Downhole Magnetic Orientation Lock for Accurate Vertical Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orientation systems for downhole devices, such as directional drills, rely on mechanical muleshoes and are prone to failure due to complex mechanical alignment and are susceptible to magnetic interference, leading to inaccurate measurements.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic orientation system comprising an outer magnetic lock assembly and an inner orientation instrument assembly that aligns and locks using magnetic fields, eliminating the need for mechanical alignment and muleshoes, and is resistant to external magnetic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a mechanical muleshoe system is used for orientation measurement, then the orientation can be measured by mechanical alignment, but the system is prone to failure and requires complex mechanical locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical muleshoe alignment system with a magnetic field-based orientation system. Magnets are embedded in the drill string and detected by sensors in the measurement tool, eliminating mechanical contact and locking mechanisms while providing reliable orientation data without the failures associated with mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the drill string and the measurement tool. Instead of direct mechanical contact, the orientation information is transmitted through magnetic field interactions, allowing non-contact alignment and measurement that avoids mechanical failure points.
2Measurement precision
If traditional magnetic field detectors are used for orientation, then the system can detect magnetic fields, but it is vulnerable to inaccuracies from external magnetic fields such as earth magnet field and drill magnetization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses embedded magnets in the drill string as an intermediary reference that creates a controlled magnetic signature. This known magnetic pattern serves as a reference that distinguishes drill-induced fields from external interference, allowing the sensor to accurately determine orientation despite the presence of other magnetic fields.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the magnetic field parameters by embedding specific magnet arrangements in the drill string that create a distinctive magnetic signature. This controlled magnetic pattern allows the detection system to differentiate between the drill's magnetic field and external interference, maintaining measurement accuracy.
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
Enables accurate orientation measurements in all angles, including vertical, without mechanical locking, simplifying the design and operation of downhole devices by using magnetic alignment and lock functions.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet lock assembly (462) comprising at least one magnet or a stack of magnets arranged in transversal direction of the outer tube (461). The at least one magnet of the least one magnet lock assembly (462) is arranged such that it provides a reference of the downhole device (10) high side
Implementation Method 2
an alignment magnet assembly (432) comprising at least one magnet or a stack of magnets arranged in transversal direction of the orientation instrument assembly (400). The at least one magnet of the alignment magnet assembly (432) is arranged such that the sensor assembly (420) aligns according to a magnetic field direction
Data Source
AI summary
Orientation system for downhole device (10), wherein the orientation system comprises an outer magnetic orientation lock assembly (460) arranged in connection with or integrated in the downhole device (10) and an orientation instrument assembly (400) for insertion into the outer magnetic orientation lock assembly (460), and wherein the orientation instrument assembly (400) comprises a sensor assembly (420) rotatably arranged in the orientation instrument assembly (400) and arranged for aligning or orienting in relation to the outer magnetic orientation lock assembly (460).