Near-bit Gamma Ray Image from Azimuthal Density Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current well placement methods in sandstone reservoirs rely heavily on density images, which are limited by the distance of sensors from the drill bit, necessitating additional costly services like near-bit gamma ray or resistivity images to acquire accurate near-bit images.
Innovation Solution
The method generates artificial real-time gamma ray (GR) images using existing azimuthal density data with a higher sampling rate, creating a depth shift match table to produce high-resolution sector near-bit GR images oriented to the top of the wellbore, eliminating the need for additional physical image tools and reducing operational costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If density images are used for well placement, then real-time stratigraphic information is available, but the sensors are far from the drill bit reducing image resolution and accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates artificial near-bit gamma ray images by processing and transforming existing density image data. Instead of physically placing gamma ray sensors near the bit, the system generates synthetic images that replicate what a near-bit gamma ray tool would capture, using the available density data from farther sensors through mathematical transformation and depth matching techniques
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate processing system that transforms density image data into artificial gamma ray images. This intermediary computational process acts as a mediator between the physical density sensors and the desired near-bit imaging capability, converting data from one type to another to bridge the gap in sensor proximity
2Measurement precision
If additional near bit gamma ray or resistivity image tools are deployed, then near-bit image quality improves, but operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing density image tool serve multiple functions: it provides both the primary density measurements and enables the generation of artificial gamma ray images. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate near-bit imaging tools, as the single density tool performs both density logging and generates synthetic gamma ray imagery through post-processing
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own existing density data to generate the artificial near-bit images it needs, rather than requiring external tools. The density image tool essentially services its own limitation by processing its own data to create the near-bit imagery capability that would otherwise require additional equipment
3Productivity
If density images with lower sampling rate are used, then data acquisition is faster, but image resolution and detail are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary processing of the density data by creating a depth shift match table and pre-processing the density images before generating the final artificial gamma ray images. This preliminary action prepares the data in advance with enhanced resolution, allowing the final image generation to proceed efficiently without sacrificing detail
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods include a computer-implemented method for creating artificial real-time gamma ray (GR) images for well placement. Real-time azimuthal density data is determined from drilling of a well. An azimuthal density data set is generated using the real-time azimuthal density data. The azimuthal density data set is generated with a greater sampling rate than a real-time sampling rate of the real-time azimuthal density data. An azimuthal density curve depth match is performed using the azimuthal density data set. Performing the azimuthal density curve depth match includes creating a depth shift match table. A high-resolution sector near-bit gamma ray (GR) image is generated using the azimuthal density curve depth match and the depth shift match table. The high-resolution sector near-bit GR image is oriented to a top of a wellbore for the well.