Downhole optical imaging tools and methods
US9765609B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 24, 2010 |
| Grant date | Sep 19, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 17, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B47/002
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A disclosed downhole optical imaging tool includes a light source and a camera enclosed within a tool body having at least two sidewall windows. A first window transmits light from the light source to a target region in the borehole, while a second window passes reflected light from the target region to the internal camera. The target region is spaced along the borehole away from the second window in a direction opposite the first window. In some embodiments, this configuration is provided by angling the first and second windows with respect to the sidewall, or by shaping the windows to cast and receive light from a “forward” direction. Some tool embodiments include motion and/or orientation sensors that are employed by a processor to combine separately captured images into a panoramic borehole image. It can be employed during drilling operations employing air or a substantially transparent liquid as a drilling fluid.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.