Offset Surveys in Drilling Using MWD Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current downhole Measurement While Drilling (MWD) surveys in wellbore operations are time-consuming and can only be conducted under static conditions, leading to inefficiencies and limited frequency, particularly during drilling connections when operations must be stopped.
Innovation Solution
Implementing methods and systems to perform offset surveys during tripping in and tripping out operations, allowing for additional directional data collection by removing or adding tubulars to the drill string, which enables more frequent and accurate assessments of wellbore location and bottom hole assembly position, using MWD tools integrated with a controller and sensor system for real-time data transmission and display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If surveys are taken under static conditions during drilling connections, then survey accuracy is improved, but drilling productivity deteriorates due to operations stopping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static survey-taking conditions to dynamic conditions by enabling surveys to be taken during tripping operations (drilling string movement) rather than requiring complete operational stops. The MWD tool continuously collects data while the drilling string is being tripped in or out, converting a previously static process into a dynamic one that maintains productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs survey data collection in advance during tripping operations before the actual drilling resumes. By collecting survey information while the drilling string is being moved into or out of the wellbore, the system prepares measurement data ahead of time, eliminating the need to stop drilling operations specifically for survey acquisition.
2Reliability
If surveys are taken only during static conditions, then measurement reliability is improved, but survey frequency deteriorates to once per drilling connection
Solution Approach 1:
The MWD tool continuously collects survey data during the entire tripping operation rather than taking discrete surveys only when static conditions are achieved. This continuous data collection during dynamic tripping operations increases survey frequency from once per drilling connection to multiple surveys per tripping operation, while maintaining measurement quality through continuous filtering and validation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system accepts and processes survey data collected under dynamic tripping conditions rather than requiring static conditions, fundamentally changing when and how surveys can be taken. This enables surveys to be taken continuously during tripping operations, significantly increasing survey frequency without compromising reliability through advanced data processing algorithms.
3Loss of time
If offset surveys are taken during tripping operations, then nonproductive drilling time is reduced, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The MWD tool is designed to perform multiple functions: it collects survey data during both static drilling operations and dynamic tripping operations. This multi-functionality allows the same device to operate in various operational modes without requiring additional specialized equipment, reducing overall system complexity while enabling offset survey acquisition during tripping.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically identifies and collects survey data during tripping operations without requiring manual intervention or complex operational changes. The MWD tool self-adjusts to collect offset survey information during the natural tripping process, and the surface system automatically processes and integrates this data with conventional surveys, minimizing the need for additional operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods for performing surveys are provided. A first set of surveys may be performed during a drilling operation on a drilling rig. A tubular may be removed from a drill string, and a second set of surveys may be performed during a tripping out operation on the drilling rig, such that the first set of surveys is offset from the second set of surveys. A tubular may be added to the drill string, and a third set of surveys may be performed during a tripping in operation on the drilling rig, such that the third set of surveys is offset from the first set of surveys and the second set of surveys.