Downhole Tension Sensing Tool for Accurate Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
In downhole drilling operations, accurately measuring tension applied to tool strings is challenging due to friction between conveyance means and the wellbore sidewall, especially in deviated wellbores, leading to unpredictable and inaccurate tension readings at the wellsite surface.
Innovation Solution
A tension sensing tool is deployed within the tool string, comprising a load cell and electronics module that measures tension directly and communicates this information to the surface, using electrical conductors to transmit data and power, allowing for real-time monitoring and adjustment of tension applied to the tool string.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If tension is measured at the wellsite surface via conveyance means, then tension monitoring is achieved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to friction in deviated wellbores
Solution Approach 1:
A tension sensing tool is deployed as an intermediary device within the tool string to directly measure tension forces. This intermediary measurement point bypasses the friction-affected conveyance means, providing accurate tension data from within the wellbore environment where friction occurs, rather than attempting to measure it from the surface through the friction-prone conveyance system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical tension measurement system (surface-based measurement through conveyance means) with a downhole-based sensing system using load cells and strain gauges. This substitution moves the measurement mechanism from the surface mechanical system into the downhole environment, where direct force sensing can occur without being affected by conveyance friction.
2Measurement precision
If a tension sensing tool is deployed within the tool string, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tension sensing tool is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a tension measurement device and as an integral part of the tool string assembly. The load cell and strain gauge components are integrated into the tool string structure, allowing the same device to both bear mechanical loads and provide measurement functions, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the added sensing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The tension sensing tool is nested within the existing tool string architecture. The load cell and strain gauge components are housed within the tool string structure, with the sensing elements integrated into the mechanical assembly. This nesting approach allows the tension measurement system to be contained within the existing tool string without requiring separate external equipment, thereby managing complexity through integration.
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 provides accurate and reliable tension measurement, enabling precise control of the tool string's position and operation, reducing the risk of equipment failure and improving drilling efficiency in complex wellbore environments.
Implementation Method 1
a load cell connected along a tension-bearing member of the tension sensing tool and operable to generate information indicative of tension applied to the tension sensing tool
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and method of sensing tension downhole, such as a tension sensing tool for coupling between opposing first and second portions of a tool string conveyable within a wellbore. The tension sensing tool may include a tension-bearing member, a load cell connected along the tension-bearing member and operable to generate information indicative of tension applied to the tension sensing tool, and electronic equipment communicatively connected with the load cell. The electronic equipment may be operable to record the information generated by the load cell and/or transmit the information generated by the load cell to a wellsite surface from which the wellbore extends.