Lateral Motion Drill Bit Model for Borehole Geometry Prediction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current drilling technologies face inefficiencies in precisely predicting and achieving desired borehole geometry and end location, leading to increased operational costs and reduced accuracy in hydrocarbon production, geothermal production, and carbon dioxide sequestration applications.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that predict changes in lateral displacement by modeling the drill bit and formation rock interactions, adjusting penetration depths, and iteratively simulating the drilling process to optimize the borehole geometry and end location using a processor-based system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional drilling methods are used, then drilling operations can be performed, but the ability to precisely predict and achieve desired borehole geometry and end location deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing virtual drilling simulations before actual drilling operations. The system creates a digital twin of the drilling process, predicting borehole geometry and optimizing parameters in advance, which allows operators to achieve desired outcomes without trial-and-error physical drilling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements copying by creating a virtual representation (digital twin) of the physical drilling system and formation. This virtual model replicates the drilling process, allowing prediction of borehole geometry and optimization of drilling parameters without affecting the actual drilling operation.
2Reliability
If drilling operations are performed without precise prediction models, then drilling can proceed, but operational costs increase due to inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using the results from virtual drilling simulations to adjust and optimize actual drilling parameters. The system continuously refines the prediction model based on simulated outcomes, enabling more accurate prediction of borehole geometry and reducing the need for costly corrective operations.
Solution Approach 2:
By performing virtual drilling simulations beforehand, the system identifies optimal drilling parameters and potential issues before actual drilling begins, preventing costly mistakes and rework during operational drilling activities.
3Measurement precision
If virtual drilling simulation is implemented, then prediction accuracy of borehole geometry improves, but computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified virtual model (digital twin) that captures the essential physics of drilling without requiring full-scale complex simulations. This approach achieves accurate predictions while maintaining computational efficiency by focusing on the most critical parameters and interactions.
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 precise prediction and control of borehole geometry and end location, enhancing drilling efficiency and reducing operational costs by optimizing drill bit movements and interactions with the formation rock.
Implementation Method 1
a gage pad configured to remove rock by wearing or crushing the rock during moving contact with the rock
Implementation Method 2
a gage pad configured to remove rock by wearing or crushing the rock during moving contact with the rock
Implementation Method 3
a cutter configured to cut into the rock during moving contact with the rock
Data Source
AI summary
A method for predicting a change in lateral displacement with a change in axial displacement of a drill bit drilling in a formation rock includes: constructing a virtual representation of the drill bit and the formation rock, the drill bit having a gage pad configured to remove rock by wearing or crushing the rock during moving contact and a cutter configured to cut into the rock during moving contact with the rock; adjusting lateral penetration depth until rock reactive force equals a side force applied to the drill bit to provide an adjusted lateral penetration depth; removing formation rock to where the pad and the cutters contact the rock at the adjusted lateral penetration depth and to a selected axial displacement of the drill bit; moving the drill bit in a drilling direction to the end of the currently drilled borehole; and iterating the adjusting, the removing, and the moving.