Downhole Mud Motor Information Sub Positioning for Real-Time Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current directional drilling systems face challenges in achieving real-time guidance and rock characterization due to the distant placement of downhole measurement tools from the drill bit, leading to delayed wellbore location and characterization knowledge, which hinders the ability to maintain or correct wellbore paths effectively.
Innovation Solution
A downhole assembly with a power assembly, transmission, and bearing assembly that positions an information sub close to the drill bit, allowing real-time data collection and steering, featuring a fixed bend within 40 inches of the bit box, enabling precise trajectory control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the information sub is placed far from the drill bit (conventional placement), then the mud motor structure is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the wellbore location and characterization information is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The information sub is nested within the mud motor housing structure, specifically positioned in the bend section. This nesting allows the information sub to be integrated into the existing mud motor components without adding significant external complexity, while achieving the critical goal of placing measurement tools close to the drill bit for real-time data collection.
2Manufacturing precision
If the bit-to-bend length is extended (conventional configuration), then the mud motor can accommodate traditional information sub placement, but the steering capability and trajectory control are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a dynamic configuration where the information sub is positioned in the bend section, allowing the bit-to-bend length to be optimized for steering capability. This dynamic arrangement enables the system to achieve both short bit-to-bend lengths for precise steering and proper information sub placement for real-time data, resolving the conflict between trajectory precision and component accommodation.
3Productivity
If the information sub is placed close to the drill bit, then real-time wellbore data is available for immediate steering decisions, but the mud motor structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The bend section of the mud motor housing serves multiple functions: it provides the necessary angular deviation for wellbore steering and simultaneously houses the information sub for data collection. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by utilizing existing structural elements for dual purposes, avoiding the need for separate dedicated housing for the information sub.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides a system and process for drilling a subterranean wellbore. An embodiment includes a bottom-hole assembly for a downhole mud motor that incorporates an information sub, such as a measurement-while-drilling or logging-while-drilling tool, at a location below, or down-hole from, the mud motor. The assembly also includes a micronized bit-to-bend length, or a length between a forward end of the assembly's bearing mandrel and a fixed bend in the assembly's housing, of less than or equal to forty inches. The combination of the forward-located information sub and micronized bit-to-bend length allow the driller to rely on real-time data relating to conditions adjacent to the drill bit/bottom of the wellbore and take that real-time drilling data into account in steering the bit along a planned wellbore trajectory. Other embodiments are also disclosed.