Geosteering Well Trajectory Control via Fluid Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing well-drilling methods struggle to accurately determine the type and economical value of hydrocarbons across geological faults, leading to suboptimal well trajectory and production value, especially when variations in hydrocarbon composition occur.
Innovation Solution
The use of measurements indicative of geological bed boundaries and methane concentration, combined with optical properties of formation fluids, to control well trajectory through advanced drilling systems equipped with LWD, MWD, and SWD modules, enabling real-time adjustments and precise steering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional drilling methods are used without real-time fluid analysis, then drilling operations are simpler and faster, but the ability to identify hydrocarbon compartments and adjust trajectory is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by performing fluid sampling and analysis before making trajectory adjustments. The system collects formation fluid samples during drilling, analyzes their composition in real-time, and uses this information to determine the optimal well trajectory before continuing drilling. This ensures accurate compartment identification while maintaining a manageable operational workflow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies feedback by creating a closed-loop system where fluid composition data from continuous sampling is fed back to the drilling control system. The real-time analysis of formation fluids provides feedback on the well's location relative to hydrocarbon compartments, enabling dynamic trajectory adjustments to optimize production while managing system complexity through automated control.
2Productivity
If well trajectory is fixed based on initial reservoir knowledge, then drilling operations are simpler, but the well may not reach optimal production zones when hydrocarbon composition varies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by transitioning from a static, pre-planned well trajectory to a dynamic, adaptive trajectory. The system continuously monitors formation fluid composition during drilling and adjusts the well path in real-time based on detected hydrocarbon compartments. This dynamic approach maximizes productivity by ensuring the well reaches optimal production zones even when hydrocarbon distribution differs from initial expectations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by using real-time measurements of formation fluid composition (such as gas-oil ratio, methane concentration, and fluid density) to trigger trajectory adjustments. When fluid parameters indicate entry into or exit from a hydrocarbon compartment, the system modifies drilling parameters and well path to optimize production, balancing enhanced productivity with operational simplicity through automated parameter monitoring.
3Loss of information
If real-time fluid analysis and trajectory control are implemented, then hydrocarbon compartment identification and production optimization improve, but measurement and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a multi-functional measurement system that simultaneously determines multiple formation fluid properties (gas-oil ratio, methane concentration, fluid density, composition) using integrated sensors and analysis tools. This universal approach reduces the need for separate measurement systems, thereby improving information accuracy while managing measurement complexity through consolidation of functions into a single comprehensive system.
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 allows for more accurate identification of hydrocarbon reservoir compartments and fluid properties, optimizing well placement and increasing production value by enabling real-time adjustments to well trajectory based on detailed geological and fluid analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a first value indicative of a relative position of a geological bed boundary with respect to a bottom hole assembly is determined
Implementation Method 2
a second value indicative of a methane concentration of a formation fluid proximate the bottom hole assembly is determined
Implementation Method 3
a well trajectory is controlled based on the first and second values
Data Source
AI summary
Method of drilling a well, including one method comprising determining a first value indicative of a relative position of a geological bed boundary with respect to a drilling assembly, determining a second value indicative of an optical property of a formation fluid proximate the drilling assembly, and controlling a well trajectory based on the first and second value.