Virtual Downhole Sub Surface Sensor Data Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for acquiring wellbore data during drilling operations are hindered by slow data transfer rates, interrupted data transfers, and low quality data, often resulting in delayed or missing information, which can lead to inefficiencies and potential catastrophes due to the reliance on downhole equipment.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing sensors positioned at the surface of the wellbore to acquire and transmit real-time data using a drill-string, incorporating tri-axial accelerometers and torque sensors, which calculate downhole measurements without the need for downhole subs, enabling real-time monitoring and dysfunction identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If downhole data acquisition equipment (downhole subs and wired pipe) is used to monitor drilling conditions, then data can be obtained during drilling operations, but the data transfer rate is slow, data transfers are interrupted, and data quality is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data acquisition function from the downhole environment and relocates it to the surface. Sensors are positioned on surface subs that ride along the drill string, allowing data to be collected at surface conditions where reliable transmission is possible, eliminating the need for data to travel through harsh downhole environments via wired pipe
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces surface subs as an intermediary between the drill string and the data acquisition system. These surface subs carry sensors that measure drill string conditions and transmit data wirelessly or via other reliable surface-based communication methods, serving as a mediator that eliminates the need for downhole data transmission infrastructure
2Measurement precision
If downhole data acquisition equipment is used, then wellbore data can be monitored, but the equipment is expensive and suffers from low quality data with insufficient information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from downhole equipment and places it on surface subs. This allows the use of standard, high-precision sensors in a controlled surface environment, eliminating the need for specialized downhole-rated equipment while improving measurement quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual representation of downhole conditions by measuring surface parameters and using mathematical models to infer downhole states. Surface accelerometer measurements are processed to calculate equivalent downhole measurements, providing accurate data without physical downhole sensors
3Loss of time
If conventional downhole systems are used, then data acquisition is possible, but data is delayed or not received at all, preventing timely control of drill-string
Solution Approach 1:
By moving data acquisition to the surface, the system eliminates transmission delays inherent in downhole wired pipe systems. Data is collected and available in real-time at the surface, enabling immediate response and control decisions
Solution Approach 2:
The surface subs are positioned in advance on the drill string before drilling operations begin. This preliminary positioning ensures that sensors are already in place and data transmission channels are established, eliminating setup delays and enabling immediate real-time monitoring
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 high-quality, real-time wellbore data, allowing for timely control of drilling operations and reducing the risk of damage by eliminating the limitations of downhole equipment, such as slow data transfer and harsh environmental exposure.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor may include a tri-axial accelerometer and/or a torque sensor
Implementation Method 2
The sensor may include a tri-axial accelerometer and/or a torque sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method to identify a dysfunction of a drill-string within a wellbore are provided. The system includes a sensor positioned proximate to a drill-string and proximate to a surface of the wellbore. The sensor is configured to sense a surface condition and generate measurement data. The system also includes a transmitter in communication with the sensor and configured to transmit the measurement data. The system also includes a receiver configured to receive the measurement data from the sensor. The system also includes a processor configured to calculate a downhole measurement based on the measurement data and analyze the downhole measurement to identify the dysfunction.