Wiper Plug Sensor Orientation for Casing String
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for orienting a parent wellbore casing string in a wellbore are imprecise and time-consuming, particularly when drilling lateral wellbores in predetermined directions from the parent wellbore.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a downhole tool with a sensor module and communication module, including a wiper plug positioned within a latch coupling, which uses accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers to determine the orientation of the casing string and transmit data to the surface for precise orientation adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the parent wellbore casing string is rotated with a drill string using measurement while drilling data to orient the latch coupling, then the casing string can be oriented in the wellbore, but the process is imprecise and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical rotation method with a sensor-based detection system. Accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers are integrated into the wiper plug to electronically determine orientation, eliminating the need for mechanical rotation and associated timing losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The wiper plug autonomously determines the orientation of the casing string using its integrated sensors. The system self-measures the circumferential orientation relative to gravity and magnetic north without requiring external rotation equipment or complex mechanical operations.
2Reliability
If traditional rotationally orienting methods are used to position the latch coupling, then the casing string can be oriented, but the process is time consuming and imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical rotation procedures with electronic sensor measurements. The wiper plug uses accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers to reliably determine orientation instantaneously, replacing the unreliable and time-consuming mechanical rotation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module provides real-time feedback on the circumferential orientation of the wiper plug. This feedback mechanism allows for precise and reliable orientation determination by continuously monitoring and reporting positional data relative to gravity and magnetic north.
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
Enables precise and efficient orientation of the casing string within the wellbore, reducing the time and uncertainty associated with traditional rotationally orienting methods.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor module is operably associated with the downhole tool and is configured to obtain data relating to the orientation of the casing string
Implementation Method 2
uses accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers to determine the orientation of the casing string
Implementation Method 3
uses accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers to determine the orientation of the casing string
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A system for determining the orientation of a casing string in a wellbore. The system includes a downhole tool disposed interiorly of the casing string in a known orientation relative to at least one feature of the casing string. A sensor module is operably associated with the downhole tool and is configured to obtain data relating to the orientation of the casing string. A communication module is operably associated with the sensor module. The communication module is configured to transmit information to a surface location, wherein, the information corresponds to the data obtained by the sensor module relating to the orientation of the casing string.