Steering Augmenter Bernoulli Effect Borehole Drilling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current steering technologies for borehole drilling lack efficiency in navigating deviations in borehole trajectory, as existing methods do not effectively utilize fluid dynamics to create a consistent steering force.

Innovation Solution

A steering device with a drill bit and flow passages that utilize the Bernoulli effect by controlling fluid flow through valves and channels to create a directional steering force, allowing for precise control of fluid flow to steer the drill bit within the borehole.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If bent subs are used to cause steering of a string in a borehole, then steering capability is provided, but drilling efficiency and precision are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesteering capabilityVSAvoiddrilling efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies hydraulic principles by using fluid flow through channels in the drill bit to generate a Bernoulli effect. Fluid is directed through specific flow passages to create pressure differentials that generate steering forces, replacing mechanical bent subs with a hydraulic steering mechanism that provides more precise and efficient directional control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical parameters of fluid flow (pressure, velocity, flow rate) to control steering. By adjusting valve openings and channel configurations, the system varies fluid flow parameters to create controlled Bernoulli effects, enabling dynamic adjustment of steering force magnitude and direction for optimized drilling efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If existing steering methods are used, then some steering effect is achieved, but fluid dynamics are not effectively utilized to create consistent steering force

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesteering effect consistencyVSAvoidfluid dynamics utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system effectively utilizes fluid dynamics by designing specific flow channels that guide fluid to create Bernoulli effects. The hydraulic design ensures consistent steering force generation through controlled fluid pressure differentials, maximizing the use of fluid energy for reliable steering without waste.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensors detect borehole trajectory deviations and provide information to control systems. This feedback enables real-time adjustment of fluid flow parameters through valves, ensuring consistent steering effect by continuously adapting to actual drilling conditions and maintaining optimal Bernoulli effect generation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

The solution enables precise directional control of the drill bit, allowing for efficient navigation of borehole deviations by creating a consistent Bernoulli suction force that can steer the drill bit, enhancing drilling precision and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a channel at the outside surface of the body, the channel being configured to produce a Bernoulli effect therein during fluid flow therein

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBernoulli effect: Bernoulli Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20240159109A1Steering device augmentation, method and system
Publication Date: 2024.05.16 BAKER HUGHES OILFIELD OPERATIONS LLC
  • US20240159109A1 patent drawing
  • US20240159109A1 patent drawing
  • US20240159109A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A steering augmenter for a steering device of a drilling tool, including a body, a first flow passage in the body and configured to convey a fluid supply. a channel at the outside surface of the body, the channel being configured to produce a Bernoulli effect therein during fluid flow therein, a second flow passage fluidly connecting the first flow passage to the channel, and a valve associated with the second flow passage and configured to allow, prevent or choke flow through the second flow passage. A downhole drill bit assembly including a steering augmenter, the drill bit attached to the steering augmenter. A method for drilling a borehole into the earth, the method including conveying the steering device into the borehole, operating the valve to allow, prevent or choke flow through the second flow passage, creating a steering force at the steering augmenter by the produced Bernoulli effect.