Drilling Actuator for Precise Block Velocity Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The drilling process is hindered by the difficulty in achieving fine control of block velocity due to the highly damped nature of the drill line, which affects the automation of drilling operations and the maintenance of constant weight on bit (WOB) or rate of penetration (ROP).
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a top drive connected to a block, where the block is vertically movable, and an actuator is used to adjust the position of the tubular string relative to the block, allowing for precise control of the tubular string's position and movement independent of the drawworks, thereby enabling more precise control of drilling parameters like WOB and ROP.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If automated control of drilling operations is employed using drawworks to control block velocity, then drilling parameters such as WOB and ROP can be maintained, but fine control of block velocity is difficult to accomplish due to the highly-damped nature of the drill line
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the control function by introducing a separate actuator (second drawworks) specifically for controlling block velocity, independent from the main drawworks. This allows the main drawworks to handle heavy lifting while the segmented actuator provides fine velocity control, resolving the contradiction between automation and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary actuator is introduced between the control system and the block. This intermediary component (second drawworks) mediates the control of block velocity, providing fine adjustment capability without requiring the main drawworks to perform both heavy lifting and fine velocity control, thus resolving the control difficulty.
2Device complexity
If the drill line is used to lower and control the block, then the top drive can be supported and positioned, but the highly-damped nature of the drill line prevents precise control of block velocity
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the control function into two independent parts: the main drawworks for supporting and positioning the top drive via the drill line, and a separate actuator for precise velocity control. This segmentation allows each component to optimize for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between device complexity and control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
A second actuator serves as an intermediary control element that provides precise velocity control without interfering with the primary support function of the drill line. This intermediary enables high-precision control while maintaining the existing support structure, resolving the contradiction between complexity and precision.
3Device complexity
If a single actuator system is used to control both the position of the top drive and the velocity of the block, then the system structure is simplified, but the control precision of drilling parameters deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two independent actuators: one for positioning the top drive and another for controlling block velocity. This segmentation allows each actuator to specialize in one control function, achieving high precision for both position and velocity control simultaneously, thus resolving the contradiction between system simplicity and control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
While maintaining relatively simple structure, the system achieves multi-functionality through two actuators working in coordination - one handles positioning while the other handles velocity control. This multi-functional approach resolves the contradiction by providing precise control of multiple parameters without requiring a single complex actuator.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for controlling drilling of a wellbore. The method may include supporting a tubular string using a top drive connected to a block, and lowering the top drive by lowering the block. The method may also include adjusting a position of the tubular string relative to the block using an actuator coupled with the top drive, the block, or both.