Helical Wellbore Sensor Layout for Continuous 3D Profile Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wellbore measurement technologies face challenges in efficiently collecting data on wellbore properties during drilling operations while minimizing interference with the drilling process.

Innovation Solution

A wellbore measuring apparatus with a tubular outer body and angularly spaced contactless sensors arranged in helical tiers, allowing for continuous data collection of wellbore characteristics without interrupting drilling operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If contactless sensors are arranged in helical tiers around the drill string, then measurement capability and 3D imaging accuracy are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewellbore profile measurement accuracyVSAvoidsensor arrangement complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor system is divided into multiple tiers, with each tier containing sensors at different angular positions around the drill string. This segmentation allows comprehensive 360-degree wellbore profiling while organizing the complex sensor network into manageable modular units that can be independently positioned and calibrated

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Sensors are arranged in a three-dimensional helical configuration around the drill string, adding spatial dimensions to the measurement system. This multi-dimensional arrangement enables simultaneous measurement of wellbore characteristics at multiple radial positions and angular orientations, significantly improving profile accuracy while the helical pattern provides systematic coverage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Loss of information

If multiple sensors are deployed to collect comprehensive wellbore data, then measurement completeness is improved, but susceptibility to sensor damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewellbore data completenessVSAvoidsensor survival rate

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces contact-based mechanical measurement systems with contactless electromagnetic or acoustic sensors. This substitution eliminates direct mechanical contact between sensors and the wellbore environment, significantly reducing sensor exposure to damaging conditions such as high pressure, temperature, and abrasive cuttings while maintaining comprehensive measurement capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

Sensors are positioned within protective structures that nest them inside the drill string assembly, shielding them from direct exposure to harsh wellbore conditions. The nested arrangement allows sensors to remain close to the wellbore for accurate measurement while being protected by intermediate structural layers

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Productivity

If continuous measurement is performed during drilling operations, then productivity is improved, but interference with drilling process may increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedrilling operation efficiencyVSAvoiddrilling process interference

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Contactless sensors eliminate the need for mechanical contact with the wellbore wall during measurement, removing a potential source of drilling interference. The non-contact measurement method allows continuous data collection without affecting drill string rotation or wellbore stability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement system operates continuously during drilling operations without interruption, maintaining constant monitoring of wellbore parameters. The contactless nature of the sensors enables uninterrupted data collection as the drill string rotates and advances, maximizing productivity while minimizing interference

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

Enables simultaneous measurement of wellbore properties during drilling, providing accurate 3D imaging and minimizing sensor damage, while maintaining operational efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

A plurality of acoustic sensors angularly spaced relative to the outer body and arranged in a plurality of tiers

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAcoustic wave detection: Acoustics

Data Source

PatentUS20250369340A1Method of measuring a profile of a wellbore and wellbore measuring apparatus therefor

Publication Date: 2025.12.04 GEONOMIC TECH INC

AI summary

There is provided a wellbore measuring apparatus including an outer body that is tubular and connectable in line with a drill string. The wellbore measuring apparatus includes a plurality of sensors operatively connected to the outer body. The plurality of sensors are arranged to measure at least one characteristic of a wellbore. The plurality of sensors are positioned in a double helix arrangement according to one aspect. The wellbore measuring apparatus includes according to another aspect, an inner passageway positioned between spaced-apart ends of the outer body and which is helical in shape. The wellbore measuring apparatus includes according to a further aspect, a housing within which the sensors are received, with the housing enabling drill fluid to pass therethrough and with the housing being longitudinally twisted in shape.