Non-linear Depth Correction for Drillstring Deformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring true vertical depth (TVD) in hydrocarbon exploration and production are inaccurate due to assumptions of linear environmental factor distribution along the drillstring, which do not account for non-linear changes caused by factors like temperature and load variations.
Innovation Solution
A system with distributed sensors along the drillstring measures environmental factors and generates a non-linear model of deformation relative to a reference point, allowing for precise correction of depth measurements by accounting for non-linear effects such as temperature and stress variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a linear distribution of environmental factors is assumed along the drillstring, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the measurement precision of TVD deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The drillstring is divided into multiple discrete locations along its length, with sensors positioned at each segment. This segmentation allows the system to capture non-linear variations in environmental factors (temperature, load, friction) at different positions, rather than assuming a uniform linear distribution. The deformation at each segment is calculated independently and then integrated to determine total TVD, improving measurement precision while maintaining operational feasibility.
2Measurement precision
If sensors are distributed along the entire length of the drillstring, then the measurement precision of deformation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than placing sensors at every possible location along the drillstring (excessive action), the system uses a selective distribution of sensors at key locations where environmental factor variations are most significant. This partial measurement approach captures the essential non-linear deformation patterns without requiring a complete sensor array, thereby improving measurement precision while controlling device complexity through targeted rather than comprehensive sensing.
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
This approach provides a more accurate representation of drillstring length changes, enabling improved estimation of TVD and reducing errors associated with linear assumptions, thus enhancing the accuracy of depth calculations.
Implementation Method 1
Significant factors for an elongation of drill pipe are drill pipe stretch and thermal expansion
Implementation Method 2
measuring the length of a drillstring of a formation evaluation/exploration system. However, various environmental factors may cause the drillstring to be stretched or shortened, such as load changes, friction phenomena and thermal influences
Data Source
AI summary
A method for generating corrected geologic depth information is disclosed. The method includes: estimating a depth of each of a plurality of different locations along a length of a drillstring disposed in a borehole; measuring at least one environmental factor at each of the plurality of different locations and determining a deformation of the drillstring at each of the plurality of different locations from the measured environmental factor; and generating a non-linear model of the deformation along the length relative to a reference point. A system and computer program product for generating corrected geologic depth information is also disclosed.