Drill Bit Sensor Placement via Stress Map Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drill bits with sensors for formation measurement, such as gamma ray detectors, are typically placed away from the drill bit, limiting their ability to provide real-time data near the cutting face, and placing sensors at the bit face compromises mechanical strength.
Innovation Solution
A method to select sensor locations on the drill bit based on stress maps, fluid flow tests, and rubbing tests to identify low-stress areas suitable for sensor placement without compromising the drill bit's mechanical integrity, allowing for the installation of sensors at these locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are placed at the face of the drill bit, then formation measurement accuracy is improved, but mechanical strength of the drill bit deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by conducting stress analysis to identify specific low-stress regions on the drill bit face, and placing sensors only in those localized areas rather than uniformly across the entire face. This allows sensor placement that maintains overall structural integrity while enabling accurate formation measurements at the bit face.
2Strength
If sensors are placed several feet from the drill bit, then mechanical strength is maintained, but formation measurement accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing stress analysis and selecting optimal sensor locations before the actual sensor installation. This advance planning ensures that sensors are placed in low-stress areas that will maintain mechanical strength while still providing accurate formation measurements, avoiding the need to place sensors farther away.
3Loss of information
If sensors are placed on the drill bit face, then real-time formation data is improved, but drill bit reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using stress analysis to identify regions where stress parameters are below threshold values. Sensors are placed in these low-stress regions, changing the location parameter from generic face areas to specific low-stress zones, thereby maintaining drill bit reliability while enabling real-time formation data collection.
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 real-time formation measurement during drilling while maintaining the drill bit's mechanical integrity by strategically placing sensors on the drill bit surface, enhancing the fidelity of data collected during wellbore drilling operations.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor at a selected location on a drill bit surface... providing measurements relating to detection of gamma rays from formations
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a method of making a drill bit is disclosed that includes selecting a drill bit configuration, obtaining a stress map for the drill bit configuration relating to a drilling operation, performing a mechanical test with an actual drill bit having the selected configuration, and selecting a location on a surface of the drill bit for installing a sensor thereat based on a location of low stress from the stress map and results of the mechanical test, and placing a sensor at the selected location.