Indexing Tool for Multi-Azimuth Borehole Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drilling technologies require frequent removal and reinsertion of drilling strings to install multiple boreholes, limiting efficiency and making it difficult to relocate, re-enter, or re-access previously drilled holes, especially at different elevations or orientations.
Innovation Solution
An indexing tool with a deflector shoe and indexing deflector that allows for the formation of perpendicular boreholes in the wellbore casing, enabling the drilling of multiple holes at various azimuthal settings without removing the drilling string, and a tubing anchor for secure positioning, allowing for relocation and re-access of boreholes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If drilling strings are removed and reinserted to install multiple boreholes, then each borehole can be installed, but the process becomes time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of drilling multiple casing holes and installing multiple boreholes into a single continuous operation using one drilling string. The indexing tool allows the string to drill holes at different azimuths without removal, merging what were previously separate operations into one efficient process.
Solution Approach 2:
The indexing tool introduces dynamic positioning capability to the drilling string, allowing it to change azimuthal orientation while remaining in place. This enables the string to access different borehole locations sequentially without being removed, transforming a static operation into a dynamic one.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a whipstock is re-oriented to a second position for installing additional boreholes, then more boreholes can be installed, but previously drilled holes cannot be relocated or re-entered
Solution Approach 1:
The indexing tool serves multiple functions: it drills casing holes at various azimuths, installs boreholes at those locations, and provides a reference system for future relocation. This multi-functional tool eliminates the need for separate operations and ensures consistent access to all drilled holes.
Solution Approach 2:
The indexing tool acts as an intermediary reference system between the drilling operation and future relocation operations. By establishing a fixed reference framework, it enables both the installation of multiple boreholes and their subsequent relocation, solving the problem of inaccessible holes.
3Ease of manufacture
If holes are drilled in the wellbore casing, then boreholes can be installed into the surrounding formation, but the drilling string must be removed to insert jetting assemblies
Solution Approach 1:
The indexing tool is segmented into multiple functional components: an indexing mechanism for azimuthal positioning, a drilling section for creating casing holes, and a borehole installation section. This segmentation allows each function to be performed sequentially without removing the entire string, reducing operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application is directed an apparatus for installing boreholes in the formation surrounding a main wellbore, the apparatus comprising an indexing tool comprising an indexing deflector and a deflector shoe; the deflector shoe comprising an opening therethrough configured to receive a borehole forming member; wherein the indexing deflector is configured to direct the deflector shoe from a first setting to at least a second setting for the installation of boreholes at each setting through said opening; to methods employing the apparatus, and methods for using the indexing tool to locate and access boreholes.