Monitoring and control systems for continuous circulating drilling operations
US9057235B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 18, 2012 |
| Grant date | Jun 16, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 9, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B21/019
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An apparatus for continuously flowing drilling fluid along a drill string includes a continuous circulation device having at least a first fluid path in fluid communication with a top drive and a second fluid path in communication with a diverter. The diverter is in selective fluid communication with a pipe stand associated with the drills string. The apparatus also includes at least one sensor that estimates at least one operating parameter associated with the continuous circulation device. A related method includes using a continuous circulation device as described to manipulate the drill string and controlling the continuous circulation device using at least one sensor configured to estimate at least one operating parameter associated with the continuous circulation device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.