Self-Adjusting Deflection Device for Directional Drilling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing directional wellbore drilling methods using fixed bends result in uneven boreholes, increased stress and vibrations on drilling assembly components, and high friction, leading to reduced build rates and increased drilling time and expenses.
Innovation Solution
A self-adjusting drilling assembly with a deflection device that tilts relative to the upper section when stationary for curved sections and straightens when rotated, utilizing sensors and force application mechanisms to control drilling parameters and reduce friction and stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed bend (AKO) is used in the drilling assembly to drill curved sections, then the drill bit can be tilted to form curved wellbore sections, but this produces uneven boreholes, increases stress and vibrations on components, and creates high friction that reduces the maximum build rate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the fixed bend with a dynamic system that allows the lower section of the drilling assembly to tilt relative to the upper section. This dynamic configuration enables the drilling assembly to adapt its bend angle during operation, eliminating the need for a fixed predetermined bend while maintaining the ability to drill curved sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The drilling assembly is divided into an upper section and a lower section that can move independently relative to each other. The lower section is coupled to the upper section through a mechanism that allows relative tilting motion, enabling the lower section to angle relative to the upper section without requiring a fixed bend in either section.
2Reliability
If the angle of the bend of the AKO is reduced to reduce stresses on the drilling assembly components, then stress and vibrations on components are reduced, but the maximum build rate is reduced and additional time and expenses are required to drill the wellbore
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic tilting mechanism allows the lower section to achieve high tilt angles relative to the upper section without imposing equivalent stresses on the upper section components. The relative motion capability enables the system to maintain component integrity while achieving high build rates through increased tilt angles.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed bend is used to drill curved sections, then directional control is achieved, but the bend contacts the inside of the wellbore creating high friction that reduces the maximum build rate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic relative tilting mechanism where the lower section can angle relative to the upper section without the upper section's fixed bend contacting the wellbore. This eliminates the friction problem associated with fixed bends while maintaining directional control through the lower section's adjustable orientation.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus for drilling a directional wellbore is disclosed that in one non-limiting embodiment includes a drive for rotating a drill bit, a deflection device that enables a lower section a drilling assembly to tilt within a selected plane when the drilling assembly is substantially rotationally stationary to allow drilling of a curved section of the wellbore when the drill bit is rotated by the drive and wherein the tilt is reduced when the drilling assembly is rotated to allow drilling of a straighter section of the wellbore, and a sensor that provides measurements relating a direction of the drilling assembly for drilling the wellbore along a desired direction.