Closed-loop control of hydraulic pressure in a downhole steering tool
US7464770B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 9, 2006 |
| Grant date | Dec 16, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 12, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B7/062
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
Aspects of this invention include a steering tool having a controller configured to provide closed-loop control of hydraulic fluid pressure. In one exemplary embodiment, closed-loop control of a system (reservoir) pressure may be provided. In another embodiment, closed-loop control of a blade pressure may be provided while the blade remains substantially locked at a predetermined position. Other exemplary embodiments may incorporate rule-based-intelligence such that pressure control thresholds may be determined based on various measured and/or predetermined downhole parameters. The invention tends to reduce the friction (drag) between the blades and the borehole wall and thereby also tends to improve drilling rates. Moreover, the invention also tends to improve the service life and reliability of downhole steering tools.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.