System, method and apparatus for estimating formation strength
US12305506B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 22, 2024 |
| Grant date | May 20, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 22, 2044 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B10/42
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
Methods and systems are provided that calculate data representing an estimate of formation strength while drilling. The methods and systems employ a drill bit that is instrumented with a first sensor and a second sensor. A processor is configured to i) determine and store first data representing cutting forces acting on a cutting element of the drill bit while drilling based on measurements of the first sensor while drilling, ii) determine and store second data representing depth of cut of the drill bit while drilling based on measurements of the second sensor while drilling, and iii) process the first data and second data to generate and store data representing contact stress against the formation while drilling. This resultant data can be used as an estimate of formation strength. This estimate of formation strength is similar to UCS and can be used in oilfield operations/planning, such as formation characterization while drilling, or drilling efficiency analysis while drilling.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.