Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080202814 | Earth-boring tools and cutter assemblies having a cutting element co-sintered with a cone structure, methods of using the same - Methods of forming cutter assemblies for use on earth-boring tools include sintering a cone structure to fuse one or more cutting elements thereto. In some embodiments, one or more green, brown, or fully sintered cutting elements may be positioned on a green or brown cone structure prior to sintering the cone structure to a final density. Cutter assemblies may be formed by such methods, and such cutter assemblies may be used in earth-boring tools such as, for example, earth-boring rotary drill bits and hole openers. | 08-28-2008 |
20080223617 | Deviated Drilling Method for Water Production - Method for drilling horizontal or deviated fresh water wells through such volcanics as occur in Hawaii, including hard lavas and fragmented interbeds that are prone to caving. The method provides effective means to drill into basal aquifers directly underlain by salt water, or into compartmented or confined aquifers or perched aquifers. The method uses deviated drilling and may use formation grouting, casing or drill-stem drilling, percussion or rotary drilling and all combinations thereof. | 09-18-2008 |
20080271925 | Acid tunneling bottom hole assembly - A bottom hole assembly connected to coiled tubing to create an acid tunnel in a wellbore formation. High pressure acid is pumped down the coiled tubing and out a nozzle located at the end of the bottom hole assembly. The bottom hole assembly includes a first knuckle joint and a second knuckle joint to properly position the nozzle against the wellbore. The two knuckle joints increases the radius of curvature of the bottom hole assembly while providing a sufficient attack angle for the nozzle against the wellbore. The two knuckle joints also may reduce the chance that the nozzle will cam lock within the acid tunnel. The two knuckle joints may be oriented such that they bend within the same plane. The nozzle may be connected onto the end of wand having a telescoping portion. The nozzle may be adapted to form an elliptical acid tunnel. | 11-06-2008 |
20090000823 | Method of Automatically controlling the Trajectory of a Drilled Well - Steering behavior model can include build rate and/or turn rate equations to modal bottom-hole assembly behavior. Build and/or turn rate equations can be calibrated by adjusting model parameters thereof to minimize any variance between actual response | 01-01-2009 |
20090020335 | METHODS, SYSTEMS AND APPARATUS FOR PRODUCTION OF HYDROCARBONS FROM A SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION - Methods, systems, and apparatus that are suitable for use in production of hydrocarbons from subterranean heavy oil deposits employ a subterranean cavity in communication with a borehole. The cavity is preferably formed along a U-tube borehole by coiled tubing reaming operations and/or radial drilling and explosive blasting | 01-22-2009 |
20090057017 | Multiple Pulsejet Boring Device - A method and device for boring a hole [ | 03-05-2009 |
20090065258 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DIRECTIONAL DRILLING WITH VARIABLE DRILL STRING ROTATION - Apparatus and methodology is provided for directional drilling which avoid the effects of static friction between the drill string and the borehole. The drill string is rotated continuously in one direction during rotating drilling and during steering. During steering, the rotary speed of the drill string is varied within a revolution and substantially similarly for each of a plurality of subsequent revolutions. The drill string is be rotated very slowly when oriented at or near the desired orientation to achieve the desired change in direction and then rotated much faster during the balance of each revolution. This angular velocity profile results in drilling at or near a desired orientation for a high percentage of the time it takes for each revolution. Changes in an effective tool-face orientation can be effected by shifting the phase of the velocity profile. | 03-12-2009 |
20090095533 | SELF-CONTAINED SYSTEM FOR DRILLING A DRAINHOLE - A self-contained system for drilling a drainhole laterally to a wellbore that includes a drill head with a tool for boring a drainhole and a self-propelled device for advancing the head into the drainhole during boring; a relay unit lowered into the wellbore, arranged to position the drill head against the sidewall of the wellbore in order to initiate the boring of the drainhole laterally to the wellbore; a cable for supplying electric power to the drill head, reeled out from the relay unit; and a mechanical system for removing cuttings from the drainhole during boring, the debris removed falling downhole. | 04-16-2009 |
20090114448 | EXPANDABLE ROLLER REAMER - An expandable downhole tool for use in a drilling assembly positioned within a wellbore includes a tool body having an axial flowbore extending therethrough and a moveable arm. The moveable arm includes a roller structure including cutters and rotatably mounted on the moveable arm. The moveable arm is configured to move outwardly in response to actuation of the expandable downhole tool. | 05-07-2009 |
20090114449 | ACID TUNNELING BOTTOM HOLE ASSEMBLY AND METHOD UTILIZING REVERSIBLE KNUCKLE JOINTS - A bottom hole assembly connected to coiled tubing to create an acid tunnel in a wellbore formation. High pressure acid is pumped down the coiled tubing and out a nozzle located at the end of the bottom hole assembly. The bottom hole assembly includes a first reversible knuckle joint and a second reversible knuckle joint to properly position the nozzle against the wellbore and to allow the assembly to adjust its angle as it initiates and moves through the lateral tunnel. The two reversible knuckle joints increases the radius of curvature of the bottom hole assembly while providing a sufficient attack angle for the nozzle against the wellbore. The two knuckle joints may be adjusted in response to loads applied on the assembly as the assembly moves through the lateral tunnel. | 05-07-2009 |
20090159339 | Adjustable bent housing apparatus and method - An apparatus for controlling the direction of drill bit within a wellbore. The apparatus comprises a first housing with a first housing axis therein, and wherein the first housing has a first threaded opening having a first threaded opening axis. The first housing has a helical end. A second housing is included, and the second housing contains a second housing axis, and a second threaded opening having a second threaded opening axis configured to engage with the first threaded opening. A collar is included that has a helical collar end that engages the helical collar end and wherein the helical collar end is configured reciprocal to the helical end, and rotational displacement of the first housing relative to the collar will angularly displace the drill bit axis. The apparatus may further include spline members for locking the collar in place relative to the first and second housing. | 06-25-2009 |
20090166089 | Drilling Tool Steering Device - The invention concerns a drilling tool steering device, characterized in that it contains, consecutively from upstream to downstream, a main body ( | 07-02-2009 |
20090183921 | FLOW OPERATED ORIENTER - Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a flow operated orienter. In one embodiment, a bottom hole assembly (BHA) for use in drilling a wellbore includes: a first mud motor having a stator and a rotor; a second mud motor having stator and a rotor; a drill bit rotationally coupled to the second rotor and having a tool face and a longitudinal axis inclined relative to a longitudinal axis of the first mud motor; and a clutch. The clutch is operable to: rotationally couple the second stator to the first stator in a first mode at a first orientation of the tool face, rotationally couple the first rotor to the second stator in a second mode, change the first orientation to a second orientation by a predetermined increment, orient the tool face at the second orientation in an orienting mode, and shift among the modes in response a change in flow rate of a fluid injected through the orienter and/or a change in weight exerted on the drill bit. | 07-23-2009 |
20090188720 | System and method for drilling - This disclosure relates in general to a method and system for controlling a drilling system for drilling a borehole in an earth formation. More specifically, but not by way of limitation, embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for controlling dynamic interactions between the drilling system for drilling the borehole and an inner surface of the borehole being drilled to steer the drilling system to directionally drill the borehole. In another embodiment of the present invention, data regarding the functioning of the drilling system as it drills the borehole may be sensed and interactions between the drilling system for drilling the borehole and an inner surface of the borehole may be controlled in response to the sensed data to control the drilling system as the borehole is being drilled. | 07-30-2009 |
20090194334 | System and method for drilling - This disclosure relates in general to a method and system for controlling a drilling system for drilling a borehole in an earth formation. More specifically, but not by way of limitation, embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for controlling dynamic interactions between the drilling system for drilling the borehole and an inner surface of the borehole being drilled to steer the drilling system to directionally drill the borehole. In another embodiment of the present invention, data regarding the functioning of the drilling system as it drills the borehole may be sensed and interactions between the drilling system for drilling the borehole and an inner surface of the borehole may be controlled in response to the sensed data to control the drilling system as the borehole is being drilled. | 08-06-2009 |
20090200082 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR DRILLING DIRECTIONAL WELLS BY PERCUSSION METHOD - The present invention generally relates to methods and apparatus for impact drilling. A drilling tool with a housing and a piston is provided. The drilling tool may be configured to impact while simultaneously rotating a drill head, independent from the rotation of a drill string. The drilling tool may include a rolling key assembly disposed between the housing and the piston that includes a bearing adapted to roll during a first direction of the piston and slide during a second direction of the piston. The drilling tool may include a clutch mechanism configured to rotate the drill head as the piston is directed in the first direction. | 08-13-2009 |
20090260884 | Steering Device for Downhole Tools - An apparatus for drilling a wellbore may include a first section, a second section, and a third section, all of which are rotatably interconnected with pivot bearings and positioned along a drill string. The second section and the third section may be configured to form a controllable bend angle in the drill string. The first section, the second section, and the third section may be configured as sleeves that surround a portion of the drill string. One or more sections may include locking pads that selectively engage a wall of the wellbore. A hydraulic locking device for controlling a direction of rotation of the second section may include one or more brake elements and a reverse spinning sleeve. A first brake element may be used engage the reverse spinning sleeve and a second brake element may be used to engage a drive shaft. | 10-22-2009 |
20090308659 | STEERING COMPONENT, STEERING ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF STEERING A DRILL BIT IN A BOREHOLE - This invention relates to a steering component, to a steering assembly, and to a method of steering a drill bit in a borehole. The steering component is adapted for connection to a drill string, the drill string carrying a drill bit and a motor for rotating the drill bit. The steering component comprises: a rotatable driveshaft adapted for connection between the drill bit and the motor; a drive mechanism; and an offsetting component; the drive mechanism providing a rotatable connection between the drill string and the offsetting component whereby the drill string can rotate relative to the offsetting component. The drive mechanism is adapted to drive the offsetting component to rotate in an opposed direction to the driveshaft, so as to counter the rotation of the offsetting component which is induced by friction within the componentry as the driveshaft rotates. The steering component and method are likely to have their greatest utility in steering a drill bit during drilling for oil and gas. | 12-17-2009 |
20090321137 | Drill bit having no gage pads and having the ability to drill vertically and laterally - A drill bit having a plurality of cutters on its lower surface, each of which can having a plurality of PDC cutter elements disposed thereon. The cutting surface on each of the cutters is mounted in in an orientation that allows drilling of oversize boreholes which enables the drill bit to be turned more easily to facilitate the boreholes being drilled on a smaller radius. The placement of the cutters on each of the blades enables the drill bit to drill both vertically and laterally. | 12-31-2009 |
20090321138 | Drill bit having functional articulation to drill boreholes in earth formations in all directions - A drill bit is described herein, having a first bit face with a first plurality of cutters oriented to bore in a first direction, and a second bit face with a second plurality of cutters oriented to bore in one or more second directions. The pluralities of cutters enable functional articulation of the drill bit, such that the drill bit can change direction within a borehole without requiring removal of the drill bit. The drill bit can thereby drill in a downhole direction and lateral directions, can back ream through the borehole, and can provide the borehole with one or more oversized regions, as desired. | 12-31-2009 |
20090321139 | Rotary Drill Bit Steerable System and Method - A drill bit comprising: a cutting section comprising gage cutters, wherein in the cutting section is a first end of the bit, and wherein the cutting section has a full gage diameter; a heel section comprising a blade, wherein the heel section is at an end of the drill bit opposite the cutting section, and wherein a diameter of the heel section is a full gage diameter, wherein the blade has a high spiral around the drill bit; and a clearance section between the cutting and heel sections, wherein the clearance section comprises a diameter less than full gage, and wherein clearance section extends from the gage cutters of the cutting section to the blade of the heel section. | 12-31-2009 |
20100000794 | Lead the Bit Rotary Steerable Tool - In one aspect of the present invention, a drilling assembly comprises a drill bit comprising a bit body intermediate a working face and a shank. An indenting member adapted to guide the drill bit protrudes from the working face. A flexible portion is disposed above the bit body. | 01-07-2010 |
20100006341 | STEERABLE PILOTED DRILL BIT, DRILL SYSTEM, AND METHOD OF DRILLING CURVED BOREHOLES - The present invention provides apparatus and methods for controlled steering. One embodiment of the invention provides a bit body comprising a trailing end, a pilot section, and a reaming section. The trailing end is adapted to be detachably secured to a drill string. The pilot section is located on a leading, opposite end of the bit body. The reaming section is located intermediate to the leading and trailing ends. The pilot section comprises at least one steering device for steering the pilot section of the bit body, thereby steering the entire bit body. Another embodiment of the invention provides a wellsite system comprising a drill string; a kelly coupled to the drill string; and a bit body as described above. Another embodiment of the invention provides a method of drilling a curved borehole in a subsurface formation. | 01-14-2010 |
20100018772 | ARTICULATED EXTRACTION PIPE - The invention concerns a bore screen comprising a plurality of perforated rigid tubular modules ( | 01-28-2010 |
20100018773 | Tilted Drive Sub - A tilted drive sub is disclosed with a center line of the internal diameter (ID) offset at an angle from the center line of the outer diameter (OD) starting at a point near to a top end of the tilted drive sub. This results in the ID being at an angle to the OD, with the OD of the tilted drive sub remaining straight. The offset ID has the same threads of a mud motor without a tilted drive sub. The tilted drive sub replaces the outer bearing housing of a normal performance mud motor. | 01-28-2010 |
20100025115 | DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DRILLING SYSTEM - A drilling system, comprising: a non-rotating conveyance system; a tool connected to the non-rotating conveyance system and including anchors by which the tool can be anchored in position when located in a borehole; a drill bit connected to the tool; a motor for rotating the drill bit; and a directional control system interposed between the tool and the drill bit; wherein, in use, with the drilling system located in a borehole, the directional control system can be operates so as to displace the drill bit away from the axis of the borehole. | 02-04-2010 |
20100025116 | STEERABLE ROTARY DIRECTIONAL DRILLING TOOL FOR DRILLING BOREHOLES - The present invention provides a directional drilling apparatus and method for use in drilling bore holes. The apparatus comprises a plurality of movably mounted cutting elements, wherein the cutting elements are movable between radially retracted and extended cutting positions. A rotary valve is provided for synchronizing the movement of the cutting elements between their respective extended and retracted positions. Control of the directional drilling system is affected by synchronized movement of the cutting elements from an inner to an outer radial position in accordance with the angular position of the drill bit. Means are provided for directing high pressure cutting fluid to the region between the cutting elements and the rotatable body to prevent the accumulation of debris that could prevent movement of the cutting elements. The cutting elements enlarge the bore hole formed by the drill bit, so that the cutting elements continuously engage the wall of the bore hole. | 02-04-2010 |
20100032212 | Downhole adjustable bent-angle mechanism for use with a motor for directional drilling - A housing including longitudinally extending tubular members interconnected to allow controlled relative bending thereof, during a drilling operation, a rotary drive transmitting torsion bar extending generally longitudinally within the housing to controllably bend in response to relative bending of said members, a rotary drill bit operatively connected to said torsion bar to be rotated as the bar rotates, a rotary drive operatively connected to the torsion bar to rotate the bar, means for controlling relative bending of the said members during torsion bar rotation and as a function of such rotation. | 02-11-2010 |
20100044110 | Ultra-low friction coatings for drill stem assemblies - Provided are drill stem assemblies with ultra-low friction coatings for subterraneous drilling operations. In one form, the coated drill stem assemblies for subterraneous rotary drilling operations include a body assembly with an exposed outer surface including a drill string coupled to a bottom hole assembly or a coiled tubing coupled to a bottom hole assembly and an ultra-low friction coating on at least a portion of the exposed outer surface of the body assembly, wherein the coefficient of friction of the ultra-low friction coating is less than or equal to 0.15. The coated drill stem assemblies disclosed herein provide for reduced friction, vibration (stick-slip and torsional), abrasion and wear during straight hole or directional drilling to allow for improved rates of penetration and enable ultra-extended reach drilling with existing top drives. | 02-25-2010 |
20100071956 | Drill Bit With Adjustable Axial Pad For Controlling Torsional Fluctuations - An embodiment according to the disclosure provides a drill bit that includes a pad on a face section thereof, which pad extends from the bottom section upon application of a force thereon and retracts upon the removal of the force to control fluctuations of the drill bit during drilling of a wellbore. | 03-25-2010 |
20100089649 | DRILL BIT WITH CONTINUOUSLY SHARP EDGE CUTTING ELEMENTS - A method of optimizing drill bit design and an optimized drill bit for drilling a well into an earth formation comprising a bit body; a number of blades spaced around the bit body, each blade having a curved outer edge and a forward face; a first row of cutter pockets recessed into the face along the outer edge of each blade; a second group of cutter pockets recessed into the face of each blade offset from the first row; and a plurality of cutting elements, each cutting element being brazed into a different one of the cutter pockets. | 04-15-2010 |
20100101864 | ANTI-WHIRL DRILL BITS, WELLSITE SYSTEMS, AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - A wellsite system includes a drill string suspended within a borehole, anti-whirl drill bits for use in the system, and methods of drilling a curved borehole in a subsurface formation. The drill bit can have an interior cavity in fluid communication with the drill string and a first gauge pad located on the exterior of the drill bit. The first gauge pad includes a first orifice in fluid communication with the interior cavity, where the first orifice is arranged at an angle relative to cutters fixed to the drill bit. The drill bit is configured such that a fluid continuously flows from the first orifice. | 04-29-2010 |
20100108392 | Method and apparatus for constructing deep vertical boreholes and underground cut-off walls - A method and apparatus for constructing large vertical boreholes and underground cut-off walls is disclosed. A drill rig assembly with double rotary heads drives a small diameter drill string and a much larger diameter drill string which is concentric with the smaller drill string and has a donut shaped drill bit configuration at the lower end thereof. Preferably, a steerable mud motor/drill is provided on one end of the small drill string and is guided to make as vertical a borehole as possible. In a preferred embodiment, the small inner drill is advanced to the full depth using the steerable mud motor/drill to achieve a high degree of verticality and a slight smaller casing is installed and used as a verticality guide for the much larger diameter outer drill string. In a further embodiment, the inner drill string is advanced a predetermined distance, then the outer string is advanced using the inner string as a verticality guide, these steps being repeated in alternating fashion to the final depth. | 05-06-2010 |
20100126774 | VALVE-CONTROLLED DOWNHOLE MOTOR - The present invention relates to systems and methods for controlling downhole motors. One aspect of the invention provides a valve-controlled downhole motor including: a downhole motor and a spool valve. The downhole motor includes a sealed chamber having a first port and a second port, a stator received within the sealed chamber, and a rotor received within the stator. The spool valve includes a barrel and a spool received within the barrel. The barrel includes an inlet port, an exhaust port, a first feed port, a second feed port, a first return port, and a second return port. The inlet port is located in proximity to the first feed port and second port. The exhaust port is located in proximity to the first return port and the second return port. The spool includes a first gland and a second gland. | 05-27-2010 |
20100126775 | HELICAL CHISEL INSERT FOR ROCK BITS - An insert for an earth boring drill bit, such as a PDC rock bit or a roller cone rock bit, is provided. The insert includes a base integrally joined to a top section, the top section having a first flank that curves in a substantially helical manner about a longitudinal axis of the insert to join a crest. | 05-27-2010 |
20100126776 | Subsea Drilling With Casing - A method of forming a wellbore includes providing a drilling assembly comprising one or more lengths of casing and an axially retracting assembly having a first tubular; a second tubular at least partially disposed in the first tubular and axially fixed thereto; and a support member disposed in the second tubular and movable from a first axial position to a second axial position relative to the second tubular, wherein, in the first axial position, the support member maintains the second tubular axially fixed to the first tubular, and in the second axial position, allows the second tubular to move relative to the first tubular; and an earth removal member disposed below the axially retracting assembly. The method also includes rotating the earth removal member to form the wellbore; moving the support member to the second axial position; and reducing a length of the axially retracting assembly. | 05-27-2010 |
20100133012 | Apparatus and method for servicing a wellbore - A wellbore servicing apparatus, comprising a first mandrel movable longitudinally along a central axis and rotatable about the central axis, an orienting member configured to selectively interfere with movement of the first mandrel along the central axis, and a second mandrel connected to the first mandrel and configured to rotate about the central axis when the first mandrel rotates about the central axis. A method of orienting a wellbore servicing tool, comprising connecting an orienting tool to the wellbore servicing tool, identifying a predetermined direction, increasing a pressure within the orienting tool, rotating a portion of the orienting tool in response to the increase in pressure within the orienting tool, and rotating the wellbore servicing tool in response to the rotating of the portion of the orienting tool. | 06-03-2010 |
20100133013 | BIT FOR DRILLING WELLS AND ASSOCIATED DRILLING METHOD - The invention relates to a bit for drilling wells comprising:—a front face,—a plurality of radial blades ( | 06-03-2010 |
20100139980 | BALL PISTON STEERING DEVICES AND METHODS OF USE - The invention provides ball piston steering devices and methods for use of ball piston devices. One aspect of the invention provides a ball piston steering device including: a sleeve in fluid communication with a fluid source and a ball received within the sleeve. The ball is movable within the sleeve from a recessed position and an extended position. | 06-10-2010 |
20100139981 | Hole Enlargement Drilling Device and Methods for Using Same - A bottomhole assembly (BHA) coupled to a drill string includes one or more controllers, and a hole enlargement device that selectively enlarges the diameter of the wellbore formed by the drill bit. The hole enlargement device includes an actuation unit that may move extendable cutting elements o the hole enlargement device between a radially extended position and a radially retracted position. The actuation unit may be responsive to a signal that is transmitted from a downhole and/or a surface location. The hole enlargement device may also include one or more position sensors that transmit a position signal indicative of a radial position of the cutting elements. In an illustrative operating mode, one or more operating parameters of the hole enlargement device may be adjusted based on one or more measured parameters. This adjustment may be done in a closed-loop or automated fashion and/or by human personnel. | 06-10-2010 |
20100147591 | MULTIPHASE DRILLING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - In one embodiment, a method for drilling a wellbore includes injecting drilling fluid through a drill string disposed in the wellbore and rotating a drill bit disposed on a bottom of the drill string. The drilling fluid includes a liquid and a gas. The drilling fluid is injected at the surface. The drilling fluid exits the drill bit and carries cuttings from the drill bit. The drilling fluid and cuttings (returns) flow to the surface via an annulus formed between the drill string and the wellbore. The liquid is injected at a rate so that a liquid velocity of the returns in the annulus is sufficient to transport the cuttings. The method further includes drilling through at least a portion of a non-productive formation. | 06-17-2010 |
20100147592 | Mill-Through Tailpipe Liner Exit - A method and apparatus for forming a window in the wall of a tubular wellbore. In one embodiment described herein, a down hole apparatus for forming a window in the wall of a wellbore utilizing a plurality of tubing string sections and a thick tailpipe positioned at the down hole end of a tubing section. | 06-17-2010 |
20100155142 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING AN ADAPTIVE DRILLING OPERATION - A system and method for performing an adaptive drilling operation is provided. The method involves obtaining data prior to drilling, constructing a base model with a base model unit from data obtained prior to drilling, constructing an overburden posterior model with an overburden model unit using the base model and data obtained from overburden drilling, constructing a reservoir posterior model with a reservoir model unit using the overburden posterior model and the data obtained from reservoir drilling and updating drilling operation based on the models. | 06-24-2010 |
20100218996 | DIRECTIONAL SIDETRACK WELL DRILLING SYSTEM - This invention relates to drilling a sidetrack wellbore out of the side of an existing wellbore utilizing a drillable billet having a path formed in the billet to lead a bi-centered drillbit to kick-out from the wellbore and form a sidetrack wellbore. The bi-centered bit is arranged for the lands of the pilot section to follow the path of the billet while the wings of the ream out a portion of the billet and also ream out the earth to form the full dimension sidetrack wellbore. The bi-centered bit is used to drill the sidetrack wellbore to the target zone so that the entire drilling process extends from the existing wellbore to the target zone without a mandatory withdrawal of the drillstring from the wellbore. Tripping time is therefore less and drill time and rig time would inherently be less resulting in lower costs and increased profitability. | 09-02-2010 |
20100218997 | CUTTING DEVICE WITH MULTIPLE CUTTING STRUCTURES - A cutting device for downhole operations includes a first cutting structure, and a second cutting structure, wherein at least the second cutting structure is selectively presentable for operation. A method of performing a downhole cutting operation comprises running into a well bore a cutting device including a plurality of cutting structures, performing a first cutting operation with a first cutting structure of the cutting device, moving the first cutting structure to selectively present a second cutting structure of the cutting device, and performing a second cutting operation with at least the second cutting structure. The method may further include aligning movable cutting structures of the cutting device to allow the second cutting structure to be selectively presented. | 09-02-2010 |
20100224415 | Methods and apparatus for drilling, completing and configuring U-tube boreholes - A borehole network including first and second end surface locations and at least one intermediate surface location interconnected by a subterranean path, and a method for connecting a subterranean path between a first borehole including a directional section and a second borehole including a directional section. A directional drilling component is drilled in at least one of the directional sections to obtain a required proximity between the first and second boreholes. An intersecting component is drilled, utilizing magnetic ranging techniques, from one directional section to provide a borehole intersection between the first and second boreholes, thereby connecting the subterranean path. | 09-09-2010 |
20100243328 | CONTINUOUS GEOMECHANICALLY STABLE WELLBORE TRAJECTORIES - A continuous geomechanically stable trajectory in a subterranean formation is found by calculating at least one reachable stable position relative to a starting position based on geological data indicative of characteristics of the subterranean formation, and iteratively utilizing the calculated reachable stable position as a new starting position. The calculation may be constrained by a boundary including selected distance and direction relative to the starting position, and selected rate of angle change. Within the constraints of the boundary, the possible new trajectories considered may be discretized. The result of the calculations is a three dimensional tree which defines a stability volume. Pruning of at least some branches of the tree may be employed so that not all stable positions have the preselected number of branches, thereby helping to elongate the tree. Either or both of the tree and stability volume are used to select at least one trajectory. For example, the trajectory may be selected from sets of interconnected stable wellbore positions, or based on some other criteria constrained by the stability volume. The trajectory is then used as the basis for drilling a borehole. | 09-30-2010 |
20100270079 | Rotary directional drilling apparatus and method of use - An apparatus for steering a drill string that includes at least one blade fixedly disposed on an exterior surface of the drill string, such that the at least one blade is rotatable about the drill string in response to fluid flow through a fluid passage in association with said at least one blade, and the at least one blade rotates independent of the drill string for imparting an asymmetrical moment to the drill string in a selected direction for orienting a drill bit attached to the drill string, thereby steering the drill string. | 10-28-2010 |
20100276202 | METHOD OF DRILLING A WELLBORE - A method of drilling a wellbore ( | 11-04-2010 |
20100282517 | BORING SYSTEM - The invention relates to a system for the overground operation of underground sewer tools, especially of expander and pulling heads comprising a rod assembly that is rigid when pushed and a supporting device absorbing shear or tractive forces. | 11-11-2010 |
20100300758 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DESIGNING AND/OR SELECTING DRILLING EQUIPMENT USING PREDICTIONS OF ROTARY DRILL BIT WALK - Methods and systems may be provided simulating forming a wide variety of directional wellbores including wellbores with variable tilt rates and/or relatively constant tilt rates. The methods and systems may also be used to simulate forming a wellbore in subterranean formations having a combination of soft, medium and hard formation materials, multiple layers of formation materials and relatively hard stringers disposed throughout one or more layers of formation material. Values of bit walk rate from such simulations may be used to design and/or select drilling equipment for use in forming a directional wellbore. | 12-02-2010 |
20100307830 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PARTICLE JET BORING - The present invention provides a method and system for the generation of, the utilization of, the processing of, and the maintenance of a heterogeneous solid-particle impactor-laden fluidic-process circuit that incorporates a particle-injector system and a fluidic-amplifier jet head to produce a conical-shaped cutting jet of fluid and solid-particle impactors that perform functions during the boring, well-bore conditioning, and/or controlling the inclination and azimuth of deep subterranean well bores during their construction. | 12-09-2010 |
20110005838 | HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLING SYSTEM - The invention relates to a horizontal directional drilling system, comprising a dual string ( | 01-13-2011 |
20110011646 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DRILLING A WELLBORE USING CASING - Apparatus and methods for drilling with casing. In an embodiment, methods and apparatus for deflecting casing using a diverter apparatus are disclosed. In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises a motor operating system disposed in a motor system housing, a shaft operatively connected to the motor operating system, the shaft having a passageway, and a divert assembly disposed to direct fluid flow selectively to the motor operating system and the passageway in the shaft. In another aspect, methods and apparatus for directionally drilling a casing into the formation are disclosed. Methods and apparatus for measuring the trajectory of a wellbore while directionally drilling a casing into the formation are also described. | 01-20-2011 |
20110031022 | DIRECTIONAL DRILLING SYSTEM - A directional drilling system comprises a main drill bit | 02-10-2011 |
20110031023 | BOREHOLE DRILLING APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - Apparatus, systems, and methods may operate to couple a tubular member to a bottom hole assembly, dispose at least one adjustable stabilizing member on the tubular member, and control at least one of a radial extension of the adjustable stabilizing member and an axial position of the adjustable stabilizing member relative to the bottom hole assembly to adjust a borehole trajectory, wherein the adjustable stabilizing member is adjustable in both radial and axial directions. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. | 02-10-2011 |
20110036632 | CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DIRECTIONAL DRILLING UTILIZING THE SAME - Aspects of the invention provide control systems and methods for directional drilling. One aspect of the invention provides a system for controlling a first module, a second module, and a third module. The system includes: an inlet configured to receive fluid from a fluid source; a first double-stage valve; and a second double-stage valve. The first double-stage valve is actuatable to a first position wherein fluid from the inlet flows through the first double-stage valve to the second double-stage valve and a second position wherein fluid from the inlet flows through the first double-stage valve to the third module. The second double-stage valve is actuatable to a first position wherein fluid flows from the first double-stage valve to the first module and a second position wherein fluid flows from the first double-stage valve to the second module. | 02-17-2011 |
20110061937 | WELL CONSTRUCTION USING SMALL LATERALS - This invention relates to the construction of well such as oil and gas wells using techniques based on drilling small lateral wells from a main well. The problem of narrow pressure window is solved by the use of constructions techniques that are based on the use of lateral boreholes, i.e. secondary boreholes that are drilled a main borehole, wherein a method of constructing a well comprises drilling a main borehole extending from the surface through one or more underground formations, drilling a plurality of lateral boreholes extending from the main borehole into surrounding formations, wherein the lateral boreholes are substantially shorter and of smaller diameter than the main borehole; and wherein each lateral borehole is separated from its neighbouring lateral boreholes by a relatively short distance. Drilling of the lateral boreholes can be for to extend 5-60 metres from the main borehole with a diameter in the range 3.8-10 cm by the lateral boreholes at an axial spacing of less than a few metres in the main borehole. Drilling of more than one lateral borehole can be done at the same depth in the main borehole with a trajectory that deviates from the main borehole by less than 10° or with trajectories that extend in a plane that does not contain the main borehole. | 03-17-2011 |
20110067925 | FLEXIBLE DIRECTIONAL DRILLING APPARATUS AND RELATED METHODS - A bottom hole assembly to directionally drill a subterranean formation includes a drill bit, a stabilizer assembly located proximate to and behind the drill bit, a drilling assembly comprising a drive mechanism and a directional mechanism, and a flex housing integral with the drilling assembly. | 03-24-2011 |
20110079437 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DRILLING AND COMPLETING LATERAL BOREHOLES - A drilling system for drilling and completing a lateral borehole from a main borehole comprises a liner unit for storing one or more prefabricated liners for installation into the lateral borehole; and a drilling unit operable to drill the lateral borehole into the formation surrounding the main borehole and to install the prefabricated liner in the lateral borehole after drilling. A method of drilling a lateral borehole from a main borehole using such a drilling system comprises positioning the system in the main borehole at a location of interest; operating the drilling unit to drill a lateral borehole from the main borehole; completing the lateral borehole by deploying the liner from the liner unit into the lateral borehole. | 04-07-2011 |
20110079438 | DRILL BITS AND TOOLS FOR SUBTERRANEAN DRILLING, METHODS OF MANUFACTURING SUCH DRILL BITS AND TOOLS AND METHODS OF DIRECTIONAL AND OFF CENTER DRILLING - A drill bit may include a bit body including at least one blade extending at least partially over a cone region of the bit body. Additionally, the drill bit may include a plurality of cutting structures mounted to the at least one blade and a rubbing zone within the cone region of the at least one blade, wherein cutting structures within the rubbing zone have a reduced average exposure. Additionally, a method of directional drilling may include positioning a depth-of-cut controlling feature of a drill bit away from a formation to prevent substantial contact between the depth-of-cut controlling feature and rotating the drill bit off-center to form a substantially straight borehole segment. The method may also include positioning the depth-of-cut controlling feature of the drill bit into contact with the formation to control the depth-of-cut and rotating the drill bit on-center to form a substantially nonlinear borehole segment. | 04-07-2011 |
20110088951 | DUAL BHA DRILLING SYSTEM - The invention relates to apparatus and methods useful for drilling lateral boreholes into a formation surrounding a main borehole. Proposed technique can be used for drilling of laterals which does not require such significant interruptions to deploy the small BHA and is based on the use of a drilling apparatus, comprising a drill collar forming part of a primary drilling assembly and having an outward opening groove in the side thereof, a secondary drilling assembly, comprising a tubular drill string connected at one end to the drill collar, a drilling motor mounted in the drill string, a drill bit mounted at the other end of the drill string and connected to the drilling motor, wherein the secondary drilling assembly is mounted in the drill collar so as to be movable between a first position in which the drill bit is seated in the groove, and a second position in which the bit projects laterally from the groove in the side of the drill collar. | 04-21-2011 |
20110108327 | DIRECTIONAL DRILLING CONTROL USING PERIODIC PERTURBATION OF THE DRILL BIT - Disclosed herein is a system for steering the direction of a borehole advanced by cutting action of a rotary drill bit by periodically varying action of a drill bit while continuously rotating a drill string to which the drill bit is operationally attached. The steering system can include a bit perturbation device cooperating with a bent housing subsection and operationally connected to the drill string and to the drill bit. Drill bit action can be varied by periodically varying the rotation speed and/or rate of penetration of the drill bit. Periodic drill bit action results in preferential cutting of material from a predetermined arc of the borehole wall which, in turn, results in borehole deviation. Action of the drill bit can be varied independently of the rotation rate of the drill string. | 05-12-2011 |
20110114388 | Methods and apparatus for drilling, completing and configuring U-tube boreholes - A borehole network including first and second end surface locations and at least one intermediate surface location interconnected by a subterranean path, and a method for connecting a subterranean path between a first borehole including a directional section and a second borehole including a directional section. A directional drilling component is drilled in at least one of the directional sections to obtain a required proximity between the first and second boreholes. An intersecting component is drilled, utilizing magnetic ranging techniques, from one directional section to provide a borehole intersection between the first and second boreholes, thereby connecting the subterranean path. | 05-19-2011 |
20110139512 | ACTUATORS, ACTUATABLE JOINTS, AND METHODS OF DIRECTIONAL DRILLING - The present invention recites a method and apparatus, wherein said methods and apparatus comprises an actuator comprising a first plate, a pocket extending through the first plate, the pocket in fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source and a second plate coupled to a component that is to be actuated, wherein the first plate, the second plate, and the pocket are dimensioned such that when a pressurized fluid is discharged through the pocket, the velocity of the fluid through a gap between the first plate and the second plate creates a pressure drop sufficient to pull the second plate toward the first plate. | 06-16-2011 |
20110139513 | ECCENTRIC STEERING DEVICE AND METHODS OF DIRECTIONAL DRILLING - The present invention recites a method, system and apparatus for steering a drill string, wherein an eccentric steering device is recited. The eccentric steering device may comprise an eccentric sleeve configured for mounting exterior to a portion of the drill string and permitting the drill string to rotate within the eccentric sleeve and a brake positioned to selectively cause rotation of the eccentric sleeve with the drill string. In one embodiment, the eccentric steering device may further comprise one or more bearings positioned between the eccentric sleeve and the drill string. | 06-16-2011 |
20110155466 | VARIED RPM DRILL BIT STEERING - A method of steering a drill bit while drilling a wellbore can include periodically increasing a rotational speed of the drill bit while drilling the wellbore, with the rotational speed being increased when an axis of the drill bit is oriented in a desired azimuthal direction relative to a drill string axis. A directional drilling system can include a drill string having a bend interconnected therein, a drill bit, and a controller which selectively increases a rotational speed of the drill bit when an axis of the drill bit is oriented in a desired azimuthal direction relative to an axis of the drill string above the bend. Another method of steering a drill bit while drilling a wellbore can include interconnecting a brake in a drill string, and periodically decreasing a braking force of the brake as the drill bit is rotated. | 06-30-2011 |
20110155467 | TIMED IMPACT DRILL BIT STEERING - A method of steering a drill bit while drilling a wellbore can include periodically delivering an impact to the drill bit as the drill bit is rotated by a drill string. The impact may be delivered to the drill bit when an axis of the drill bit is oriented in a desired azimuthal direction relative to an axis of the drill string. Another method of steering a drill bit while drilling a wellbore may include interconnecting a bend in a drill string between an impact tool and the drill bit, and periodically delivering an impact from the impact tool to the drill bit as the drill bit is rotated by the drill string. A directional drilling system can include a drill string having a bend interconnected therein, an impact tool, and a drill bit, the bend being interconnected in the drill string between the drill bit and the impact tool. | 06-30-2011 |
20110155468 | SIDE-TRACKING SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A sidetracking tool includes a setting tool having an expandable anchor, a whipstock connected to an upper end of the setting tool, the whipstock having a ramp face along an axial length thereof, and a drilling assembly including a drill bit disposed on an end thereof, wherein the drill bit is configured to interface with the ramp face of the whipstock. | 06-30-2011 |
20110162890 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR HYDRAULIC STEERING OF DOWNHOLE ROTARY DRILLING SYSTEMS - A technique is used to control the direction of a drill bit or bottom hole assembly via hydraulic steering utilizing a plurality of steering pads. A portion of hydraulic fluid, e.g. drilling fluid, is directed under pressure to a pad interface region proximate each pad. The hydraulic fluid provides additional force against a surrounding wall and/or reduces or eliminates contact between the pads and the surrounding wall. | 07-07-2011 |
20110162891 | Rotating Drilling Tool - Embodiments described herein comprise a system and method for controlling directional drilling. The system includes a conveyance for conveying a bottom hole assembly BHA into a wellbore. The BHA may include a bent housing, a drilling tool and a motor for rotating the bent housing in the wellbore. The system further includes a conveyance rotation device for rotating the conveyance in the opposite direction of the bent housing. The direction of the bent housing may be controlled by controlling the rotational speed of the bent housing and the conveyance while drilling. | 07-07-2011 |
20110180327 | Mulitmodal Geosteering Systems and Methods - Multimodal geosteering systems and methods are disclosed. Some disclosed tool embodiments include first and second transmitter-receiver arrangements that make geosteering measurements using different forms of energy (such as acoustic and electromagnetic energy) to provide geosteering measurements that at least indicate a boundary direction but may also indicate a boundary distance. Some disclosed method embodiments include: determining a direction to a bed boundary using measurements with different energy types; and adjusting a drilling direction based at least in part on said determination. Combinations of (or selections between) the different measurements may be made based on, inter alia, measurement range, resolution, and contrast. Some disclosed system embodiments include a memory and a processor. The memory stores geosteering display software that configures the processor to generate an image with different regions based on the different types of geosteering measurements. Characteristics such as opacity, resolution, and intensity may visually distinguish the different regions. | 07-28-2011 |
20110203851 | T-Frac System Run in System - A central slant hub tool is provided which is capable of receiving tubing or a tool such as a drill from the surface and directing the tube or tool laterally outward using an exit line slant surface or directing the tube or tool downward to an area below the tool. In this way, the tool acts as a hub to communicate with both lateral branches and lower zones of the main casing. Fracture window tools may be installed in the lateral and lower branches to selectively open the bores for drilling, testing and/or production or may be sealed by a bridge plug or the like when not in use. | 08-25-2011 |
20110220417 | DRILL BITS AND METHODS OF DRILLING CURVED BOREHOLES - The invention provides drill bits and methods of drilling curved boreholes. One aspect of the invention provides a drill bit including a bit body and one or more blades positioned within the bit body, the one or more blades individually actuatable to a plurality of cut depths. Another aspect of the invention provides a method for drilling a curved borehole. The method includes: providing a drill string including a drill bit including a bit body and one or more blades positioned within the bit body, the one or more blades individually actuatable to a plurality of cut depths; rotating the drill string; and selectively actuating the one or more blades to a plurality of cut depths; thereby drilling a curved borehole. | 09-15-2011 |
20110240368 | BENDING OF A SHAFT OF A STEERABLE BOREHOLE DRILLING TOOL - In certain embodiments, a steerable drilling tool is provided including a rotatable shaft extending through a housing where the shaft and the housing are separated by at least one bearing or two sets of bearings, the shaft having a first portion terminating at a first end of the shaft and a second portion terminating at a second end of the shaft. The steerable drilling tool may further include a drill bit structure operatively coupled to the first portion and a steering subsystem comprising a pair of bearings operatively coupled to the first portion. The steering subsystem may be configured to angulate the shaft by exerting force substantially through the pair of bearings. In certain embodiments, the first portion is between the first end and about one-third of the length of the shaft from the first end towards the second end. | 10-06-2011 |
20110253453 | COILED TUBING ORIENTER TOOL WITH DIFFERENTIAL LEAD SCREW DRIVE - A technique facilitates control over the orientation of a bottom hole assembly. The bottom hole assembly comprises an orienting tool having a dual-spline drive which, in turn, comprises a first lead screw portion and a second lead screw portion having threads of a first pitch and a second pitch, respectively. A motor is connected to the dual-spline drive to impart rotational motion with respect to the first threads having the first pitch. A difference in pitch between the first pitch and the second pitch enables the rotational motion imparted by the motor to be converted to a slower, higher torque, output via the second lead screw portion. As a result, the orienting tool is able to provide a selective, high torque, low-speed adjustment to the drilling orientation of the bottom hole assembly. | 10-20-2011 |
20110259644 | CURVED STRUCTURAL PIPE SHOE - A system for orienting a drill bit prior to drilling into a formation, comprising a first pipe having an inside pipe diameter, the first pipe being positioned in a hole in the formation, and a curved shoe positioned in said first pipe at a desired orientation, said curved shoe including a funnel portion having an outlet that is off-center within the first pipe and a guide portion having a guide inlet in communication with the funnel outlet and an guide outlet that is off-center within the first pipe, the guide outlet occupying a different azimuthal position within the first pipe than is occupied by the guide inlet. | 10-27-2011 |
20110278070 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DRILLING LATERAL BOREHOLES - A drilling system for drilling a lateral borehole from a main borehole comprises a tubular conduit through which a fluid can be pumped, and a drilling assembly connected to the tubular conduit so as to receive fluid pumped therethrough. The drilling assembly comprises a power conversion unit, through which the fluid flows and which operates to provide a downhole power output; a drilling unit including a drilling apparatus powered by the output of the power conversion unit and operable to drill a lateral borehole into the formation surrounding the main borehole, and a liner unit for storing one or more liners for installation into the lateral borehole; and an anchor unit operable to anchor the drilling assembly in the main borehole when the drilling unit operates to drill the lateral borehole. A method of drilling a lateral borehole from a main borehole using such a drilling system comprises positioning the drilling assembly in the main borehole at a location of interest using the tubular conveyance; anchoring the drilling assembly in the main borehole using the anchor unit; operating the drilling unit to drill a lateral borehole from the main borehole; retrieving the drilling unit from the lateral borehole; releasing the anchor unit; and moving the drilling assembly to another location. | 11-17-2011 |
20110284292 | Apparatus and Method for Steerable Drilling - A method for drilling a wellbore comprises extending a rotatable drill string in the wellbore, where the drill string has a bottom hole assembly coupled to a bottom end thereof. A lower section of the bottom hole assembly comprising a steering apparatus is coupled to an upper section of the bottom hole assembly with a controllably adjustable clutch. A steering apparatus toolface angle is detected. The clutch is controllably adjusted to maintain the steering apparatus toolface angle within a predetermined range about a target steering apparatus toolface angle while rotating the upper section with the drill string. | 11-24-2011 |
20110315450 | COILED TUBING ORIENTER TOOL WITH HIGH TORQUE PLANETARY GEAR STAGE DESIGN DRIVE - A technique facilitates control over the orientation of a bottom hole assembly. A planetary gearbox assembly incorporates a sun wheel which cooperates with planet wheels at a plurality of levels along the planetary gear box assembly. The sun wheel and the planet wheels cooperate to convert rotational input to rotational output through an output carrier. Torsional rigidity characteristics of the sun wheel and the output carrier are selected to distribute torque loading across the plurality of levels of the planetary gear box assembly. The distributed forces reduce the potential for component failure. | 12-29-2011 |
20120000709 | DIRECTIONAL DRILLING CONTROL USING PERIODIC PERTURBATION OF THE DRILL BIT - Disclosed herein is a system for steering the direction of a borehole advanced by cutting action of a rotary drill bit by periodically varying action of a drill bit while continuously rotating a drill string to which the drill bit is operationally attached. The steering system can include a bit perturbation device cooperating with a bent housing subsection and operationally connected to the drill string and to the drill bit. Drill bit action can be varied by periodically varying the rotation speed and/or rate of penetration of the drill bit. Periodic drill bit action results in preferential cutting of material from a predetermined arc of the borehole wall which, in turn, results in borehole deviation. Action of the drill bit can be varied independently of the rotation rate of the drill string. | 01-05-2012 |
20120012394 | Air Percussion Drilling In Horizontal Wells - A method of drilling a subterranean formation includes positioning a drill string in a well bore in the subterranean formation. The drill string includes a hammer bit, a bend in a housing of the drill string, and a guidance system that determines inclination and azimuth of at least a portion of the drill string in the well bore. Once positioned in the well bore, the hammer bit is caused to repeatedly strike the end of the well bore while rotating about an axis of the hammer bit thereby drilling the subterranean formation and forming a new length of the well bore in the subterranean formation. The orientation of the bend of the drill string in the well bore is controlled based on the determined inclination and azimuth such that the hammer bit drills the new length of the well bore substantially horizontally in the subterranean formation. | 01-19-2012 |
20120018224 | COMPLIANTLY COUPLED GAUGE PAD SYSTEM - A drill bit system for a drilling assembly is disclosed. The drill bit system may include a chassis, a head, and one or more compliantly coupled gauge pads. The head may include a first plurality of cutters coupled with an end of the head, and the head may be coupled with chassis. The one or more gauge pads may include a second plurality of cutters, and the one or more gauge pads may be movably coupled with the chassis. | 01-26-2012 |
20120018225 | TILTED BIT ROTARY STEERABLE DRILLING SYSTEM - A wellbore is formed by using an apparatus that may include a shaft having an end portion, a drill bit body tiltable about the end portion, and at least one actuator configured to apply a tilting force to the drill bit body. | 01-26-2012 |
20120024606 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DIRECTION DRILLING - A system and a method for directional drilling may generate a model of steering behavior which may be used to estimate a position and an orientation of the drill bit during directional drilling. The estimated position and the estimated orientation may be compared to the well plan to determine desired drilling behavior, and the desired drilling behavior may be used to determine a recommended toolface orientation and/or recommended intervals of sliding and rotating to conform the directional drilling to the well plan. | 02-02-2012 |
20120031676 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DIRECTIONAL DRILLING - A directional drilling system and method are provided for directional drilling a borehole by continuous rotating of the drill string in combination with an arrangement of drilling motor assemblies at the lower end of the drill string to effect drilling along a curved path and a substantially straight path. A first drilling motor assembly is coupled to a drill bit and operable to rotate the drill bit to effect drilling of the borehole. A second drilling motor assembly, positioned on the drill string above the first drilling motor assembly, is operable to rotate the first drilling motor assembly in a direction opposite the direction of rotation imparted to the drill string from the surface and to the drill bit by the first drilling motor assembly. A control system associated with the second drilling motor assembly controls fluid flow through the second drilling motor assembly so that the first drilling motor assembly is substantially rotationally stationary with respect to the rotating drill string when drilling a curved path of the borehole. | 02-09-2012 |
20120031677 | DIRECTIONAL WELLBORE CONTROL BY PILOT HOLE GUIDANCE - A directional drilling apparatus include a first cutter that substantially cuts a wellbore bottom along a first axis and a second cutter that cuts the wellbore bottom along a second axis different from the first axis. The second cutter may extend an adjustable amount out of the first cutter. In another embodiment, a pilot string may connect the second cutter to the first cutter. | 02-09-2012 |
20120031678 | METHOD OF FORMING A BORE - A method of forming a supported subterranean well bore in which, in one disclosed embodiment, a first drill bit is mounted on a first string of casing tubulars via a steerable tool, and the drill bit is used to form a first bore. Upon reaching the required depth the casing string is cemented in place to support the formed bore and a second drill bit is mounted on a second casing string and is inserted into the first casing string. The second drill bit is used to drill through the wall of the first casing string and proceed to form a second, deeper bore. Once the second drill bit has reached the required depth, the second casing string is cemented in place to support the second bore. | 02-09-2012 |
20120037428 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DRILLING A DEVIATED WELLBORE - A system and method for drilling a wellbore along a desired well path is disclosed. The system and method employed a bearing housing which may be connected into a bottom hole assembly to facilitate drilling of deviated wellbore sections. The bearing housing has an internal bore with an axis that can be positioned to form a non-zero angle with the central or longitudinal axis of the bearing housing. The internal bore is designed to rotatably receive a drill bit shaft such that a drill bit is oriented at a desired angle with respect to the bearing housing. Alternatively, the internal bore may be positioned in a sleeve which is received in the bearing housing. | 02-16-2012 |
20120067646 | Apparatus and Method for Lateral Well Drilling - A downhole tool assembly for cutting laterally into an earthen formation from a wellbore. The downhole tool assembly includes a cutting head assembly and a flexible tubular shaft member, wherein the cutting head assembly includes a rotatable nozzle and a cutting head sized and configured to cut laterally into the earthen formation. | 03-22-2012 |
20120067647 | Apparatus and Method for Lateral Well Drilling - A downhole tool assembly for cutting laterally into an earthen formation from a wellbore. The downhole tool assembly includes a cutting head assembly and a flexible tubular member, wherein the cutting head assembly includes a rotatable nozzle and a cutting head sized and configured to cut laterally into the earthen formation. The downhole tool assembly may be guided through a channel defined by a guide assembly and positioned such that the cutting head is proximate the portion of the earthen formation to be laterally cut. A rotational source may be operatively connected and in fluid communication with the conduit and flexible tubular member, whereby torque generated by the rotational source is translated by the flexible tubular member to the cutting head, causing the cutting head to rotate and cut the earthen formation. | 03-22-2012 |
20120080233 | Steering Mechanism with a Ring Disposed about an Outer Diameter of a Drill Bit - In one aspect of the present invention, a steering assembly for downhole directional drilling comprises a drill bit comprising a cutting portion and an outer diameter. A steering ring disposed around the outer diameter, and at least one biasing mechanism disposed intermediate the outer diameter and the steering ring. The at least one biasing mechanism is configured to move the steering ring with respect to the outer diameter. | 04-05-2012 |
20120080234 | Drill Bit Steering Assembly - In one aspect of the present invention, a steering assembly for downhole directional drilling comprises an outer bit comprising a bore and an outer cutting area and in inner bit comprising an inner cutting area and connected to a shaft that is disposed within the bore. At least one biasing mechanism is disposed around the shaft. At least one fluid channel is disposed within the outer bit and redirects fluid to the at least one biasing mechanism causing the at least one biasing mechanism to push the shaft and alter an axis of the inner bit with respect to an axis of the outer bit. | 04-05-2012 |
20120080235 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DIRECTIONALLY DRILLING A BOREHOLE WITH A ROTARY DRILLING SYSTEM - This disclosure relates in general to a method and a system for directionally drilling a borehole with a rotary drilling system. More specifically, but not by way of limitation, methods and system provide for controlling motion of the rotary drilling system in the borehole when a side force is applied to the drilling system to bias or focus the motion so that the drilling system directionally drills the borehole through an earth formation. In certain aspects, side cutting of a sidewall of the borehole by a drill bit under an applied side force is controlled by a geostationary element to provide for directional side cutting and, as a result, directional drilling of the borehole through the earth formation. In other aspects, a non-concentrically coupled gauge pad assembly may rotate with the drilling system and bias or focus the applied side force. | 04-05-2012 |
20120090897 | Stochastic Bit Noise - A drill bit direction system and method is disclosed that modifies or biases the stochastic movement of the drill bit and/or stochastic interactions between the drill bit and an inner-wall of a borehole being drilled by a drilling system to change the direction of drilling of the drilling system. The direction of the drill bit is monitored to determine if the direction happens to align in some way with a preferred direction. If the direction isn't close enough to a preferred direction, a biasing mechanism modifies the stochastic movement in an attempt to modify the direction closer to the preferred direction. Any of a number of biasing mechanisms can be used. Some embodiments can resort to conventional steering mechanisms to supplement the biasing mechanism. | 04-19-2012 |
20120103693 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DRILLING A BOREHOLE - A system and method is provided for drilling a wellbore using a rotary drill bit with a bit body having a plurality of mechanical cutters to cut away formation material as the wellbore is formed; and a directed energy mechanism to direct energy into the formation. The energy from the directed energy mechanism is used to enhance the cutting of the mechanical cutters by fracturing surrounding material to facilitate drilling in the direction of the directed energy. | 05-03-2012 |
20120111636 | COMBINATION WHIPSTOCK AND COMPLETION DEFLECTOR - Assemblies can be disposed in a subterranean bore. An assembly can include a surface that can divert a cutting tool for creating a branch wellbore and that can divert a completion component for completing the branch wellbore without requiring the assembly or part of the assembly from being removed from a parent wellbore prior to the completion component being diverted. | 05-10-2012 |
20120118643 | Piston Devices and Methods of Use - Disclosed herein are, among other things, piston steering devices and methods for use of piston devices. One aspect as disclosed herein provides a ball piston device including: a sleeve in fluid communication with a fluid source and a ball received within the sleeve. The ball is movable within the sleeve from a recessed position and an extended position. | 05-17-2012 |
20120145462 | System and Method for Directional Drilling - A system and method facilitate directional drilling. The technique employs an orienting tool which may be connected into a coiled tubing drilling system to selectively orient a drilling assembly. The orienting tool is able to cause relative rotation of an outer housing to orientate a tool face. The relative rotation is facilitated by utilizing floating members, such as a floating piston and a floating nut, in the internal orientation assembly. The floating member or members are decoupled in a radial direction to better facilitate the relative rotation of the housing with respect to components of the internal orientation assembly. | 06-14-2012 |
20120160563 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING STEERING IN A ROTARY STEERABLE SYSTEM - A system and methodology provide improved control over the directional drilling of a wellbore. A rotational valve is mounted within a drill collar of a rotary steerable system to enable selective actuation of one or more steering pads on the drill collar via an actuating fluid. The rotational valve is controlled via a motor and designed to provide enhanced control over the flow of actuating fluid to the steering pads. | 06-28-2012 |
20120160564 | SYSTEM AND METHOD EMPLOYING A ROTATIONAL VALVE TO CONTROL STEERING IN A ROTARY STEERABLE SYSTEM - A system and methodology provide improved control over the directional drilling of a wellbore. A rotational valve is mounted within a drill collar of a rotary steerable system to control flow of actuating fluid to one or more steering pads which are selectively moved in a lateral direction with respect to the rotary steerable system. The rotational valve is designed to provide enhanced control over the flow of actuating fluid to the steering pads to facilitate drilling of straight sections of wellbore and deviated or non-linear sections wellbore. | 06-28-2012 |
20120160565 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO CONTROL STEERING AND ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONALITY IN A ROTARY STEERABLE SYSTEM - A system and methodology provide improved control over the directional drilling of a wellbore while enabling additional functionality. A rotational valve is mounted within a drill collar of a rotary steerable system to control flow of actuating fluid to one or more steering pads which are selectively moved in a lateral direction with respect to the rotary steerable system. The rotational valve also is controlled to carry out at least one additional function while controlling the direction of drilling. | 06-28-2012 |
20120205159 | RECEIVING LATERAL WELLBORE AND METHOD FOR IMPLANTING SAME - The present invention relates to an innovative wellbore concept, which gives experts a new alternative enabling them to analyse the economic viability of a deposit. The new structural arrangement for oil wells involves the utilisation of equipment that is already available at the wells (of dry or wet completion), and the exploitation of a remote neighbouring field by mechanical and hydraulic interconnection. The implementation method uses already known drilling tools and techniques, but renders their applicability advantageous, since it ensures production from deposits or wells that are not considered viable, by using resources that are already available and in operation. | 08-16-2012 |
20120217068 | Lateral Well Drilling Apparatus and Method - In one aspect, a drilling apparatus is provided, where the drilling apparatus includes a fluid pump disposed in a main wellbore, a lateral well in fluid communication with the fluid pump and a drilling assembly disposed in the lateral well, wherein the drilling assembly is configured to receive a fluid from the fluid pump to power the drilling assembly and to transport cuttings from the drilling assembly to the main wellbore. The drilling apparatus further includes a sealing mechanism disposed in the main wellbore, the sealing mechanism being configured to direct the cuttings in the fluid downhole of the sealing mechanism. | 08-30-2012 |
20120222902 | HIGH PERFORMANCE WELLBORE DEPARTURE AND DRILLING SYSTEM - A system and method facilitate drilling of lateral wellbores by optionally eliminating one or more trips downhole. The system and method provide for drilling a lateral wellbore by enabling the milling of a casing window and the drilling of the desired lateral wellbore to a target depth during a single trip down hole. The system and method also facilitate better downhole dynamics control and improved overall bottom hole assembly functionality during drilling. | 09-06-2012 |
20120228031 | RAM BORING DEVICE - The invention relates to a ram boring device for creating horizontal boreholes, having an impact piston which moves in an oscillatory manner within a casing of the ram boring device and of which the impact frequency or impact intensity can be varied by displacing the center position of the impact piston inside the casing. | 09-13-2012 |
20120228032 | EXPANDABLE WINDOW MILLING BIT AND METHODS OF MILLING A WINDOW IN CASING - A method of milling a window through a casing in a primary well bore and drilling an enlarged sidetracked well bore comprises running into the primary well bore a drilling assembly comprising at least one cutting apparatus adapted to drill an enlarged borehole, milling a window through the casing, and drilling the enlarged sidetracked well bore, wherein the milling and drilling steps are performed in one trip into the primary well bore. | 09-13-2012 |
20120255787 | Method for Hydrocarbon Well Completion - A method of completing a hydrocarbon lateral well in a target shale formation. The method uses a data log generated from an optical flow cell assembly to identify areas in the lateral well of high free gas porosity. By evaluating such data, an operator can group “like” rock, determine stage length and variation in stage length, and determine perforation cluster spacing and location. The flow cell assembly can also be used in a completion program to assist in the steering of a lateral well being drilled below the target formation. | 10-11-2012 |
20120255788 | Drill Bit with Hydraulically Adjustable Axial Pad for Controlling Torsional Fluctuations - In one aspect, a drill bit is disclosed that, in one configuration, includes one or more cutters on a surface thereon configured to penetrate into a formation, at least one pad at the surface, an actuation device configured to supply a fluid under pressure to the pad to extend the pad from the surface, and a relief device configured to drain fluid supplied to the pad to reduce the pressure on the at least one pad when the force applied on the at least one pad exceeds a selected limit. | 10-11-2012 |
20120261193 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COUPLING AN IMPREGNATED DRILL BIT TO A WHIPSTOCK - A system and method to facilitate the drilling of one or more lateral wellbores while eliminating one or more trips downhole. The system utilizes a drilling assembly comprising an impregnated drill bit or other suitable drill bit. The impregnated drill bit is coupled to a whipstock by a connector for deployment downhole in a single trip. The connector comprises a separation device which facilitates disconnection of the impregnated drill bit from the whipstock once the whipstock is anchored at a desired downhole location. | 10-18-2012 |
20120267171 | Well System With Lateral Main Bore and Strategically Disposed Lateral Bores and Method of Forming - A wellbore system and a method of forming the wellbore system, where the wellbore system is made up of a primary wellbore that is disposed entirely above a producing zone and lateral wellbores that extend from the primary wellbore into the producing zone. By penetrating the producing, or target, zone with the lateral wellbores, fractures in the target zone can be better avoided thereby increasing the potential amount of recoverable hydrocarbon. Optionally, wellbore systems are included that have more than a single primary wellbore. Further disclosed is a method of maximizing wellbore production by selectively blocking designated lateral wellbores in which water or other non-hydrocarbon fluid is detected. | 10-25-2012 |
20120292115 | Drill Bits and Methods of Drilling Curved Boreholes - The invention provides drill bits and methods of drilling curved boreholes. One aspect of the invention provides a drill bit including a bit body and one or more blades positioned within the bit body, the one or more blades individually actuatable to a plurality of cut depths. Another aspect of the invention provides a method for drilling a curved borehole. The method includes: providing a drill string including a drill bit including a bit body and one or more blades positioned within the bit body, the one or more blades individually actuatable to a plurality of cut depths; rotating the drill string; and selectively actuating the one or more blades to a plurality of cut depths; thereby drilling a curved borehole. | 11-22-2012 |
20120318582 | MULTILATERAL SYSTEM WITH RAPIDTRIP INTERVENTION SLEEVE AND TECHNIQUE FOR USE IN A WELL - A method for constructing a multilateral well includes drilling a main well, drilling a first lateral well from the main well, installing a production reentry deflection tool in the main well, proximate the first lateral, the first production reentry deflection tool having a first inner diameter, drilling a second lateral well from the main well and above the first lateral well, and installing a second production reentry deflection tool in the main well, proximate the second lateral, the second production reentry deflection tool having a second inner diameter. The first inner diameter is smaller than the second inner diameter. | 12-20-2012 |
20130000984 | ADJUSTABLE ROTARY STEERABLE SYSTEM - A technique facilitates the drilling of deviated wellbores. A steerable drilling system is formed with a pair of components pivotably mounted with respect to each other. A removable strike ring is mounted to one of the steerable drilling system components and is positioned to engage a corresponding strike ring in a manner which limits the maximum pivot angle between the steerable drilling system components. By interchanging the removable strike ring with other removable strike rings, the maximum pivot angle can be adjusted in the field to accommodate drilling of a wider variety of deviated wellbores. | 01-03-2013 |
20130032407 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DRILLING - A method of controlling a direction of a toolface of a bottom hole assembly for slide drilling, comprises a) synchronizing the toolface wherein synchronizing the toolface comprises determining a relationship between the rotational position of the down hole toolface with a rotational position at the surface of the formation for at least one point in time, b) stopping rotation of the drill string coupled to the bottom hole assembly, c) controlling torque at the surface of the drill string to control a rotational position of the toolface, and d) commencing a slide of the drill string. | 02-07-2013 |
20130032408 | Hydrocarbon Recovery Drill String Apparatus, Subterranean Hydrocarbon Recovery Drilling Methods, and Subterranean Hydrocarbon Recovery Methods - Disclosed are hydrocarbon recovery drill string apparatus, subterranean hydrocarbon recovery drilling methods, and subterranean hydrocarbon recovery methods. In one embodiment, a hydrocarbon recovery drill string apparatus includes an elongated assembly within which a rotatable drill rod is received. The assembly comprises a longitudinal axis, a drill rod entrance end, and a drill rod exit end. The assembly comprises a tailcuttings diverter pipe proximate the drill rod exit end, with the tailcuttings diverter pipe defining an initial fluid flow path of the tailcuttings from the longitudinal axis which is acute from the longitudinal axis. Other apparatus and method aspects are contemplated. | 02-07-2013 |
20130043076 | Rotary Steerable Assembly Inhibiting Counterclockwise Whirl During Directional Drilling - A bottom hole assembly avoids damaging vibrations that can develop during directional drilling with a rotary steerable system. The assembly has a drill bit, a first collar that rotates with the bit, a rotary steerable tool that controls the bit's trajectory, and a second collar that rotates with the drill string. The first collar between the bit and the tool defines a bend that deflects the bit from the first collar's axis. During operation, this bend causes portion of the assembly to engage the borehole wall to inhibit counterclockwise (CCW) bit whirl by promoting clockwise whirl in the assembly, generating friction against the borehole wall, and dampening vibrations. By inhibiting CCW bit whirl, other damaging vibrations such as CCW whirl in the drill string can also be prevented up the borehole. Alternatively, only the second collar between the tool and the drill string may define the bend, or both collars can define bends. | 02-21-2013 |
20130043077 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DESIGNING AND/OR SELECTING DRILLING EQUIPMENT USING PREDICTIONS OF ROTARY DRILL BIT WALK - Methods and systems may be provided simulating forming a wide variety of directional wellbores including wellbores with variable tilt rates and/or relatively constant tilt rates. The methods and systems may also be used to simulate forming a wellbore in subterranean formations having a combination of soft, medium and hard formation materials, multiple layers of formation materials and relatively hard stringers disposed throughout one or more layers of formation material. Values of bit walk rate from such simulations may be used to design and/or select drilling equipment for use in forming a directional wellbore. | 02-21-2013 |
20130048383 | MINIMUM STRAIN ENERGY WAYPOINT-FOLLOWING CONTROLLER FOR DIRECTIONAL DRILLING USING OPTIMIZED GEOMETRIC HERMITE CURVES - A method and apparatus for controlling drilling, the method comprising ascertaining a current position and attitude of a drilling structure, obtaining a desired end point for the drilling structure, creating an optimized geometric Hermite curve path for the drilling structure from the current position and attitude of the drilling structure to the desired end point for the drilling structure and controlling a drilling of the drilling structure from the current position and attitude of the drilling structure to the desired end point for the drilling structure along the optimized geometric Hermite curve path. | 02-28-2013 |
20130048384 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING OR LIMITING ROTOR ORBIT IN MOVING CAVITY MOTORS AND PUMPS - A moving cavity motor or pump, such as a mud motor, comprising: a rotor, a stator, and one or more apparatus for constraining (i.e., controlling or limiting) the movement of the rotor relative to the stator. | 02-28-2013 |
20130056277 | Method and Device for Producing an Opening from a Motherbore and into a Formation - A method and device for producing an opening from a motherbore into the surrounding formation, wherein the method includes: positioning a motor, having a rotatable barrel, in the motherbore; passing an elongated body through the barrel; and letting the motor rotate the elongated body as the elongated body is moved along the barrel and into the formation. | 03-07-2013 |
20130056278 | Apparatus and Method for Placement of Downhole Tools Using a Visual Imaging Device - A method of orienting depth and direction (azimuth) of a guide device used to direct tools for the creation of a lateral borehole extending from a wellbore in an earthen formation, utilizing a visual imaging tool. The method including running a tool string into a wellbore, the tool string comprising a guide device and a visual imaging device, visually imaging the wellbore at a range of depths and orientations in the wellbore, and aligning the guide device within the wellbore in preparation of drilling tools to be used for the creation of a lateral borehole in an earthen formation. | 03-07-2013 |
20130075164 | Point The Bit Rotary Steerable System - A method, device, and system is described herein for pointing a rotary drill bit. A rotary bit pointing device is positioned between a proximal end of a control shaft and a universal joint. As the bottom hole assembly rotates, various portions of the rotary bit pointing device are enabled and subsequently disabled to apply a substantially constant force in a substantially constant direction to the control shaft. Such a force causes the distal end of the control shaft to point the rotary drill bit in a target direction. | 03-28-2013 |
20130112483 | Oil Operated Rotary Steerable System - A technique facilitates steering of rotary steerable systems when conducting directional drilling operations. A rotary steerable system is combined with a pressurized oil system which delivers oil to a piston actuated mechanism. The pressurized oil provides precise, long-lasting control over the orientation of the bottom hole assembly and the drill bit to facilitate directional drilling of boreholes through subterranean formations. | 05-09-2013 |
20130146362 | Oil and Gas Enhancement System - Radial Drilling Method - The invention being designed in this application relates to a radial drilling method. Boreholes are placed into oil and gas formations to provide openings for the removal of the product. | 06-13-2013 |
20130168151 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO FACILITATE THE DRILLING OF A DEVIATED BOREHOLE - A system and method for facilitating the drilling of a deviated borehole. The system and method employ a flexible conveyance. A hydraulic actuation assembly is coupled to the flexible conveyance and a whipstock is releasably coupled to the hydraulic actuation assembly. The whipstock and hydraulic actuation assembly are conveyed downhole in the wellbore. The hydraulic actuation assembly provides a hydraulic fluid under pressure to anchor the whipstock. | 07-04-2013 |
20130168152 | Apparatus for Directional Drilling - A downhole drilling apparatus includes an assembly having a longitudinal axis, wherein an output shaft of the assembly extends axially through a housing. A bearing assembly has first and second races, wherein a first set of bearing elements are disposed at a first angle relative to a top surface of the first race and a second set of bearing elements are disposed at a second angle relative to a top surface of the second race. The output shaft extends from an outlet of the housing at the angle defined by the bore. | 07-04-2013 |
20130192898 | HYDRAULIC BRAKE FOR DRILLING-BIT - Method for blocking/braking at least one conical inlet wheel of a drilling-bit of a drilling tool, said method consisting in using at least one toothed wheel ( | 08-01-2013 |
20130199850 | Drill bits and methods for forming curved portions of a borehole - Drill bits and methods for forming a curved portion of a borehole include a first plurality of cutting elements, such as tungsten carbide inserts, positioned at the outer or perimeter region of a bit face and oriented to bore in a direction generally perpendicular to the bit face. A second plurality of cutting elements, such as polycrystalline diamond compact cutters, are positioned at the inner region of the bit face and oriented to bore in a direction generally parallel to the bit face. When forming a curved portion of a borehole, the first plurality of cutting elements engage the formation to allow the drill bit to reorient at sharper angles than conventional methods for forming a curve, while when forming a linear portion of a borehole, the second plurality of cutting elements engage the formation to provide stability to the drill bit and a rapid rate of penetration. | 08-08-2013 |
20130228379 | CONTINUOUS ROTARY DRILLING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE - A drilling system has a drill string that is made up of tubular segments of coiled tubing joined together by connectors. The connectors can be selectively changed between locked and unlocked configurations. When in the unlocked configuration adjacent tubular segments rotate with respect to one another, and when in the locked configuration the tubular segments are rotationally affixed. The connectors include clutch members coupled to each tubular segment, that axially slide into a slot formed in an adjacent tubular segment to rotationally lock the adjacent segments. A Kelly bushing and rotary table rotate the drill string; and an injector head is used to insert the drill string through the Kelly bushing and rotary table and into a wellbore. While the drill string is inserted through the bushing and table, the connectors are set into the locked configuration so that all tubular segments from the rotary table downward are rotationally affixed. | 09-05-2013 |
20130240268 | CONTROLLABLE DEFLECTION HOUSING, DOWNHOLE STEERING ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF USE - This invention relates to a controllable deflection tool. The controllable deflection tool is likely to have its greatest utility as part of a downhole assembly to steer a drill bit during drilling for oil and gas. There is provided a controllable deflection tool having a first end and a second end, the tool having: a conduit for a working fluid; a rotary element adapted for rotation within the tool; a deflection member; a vane motor configured to rotate the deflection member relative to the rotary element; and a valve for controlling the flow of working fluid to the vane motor. There is also provided a downhole steering assembly and a method of steering a downhole drilling assembly incorporating the controllable deflection tool. | 09-19-2013 |
20130264120 | System and Method for Forming a Lateral Wellbore - A lateral wellbore is formed from a high side of a horizontal portion of a primary wellbore with a drill bit assembly that has a selectively extendable pilot bit. The drill bit assembly is mounted on a lower end of a drill string. A bit guide is disposed adjacent the drill bit assembly for urging the drill bit assembly in a lateral direction against the high side of the primary wellbore. Rotating the drill bit assembly while urging the drill bit assembly upward creates a groove in a subterranean formation adjacent the primary wellbore. This forms a ledge at a far end of the groove. The drill string is then drawn back from the groove, and the pilot bit is deployed. Urging the drill bit assembly forward engages the pilot bit with the ledge, providing leverage for retaining the drill bit assembly in an orientation for excavating the lateral wellbore. | 10-10-2013 |
20130284516 | Mechanism For Providing Controllable Angular Orientation While Transmitting Torsional Load - A mechanism for adjusting the relative angular orientation between two coaxial components includes a housing, a mandrel disposed in the housing, a lower ratchet member disposed around the mandrel, wherein a lower engagement interface between the lower ratchet member and the mandrel restricts relative rotation between the lower ratchet member and the mandrel, an upper ratchet member disposed around the mandrel, wherein an upper engagement interface between the upper ratchet member and the mandrel restricts relative rotation between the upper ratchet member and the mandrel, and a central sleeve disposed around the mandrel, wherein an outer engagement interface between the central sleeve and the housing restricts relative rotation between the central sleeve and the housing, wherein the central sleeve has an upper position configured to transmit torque between the upper ratchet member and the housing and a lower position configured to transfer torque between the lower ratchet member and housing. | 10-31-2013 |
20130284517 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR RADIALLY EXPANDING A TUBULAR ELEMENT AND DIRECTIONAL DRILLING - The invention relates to a system and method for radially expanding a tubular element. The method comprises the steps of bending the tubular element radially outward and in axially reverse direction so as to form an expanded tubular section extending around an unexpanded tubular section, wherein bending occurs in a bending zone; increasing the length of the expanded tubular section by pushing the unexpanded tubular section in axial direction relative to the expanded tubular section; operating a drill string, which extends through the unexpanded tubular section and is provided with a drill bit at a downhole end thereof, to drill a borehole; and operating directional drilling means, which are coupled to the drill string, to deviate the borehole and direct the borehole along a predetermined path. | 10-31-2013 |
20130292180 | Steerable Gas Turbodrill - A gas turbodrill with an adjustable bent housing for use in a spur lateral drilling application. The gas turbodrill includes a high-speed gas turbine, a gearbox assembly, a pivoting shaft connection point, a gimbal assembly comprising a hollow ball and socket joint, a bearing assembly and drill bit assembly. The gas turbodrill gimbal assembly enabling a bend through an angle of up to 5 degrees while drilling. Springs and the application of pressure will lock the bend in place once drilling commences to facilitate lateral drilling of the spur. | 11-07-2013 |
20130292181 | DIRECTIONAL DRILLING - A method of controlling the direction of drilling comprising: providing a drill bit comprising mechanical cutting means forming a bit face and a plurality of nozzles for ejecting drilling fluid arranged at different azimuthal positions with respect to the bit face, and an intermediate space between an inlet port of the drill bit and the plurality of nozzles; rotating the drill bit while passing drilling fluid comprising solids through the intermediate space and the plurality of nozzles, so as to deepen the borehole; and modifying solids concentration of drilling fluid portions flowing through the plurality of nozzles while rotating the drill bit, so that the solids concentration, for the drilling fluid portion flowing through each of the nozzles, is relatively increased when the respective nozzle is in a selected first angular sector of the borehole bottom, as compared to a second angular sector. | 11-07-2013 |
20130299246 | Steerable System - A steerable system comprises a first rotatable housing ( | 11-14-2013 |
20130327572 | LATERAL WELLBORE COMPLETION APPARATUS AND METHOD - A lateral wellbore completion apparatus may include a flow-through deflector having a deflector face and a junction string that includes a junction block cooperative to mate with the deflector face, a downhole device, and an inductive coupler electrically connected to the downhole device. A method may include anchoring the deflector in a main bore, making-up at the drilling surface a junction string that includes a junction block, a completion string section having a downhole device, and a secondary inductive coupler electrically connected to the downhole device, running the junction string into the main bore, deflecting the completion string section into the lateral bore, and landing the junction block on the deflector face thereby communicatively coupling the secondary and primary inductive couplers. | 12-12-2013 |
20130341098 | Directional Drilling System - A technique facilitates drilling of wellbores or other types of bore holes in a variety of applications. A steerable system or other well tool is designed with a plurality of actuators which are positioned to provide controlled steering during a drilling operation. Each actuator includes at least one loose element or ball slidably mounted in a corresponding sleeve. Pressurized fluid is used to provide controlled movement of the elements along the corresponding sleeves of the actuators. The controlled movement of the elements assists in the provision of steering or other control over the well tool during the drilling operation. | 12-26-2013 |
20140008129 | MULTIDIRECTIONAL WELLBORE PENETRATION SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USE - A drilling assembly includes a hydraulic jet disposed on a downhole end of a fluid line, and one or more adjustable jet nozzles on the hydraulic jet in multiple angular orientations relative to a central axis of the hydraulic jet. The one or more adjustable jet nozzles provide fluid pressure to penetrate a formation and cut multiple angular channels. | 01-09-2014 |
20140014413 | DRILLING SYSTEM WITH FLOW CONTROL VALVE - A technique facilitates drilling of wellbores with a steerable system having a plurality of pads which may be selectively actuated in a lateral direction to apply a side force. Application of the side force is used to steer a drill bit. A valve system is positioned to control delivery of actuating fluid under pressure to individual pads in a manner that enables steering of the drill bit. The valve system allows drilling along a desired curve by controlling the flow of actuating fluid under pressure to specific steering pads at specific angular positions. The valve system also allows drilling along a desired trajectory by preventing exposure of the pads to the pressurized actuating fluid. | 01-16-2014 |
20140027183 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR INSTALLATION OF IN-GROUND CONDUIT - The present disclosure is directed toward systems and methods for trenchless installation of a conduit. According to the examples herein, a conduit may be installed underground using the conduit itself for the drilling of the bore hole needed to accommodate the conduit. The conduit may be installed after a drill string has been positioned in the ground to define a pilot hole. After the pilot hole is defined and while the drill string used to define the pilot hole remains underground, the conduit may be driven underground following the path defined by the drill string. A driving force may be applied to the conduit and cutting member attached to a leading end of the conduit to cause the conduit to advance underground while the drill string, a portion of which may be interior to the conduit, remains underground. In this manner disadvantages associated with back reaming and/or pulling or dragging of the conduit underground may be avoided, as the conduit may itself be used for enlarging the pilot hole to a size sufficient to accommodate the conduit. | 01-30-2014 |
20140048334 | DIRECTIONAL DRILLING USING MAGNETIC BIASING - Apparatus and methods are disclosed for directionally drilling an earth formation where magnet arrays are utilized to provide net lateral force between a first member coupled to a drill bit and another member that either extends through or around the first member. | 02-20-2014 |
20140054087 | Drill With Remotely Controlled Operating Modes and System and Method for Providing the Same - The present invention relates to a drilling system with a multi-function drill head used in, among other applications, oil and gas drilling. The system is used to enhance the effective permeability of an oil and/or gas reservoir by drilling or cutting new structures into the reservoir. The system is capable of cutting straight bores, radius bores, or side panels, by water jets alone or in combination with lasers. In various embodiments, a device for remotely controlling the mode of the system by variations in the pressure of a drilling fluid is also provided, allowing an operator to switch between various modes (straight drilling, radius bore drilling, panel cutting, etc.) without withdrawing the drill string from underground. | 02-27-2014 |
20140060935 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DRILLING A WELL - A method for forming a controllable bend angle in a drill string in a wellbore comprises attaching an upper housing to a drill string. At least, one drive motor is anchored in the upper housing. A middle housing is operably coupled to the at least one drive motor. A lower housing is operably coupled to the at least one drive motor. The at least one drive motor is controllably operated to rotate the middle housing by a first rotation angle with respect to the upper housing, and to rotate the lower housing by a second rotation angle with respect to the upper housing, to generate a desired bend angle between the middle housing and the lower housing at a target toolface orientation between the bend angle and the upper housing. | 03-06-2014 |
20140083777 | ROTARY STEERABLE TOOL - A rotary steerable tool has an inner mandrel having a longitudinal axis and an outer housing positioned along the inner mandrel. The outer housing rotates independently of the inner mandrel. The outer housing has an engagement member that moves axially relative to the outer housing and the inner mandrel between an extended position and a retracted position, and a transition surface having a slope relative to an outer surface of the outer housing. The engagement member moves along the transition surface between the extended position and the retracted position. In the engaged position, the engagement member extends outward from the outer housing to engage an inner surface of a well being drilled. An actuator selectively moves the engagement member along the transition surface from the retracted position to the extended position. | 03-27-2014 |
20140090894 | DIVERTER LATCH ASSEMBLY SYSTEM - A system and methodology facilitates use of a diverter latch assembly in cooperation with a lateral wellbore. The diverter latch assembly comprises an upper latch assembly coupled with a lower latch assembly via a swivel. The upper latch assembly also comprises a releasable latch positioned to engage a tieback receptacle located in the well. The swivel and the releasable latch are designed to enable rotation of the releasable latch relative to a tubing of the lower latch assembly during release of the diverter latch assembly from the tieback receptacle. The rotational release system helps provide controlled release and withdrawal of the diverter latch assembly while reducing risk of damage to the diverter latch assembly or other downhole components. | 04-03-2014 |
20140097026 | Positive Displacement Motor (PDM) Rotary Steerable System (RSS) And Apparatus - A motor steering system includes a drill collar, a transmitter circuit having a power transmitting coil, a rotor, and a receiver circuit having a power receiving coil. The transmitter circuit is coupled to the drill collar and the receiver circuit is coupled to the rotor such that the transmitter circuit and the receiver circuit are positioned with respect to one another such that power is coupled from the power transmitting coil to the power receiving coil whereby the drill collar provides electric power to the rotor. | 04-10-2014 |
20140102799 | Dual Drive Directional Drilling System - One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a dual drive drilling system having a plurality of drill rods that make up a drill string and a steering element for controlling the path of the drill string. The dual drive drilling system also includes a drill bit located near the end of the drill string, a first rotational drive for controlling the rotation of a steering element, and a second rotational drive for controlling the rotation of a drill bit. Further the dual drive drilling system also includes a joystick capable of moving along a first and second axis for controlling both the first and second rotational drives, wherein the movement of the joystick along the first axis controls rotation of the first rotational drive, and the movement of the joystick along the second axis controls rotation of the second rotational drive. | 04-17-2014 |
20140102800 | Rotary Steerable Drilling System for Drilling a Borehole in an Earth Formation - A bottom hole assembly for drilling a deviated wellbore is provided. The bottom hole assembly includes a drill bit and a connected rotary steerable drilling system, or RSS. The RSS includes one or more orientation sensors, a steering unit configured to direct a force through the drill bit and against a rock formation, control electronics designed to send control signals to the steering unit, and power electronics. The steering unit transforms electrical power to linear displacement and force using linear actuators acting off-center to the longitudinal axis of the drill string. | 04-17-2014 |
20140110176 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR STEERING IN A DOWNHOLE ENVIRONMENT USING VIBRATION MODULATION - A system and method are provided for using controlled vibrations to bias a drilling direction of a bottom hole assembly (BHA) in a borehole. In one example, the system includes a movement mechanism and a vibration control mechanism. The movement mechanism is configured to use mechanical energy provided by a mechanical energy source to enable translational movement of a first surface relative to a second surface to allow the first surface to repeatedly impact the second surface to produce a plurality of vibration beats. The vibration control mechanism is configured to influence a drilling direction in which the BHA is drilling by controlling an amplitude of the vibration beats to regulate an impact force between the first surface and the second surface, where the amplitude is controlled based on directional information corresponding to the BHA. | 04-24-2014 |
20140124268 | CV Joint for Down Hole Motor and Method - An apparatus for transmitting torque to a down hole motor in a down hole drilling assembly. The apparatus includes a center rod having a distal protuberance and a proximal protuberance, a transmission adapter having a first end connected to the down hole motor, and a transmission socket formed within a second end of the transmission adapter and configured to receive the proximal protuberance. The apparatus may also include a bearing adapter operatively connected to the center rod, with the bearing adapter having a bearing socket therein, and wherein the transmission adapter is configured to connect to an output of the down hole motor and the bearing adapter is configured to connect to an input of a bearing assembly in the down hole assembly for drilling the well. A method of drilling a well is also disclosed. | 05-08-2014 |
20140182941 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DRILLING DEVIATED WELLBORES THAT UTILIZES AN INTERNALLY TILTED DRIVE SHAFT IN A DRILLING ASSEMBLY - In one aspect, an apparatus for use in a wellbore is disclosed that in one embodiment includes a tool having a rotating member adapted to be coupled to a drill bit and a steering device that includes a force application device that tilts the drive member and a rotational drive that maintains the force application device geostationary. | 07-03-2014 |
20140190750 | ROTARY STEERABLE DRILLING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A drilling system may include an outer sleeve, and a rotary steerable module including a shaft extending within the outer sleeve. The rotary steerable module may further include bearings disposed within the outer sleeve and through which the shaft extends, and cams positioned along the shaft between the bearings. Each cam may include an eccentric ring through which the shaft extends. Each extension of the shaft through one of the eccentric rings defines a bend in the shaft within the outer sleeve, the bend having a bend angle. A method of use and a drilling control apparatus are also provided. | 07-10-2014 |
20140216818 | INTERFEROMETRIC PROCESSING TO DETECT SUBTERRANEAN GEOLOGICAL BOUNDARIES - A method of identifying a bed boundary in a subterranean formation by processing data measured by an induction logging tool. An interferometric method compares recorded voltages and/or phases recorded at axially spaced apart receivers on the logging tool. A transmitter is on the logging tool and set between the receivers, where the receivers are equally spaced apart from the transmitter. The transmitter emits a signal having frequencies up to around 50 kHz. | 08-07-2014 |
20140216819 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COUPLING A DRILL BIT TO A WHIPSTOCK - A system and method facilitate drilling of a lateral wellbore by eliminating one or more trips downhole. The system comprises a drill bit optimized for the drilling operation. The drill bit is coupled to a whipstock via a connector, which minimizes interference with the cutting elements of the drill bit. The connector includes a separation device which facilitates disconnection of the drill bit from the whipstock after the whipstock is anchored at a desired downhole location. The separation device is disposed in the connector to minimize the remaining portions of the connector existing after separation of the drill bit from the whipstock which must be milled by the drill bit prior to drilling the lateral wellbore. | 08-07-2014 |
20140246241 | String Supported Whipstock for Multiple Laterals in a Single Trip and Related Method - A whipstock is supported adjacent the lower end of a string during the drilling of the lateral. It has no integrated anchor. The BHA is delivered through the string that supports the whipstock. After a lateral is drilled the BHA is retracted and the support string is manipulated to advance the whipstock to a new location for proper orientation with a gyroscopic tool. The BHA is then advanced through the support string for drilling of another lateral in the same trip in the hole. The process can be repeated as many times as needed. Peripheral pads on the lower end of the whipstock push the lower end of the whipstock ramp to the borehole wall for proper tracking of the lateral. The laterals can be in open or cased hole and the support string can have circulation ports near the whipstock to cool the BHA in geothermal wells. | 09-04-2014 |
20140246242 | COMPONENTS OF DRILLING ASSEMBLIES, DRILLING ASSEMBLIES, AND METHODS OF STABILIZING DRILLING ASSEMBLIES IN WELLBORES IN SUBTERRANEAN FORMATIONS - A component of a drilling assembly comprises at least one blade having a gauge region comprising a bearing face for engaging a sidewall of a wellbore in a subterranean formation during rotation of the drilling assembly, and a rotationally leading edge rotationally preceding the bearing face and comprising an engagement profile comprising at least one of at least one chamfered surface and at least one radiused surface, the engagement profile different than another engagement profile of another rotationally leading edge of another region of the at least one blade. A drilling assembly, and a method for stabilizing a drilling assembly in a wellbore in a subterranean formation are also provided. | 09-04-2014 |
20140262528 | SIDETRACKING SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A steerable drill bit may be used to drill a lateral borehole from a primary wellbore. The steerable drill bit may be part of a bottomhole assembly that also includes a directional control system. A deflection member, such as a whipstock, may be anchored in the primary wellbore. When the bottomhole assembly approaches the deflection member, the directional control system may steer the steerable drill bit to reduce and potentially eliminate contact between the steerable drill bit and a ramped surface of the deflection member. By restricting contact between the deflection member and the steerable drill bit, cutting elements of the steerable drill bit may obtain an increase in cutting efficiency and/or effective life. | 09-18-2014 |
20140284110 | Rotary Steerable Drilling System - A rotary steerable drilling system includes a housing, a drive shaft passing through the housing, a shaft/housing locking mechanism disposed to selectively engage the drive shaft and the housing, and an anti-rotation mechanism disposed to engage a wellbore wall. Shaft/housing locking mechanism includes a first configuration in which rotation of the drive shaft is independent of the housing, and a second configuration in which rotation of the drive shaft causes rotation of the housing. Anti-rotation mechanism includes a first configuration in which the anti-rotation mechanism extends radially relative to the drive shaft, and a second configuration in which the anti-rotation mechanism retracts from engagement with the wellbore wall. A timing mechanism may be employed to transition the anti-rotation mechanism from the first configuration to the second configuration before the shaft/housing locking mechanism transitions from the first configuration to the second configuration. | 09-25-2014 |
20140299381 | Coil Tubing Orienter Tool with Differential Lead Screw Drive - A technique facilitates control over the orientation of a bottom hole assembly. The bottom hole assembly comprises an orienting tool having a dual-spline drive which, in turn, comprises a first lead screw portion and a second lead screw portion having threads of a first pitch and a second pitch, respectively. A motor is connected to the dual-spline drive to impart rotational motion with respect to the first threads having the first pitch. A difference in pitch between the first pitch and the second pitch enables the rotational motion imparted by the motor to be converted to a slower, higher torque, output via the second lead screw portion. As a result, the orienting tool is able to provide a selective, high torque, low-speed adjustment to the drilling orientation of the bottom hole assembly. | 10-09-2014 |
20140326510 | WIRELINE DRILLING SYSTEM - A wireline drilling system for the hydrocarbon exploration and production industry incorporating a drilling cuttings removal system which acts to remove and store cuttings displaced by a drill bit during drilling operations. The cuttings removal system may employ a screw member having a tapered lower portion and a narrow upper portion to transport drilling cuttings to a cuttings basket and distribute the cuttings therein. Embodiments of the invention include an integral tractor to progress the wireline drilling system and provide weight-on-bit, as well as assist in retrieval of the wireline drilling system if the tool should become stuck. | 11-06-2014 |
20150041218 | AXIS OFFSET CAM TOOL FOR REVERSE CIRCULATION EXPLORATION DRILLING SYSTEMS AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF - An off-axis “cam” drilling tool is provided. The off-axis “cam” drilling tool includes an outer tubing having a throughbore therein, an inner tubing having a throughbore therein, the inner tubing being configured to be inserted within the throughbore of the outer tubing. An annulus is defined between the inner tubing and the throughbore of the outer tubing through which a medium may pass. A cam section can be configured on a portion of the exterior surface of the outer tubing. The outer tubing can be coupled to drill rods of a drill string. The cam section has an axis that is offset to an axis of the outer tubing, and the tool is configured to rotate about cam section axis to lift the drill rods coupled to the outer tubing above a centerline of a drill bore to beneficially orient the drill bit drilling the drill bore. | 02-12-2015 |
20150114719 | Multi-Angle Rotary Steerable Drilling - Rotary steerable drilling apparatus and methods utilizing apparatus comprising a shaft, a multi-angle strike ring axially repositionable along the shaft, an articulated member coupled to the shaft, and a steering member carried by the articulated member. An actuator is operable to maintain an angular offset of the articulated member relative to the shaft by maintaining azimuthally-dependent contact between the multi-angle strike ring and the steering member. | 04-30-2015 |
20150129311 | Motor Integrated Reamer - In one aspect, an apparatus for use in a wellbore is disclosed that in one non-limiting embodiment may include a drive system coupled to a drill bit by a drive sub for drilling a wellbore, wherein the drive system has an associated bend for directional drilling of the wellbore, and a reamer driven by the drive sub, wherein the reamer reams a ledge formed at a transition from a larger diameter wellbore to a smaller diameter of the wellbore during directional drilling of the wellbore. | 05-14-2015 |
20150292268 | DRILL BITS INCLUDING RETRACTABLE PADS, CARTRIDGES INCLUDING RETRACTABLE PADS FOR SUCH DRILL BITS, AND RELATED METHODS - An earth-boring tool may comprise at least one cavity formed in a face thereof. At least one retractable pad residing in the at least one cavity may be coupled to a piston located at least partially within the at least one cavity. Additionally, a valve may be positioned within the earth-boring tool and configured to regulate flow of an incompressible fluid in contact with the piston through an opening of a reservoir. A cartridge may comprise a barrel wall defining a first bore, and a piston comprising at least one retractable pad positioned at least partially within the first bore. The barrel wall and the piston may define a first reservoir within the first bore, and a valve may be positioned and configured to regulate flow through an opening to the first reservoir. Related methods and devices are also disclosed. | 10-15-2015 |
20150308193 | DIRECTIONAL DRILLING USING A ROTATING HOUSING AND A SELECTIVELY OFFSETABLE DRIVE SHAFT - Example systems described herein may include a housing | 10-29-2015 |
20150330149 | DIRECTIONAL CONTROL OF A ROTARY STEERABLE DRILLING ASSEMBLY USING A VARIABLE FLUID FLOW PATHWAY - According to aspects of the present disclosure, systems and methods for controlling the direction of a drilling assembly within a borehole are described herein. An example system may include a housing | 11-19-2015 |
20150337600 | METHOD FOR FLUID CARRIAGE IN DEEP-SEAM COAL HYDRAULIC MINING - The present invention relates to a method for fluid carriage in deep-seam coal hydraulic mining, aimed at the mining of coal seams buried underground at depths of 500 metres to below several thousands of metres. By means of methods such as well drilling and tubular columns, hydraulic power is conveyed to the coal seam excavation using tubular columns, to erode and cut coal buried underground, and by circulating fluid at a certain flow rate, cut coal is carried to the surface, achieving unmanned excavation in the shaft. The present method is an integrated coal exploitation technique achieving synchronous mining of coal field gas and solids, and is suitable for coal seams where conventional methods are unable to mine or mining is not economically viable, while also being suitable for establishing gasification channels for underground coal gasification. | 11-26-2015 |
20150368973 | ROLL REDUCTION SYSTEM FOR ROTARY STEERABLE SYSTEM - Roll reduction system for rotary steerable system. A well drilling system includes a tubular housing that attaches inline in a drill string and a bit drive shaft supported to rotate in the housing by a roll reduction system. The roll reduction system includes a first gear carried by the housing to rotate relative to the housing and coupled to rotate with the bit drive shaft, and a second gear carried by the housing to rotate relative to the housing and coupled to the first gear to rotate in an opposite direction to the first gear. | 12-24-2015 |
20160002978 | Steering System for Drill String - A technique facilitates directional drilling of boreholes. A steerable system has a plurality of actuator pistons slidably mounted in a mechanical structure. The mechanical structure comprises a radially inward portion containing ports to deliver a portion of drilling mud to the plurality of actuator pistons. The mechanical structure also has a radially outward portion positioned to define a main flow passage extending longitudinally through the steerable system between the radially inward portion and the radially outward portion of the mechanical structure. | 01-07-2016 |
20160002992 | Valve System for Distributing Actuating Fluid - A technique facilitates delivery of high pressure actuating fluid, e.g. drilling mud, to a plurality of actuators. The technique employs a valve system in which high pressure actuating fluid is delivered from inside a rotor to outer stator ports on a surrounding stator. The construction and arrangement of the rotor and stator reduces the inherent instability and susceptibility to sticking that can otherwise affect the operation of the valve. | 01-07-2016 |
20160017659 | Actively Controlled Rotary Steerable Drilling System (RSS) - Aspects of the disclosure can relate to a system that includes an input shaft to be driven at a nominal uncontrolled rotational speed, and an output shaft coupled with the input shaft to drive a rotary mechanism. The prime mover can be a mud turbine or a motor, and the input shaft can be driven by, for example, drilling fluid. The system also includes a drive mechanism mechanically coupling the input shaft to the output shaft to drive the rotary mechanism at a controlled rotational speed. The system further includes a secondary input mechanically coupled with the drive mechanism, where the secondary input is driven as a control input to drive the rotary mechanism at the controlled rotational speed. The drive mechanism can be a continuously variable transmission and/or a constant speed drive, and the secondary input can be a servo motor. | 01-21-2016 |
20160024846 | Inverted Wellbore Drilling Motor - An inverted drill motor according to one or more embodiments includes an outer housing rotatable about an internal shaft member whereby rotational speed is imparted to the outer housing in response to fluid flow between the outer housing and the internal shaft member, the outer housing to connect to a drill bit and a top drive shaft portion of the internal shaft member having a top end to connect to the drill string whereby the internal shaft member and the drill string rotate at the same speed. The inverted drill motor may be for example an inverted positive displacement motor or inverted turbodrill. | 01-28-2016 |
20160053543 | STEERING TOOL WITH ECCENTRIC SLEEVE AND METHOD OF USE - A method for steering a well comprises disposing a first orienting assembly and a second orienting assembly spaced apart along a circular inner peripheral surface of a housing. An orienting sleeve is rotatably supported between the first orienting assembly and the second orienting assembly, The orienting sleeve has an angled bore therethrough, wherein a first longitudinal axis of the angled bore is inclined by a predetermined angle to a second longitudinal axis referenced to a cylindrical outer peripheral surface of the orienting sleeve. A rotatable steering shaft is rotatably supported along the angled bore to control rotatable steering shaft bending. The rotation of the first orienting assembly, the second orienting assembly, and the orienting sleeve is controllably adjusted to control the steering direction of the rotatable steering shaft. | 02-25-2016 |
20160060959 | DRILLING SYSTEM WITH ADAPTIVE STEERING PAD ACTUATION - A bottomhole assembly (BHA) has a first section, a second section, and a drilling motor disposed along the second BHA section. The first BHA section is connected to the second BHA section with a flex sub. A steering assembly positioned along the BHA includes a first steering unit and an axially spaced apart second unit. Each steering unit has at least one pad. During operation, the first steering unit generates a force in a first direction and the second steering unit generates a force in a second direction different from the first direction. The first and the second steering units thereby cooperate to axially misalign the first BHA section and the second BHA section at the flex sub. | 03-03-2016 |
20160069139 | Rotary Steering with Multiple Contact Points - A system in which a drill string is disposed within a wellbore that extends from a wellsite surface to a subterranean formation. At least three rotary steerable system (RSS) modules are collectively coupled in series between the drill string and a drill bit. Each RSS module includes at least three steering pads spaced circumferentially apart around a perimeter of the RSS module, and a valve operable to sequentially actuate the steering pads. The system also includes a controller operable to independently actuate the valve of each RSS module simultaneously. | 03-10-2016 |
20160084007 | Back-Reaming Rotary Steering - A rotary steerable system (RSS) having multiple steering pads, a valve to sequentially actuate the plurality of steering pads, and a back-reaming bit formed by multiple cutting elements carried by each of the steering pads. While rotating the drill string, the RSS, and the drill bit, the valve and/or the controller are operated to sequentially actuate the steering pads to operatively urge the RSS and the drill bit away from a longitudinal axis of the wellbore, thus steering the wellbore drilling direction. Thereafter, while rotating the drill string, the RSS, and the drill bit, the valve and/or the controller are operated to simultaneously actuate each of the steering pads to operatively urge at least one of the cutting elements on each of the steering pads into contact with a sidewall of the wellbore, thus back-reaming the wellbore. | 03-24-2016 |
20160084011 | INSERT AND METHOD FOR DIRECTIONAL DRILLING - An insert to convert a conventional rotary drill bit to a rotary steerable bit for a rotational directional drilling system. The insert comprises a cylindrical body adapted to be arranged within an intermediate space of the drill bit for receiving drilling fluid from a drill string and selectively directing the drilling fluid to nozzles of the drill bit. The insert may be rotatable and connected to a geostationary platform. Alternatively, the insert may be fixated in the drill bit, combined with a flow diverter connected to a geostationary platform. The insert is suitable to be introduced in the drill bit at a drilling location, including remote locations and off-shore rigs. | 03-24-2016 |
20160084017 | BI-DIRECTIONAL CV-JOINT FOR A ROTARY STEERABLE SYSTEM - An example downhole apparatus includes a drive shaft with a longitudinal axis, a spherical portion that extends radially from the longitudinal axis, and first and second interfacial surfaces proximate the spherical portion. An outer housing is positioned at least partially around the spherical portion. A radial bearing may be between the spherical portion and the outer housing and coupled to the outer housing. The radial bearing may comprise first and second interfacial surfaces in contact with the respective first and second interfacial surfaces of the drive shaft to transmit or receive torque in corresponding first and second rotational directions. A first axial bearing is coupled to the outer housing and in contact with a first end of the spherical portion to axially secure the drive shaft with respect to the outer housing. | 03-24-2016 |
20160097237 | DRILL BIT WITH EXTENDABLE GAUGE PADS - A drill bit for use in a wellbore is disclosed, including a bit body having a longitudinal axis; and at least one moveable member associated with a lateral extent of the bit body, wherein the at least one moveable member is configured to translate in a member axis that is substantially longitudinal. Further, a method of drilling a wellbore is disclosed, including providing a drill bit including a bit body having a longitudinal axis and at least one movable member associated with a lateral extent of the bit body; conveying a drill string into a formation, the drill string having the drill bit at the end thereof; drilling the wellbore using the drill string; and selectively translating at least one movable member in a member axis that is substantially longitudinal. | 04-07-2016 |
20170234071 | DRILLING MACHINE | 08-17-2017 |
20190145174 | A DRILLING SYSTEM INCLUDING A DRIVESHAFT/HOUSING LOCK | 05-16-2019 |