Bottom hole assembly having three-point contact for improved steering
US12297737B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 7, 2024 |
| Grant date | May 13, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 7, 2044 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B10/26
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A system includes a bottom hole assembly (BHA) that includes a drill bit configured to drill a pilot hole in a subterranean formation, such that the drill bit provides a first point of contact between the BHA and the subterranean formation. The BHA includes a steering pad assembly that includes one or more steering pads each configured to move over a path of travel between a retracted position and an extended position to provide a second point of contact between the BHA and the subterranean formation, and a reamer configured to expand the pilot hole into a borehole, such that the reamer provides a third point of contact between the BHA and the subterranean formation. The system includes a controller configured to steer the BHA via the first, second, and third points of contact and adjustments to the second point of contact via control of the steering pad assembly.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.