Torque-Adaptive Impact Tool for PDC Bit Vibration Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

PDC bits experience stick-slip vibration and reduced rock-breaking efficiency when drilling into deep, difficult formations, leading to accelerated tool failure and increased operational costs due to the need for high torque and inefficient energy transfer.

Innovation Solution

A torque-adaptive impact tool is introduced, which includes a rotary-driving power device and a torque-adaptive impact mechanism that selectively applies torsional impact based on the bit's torque requirements, using an elastic element and spiral grooves to manage torque and prevent damage to the PDC teeth.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If PDC bit drills into deep, difficult formations with high torque requirements, then rock-breaking capability is improved, but stick-slip vibration occurs and tool life decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverock-breaking capabilityVSAvoidtool life
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic impact action through the elastic element that stores and releases energy in cyclic manner. The impact tool delivers periodic torsional impacts to the PDC bit during drilling, transforming continuous rotation into pulsating rock-breaking action. This periodic action enhances rock fragmentation efficiency while reducing stick-slip vibration by preventing energy accumulation in the drill string.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic element serves as a cushioning mechanism that absorbs excess energy and releases it in controlled impacts. By pre-storing energy in the elastic element during normal drilling and releasing it during stick-slip events, the system cushions against harmful vibrations and protects the PDC bit and drill string from damage while maintaining rock-breaking capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

2Productivity

If conventional impact tool continuously impacts the bit, then rock-breaking efficiency is improved, but PDC teeth fail due to impact load

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverock-breaking efficiencyVSAvoidPDC teeth durability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic impact control mechanism where the impact tool operates adaptively based on actual drilling conditions. The system transitions between impact and non-impact modes, adjusting the frequency and intensity of impacts according to rock hardness, bit depth, and vibration levels. This dynamic operation maintains high rock-breaking efficiency while preventing excessive impact loads that would damage PDC teeth.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters by varying the impact frequency, duration, and intensity based on drilling conditions. Through parameter adjustment, the impact tool delivers optimal energy levels for rock fragmentation while staying below the damage threshold for PDC teeth. The elastic element's energy storage and release characteristics enable precise parameter control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If PDC bit enters formation deeply, then rock-breaking efficiency is improved, but stick-slip vibration increases and energy transfer becomes inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverate of penetrationVSAvoidenergy transfer efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The periodic impact action delivered by the elastic element prevents energy accumulation in the drill string that causes stick-slip vibration. By delivering energy in controlled pulses rather than continuous rotation, the system maintains efficient energy transfer to the rock while preventing the buildup that leads to violent bit oscillations and reduced drilling efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 tool improves rock-breaking efficiency by reducing stick-slip vibration and prolonging the service life of PDC teeth by adapting impact action to actual drilling conditions, ensuring stable operation and efficient energy utilization.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic element (5), arranged between the upper impact body (6) and the upper end cover (4)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The main shaft (3) is provided with spiral grooves (30)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS20240175323A1Torque-adaptive impact tool suitable for PDC bit
Publication Date: 2024.05.30 SOUTHWEST PETROLEUM UNIV
  • US20240175323A1 patent drawing
  • US20240175323A1 patent drawing
  • US20240175323A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A torque-adaptive impact tool suitable for a PDC (Polycrystalline Diamond Compact) bit is provided, which includes a PDC bit, a rotary-driving power device, and a torque-adaptive impact tool above the PDC bit. The torque-adaptive impact tool is located between the PDC bit and the rotary-driving power device, includes an outer housing, an upper end cover, a main shaft, an elastic element, an upper impact body, and a lower impact body. In a case of a normal operation of the bit, the tool does not impact the bit, but rotates along with the rotary-driving power device for drilling. In a case that a rock-breaking torque required by the bit exceeds a driving torque, the tool impact the bit.