, b) recording data relating to orientation of the core to be retrieved, the data recorded using a downhole core orientation data recording device, c) separating the core from the subsurface body, and d) obtaining from the core orientation data recording device an indication of the orientation of the core based on the recorded data obtained when the vibration from drilling was below the nominated level and before the core was separated from the subsurface body. A method of determining orientation of a core sample obtained by drilling from aboveground into a subsurface body includes recording data relating to a core sample being obtained by the drilling when vibration from drilling is below a threshold; providing an input to a user operated communication device; the communication device identifying a time of the user input to the communication device; retrieving the data gathering device and core sample; communicating between the communication device and the retrieved data gathering device; determining from indications provided by the retrieved data gathering device an orientation of the core sample.