Electromagnetic Levitation for Logging While Levitating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conveyance methods for logging in complex oil and gas wells face challenges such as high drag and friction, biased sensor position due to tool weight, and increased operational complexity, especially in cased-hole environments with ferromagnetic pipes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a logging while levitating (LWL) assembly that uses electromagnetic forces to levitate logging tools within the wellbore, eliminating contact and reducing friction, and allowing for both tethered and untethered conveyance options, thereby improving sensor positioning and reducing operational complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional conveyance methods are used for logging in cased-hole wells, then mechanical connection and electrical connection to surface equipment are established, but high drag and friction occur due to contact with the wellbore
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical contact-based conveyance system with an electromagnetic levitation system. The electromagnet generates a magnetic field that levitates the logging assembly, eliminating mechanical contact with the wellbore wall and thereby eliminating drag and friction forces while maintaining reliable conveyance and positioning capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electromagnetic field as an intermediary between the logging assembly and the wellbore environment. This electromagnetic field serves as the mediating mechanism that enables contactless conveyance, positioning, and control of the logging tools through the cased-hole well without direct mechanical contact
2Ease of operation
If conventional conveyance methods are used, then tools are mechanically connected to surface equipment, but sensor position becomes biased due to tool weight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies electromagnetic levitation force that counteracts the gravitational force acting on the logging assembly. This anti-weight mechanism suspends the tools in mid-air within the wellbore, eliminating the effect of tool weight on sensor positioning and ensuring accurate measurements without mechanical contact or bending
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical suspension system that relies on mechanical contact and support structures with an electromagnetic field-based suspension system. This substitution eliminates the mechanical loads and positioning biases that occur in conventional systems, allowing sensors to maintain accurate positions independent of tool weight
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional conveyance methods are used, then complex operational procedures are required for cased-hole environments, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal conveyance system based on electromagnetic levitation that can operate in various well environments including cased-hole, open-hole, and deviated wells. The same electromagnet assembly provides both conveyance and positioning functions, eliminating the need for environment-specific operational procedures and reducing overall operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic levitation system is self-regulating and automatically adapts to different well conditions without requiring complex manual intervention. The system self-adjusts the electromagnetic field parameters to maintain stable levitation and positioning, reducing the operational complexity associated with manual control and monitoring
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
The LWL assembly effectively reduces friction and improves sensor positioning by levitating tools within the wellbore, enabling efficient logging operations in complex well profiles and extending conveyance reach while minimizing operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
The assembly is configured to levitate in a center of the cased well via an electromagnetic force applied by the electromagnet
Data Source
AI summary
A method for logging in a cased well is disclosed. The method includes receiving well data comprising an orientation of the cased well, selecting a logging while levitating (LWL) assembly type based on the well data, running the LWL assembly into the well to a start depth, and activating the LWL assembly based on a downhole condition so that the LWL assembly levitates in a center of the cased well, wherein the activated LWL assembly moves downhole in the cased well while levitating. The method further includes determining whether the LWL assembly has reached a target depth and performing logging in the cased well while the LWL assembly is levitating in the cased well when the target depth is reached.