Instrumented Sub Rotary Interface for Real-Time Drilling Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current drilling and well processing technologies lack effective systems for real-time measurement and feedback of operational parameters during subterranean operations, leading to inefficiencies and potential safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
The development of an instrumented sub system that includes a valve, a flow passage, and a rotary interface for communication, allowing for the measurement of operational parameters and remote control of the mud-saver valve to optimize fluid flow and minimize spills.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional drilling equipment is used without real-time measurement systems, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and operational safety deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The instrumented sub integrates multiple measurement sensors (torque, pressure, flow rate) and communication components within a compact cylindrical housing that fits inside the drill string assembly. The rotary interface mechanism is nested within the sub body, allowing real-time measurement capabilities to be incorporated without significantly increasing external dimensions or overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrumented sub serves multiple functions simultaneously: it measures torque, pressure, and flow rate; provides real-time data transmission through the rotary interface; controls the mud-saver valve; and monitors operational parameters. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate devices into a single integrated component.
2Reliability
If real-time feedback and control systems are implemented, then operational safety and efficiency improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The instrumented sub incorporates sensors that continuously measure operational parameters (torque, pressure, flow rate) and transmit this data in real-time through the rotary interface to the surface control system. This feedback loop enables monitoring and adjustment of drilling operations to maintain safety and optimize performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The mud-saver valve is controlled automatically based on real-time operational data, reducing the need for constant manual intervention. The system can autonomously respond to changing conditions by adjusting valve position to maintain safe and efficient operations.
3Manufacturing precision
If the mud-saver valve is remotely controlled with real-time data, then fluid flow control precision improves, but communication system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary interface acts as an intermediary mechanism that transfers data and control signals between the rotating instrumented sub and the stationary communication system. This intermediary allows real-time communication while accommodating the rotational motion of the drill string, enabling precise valve control without requiring complex wireless or mechanical linkages.
Data Source
AI summary
A system including an instrumented sub for supporting subterranean operations, the instrumented sub can include an upper and lower portion with a flow passage extending therethrough, and a valve that selectively permits or restricts fluid flow through the flow passage, and a rotary interface coupled to the upper portion and including a rotary portion and a stationary portion, where the rotary portion is rotationally fixed to the upper portion and rotates with the upper portion, where the stationary portion is rotationally coupled to the rotary portion, and where the rotary interface transfers communication signals between the stationary portion and the rotary portion to transmit commands or data to or receive the commands or data from one or more components of the instrumented sub. Can also include a method of using the instrumented sub to determine a vertical position or movement of a top drive.