Drill Bit Stability via Track-Set DOCC Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional downhole drilling tools, such as PDC bits, experience uneven depth of cut control due to traditional DOCC configurations, leading to vibration and reduced drilling efficiency as the compressive strength of geological formations varies with depth.

Innovation Solution

The design of drilling tools with depth of cut controllers (DOCCs) that are configured to provide a constant and even depth of cut by overlapping rotational paths and using track-set configurations, allowing for precise control of cutting elements across different formation zones.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional DOCC configurations are used, then the drilling tool can operate with simple structure, but uneven depth of cut control occurs leading to vibration and reduced drilling efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedepth of cut control uniformityVSAvoidDOCC configuration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The DOCC is divided into multiple segments or zones along the blade, with each segment having independently controllable depth of cut. This segmentation allows different portions of the cutting elements to engage the formation at different depths, achieving uniform overall depth of cut control while managing structural complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the DOCC are designed with different geometric properties (height, angle, curvature) to control the depth of cut at specific locations along the blade. This local customization of DOCC characteristics ensures uniform depth of cut across all cutting elements despite variations in blade geometry and formation properties

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Stability of the object's composition

If conventional DOCC configurations are used, then the drilling tool structure remains simple, but vibration occurs due to uneven depth of cut control

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedrilling stabilityVSAvoidDOCC configuration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The DOCC is segmented into multiple control zones that independently regulate depth of cut at different blade positions. This segmentation distributes the vibration-damping function across multiple elements, reducing overall system vibration while maintaining a manageable structural complexity through repeated modular units

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The DOCC design intentionally allows controlled engagement variations that convert potential vibration sources into beneficial depth-of-cut regulation. By designing the DOCC geometry to compensate for blade flex and formation variability, the system transforms what would be harmful vibrations into useful depth control feedback

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Duration of action of stationary object

If conventional DOCC configurations are used, then manufacturing and installation are straightforward, but uneven wear occurs on DOCC portions

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveDOCC service lifeVSAvoidDOCC manufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of stationary objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The DOCC is designed as segmented or modular components that can be manufactured using standardized processes. Each segment experiences similar wear patterns, allowing for uniform material selection and heat treatment. The modular structure enables replacement of worn segments without replacing the entire DOCC, extending overall service life while maintaining manufacturing simplicity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different portions of the DOCC are designed with locally optimized geometry and material properties matched to their specific wear conditions. High-wear areas receive enhanced material properties or geometric protection, while low-wear areas maintain simpler structures. This local customization maximizes DOCC longevity while using conventional manufacturing techniques for each localized feature

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS9828808B2Improving drill bit stability using track-set depth of cut control elements

Publication Date: 2017.11.28 HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES INC

AI summary

A drill bit using track-set depth of cut control elements to provide improved stability is disclosed. A drill bit for drilling a wellbore includes a bit body with a rotational axis extending therethrough. The drill bit further includes a plurality of blades disposed on exterior portions of the bit body. The drill bit includes a first group of track set depth of cut controllers (DOCCs) disposed on exterior portions of a first set of the plurality of blades. The first group of track set DOCCs configured to be placed within a first radial swath of a bit face of the drill bit and configured to provide a first critical depth of cut (CDOC).