Drilling Tool Optimization via Neural Network Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing drilling methods lack real-time optimization of drilling tool assembly components based on downhole conditions, leading to sub-optimal performance and reduced efficiency.

Innovation Solution

The use of artificial neural networks (ANNs) to analyze current drilling conditions and tool parameters, allowing for the adjustment of drilling tool assembly components in real-time to achieve optimized drilling parameters and improve drilling efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional drilling methods are used without real-time optimization, then the drilling process is simpler to operate, but drilling efficiency and performance are sub-optimal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedrilling efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements real-time feedback by continuously monitoring downhole conditions (temperature, pressure, vibration, acoustic emissions) and drilling parameters (WOB, RPM, ROP), comparing them against target values, and automatically adjusting drilling tool assembly components to maintain optimal drilling conditions throughout the wellbore progression

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The drilling system performs self-optimization through automated control algorithms that adjust drilling parameters and tool configurations based on real-time condition sensing, eliminating the need for continuous manual intervention and enabling the system to adapt to changing downhole conditions autonomously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If drilling parameters are adjusted in real-time based on downhole conditions, then drilling efficiency improves, but the complexity of controlling drilling tool assembly components increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedrilling efficiencyVSAvoidease of controlling tool parameters
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces manual mechanical control of drilling parameters with automated electronic control systems that use sensors, processors, and actuators to adjust WOB, RPM, and other parameters based on real-time downhole condition feedback, significantly reducing operational complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically adjusts multiple drilling parameters (weight on bit, rotational speed, feed rate, tool configurations) based on real-time changes in downhole conditions such as temperature, pressure, vibration levels, and acoustic emissions, enabling dynamic optimization without manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If multiple drilling tool assembly components are monitored and adjusted, then drilling performance is optimized, but the device complexity and number of components increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedrilling performance stabilityVSAvoidnumber of tool assembly components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The drilling tool assembly incorporates multi-functional components that can perform multiple operations (drilling, measurement, control, adjustment) simultaneously, reducing the overall number of separate components needed while maintaining comprehensive monitoring and optimization capabilities across temperature, pressure, vibration, and drilling parameters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system combines sensing elements, processing units, and actuation mechanisms into integrated control systems within the drilling tool assembly, merging multiple functions into unified components that reduce overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive monitoring and adjustment capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS9587478B2Optimization of dynamically changing downhole tool settings
Publication Date: 2017.03.07 SMITH INTERNATIONAL INC
  • US9587478B2 patent drawing
  • US9587478B2 patent drawing
  • US9587478B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer-assisted method for optimizing a drilling tool assembly, the method comprising defining a desired drilling plan; determining current drilling conditions; determining current drilling tool parameters of at least two drilling tool assembly components; analyzing the current drilling conditions and the current drilling tool parameters to define a base drilling condition; comparing the base drilling condition to the desired drilling plan; determining a drilling tool parameter to adjust to achieve the desired drilling plan; and adjusting at least one drilling tool parameter of at least one of the two drilling tool assembly components based on the comparing the base drilling condition to the desired drilling plan.