Directional Resistivity Tool with Collocated Antennae
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional directional resistivity logging while drilling tools require a large number of sequential transmitter firings, which reduces data accuracy and increases power consumption, especially for directional resistivity measurements that need multiple azimuthal coverage.
Innovation Solution
A directional resistivity tool configuration with first and second transmitters deployed axially between at least one pair of receivers, each equipped with collocated z-mode and x-mode antennae, allowing for fewer transmitter firings by computing compensated resistivity and directional resistivity measurements using sequential z-mode and x-mode electromagnetic waves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sequential transmitter firings are used to achieve directional resistivity measurements with multiple azimuthal coverages, then measurement completeness is improved, but data accuracy deteriorates and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple transmitter configurations (first and second transmitters with different orientations) into a single integrated tool assembly that can perform multiple measurement functions simultaneously. This merging allows the tool to acquire directional resistivity data from different azimuths without requiring sequential firings, thereby maintaining data accuracy while achieving complete azimuthal coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool design makes each transmitter unit multi-functional by equipping them with multiple antenna orientations (z-mode and x-mode) that can perform different measurement functions. This universality allows a single transmitter configuration to contribute to multiple azimuthal measurements, reducing the total number of sequential firings needed while maintaining measurement completeness and accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sequential transmitter firings are used to achieve directional resistivity measurements with multiple azimuthal coverages, then measurement completeness is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple transmitter configurations (first and second transmitters with different orientations) into a single integrated tool assembly that can perform multiple measurement functions simultaneously. This merging allows the tool to acquire directional resistivity data from different azimuths without requiring sequential firings, thereby maintaining data accuracy while achieving complete azimuthal coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool enables continuous electromagnetic wave transmission without sequential interruptions for different azimuthal measurements. By using multiple antennas oriented in different directions that can transmit simultaneously or in overlapping fashion, the system maintains continuous useful action, reducing total power consumption compared to repeated sequential firings required by conventional approaches.
3Device complexity
If conventional transmitter configurations are used, then tool simplicity is maintained, but the number of sequential firings increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the transmitter system into multiple independent but coordinated units (first and second transmitters with z-mode and x-mode antennas). Each segment can operate independently to provide specific azimuthal coverage, allowing the system to achieve complete directional coverage without requiring sequential firings of a single complex transmitter assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds the dimension of multiple antenna orientations (z-mode and x-mode) to the traditional single-orientation transmitter configuration. This dimensional expansion allows each transmitter to cover multiple azimuthal directions simultaneously, transforming a sequential measurement process into a parallel one and improving measurement efficiency without significantly increasing tool complexity.
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
This configuration enables accurate resistivity measurements at multiple depths with reduced transmitter firings, improving data accuracy and preserving downhole power, particularly beneficial for directional resistivity measurements.
Implementation Method 1
a time varying electric current (an alternating current) in a transmitting antenna produces a corresponding time varying magnetic field in the formation. The magnetic field in turn induces electrical currents (eddy currents) in a conductive formation. These eddy currents further produce secondary magnetic fields
Implementation Method 2
a transmitted electromagnetic wave is typically both attenuated and phase shifted by an amount related to the resistivity and/or dielectric constant of the formation
Data Source
AI summary
A directional resistivity tool includes a pair of transmitters deployed between at least one pair of receivers. Each of the transmitters and receivers preferably includes collocated z-mode and x-mode antennae. Exemplary embodiments may further include additional receivers, for example, additional pairs of receivers deployed axially about the transmitters or one or more deep reading receivers deployed on one axial end of the transmitters. Tools in accordance with the invention enable directional resistivity measurements to be acquired at multiple depths of investigation using fewer transmitter firings than conventional tools.