Dual Gyro-While-Drilling Tools for Wellbore Trajectory Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gyro-while-drilling (GWD) survey methods require extended time at each station due to the need for multiple surveys and communication delays, leading to increased rig time and costs, especially in challenging environments like offshore wells where movement occurs.
Innovation Solution
Deploying two or more GWD tools in close proximity within the wellbore, with staggered survey times to account for along-hole motion, and using sensors like accelerometers and gyroscopic sensors to provide precise directional control by generating and combining survey data for enhanced accuracy and reduced survey duration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple surveys are conducted using a single GWD tool, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to extended survey duration and rig time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the surveying function into multiple independent GWD tools (first GWD tool and second GWD tool) that operate simultaneously or in close succession. Each tool conducts its own survey measurements independently, allowing parallel data collection that reduces total survey time while maintaining measurement precision through multiple independent measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the surveying capabilities of multiple GWD tools into a coordinated system where surveys are conducted in close proximity within the wellbore. The controller integrates data from both tools to generate a combined survey result, merging the advantages of multiple measurements with reduced time loss
2Reliability
If multiple surveys are conducted sequentially, then data quality control is improved, but productivity decreases due to repeated positioning and communication cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions multiple GWD tools in advance within the wellbore before surveying begins. This preliminary placement allows the tools to be ready for simultaneous or staggered survey operations, eliminating the need for repeated tool deployment and positioning that would otherwise reduce productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous survey data collection by having multiple GWD tools operate in sequence or parallel with minimal interruption to drilling operations. The staggered survey timing ensures continuous data flow while maintaining quality control through overlapping measurements, keeping the drilling process productive without unnecessary stops
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 reduces overall survey time, enhances data quality control, and improves the accuracy of wellbore trajectory control by allowing simultaneous data collection and verification, thereby minimizing errors and rig expenses.
Implementation Method 1
dual gyro-while-drilling (GWD) system
Implementation Method 2
sensors like accelerometers and gyroscopic sensors
Data Source
AI summary
Various implementations described herein refer to a method. The method may include receiving first gyro-while-drilling (GWD) survey data acquired using a first survey tool disposed within a wellbore. The method may include receiving second GWD survey data acquired using a second survey tool disposed within the wellbore. The method may include generating a survey of the wellbore based on the first GWD survey data and the second GWD survey data for directional control of wellbore trajectories.