Sidewall Core Detection Using Force-Location Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating subterranean formations during wellbore drilling lack efficient means to detect and store core samples in real-time, often failing to recognize sample retrieval failures until the tool is removed from the wellbore, leading to incomplete data and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A coring tool equipped with a coring bit, storage tube, actuator, and sensors (force and location sensors) that allows for real-time detection of core sample presence and movement within the storage tube, utilizing a processing device to generate force-versus-location profiles for determining core presence and length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If real-time core detection is implemented using sensors, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces sensors as intermediary devices that indirectly detect core presence and properties without requiring direct observation or complex manual inspection. The sensors act as mediators between the core sample and the detection system, converting physical properties into measurable signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual inspection and mechanical detection methods with sensor-based detection systems. Instead of physically examining cores after retrieval, the system uses sensors to automatically detect and measure core properties in real-time, substituting mechanical processes with electronic sensing.
2Loss of information
If core samples are monitored in real-time within the storage tube, then loss of information is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor core presence and status, providing real-time information back to the system. This feedback loop ensures that any retrieval failures or issues are immediately detected and can be addressed, preventing information loss without requiring complex post-retrieval analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring system enables the coring device to self-verify its operation and detect failures autonomously. The sensors and processing unit work together to automatically determine whether cores have been successfully retrieved and stored, allowing the system to self-diagnose issues without external intervention.
3Measurement precision
If force sensors and location sensors are integrated to generate force-versus-location profiles, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines force sensors and location sensors into an integrated measurement system that simultaneously captures multiple parameters. By merging these sensing capabilities, the system generates comprehensive force-versus-location profiles that provide precise core length measurements without requiring separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting core presence, measuring core length, and generating diagnostic profiles. This multi-functional approach allows a single integrated system to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate devices, reducing overall complexity despite the advanced capabilities.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables real-time monitoring and confirmation of core sample retrieval, reducing operational inefficiencies and ensuring accurate data collection by detecting core presence and length within the storage tube while the tool remains in the wellbore.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor operable to generate information related to presence of the core within the storage tube
Implementation Method 2
a force sensor operable to generate force information related to a force applied to the core by the actuator
Implementation Method 3
a location sensor operable to generate location information related to a location of the core relative to the storage tube
Data Source
AI summary
A coring tool including a coring bit operable to obtain a core sample of a subterranean formation from a sidewall of a wellbore extending into the subterranean formation. The coring tool also includes a storage tube, an actuator operable to move the core from the coring bit into the storage tube, and a sensor operable to generate information related to presence of the core within the storage tube.