Rotary Telemetry Tool Jam Clearing via Bidirectional Agitation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole rotary tools used for measurement-while-drilling (MWD) often experience communication outages due to debris jamming, which can lead to prolonged drilling interruptions and reduced efficiency, as conventional unjamming methods rely on deterministic processes that may fail repeatedly.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a bi-directional agitation method with pseudo-random pause times during rotor oscillation to clear debris, utilizing irregular oscillations and varying pause times to dislodge jammed particles, maintaining constant acceleration and deceleration rates to avoid mechanical strain and optimize debris clearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional deterministic unjamming methods are used, then the process is simple to implement, but the reliability of debris clearance is low due to repeated failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static, deterministic unjamming approach to a dynamic, adaptive one. The system continuously monitors rotor position and jam detection signals, adjusting the agitation sequence in real-time based on whether the rotor is jammed or free-moving. This dynamic adaptation increases debris clearance reliability without requiring complex additional hardware, as it leverages existing sensor feedback to modify the unjamming behavior adaptively.
2Adaptability or versatility
If deterministic unjamming sequences are used, then the control process is simple, but the ability to clear varied debris types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the agitation sequence parameters (rotation direction, pause duration, agitation intensity) based on real-time rotor state detection. When debris is detected, the system applies a specific agitation pattern; when free-moving, it applies a different pattern. This parameter adaptation allows the system to handle varied debris types effectively while maintaining relatively simple control logic that responds to basic sensor inputs.
3Productivity
If continuous rotor rotation is maintained, then communication data transmission continues, but debris accumulation causes jamming and interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing regular agitation cycles during normal rotor operation. Instead of continuous agitation that would interrupt communication, the system performs periodic agitation sequences at scheduled intervals or upon jam detection. This periodic intervention clears debris accumulation while allowing continuous rotation and communication between cycles, thus maintaining productivity while improving reliability through preventive maintenance.
Data Source
AI summary
A clearing or unjamming process utilizes bidirectional agitation and non-deterministic behavior to clear debris that is jamming a downhole rotary tool. In accordance to at least one embodiment the clearing or unjamming process uses irregular oscillation of the jamming debris which may be produced by varying pause times in a bidirectional movement of the rotor. In some embodiments the rate of acceleration and deceleration of the rotor is maintained constant during the unjamming process.