Dynamic Geo-Stationary Actuation for Rotary Steerable Drilling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing well drilling systems, such as Point-the-Bit and Push-the-Bit systems, rely on geo-stationary housings or counter-rotating elements that reduce the longevity of drilling assemblies due to their complexity and requirement for precise directional control in complex hydrocarbon reservoirs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of dynamic geo-stationary actuation systems within fully-rotating rotary steerable systems, which utilize actuators and Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) to control the drill bit's direction without the need for geo-stationary housings, allowing for precise directional control and extended assembly longevity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If geo-stationary housings or counter-rotating elements are used to maintain orientation, then directional control is achieved, but the longevity of the drilling assembly decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the geo-stationary housing from the system entirely, replacing it with a fully-rotating rotary steerable system that achieves directional control through actuators that apply forces to the drill bit while the entire assembly rotates. This extraction of the problematic component eliminates the wear and complexity issues while maintaining steering capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static geo-stationary housing to a dynamic fully-rotating system where the steering assembly rotates with the drill string. The actuators dynamically adjust the drill bit direction during rotation, enabling directional control without requiring a non-rotating housing structure.
2Measurement precision
If geo-stationary housings are used to maintain orientation, then directional control is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the geo-stationary housing and its associated counter-rotation mechanisms, simplifying the overall device architecture. The steering functions are integrated into the rotating assembly, reducing the number of separate components and their interconnections.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering assembly is merged with the rotating drill string, forming a fully-rotating system. The actuators, IMUs, and steering mechanisms are integrated into a single rotating unit, eliminating the need for separate stationary housing structures and reducing overall system complexity.
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 solution enables precise directional control and extended longevity of drilling assemblies by eliminating the need for geo-stationary housings, enhancing the ability to navigate complex wellbores and reducing wear on drilling equipment.
Implementation Method 1
an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) coupled to the housing and configured to detect an angular orientation of the housing
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes a dynamic geo-stationary actuation technique that may be incorporated into a rotary steerable system 200. An example method described herein may include receiving a first angular orientation of a rotating housing 201 disposed in a borehole. The first angular orientation may be received from a sensor assembly 205 coupled to the housing 201, and the housing 201 may be coupled to a drill bit 203. A desired drilling direction for the drill bit 203 may also be received. A first trigger signal to a first actuator 206 coupled to the rotating housing 21 may be generated based, at least in part, on the first angular orientation and the desired drilling direction.