Ultrasonic Borehole Shape Estimation Using Orthogonal Azimuthal Measurements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining borehole size and configuration in petroleum drilling operations are prone to errors unless borehole size and configuration information is considered, affecting drilling parameter modifications.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using ultrasonic measurements at four different azimuthal locations to estimate the shape and size of a borehole by approximating it as an ellipse, with a downhole tool capable of taking these measurements and processing them to determine the borehole's dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measurement methods are used to determine borehole size, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement precision is poor and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement process is segmented into multiple discrete ultrasonic measurements taken at four different azimuthal locations (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) around the borehole. Each measurement probe captures distance information from a specific direction, and these segmented measurements are then integrated to construct the complete borehole cross-sectional shape, improving precision while maintaining manageable system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system transitions from single-point or single-direction measurements to multi-dimensional azimuthal sampling. By taking measurements in four orthogonal directions and processing them to estimate an ellipse, the system captures the two-dimensional cross-sectional geometry of the borehole, significantly improving measurement precision through dimensional expansion
2Reliability
If borehole size and configuration information is not considered, then the drilling operation proceeds without additional measurements, but the reliability of drilling parameter modifications is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The ultrasonic measurements of borehole size and configuration are performed in advance during the drilling operation, before drilling parameter modifications are made. This preliminary characterization of the borehole geometry provides the necessary information foundation for reliable parameter adjustments, ensuring that corrections are based on accurate baseline data
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop where ultrasonic measurements provide real-time information about borehole size and configuration, which then informs drilling parameter modifications. This closed-loop approach ensures that parameter changes are based on actual borehole conditions, improving the reliability of drilling operations while the measurements are integrated efficiently to minimize time loss
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
This approach provides accurate borehole shape and size estimation, enabling drillers to modify drilling parameters effectively and improve drilling operations by reducing errors associated with unknown borehole characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
taking ultrasonic measurements in the borehole with a downhole tool at four different azimuthal locations
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus pertaining to determining shape and size of a borehole at a depth within a subterranean formation using ultrasonic measurements obtained by a downhole tool at four different azimuthal locations corresponding to four mutually orthogonal directions extending radially from a central axis of the downhole tool. The measurements are indicative of a distance between a wall of the borehole and the downhole tool at each azimuthal location. The borehole shape and size are determined by estimating an ellipse approximating the borehole shape and size using the ultrasonic measurements.