Integrated Wellbore Sensor Arms for Continuous Drilling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wellbore measurement tools require the drilling operation to be halted for sensor deployment, as they are not integrated with the drill string and lack a fluid bypass, limiting continuous data collection during drilling.
Innovation Solution
A wellbore measuring apparatus is integrated into a drill string, featuring pivotable arms with sensors that extend to contact the wellbore wall, activated by a predetermined rotary pattern of the drill string, allowing continuous measurement without disrupting drilling operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional wellbore measurement tools are used, then measurement capability is provided, but drilling operation must be halted and drill string removed
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement tool is merged with the drill string by integrating it into the drill collar assembly. The tool becomes an integral part of the drilling system, allowing simultaneous drilling and measurement operations without requiring tool separation or drill string removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement tool is pre-positioned within the drill string before drilling begins. The drill collar assembly containing the tool is threaded onto the drill string in advance, so that measurement capability is already in place and ready for continuous operation throughout the drilling process.
2Productivity
If measurement tools are integrated into drill string, then continuous drilling operation is maintained, but tool activation and sensor deployment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool uses the drill string's own rotation as the activation mechanism. The rotary sensor detects the rotational movement of the drill string and automatically triggers the measurement sequence, eliminating the need for separate activation systems or additional control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical activation systems with a sensor-based detection system. The rotary sensor electronically detects drill string rotation and triggers the measurement process, substituting mechanical linkages and switches with electronic sensing and control.
3Productivity
If wall contact caliper instruments are used, then drilling operation continues with bypass passage, but direct wellbore profile detection is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces indirect mechanical measurement methods with direct electronic sensing. Instead of using mechanical calipers that measure tool expansion, electronic sensors directly detect wellbore characteristics, providing more accurate and reliable measurement data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electronic sensors as intermediaries between the drill string and the wellbore environment. These sensors directly contact or proximity-sense the wellbore wall, providing accurate profile detection while allowing the drill string to continue rotating and drilling.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a wellbore measuring apparatus including a tubular outer body connectable in line with a drill string. The apparatus includes arms pivotally coupled to the body. Each arm has a retracted position and is moveable from the retracted position to an extended position so that a free end portion thereof is radially away from an outer surface of the body. The free end portions of the arms have rounded configurations. The arms are angularly spaced apart around the body and arranged in a plurality of tiers. Each tier includes three or more of the arms. The tiers are spaced apart axially from one another along the body. Each arm of a first tier is angularly offset relative to the arms of a second tier. The apparatus includes sensors operatively connected to the arms, respectively, and via which a profile of a wellbore is measured.