Drill Bit Tool Port Segmentation for Through-Bit Logging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional drill bits lack a suitable tool port size for through-the-bit logging, which compromises drilling efficiency due to inadequate clearance of cuttings, and existing logging methods face challenges in accessing boreholes without exposing tools to harsh drilling environments.
Innovation Solution
Alternative drill bit configurations with replaceable tool port plugs, hinged or rotating port covers, and parked-bit mechanisms that allow for temporary disconnection of the drill bit, enabling efficient through-the-bit logging without compromising drilling performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional drill bit nozzles are used for clearing cuttings, then drilling efficiency is maintained, but the nozzle size is insufficient for through-the-bit logging tool passage
Solution Approach 1:
The drill bit is segmented into functional zones: standard nozzles for cutting clearance and a separate, larger tool port for logging tool passage. This segmentation allows each opening to be optimized for its specific purpose without compromising the other function.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the drill bit have different opening characteristics: conventional nozzles maintain small apertures for effective jetting, while a specific localized region (tool port) provides a large opening for logging tool access. This local quality differentiation resolves the contradiction between small nozzle size and large tool port size.
2Ease of operation
If a large tool port is created for logging tool passage, then logging access is enabled, but cutting clearance efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid delivery system is segmented into multiple independent pathways: conventional nozzles for cutting clearance and a separate tool port for logging access. This ensures that the large tool port opening does not interfere with the focused jetting action of the nozzles.
Solution Approach 2:
The drill bit structure provides different opening qualities at different locations: small, focused nozzle openings for effective cuttings removal and a large, open tool port for logging tool passage. Each location is optimized for its specific function.
3Reliability
If wireline logging is performed after drillstring extraction, then logging can be conducted, but operational time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drill bit is pre-configured with a tool port and plug mechanism during manufacturing, enabling logging tool passage to be performed at any time during drilling operations without requiring drillstring extraction or subsequent wireline logging operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool port plug can be dynamically removed or positioned to allow logging tool passage when needed, and repositioned to seal the port when not in use. This dynamic control enables logging operations at optimal times during drilling without compromising drilling efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed drilling systems offer multiple methods providing access to the open borehole without first tripping the drill string. In some embodiments, a drill bit has a tool port that is blocked by a plug during normal drilling operations. When a tool is deployed through the interior of the drill string, the tool port opens, enabling the tool to enter the borehole beneath the drill string and perform logging or sampling operations. The plug may be attached to the drill bit by a hinge or pivot, or alternatively, the plug may be discarded and a replacement seated in place after the tool is retracted into the drill string. In other embodiments, the drill bit itself is detachable, allowing the bit to be parked in the hole or in a side bore. If desired, the bit can be re-attached by lowering the drill string to the bottom of the hole.