Downhole Orientation Device Using Gravity and Lateral Displacement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wellbore toolstrings require complex and lengthening mechanisms for orienting tools relative to a longitudinal axis, especially in deviated wellbores, which complicates operations and reduces accuracy due to the need for separate anchoring and electronics for each tool part.
Innovation Solution
An orientation device with a displaceable orientation member that uses gravity and lateral displacement to rotate the toolstring around its longitudinal axis, integrated with the toolstring's propulsion and communication systems, allowing seamless orientation and configuration without the need for separate anchoring or complex rotational mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If complex anchoring and rotational mechanisms are used to orient tool parts, then orientation capability is achieved, but toolstring length and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the orientation function with the existing toolstring structure by using the toolstring's own weight and gravity to achieve orientation, eliminating the need for separate anchoring mechanisms and complex rotational devices. The orientation is achieved through the natural gravitational settling of the toolstring in deviated wellbores, combining multiple functions into a single simple system.
2Ease of operation
If separate anchoring and electronics are used for each tool part, then orientation control is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the orientation control function from complex electronic systems and separate anchoring mechanisms, achieving orientation control through the simple physical principle of gravity and the toolstring's own weight distribution. This eliminates the need for multiple independent electronic control systems.
3Ease of operation
If independent orientation tools are used with separate communication modules, then orientation function is achieved, but operational efficiency decreases due to turning off and on
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the orientation function with the existing toolstring's communication and power systems, allowing the orientation to be maintained and adjusted continuously without needing to turn off and on separate independent orientation tools. The integrated design enables seamless operation throughout the wellbore intervention.
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 solution reduces the length and complexity of the toolstring, enhances orientation accuracy, and enables 'on the fly' configuration, improving operational efficiency and reducing the need for multiple electronics and sensors.
Implementation Method 1
In a deviated part of the wellbore, gravity and the orientation member may be used to orientate the orientation device around the longitudinal axis
Data Source
AI summary
An orientation device (6) for orientating a tool (7) within a wellbore, wherein:the orientation device (6) forms a central longitudinal axis (162) from a first orientation device end (122) to a second orientation device end (142);the orientation device (6) comprises at least one orientation member (62) displaceable between a retracted position and an extended position, the extended position has a lateral displacement compared to the retracted position; andthe orientation member (62) comprises a distal end portion (63) where the distal end portion (63) is formed to be displaceable along a curve of an internal wall (924) of the wellbore.