Drill Bit Data Analysis Module for Real-Time Performance Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current drill bit monitoring systems are inadequate for accurately collecting and analyzing data at the drill bit level, leading to premature bit replacements and inefficient drilling operations due to the inability to accurately monitor bit performance and condition in real-time.

Innovation Solution

A drill bit equipped with a data analysis module containing sensors, a processor, and memory, which includes accelerometers and magnetometers to collect and analyze data on physical parameters such as acceleration and magnetic fields, allowing for long-term data storage and adaptive sampling modes to improve bit performance monitoring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a sub is mounted in the Bottom-Hole Assembly several feet to tens of feet away from the bit, then data acquisition can be accomplished, but the data gathered does not accurately reflect what is happening directly at the bit

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata accuracyVSAvoiddistance from bit
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The drill bit is divided into multiple measurement zones with separate sensor sets positioned at different locations (first location and second location) to capture localized performance data at specific points along the bit structure, enabling accurate measurement without requiring the entire assembly to be repositioned

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a single remote measurement point to multiple spatial dimensions by placing sensor sets at different locations and orientations relative to the bit, allowing comprehensive coverage of the drilling environment without increasing the overall distance from the bit

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional data gathering systems are used in the drill bit, then data can be collected, but the systems cannot adapt to drilling events of interest for detailed data gathering and analysis

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptive sampling capabilityVSAvoiddetailed event data
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The data gathering system dynamically adjusts its sampling frequency and operational mode based on detected drilling events, transitioning between normal sampling and enhanced sampling modes to capture detailed information about specific events of interest while maintaining efficiency during normal operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors drilling parameters and uses feedback from detected events to automatically adjust data collection intensity, allocating resources to gather detailed information about significant events while maintaining baseline monitoring during normal conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If drill bits are replaced prematurely to avoid failure, then bit failure can be prevented, but drilling operations are prolonged and manpower is consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebit failure preventionVSAvoiddrilling efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

Real-time performance data from multiple sensor sets provides continuous feedback on bit condition, enabling monitoring of actual bit health and performance to determine optimal replacement timing rather than relying on predetermined service intervals

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system detects early signs of bit wear, damage, or performance degradation before catastrophic failure occurs, allowing for planned maintenance scheduling that prevents failure while maximizing bit utilization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 extended bit life through real-time performance monitoring, reducing premature replacements and enhancing drilling efficiency by providing detailed data for improving bit design and operation.

Implementation Method 1

The first set of accelerometers is disposed at a first location in the bit and comprises a first radial accelerometer and a second radial accelerometer. The second set of accelerometers is disposed at a second location in the bit and comprises a third radial accelerometer and a fourth radial accelerometer. Finally, the first, second, third, and fourth radial accelerometers are configured for sensing radial acceleration effects on the drill bit.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcceleration: Accelerometer

Implementation Method 2

the plurality of sensors comprises at least one magnetometer configured for sensing magnetic fields acting on the drill bit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field sensing: Magnetometer

Data Source

PatentUS8100196B2Method and apparatus for collecting drill bit performance data
Publication Date: 2012.01.24 BAKER HUGHES CO
  • US8100196B2 patent drawing
  • US8100196B2 patent drawing
  • US8100196B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Drill bits and methods for sampling sensor data associated with a state of a drill bit are disclosed. A drill bit for drilling a subterranean formation comprises a bit configured for receiving a data analysis module. The data analysis module comprises at least one sensor, a memory, and a processor. The processor is configured for executing computer instructions to filter information derived from sensor data in the drill bit to develop a piecewise polynomial curve of the sensor data. Filtering information derived from the sensor data comprises approximating a first derivative of a sensor data waveform, calculating a plurality of zeros for the first derivative of the sensor data waveform, and fitting a cubic polynomial between adjacent zeros calculated from the first derivative of the sensor data waveform resulting in a piecewise cubic polynomial.