Well Path Estimation Using Seismic Navigation Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional well location determination methods, such as those using magnetic and gyroscopic measurements, suffer from significant positional uncertainty, especially for long horizontal wells, which can lead to inaccuracies in well placement and increased risks of drilling near hazards or target zones.
Innovation Solution
A method that combines navigation measurements from a downhole tool with position estimates derived from seismic data to provide a more accurate well path estimate, allowing for real-time adjustments during drilling operations and reducing uncertainty, particularly in lateral and depth dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnetic and gyroscopic measurements are used for well location determination, then the method is simple and conventional, but the positional uncertainty increases significantly with distance from the well head
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines navigation measurements from downhole tools with position estimates from surface seismic data to create a hybrid positioning system. This merging of two different measurement approaches (downhole navigation and surface seismic) allows the system to achieve high positional accuracy for long horizontal wells without requiring overly complex single-system solutions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing system that integrates data from both downhole navigation measurements and surface seismic data. This intermediary system processes and fuses the two data sources to produce accurate well position estimates, acting as a mediator between the two measurement systems
2Reliability
If navigation measurements alone are used, then the system is simple to operate, but the positional uncertainty becomes relatively large for long horizontal wells
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where surface seismic data provides independent verification and correction of downhole navigation measurements. The seismic data acts as a feedback source that continuously validates and refines the position estimates, improving reliability without significantly complicating operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the surface seismic system serve multiple functions: it provides both primary well location data and independent verification of navigation measurements. This multi-functionality increases reliability while avoiding the need for separate dedicated verification systems
3Measurement precision
If conventional measurement methods are used, then the equipment is simple, but the uncertainty envelope increases with measured depth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from relying solely on downhole measurements (one-dimensional approach along the well path) to incorporating surface seismic data (adding a second dimensional perspective). This dimensional change allows position estimation that is independent of measured depth, as the surface seismic provides an external reference frame
Data Source
AI summary
A method of estimating a position of a well path within a subsurface formation of the Earth includes determining a well path estimate using navigation measurements from a downhole tool and a position estimate derived from seismic data. A method of geosteering includes estimating a position of the well path and controlling a drill bit in response to the estimated position of the well path to follow a desired well trajectory.