Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for estimating an axial force transfer efficiency of a drillstring in a borehole, the drillstring comprising a drill bit, the method comprising: lifting the drillstring so that the drill bit is off the bottom of the borehole; measuring a hook load; slacking off a first reference amount of the hook load; determining a first weight on bit at the bottom of the drillstring; and determining the axial force transfer efficiency based, at least in part, on the measured hook load, the first weight on bit, and the first reference amount of hook load.
This invention relates to estimating the axial force transfer efficiency of a drillstring in a borehole during drilling operations. The problem addressed is the need to accurately determine how effectively axial forces are transmitted through the drillstring to the drill bit, which is critical for optimizing drilling performance and preventing mechanical failures. The method involves lifting the drillstring so the drill bit is raised off the borehole bottom, then measuring the hook load exerted on the drillstring. The drillstring is then lowered (slacked off) by a predetermined reference amount, and the resulting weight on bit (WOB) at the bottom of the drillstring is determined. The axial force transfer efficiency is calculated using the measured hook load, the determined WOB, and the reference amount of hook load slacked off. This process accounts for frictional losses and mechanical inefficiencies in the drillstring, providing a quantitative measure of how well axial forces are transmitted to the drill bit. The method helps operators adjust drilling parameters to improve efficiency and reduce wear on the drillstring components.
2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: slacking off a second reference amount of the hook load; determining a second weight on bit at the bottom of the drillstring; and wherein determining the axial force transfer efficiency is further based, at least in part, on the second weight on bit and the second reference amount of hook load.
This invention relates to oil and gas drilling operations, specifically improving the measurement of axial force transfer efficiency in a drillstring. The problem addressed is the need for accurate assessment of how effectively weight is transferred from the surface to the drill bit, which is critical for optimizing drilling performance and preventing equipment damage. The method involves measuring a first reference amount of hook load, which is the tension in the drillstring at the surface, and determining a first weight on bit (WOB) at the bottom of the drillstring. The axial force transfer efficiency is initially calculated based on these measurements. The method then includes slacking off a second reference amount of the hook load, which involves reducing the tension in the drillstring, and determining a second WOB. The axial force transfer efficiency is further refined by incorporating the second WOB and the second reference amount of hook load into the calculation. This approach provides a more precise evaluation of how changes in surface tension affect the force applied at the drill bit, improving drilling efficiency and safety. The technique is particularly useful in real-time monitoring and adjustment of drilling parameters.
3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising: slacking off one or more subsequent reference amounts of the hook load; determining one or more corresponding subsequent weights on bit at the bottom of the drillstring; and wherein determining the axial force transfer efficiency is further based, at least in part, on the one or more corresponding subsequent reference amounts of hook load and the one or more corresponding subsequent weights on bit.
This invention relates to improving the efficiency of axial force transfer in a drillstring used in drilling operations, particularly in oil and gas exploration. The problem addressed is the need to accurately assess how effectively force is transmitted from the surface to the drill bit, which is critical for optimizing drilling performance and preventing equipment damage. The method involves measuring a reference amount of hook load, which is the force applied at the surface to the drillstring. This measurement is used to determine the weight on bit (WOB), which is the force exerted by the drill bit at the bottom of the hole. The method then calculates the axial force transfer efficiency by comparing the reference hook load to the corresponding WOB. This efficiency metric helps identify losses in force transmission due to factors like friction, drillstring buckling, or other mechanical inefficiencies. Additionally, the method includes slacking off the hook load one or more times, which involves reducing the applied force to simulate different drilling conditions. For each slack-off event, the corresponding WOB is determined, and the axial force transfer efficiency is recalculated based on these subsequent measurements. This iterative process provides a more comprehensive assessment of how force transfer varies under different operational conditions, enabling better optimization of drilling parameters. The method ensures that drilling operations are conducted with minimal energy loss and maximum efficiency.
4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the first reference amount of hook load, the second reference amount of hook load, and the one or more subsequent reference amounts of hook load are between 5 and 10 kips.
This invention relates to a method for controlling hook load in a drilling or lifting operation, particularly in oil and gas or construction industries. The problem addressed is the need to precisely manage hook load to prevent equipment damage, ensure safety, and optimize performance during operations such as drilling, lifting, or hoisting heavy loads. The method involves monitoring and adjusting hook load in real-time to maintain it within predefined reference ranges. The method includes determining a first reference amount of hook load, a second reference amount of hook load, and one or more subsequent reference amounts of hook load, all of which are set between 5 and 10 kips (thousand pounds-force). These reference amounts serve as thresholds or target values for controlling the hook load during the operation. The method further involves comparing the actual hook load to these reference amounts and adjusting the operation—such as modifying the speed of a winch, adjusting the tension of a cable, or altering the load distribution—based on the comparison. This ensures the hook load remains within the specified range, preventing overloading or underloading, which could lead to equipment failure or inefficiency. The method may also include logging the hook load data for analysis and future optimization. The system may use sensors, controllers, and actuators to implement these adjustments automatically or semi-automatically.
5. The method of claim 2 , wherein slacking off a first reference amount of the hook load and slacking off the second reference amount of the hook load are performed while the drillstring is rotating.
This invention relates to drilling operations, specifically methods for managing hook load during drilling to prevent excessive load fluctuations that can damage equipment or compromise well integrity. The problem addressed is the need to control hook load while the drillstring is rotating, ensuring safe and efficient drilling operations. The method involves slacking off a first reference amount of the hook load and then slacking off a second reference amount of the hook load, both actions performed while the drillstring is rotating. Slacking off refers to reducing the tension on the drillstring by lowering the hook or allowing the drillstring to settle. The first and second reference amounts are predefined values that determine how much load is released in each step. This controlled slacking process helps stabilize the drillstring, reduces torque and drag, and prevents excessive load buildup that could lead to equipment failure or wellbore instability. The method may also include monitoring the hook load in real-time to ensure the slacking operations are performed within safe operating limits. Adjustments to the reference amounts can be made based on drilling conditions, such as formation hardness or drillstring configuration. The technique is particularly useful in directional drilling or extended reach drilling, where managing hook load is critical to maintaining wellbore trajectory and preventing stuck pipe incidents. By performing slack off operations while the drillstring is rotating, the method ensures continuous drilling progress while mitigating load-related risks.
6. The method of claim 5 , further comprising: altering the rotation rate of the drillstring between slacking off the first reference amount of the hook load and slacking off the second reference amount of the hook load.
This invention relates to drilling operations, specifically methods for controlling the rotation rate of a drillstring during drilling to improve efficiency and prevent issues like stick-slip or excessive torque. The problem addressed is the need to dynamically adjust the rotation rate of the drillstring to optimize drilling performance while maintaining stability. The method involves monitoring the hook load, which is the weight of the drillstring and drilling assembly suspended from the drilling rig's hook. The process includes slacking off the hook load by a first reference amount, which reduces the weight on the bit to a predetermined level. After this initial slacking off, the rotation rate of the drillstring is altered—either increased or decreased—before slacking off the hook load by a second reference amount. This second slacking off further adjusts the weight on the bit, allowing for fine-tuned control of drilling parameters. The alteration of the rotation rate between the two slacking-off steps helps balance drilling forces, reduce vibrations, and prevent damage to the drillstring or bit. This dynamic adjustment ensures that the drilling operation remains efficient and stable, particularly in challenging formations where static rotation rates may lead to inefficiencies or equipment wear. The method is applicable to various drilling environments, including oil and gas exploration, geothermal drilling, and other deep-earth drilling applications.
7. The method of claim 2 , wherein slacking off the first reference amount of the hook load and slacking off the second reference amount of the hook load are performed while the drillstring is not rotating.
This invention relates to drilling operations, specifically managing hook load during drilling to prevent excessive tension or slack in the drillstring. The problem addressed is maintaining optimal tension in the drillstring to avoid damage or operational inefficiencies, particularly when adjusting hook load references. The method involves monitoring and controlling the hook load applied to a drillstring during drilling operations. A first reference amount of the hook load is slacked off, followed by slacking off a second reference amount. These adjustments are performed while the drillstring is not rotating, ensuring precise control without inducing unwanted torque or stress. The process may include detecting a change in drilling conditions, such as encountering a formation change or adjusting drilling parameters, and responding by modifying the hook load to maintain stability. The method may also involve using sensors to measure hook load and comparing it to predefined thresholds to determine when slacking off is necessary. The adjustments help prevent excessive tension that could damage the drillstring or equipment, while also avoiding excessive slack that could lead to buckling or other issues. The invention ensures safe and efficient drilling operations by dynamically managing hook load in response to real-time conditions.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining an axial force transfer efficiency is further based, at least in part, on one or more of: one or more time-depth measurements from the drillstring; one or more local magnetic parameters; a rotation rate of the drillstring; a torque on bit of the drillstring; one or more bending moments of the drillstring; a mud weight; and one more borehole diameters.
This invention relates to oil and gas drilling operations, specifically improving the efficiency of axial force transfer in a drillstring. The technology addresses challenges in accurately assessing how effectively downward force is transmitted from the surface to the drill bit, which is critical for optimizing drilling performance and preventing equipment failure. The method involves determining axial force transfer efficiency by analyzing multiple parameters. These include time-depth measurements from the drillstring, which track the rate of penetration and drilling progress. Local magnetic parameters, such as magnetic field variations, help assess drillstring alignment and stress distribution. The rotation rate of the drillstring and torque on the bit provide insights into mechanical efficiency and friction. Bending moments of the drillstring indicate structural stress and potential fatigue points. Mud weight, a key drilling fluid property, affects hydraulic forces and lubrication. Borehole diameter measurements help evaluate wellbore geometry and its impact on force transmission. By integrating these factors, the method enhances real-time monitoring and decision-making, allowing operators to adjust drilling parameters for improved efficiency, reduced wear, and minimized downtime. The approach ensures more precise control over drilling operations, leading to cost savings and operational safety.
9. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: performing a drilling operation in a subterranean formation; and altering a rate of penetration of a wellbore in the subterranean formation based, at least in part, on the determined axial force transfer efficiency of the drillstring.
This invention relates to optimizing drilling operations in subterranean formations by adjusting the rate of penetration (ROP) of a wellbore based on the axial force transfer efficiency of the drillstring. The method involves performing a drilling operation where a drillstring is used to create a wellbore in a formation. During drilling, the system measures the axial force transfer efficiency, which indicates how effectively force is transmitted along the drillstring to the drill bit. This efficiency is influenced by factors such as drillstring friction, buckling, and formation characteristics. By analyzing this efficiency, the system dynamically adjusts the ROP to improve drilling performance, reduce wear on equipment, and enhance overall efficiency. The adjustment may involve modifying parameters such as weight on bit (WOB), rotational speed, or drilling fluid properties to maintain optimal force transfer. This approach helps prevent excessive drillstring stress, reduces non-productive time, and improves wellbore quality. The method is particularly useful in complex geological formations where maintaining consistent force transfer is challenging.
10. A system for controlling one or more drilling operations, comprising: at least one processor; and a memory including non-transitory executable instructions for estimating an axial force transfer efficiency of a drillstring, wherein the executable instructions cause at least one processor to: lift the drillstring so that the drill bit is off the bottom of a borehole; measure a hook load; slack off a first reference amount of the hook load; determine a first weight on bit at the bottom of the drillstring; and determine an axial force transfer efficiency based, at least in part, on the measured hook load, the first weight on bit, and the first reference amount of hook load.
The system is designed for optimizing drilling operations by improving the efficiency of axial force transfer in a drillstring. During drilling, a significant portion of the applied weight may not reach the drill bit due to friction and other losses, reducing drilling performance. The system addresses this by calculating the axial force transfer efficiency, which quantifies how effectively the applied weight is transmitted to the drill bit. The system includes a processor and memory with executable instructions. The process begins by lifting the drillstring to disengage the drill bit from the borehole bottom. The system then measures the hook load, which is the weight supported by the drilling rig's hook. A predefined reference amount of hook load is then slacked off, allowing the drill bit to re-engage with the borehole. The system calculates the weight on bit (WOB) at the bottom of the drillstring, representing the actual force applied to the drill bit. Using the measured hook load, the first WOB, and the reference amount of hook load, the system determines the axial force transfer efficiency. This efficiency metric helps operators adjust drilling parameters to minimize losses and improve drilling performance. The system may also include additional features, such as real-time monitoring and automated adjustments, to further enhance drilling efficiency.
11. The system of claim 10 , wherein the executable instructions further cause the at least one processor to: slack off a second reference amount of the hook load; determine a second weight on bit at the bottom of the drillstring; and determine the axial force transfer efficiency based, at least in part, on the measured hook load, the first weight on bit, the second weight on bit, the first reference amount of hook load, and the second reference amount of hook load.
This invention relates to a system for monitoring and optimizing drilling operations in oil and gas extraction. The system addresses the challenge of accurately determining the efficiency of axial force transfer in a drillstring, which is critical for maintaining optimal drilling performance and preventing equipment failure. The system includes at least one processor and executable instructions that cause the processor to perform several key functions. First, the system measures the hook load, which is the weight of the drillstring and other suspended components. It then determines a first weight on bit (WOB) at the bottom of the drillstring, representing the force applied to the drill bit. The system also adjusts or "slacks off" a first reference amount of the hook load and measures the resulting change in WOB. This process is repeated with a second reference amount of hook load to gather additional data points. Using these measurements—including the measured hook load, the first and second WOB values, and the first and second reference amounts—the system calculates the axial force transfer efficiency. This efficiency metric helps operators assess how effectively force is transmitted through the drillstring to the bit, enabling adjustments to improve drilling performance and reduce wear. The system provides real-time insights to enhance drilling precision and longevity of equipment.
12. The system of claim 11 , wherein the first reference amount and the second reference amount are between 5 and 10 kips.
Technical Summary: This invention relates to a system for monitoring and controlling the tension in a cable or rope, particularly in industrial or heavy-duty applications where precise tension management is critical. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining consistent tension in cables subjected to varying loads, ensuring operational safety and efficiency. The system includes a tension measurement device that detects the force applied to the cable and compares it against predefined reference amounts. These reference amounts serve as upper and lower thresholds to determine whether the cable tension is within an acceptable range. The system dynamically adjusts the tension by activating a tensioning mechanism, such as a motor or hydraulic actuator, when the measured tension deviates from the reference values. A key feature of the system is the use of reference amounts set between 5 and 10 kips (thousand pounds of force), which provides a balanced range for applications requiring moderate to high tension control. The system may also include feedback mechanisms, such as sensors or controllers, to continuously monitor and adjust the tension in real time. This ensures that the cable remains within the desired operational limits, preventing overloading or slackening that could lead to equipment failure or safety hazards. The invention is particularly useful in industries such as construction, mining, and material handling, where cables are subjected to significant and fluctuating loads. By maintaining precise tension control, the system enhances equipment longevity, reduces maintenance costs, and improves overall system reliability.
13. The system of claim 11 , wherein slacking off the first reference amount of the hook load and slacking off the second reference amount of the hook load are performed while the drillstring is rotating.
This invention relates to a system for managing hook load during drilling operations, specifically addressing the challenge of controlling tension in the drillstring while it is rotating. The system monitors and adjusts the hook load to prevent excessive slack or tension, which can damage equipment or compromise drilling efficiency. The system includes a mechanism to slack off the hook load by predefined reference amounts, ensuring controlled adjustments. The first and second reference amounts of slack are applied while the drillstring is rotating, allowing for continuous operation without interruption. This dynamic adjustment helps maintain optimal drilling conditions by preventing sudden load changes that could destabilize the drillstring or cause operational hazards. The system may also include sensors to measure hook load in real-time and actuators to implement the slack-off adjustments automatically. By integrating these features, the system enhances drilling safety and efficiency by maintaining precise control over the hook load during rotation.
14. The system of claim 11 , wherein slacking off the first reference amount of the hook load and slacking off the second reference amount of the hook load are performed while the drillstring is not rotating.
This invention relates to a system for managing hook load in drilling operations, specifically addressing the challenge of controlling tension in the drillstring during non-rotating periods to prevent excessive slack or strain. The system monitors and adjusts the hook load, which is the weight supported by the drilling rig's hook, to maintain optimal drilling conditions. The system includes a mechanism to slack off the hook load by predefined reference amounts, ensuring controlled release of tension when the drillstring is stationary. This prevents sudden load changes that could damage equipment or compromise well integrity. The system also incorporates sensors to detect the hook load and a controller to regulate the slacking process. The invention ensures precise tension management, particularly during transitions between drilling phases, enhancing operational safety and efficiency. The system is designed to operate dynamically, adjusting the slack-off amounts based on real-time conditions to maintain stability in the drillstring. This approach minimizes the risk of mechanical failures and improves drilling performance by maintaining consistent load parameters. The invention is particularly useful in deep or high-pressure drilling environments where precise control of hook load is critical.
15. The system of claim 10 , wherein the executable instructions further cause the at least one processor to: alter a rotation rate of the drillstring between slacking off the first reference amount of the hook load and slacking off the second reference amount of the hook load.
This invention relates to a drilling system for oil and gas extraction, specifically addressing the challenge of controlling drillstring rotation during drilling operations to improve efficiency and prevent damage. The system includes a drillstring with a drill bit, a top drive or rotary table for rotating the drillstring, and a hook load sensor to measure the weight applied to the drillstring. The system monitors the hook load in real-time and adjusts the rotation rate of the drillstring based on predefined reference amounts of hook load. When the hook load reaches a first reference amount, the system reduces or stops the rotation rate, allowing the drillstring to "slack off" or apply additional weight to the bit. If the hook load then reaches a second reference amount, the system further adjusts the rotation rate to maintain optimal drilling conditions. This dynamic control prevents excessive torque, reduces drillstring fatigue, and enhances drilling performance by ensuring consistent weight-on-bit. The system may also include feedback mechanisms to continuously refine the rotation rate adjustments based on real-time data.
16. The system of claim 10 , wherein the executable instruction further cause the one processor to determine the axial force transfer efficiency further based, at least in part, on one or more of: one or more time-depth information; one or more local magnetic parameters; a rotation rate of the drillstring; a torque on bit of the drillstring; one or more bending moments of the drillstring; a mud weight; and one more borehole diameters.
This invention relates to a system for optimizing drilling operations by determining axial force transfer efficiency in a drillstring. The system addresses the challenge of improving drilling performance by accurately assessing how efficiently axial forces are transmitted through the drillstring to the drill bit, which is critical for maintaining drilling efficiency and preventing equipment failure. The system includes a processor executing instructions to calculate axial force transfer efficiency based on multiple factors. These factors include time-depth information, which tracks the drillstring's position over time, and local magnetic parameters, which provide data on magnetic fields affecting the drillstring. The system also considers the drillstring's rotation rate, torque on the bit, and bending moments, which indicate mechanical stresses. Additional parameters include mud weight, which affects drilling fluid dynamics, and borehole diameter, which influences the interaction between the drillstring and the borehole wall. By analyzing these parameters, the system provides a comprehensive assessment of axial force transfer efficiency, enabling real-time adjustments to drilling operations. This improves drilling accuracy, reduces equipment wear, and enhances overall drilling performance. The system is particularly useful in oil and gas exploration, where precise control of drilling forces is essential for efficiency and safety.
17. The system of claim 10 , wherein the executable instructions further cause the at least one processor to: control a drilling operation in a subterranean formation; and alter the rate of penetration of a wellbore in the subterranean formation based, at least in part, on the determined axial force transfer efficiency of the drillstring.
This invention relates to a system for optimizing drilling operations in subterranean formations by dynamically adjusting the rate of penetration (ROP) of a wellbore based on the axial force transfer efficiency of the drillstring. The system includes at least one processor and executable instructions that enable real-time monitoring and control of drilling parameters. The system determines the axial force transfer efficiency, which measures how effectively force is transmitted along the drillstring to the drill bit, and uses this data to adjust the ROP. By optimizing the ROP based on force transfer efficiency, the system improves drilling efficiency, reduces mechanical stress on the drillstring, and enhances overall drilling performance. The system may also incorporate additional drilling parameters, such as weight on bit (WOB), rotational speed, and formation characteristics, to further refine control decisions. This approach ensures that drilling operations are conducted in a manner that maximizes productivity while minimizing wear and potential failures. The system is particularly useful in complex geological environments where maintaining optimal drilling conditions is critical.
18. A system for controlling one or more drilling operations, comprising: a drillstring including a drill bit; at least one processor; and a memory including non-transitory executable instructions for estimating an axial force transfer efficiency of a drillstring, wherein the executable instructions cause at least one processor to: alter the hook load by a first reference amount; measure a first weight on bit at the bottom of the drillstring; alter the hook load by a second reference amount; measure a second weight on bit at the bottom of the drillstring; and determine an axial force transfer efficiency based, at least in part, on the first and second reference amounts of hook load, the first weight on bit, and the second weight on bit.
The system is designed for optimizing drilling operations by improving the efficiency of axial force transfer in a drillstring. During drilling, a significant portion of the applied weight (hook load) may not effectively reach the drill bit due to friction and other factors, reducing drilling performance. This system addresses the problem by dynamically measuring and calculating the axial force transfer efficiency, allowing for real-time adjustments to improve drilling effectiveness. The system includes a drillstring with a drill bit, at least one processor, and a memory storing executable instructions. The instructions enable the processor to perform a series of steps to estimate axial force transfer efficiency. First, the hook load is altered by a first reference amount, and the resulting weight on bit (WOB) at the drill bit is measured. The hook load is then altered by a second reference amount, and the corresponding WOB is measured again. Using these measurements, the system calculates the axial force transfer efficiency based on the changes in hook load and the resulting WOB values. This efficiency metric helps operators optimize drilling parameters, such as adjusting the hook load to ensure more of the applied force reaches the drill bit, improving drilling speed and reducing wear. The system provides a data-driven approach to enhance drilling performance by minimizing energy loss in the drillstring.
19. The system of claim 18 , wherein: the executable instructions that cause at least one processor to alter the hook load by a first reference amount cause the at least one processor to: increase hook load by the first reference amount; and the executable instructions that cause at least one processor to alter the hook load by a second reference amount cause the at least one processor to: increase hook load by the second reference amount.
A system for controlling hook load in a lifting or material handling apparatus adjusts the load applied to a hook or lifting mechanism to optimize performance and safety. The system includes a processor executing instructions to monitor and modify the hook load based on predefined reference amounts. Specifically, the system increases the hook load by a first reference amount when certain conditions are met, such as detecting an imbalance or to compensate for environmental factors like wind or load shifting. Additionally, the system can further increase the hook load by a second reference amount to ensure stability or to meet operational requirements. The adjustments are made dynamically to maintain safe and efficient lifting operations. The system may also include sensors to measure load conditions and feedback mechanisms to verify the adjustments. This approach prevents overloading or instability while ensuring precise control over the lifting process. The system is particularly useful in industrial applications where load management is critical, such as in cranes, hoists, or automated material handling systems.
20. The system of claim 18 , wherein the first reference amount and the second reference amount are between 5 and 10 kips.
A system for monitoring and adjusting load distribution in a structural support framework, particularly for applications such as industrial equipment or construction, addresses the challenge of ensuring balanced and safe load-bearing capacity. The system includes sensors to measure applied loads at multiple support points and compares these measurements against predefined reference amounts to detect imbalances or overloading conditions. The reference amounts, which are between 5 and 10 kips, serve as thresholds to determine whether the load distribution is within acceptable limits. If a measured load exceeds the reference amount, the system triggers an alert or initiates corrective actions, such as redistributing the load or adjusting support mechanisms. The system may also include calibration features to periodically verify sensor accuracy and adjust the reference amounts based on environmental or operational changes. This ensures continuous and reliable monitoring of load conditions, preventing structural failures and enhancing safety. The system is particularly useful in environments where precise load management is critical, such as heavy machinery, bridges, or industrial platforms.
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August 20, 2019
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