Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CLOUD COMPUTING METHOD FOR GEOSTEERING
DIRECTIONAL DRILLING APPARATUS
[0001] <Blank>
FIELD
[0002] The present embodiments generally relate to a cloud computing method
for
geosteering directional drilling equipment.
BACKGROUND
[0003] A need exists for a cloud computing method for geosteering
directional drilling
equipment, such as horizontal drilling equipment, that can provide real-time
formation information using a computing cloud.
[0004] A further need exists for real-time location identification for a
drilling bit during
horizontal drilling which is usable with a computing cloud environment.
[0005] The present embodiments meet these needs.
[0005a] In one aspect, there is provided a cloud computing method for
forming an executive
dashboard on a client device using non-transitory computer readable medium
from
a cloud processor for geosteering during directional drilling of a wellbore,
the cloud
computing method comprising:
connecting the client device to a network;
presenting the executive dashboard in real-time to a display of the client
device
of a user; and
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Date Recue/Date Received 2020-08-19
electronically connecting the cloud processor to a cloud data storage, the
cloud
data storage comprising a plurality of computer instructions to instruct the
cloud
processor to:
present within the executive dashboard to the user: at least one portion of
received data from directional drilling equipment, at least one portion of
interest in a stratigraphic cross section for user identification of: a drill
bit in the stratigraphic cross section, formations in the stratigraphic cross
section, other formation data, or combinations thereof;
identify a projected path for the drill bit during directional drilling and
presenting the projected path within the executive dashboard;
compute a wellbore profile for the wellbore using imported data, wherein
the imported data comprises:
an offset/type table including a plurality of offset/type tops of a
projected formation through which the projected path is expected
to pass;
an actual survey of the wellbore; and
a geological prognosis from a prognosed tops table comprising at
least one depth for at least one formation top through which the
projected path is expected to pass, wherein the wellbore profile is
a composite visualization of a plurality of true vertical depths;
compute the stratigraphic cross section for the wellbore profile using the
imported data, wherein the stratigraphic cross section comprises:
a formation dipping away from an angle perpendicular to a
horizontal plane representing a surface surrounding the wellbore;
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Date Recue/Date Received 2020-08-19
a formation dipping toward the angle perpendicular to the
horizontal plane representing the surface surrounding the
wellbore; or
combinations thereof;
plot an actual drilling path for the drill bit using the actual survey;
overlay the actual drilling path onto the projected path in the stratigraphic
cross section in the wellbore profile, thereby enabling real-time updating
of the actual drilling path over the projected path; and
present control buttons to the user on the executive dashboard enabling
the user to increase or decrease a member of the group consisting of: a
start measured depth of the wellbore, an ending measured depth of the
wellbore, a true vertical depth offset of the wellbore, a dip of the
projected formation, and combinations thereof for the portion of interest
in the stratigraphic cross section;
form a report of past drilling data and planned drilling actions;
present the report of past drilling data and planned drilling actions within
the display;
include within the report of past drilling data and planned drilling actions:
at least one formation name;
at least one projected top of the formation associated with the
formation name;
at least one true vertical depth as drilled;
at least one difference between a projected top and an as drilled
top;
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Date Recue/Date Received 2020-08-19
at least one dip for the formation name as drilled at a top of a
formation;
at least one drill angle of the wellbore at the top of the formation
with a drilled top;
at least one estimated distance needed for the drill bit to travel at
a known drill angle to reach a top of a next formation at a known
dip, or to reach a top of a selected formation at the known dip;
at least one estimated/actual subsea formation depth relative to
sea level of the current formation, the next formation, or the
selected formation;
identify a real-time location of the drill bit; and
send data, commands, or combinations of data and commands to the
directional drilling equipment using the executive dashboard to steer the
drill bit in the wellbore, wherein the data, commands, or combinations of
data and commands are based on at least one of the at least one portion
of received data from the directional drilling equipment, the projected
path for the drill bit during directional drilling, the wellbore profile, the
imported data, the stratigraphic cross section for the wellbore profile, the
actual drilling path for the drill bit, the past drilling data, the planned
drilling actions, and the real-time location of the drill bit.
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] The detailed description will be better understood in conjunction
with the
accompanying drawings as follows:
[0007] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a processing system
usable with the cloud
computing method.
[0008] Figure 2 is an executive dashboard for the cloud computing method
for geosteering
during directional drilling.
[0009] Figure 3 is an executive dashboard of a stratigraphic cross
section with two relative
matching graphs.
[00010] Figures 4A-4F depict a cloud data storage usable with the cloud
computing method.
[00011] Figure 5 is a presentation of a geological prognosis usable in the
invention.
[00012] Figure 6 is a representation of an offset/type table usable in the
cloud computing
method.
[00013] Figure 7 is a representation of an actual survey usable in the cloud
computing
method.
[00014] Figure 8 is a detailed view of the stratigaphic cross section.
[00015] Figure 9 depicts an embodiment of a proposed tops table.
[00016] Figures 10A-10E are a flow chart of an embodiment of a cloud computing
method
that can be implemented using the system.
[00017] The present embodiments are detailed below with reference to the
listed Figures.
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[00018] Before explaining the present method in detail, it is to be understood
that the method
is not limited to the particular embodiments and that the embodiments can be
practiced or carried out in various ways.
[00019] One or more of the present embodiments relate to a cloud computing
implemented
method that can include using a software program to directionally drill relief
wells,
such as when a blowout occurs.
[00020] In one or more embodiments the method can be used for horizontal and
directional
drilling, and can utilize various geologic and seismic curves, including gamma
curves. The drilling discussed herein can include drilling for an oil well, a
natural gas
well, a water well, or any another type of subsurface well drilling.
[00021] The cloud computing method involves importing and exporting WITS-
compliant
information. WITS, as used herein, stands for Wellsite Information Transfer
Specification using a computing cloud.
[00022] A computing cloud comprises one or more cloud data storage units and
one or more
processing units, wherein the computing cloud is configured to provide at
least one
service and shared hardware and software resources.
[00023] A plurality of client devices can connect to the cloud. The client
devices can be
servers, such as computers, laptops, cell phones, and other types of
processing
equipment with cloud data storage that have inputs and outputs to connect to a
network that communicates with the computing cloud.
[00024] The cloud computing method is used to receive and send updated
drilling and seismic
survey data from one or more well logging devices or computers associated with
logging information, in a plurality of formats, such as: WITSML, WITS, Log
ASCII
Standard (LAS), different streaming formats, different logging formats, and
other
formats installed for use. The receiving and sending of updated drilling and
seismic
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
survey data from the plurality of formats can occur in real-time, such as in a
matter of
seconds.
[00025] One or more embodiments the cloud computing method can be implemented
at a
drilling site that can connect to a network and the computing cloud, or the
cloud
computing method can be implemented at a location in the computing cloud using
data from the drilling site, such as in an office; at sea on a subsea well
site; or
simultaneously from various remote and field locations.
[00026] The cloud computing method uses computer instructions that form an
executive
dashboard that can be used to present well logging and drilling data to a
plurality of
users simultaneously and in real-time with updates presented on the executive
dashboard as the data is received from the drill, drill bit or other sensors
near or in the
wellbore.
[00027] The executive dashboard provides simultaneous viewing of over 30
different pieces
of data and information associated with the drilling simultaneously and is
constantly
and continually updated as the new data is input to the computing cloud.
[00028] The cloud computing method enables users, which can be computers, to
more
efficiently and effectively determine stratigraphy, dipping, and faulting by
using
graphical matching of actual curve data against reference curves, such as type
log
curves, using real-time drilling data and presenting this data and matched
data on the
executive dashboard using a computing cloud, enabling one or more users each
viewing the same executive dashboard to make changes to drilling alignment and
degrees of inclination if horizontal drilling or other directional drilling is
occurring.
[00029] The cloud computing method enables users to visualize formation
structures by
allowing users to view and virtually explore formation structures in three
dimensions
and in two dimensions, and to virtually explore different segments of a
stratigaphic
section or map simultaneously, thereby allowing the users to determine where a
drilling bit is within a wellbore.
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[00030] The cloud computing method will cause disaster avoidance relative to
disasters
associated with formation problems, such as unexpected faults and the like.
[00031] One or more embodiments of the cloud computing method for geosteering
directional
drilling equipment can include using a cloud processor in communication with
directional drilling equipment and with a cloud data storage. The cloud
processor can
be one or more cloud processors in the computing cloud. The cloud data storage
can
be one or more cloud data storage devices in the computing cloud.
[00032] Communication to the cloud of the raw data input from the drilling
site can occur
through a network.
[00033] The cloud processor and the cloud data storage can be used to receive
and send data
to the directional drilling equipment, and to control at least portions of
directional
drilling equipment.
[00034] The directional drilling equipment can include mud pumps, mud tanks,
drilling pipe,
controls, directional tools installed on a drill string, and similar
conventional
directional drilling equipment. The data received from the directional
drilling
equipment can be: an inclination of the wellbore as measured by a directional
drilling
tool, such as a sensor or gyro; a measured depth of the wellbore, such as a
measured
depth measured by a depth encoder on a crown of the drilling rig; a tool
depth, which
can be the measured depth minus the distance of the tool from the bottom of
the drill
string; an azimuth as measured by a sensor on a directional drilling tool; and
actual
curve data such as gamma ray readings and resistivity readings as measured by
sensors on directional drilling tools.
[00035] The cloud processor can send data and/or commands to and from the
directional
drilling equipment or to and from a user's cloud processor with cloud data
storage
operating the directional drilling equipment, such as user's client device
used for
viewing the executive dashboard at the drilling site, which can be a cell
phone.
[00036]
The data and/or commands can include all of the data that can be presented in
the
executive dashboard as described herein and a suggested build rate to remain
at a
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
target depth or in a target formation, as well as other instructions regarding
drilling.
The commands can be: commands that directly control the directional drilling
equipment, suggestions and/or instructions to a user's executive dashboard on
how to
control the directional drilling equipment, or combinations thereof.
1000371 One or more embodiments the client devices can be computers; mobile
devices, such
as cellular phones; laptop computers; or another type of client device having
communication means, processing means, and data storing means. Each client
device
can have a cloud processor, a cloud data storage, a display, and an ability to
communicate with a network with input/output ports. The network can be a
wireless
network, a wired network, or any other type of communications network.
[00038] In one or more embodiments, the cloud computing method can be used to
form a new
wellbore at the drilling site, such as in land that has not been previously
drilled. Also,
the cloud computing method can be used to expand an existing wellbore. For
example, the cloud processor can be in communication with directional drilling
equipment, such as horizontal drilling equipment, for monitoring and
controlling the
drilling equipment.
1000391 The cloud data storage can include a plurality of computer
instructions. The cloud
data storage can include computer instructions to instruct the cloud processor
to
create and present an executive dashboard on at least one of the client
devices.
[00040] The executive dashboard can be presented to a user on a display of the
user's client
device using computer instructions in the computing cloud.
1000411 The executive dashboard can include a presentation of a section of a
formation, a
location of a drill bit on a real-time basis, and other data associated with
the drilling.
[000421 The executive dashboard can present numerous continuously updated well
logging
data and pieces of well logging and drilling information to an individual user
or
simultaneously to a plurality of users who are all connected together to the
computing
cloud over the network.
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[00043] The executive dashboard can provide users implementing the method with
the ability
to continually monitor the drilling of a well, or a group of wells, in real-
time during
the occurrence of the drilling and in doing so, this method enables drillers
to avoid
dangers and environmental problems, such as disasters that occur in the Gulf
of
Mexico.
[00044] The cloud computing method enables users, such as first responders, to
quickly view
the actual drilling depth and wellbore angle of drilling to determine whether
or not an
actual drilling path of the drill bit is in compliance with a projected
drilling path of
the drill bit.
[00045] For example, a projected drilling path can be determined and/or formed
in order to
prevent excursion into areas that would cause: damage to a water supply; an
explosion; significant harm to humans, structures, or animals at the surface
of the
wellbore; or significant harm to marine life in a body of water.
[00046] With the executive dashboard disclosed herein, the user can view the
actual drill path
and compare the drill path being drilled to the projected drill path in real-
time in order
to avoid dangers.
[00047] "Real-time presentation of data" on the executive dashboard as the
term is used
herein, refers to data that is presented on the executive dashboard in no more
than ten
to 60 seconds after the actual occurrence of an event associated with the
data.
[00048] For example, if the real-time presentation of data includes a real
time presentation of
a location of the drill bit, the actual location of the drill bit can be
measured and
transmitted to the executive dashboard within less than 60 seconds, such as in
ten
seconds.
[00049] The executive dashboard can enable a user to view portions of interest
in a
stratigraphic cross section of the wellbore.
[00050] The portions of interest in the stratigraphic cross section of the
wellbore can also be
used to correctly identify a location of a drill bit within the wellbore. The
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
identification of the location of the drill bit within the stratigraphic cross
section, and
therefore within the actual wellbore, allows a user to initiate action to fix
any
deviations of the actual drilling path from the projected drilling path.
[00051] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to present an overlay of the actual drilling path over the projected
drilling
path. The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to provide an
alarm to
the user, such as to the user's display, when a deviation of the actual
drilling path
from the projected path occurs.
[00052] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to identify the projected path of a drilling bit used in directional
drilling.
[00053] For example, the cloud processor can use a current inclination of the
drill bit and a
current true vertical depth of the drill bit to determine the projected path.
The
projected path can be a line from the current actual location of the drill bit
and
extending to a projected location of the drill bit that is estimated to occur
in the future
given the current inclination of the drill bit and the current true vertical
depth of the
drill bit.
[00054] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to enable a selected projected path to be simultaneously viewed in
two
dimensions and in three dimensions within the executive dashboard.
[00055] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to present
all data,
information, multidimensional data, and images from the directional drilling
equipment to a user on the user's client device as an executive dashboard. The
cloud
data storage can include computer instructions to store all data, information,
multidimensional data, and images from the directional drilling equipment in
the
cloud data storage.
[00056] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to communicate over the network to import data including a plurality
of
offset/type tops of formations. The imported plurality of offset/type tops of
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
formations can include offset/type tops of formations that are projected to be
traversed by the drill bit along the projected path.
[00057] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to save the imported plurality of offset/type tops of formations in
an
offset/type table in the cloud data storage. The offset/type table can be
presented
within the executive dashboard.
[00058] An "offset/type top of a formation", as the term is herein used, can
be a depth of a
type log curve that has been selected and that corresponds to certain feature,
such as
tops of formations, markers, and other features. The type log curve can be a
curve that
includes multiple data points, such as those from a gamma ray analysis. Each
data
point can include a magnitude and a depth.
[00059] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to import data including an actual survey of the wellbore from
another data
storage on a client device or another source. The actual survey data can
include: a
plurality of azimuths for the wellbore, a plurality of inclinations for the
wellbore, a
plurality of measured depth points for the wellbore path, and other data and
information associated with an actual survey of the wellbore. The actual
survey data
can be stored in the cloud data storage using computer instructions, and can
be
presented within the executive dashboard.
[00060] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to import data including a geological prognosis on the wellbore site
to a
prognosed tops table, which can then be stored in the cloud data storage. The
geological prognosis can include: at least one depth for at least one
formation top, a
formation top through which the drill bit is expected to pass along the
projected path,
and other related formation top information. The prognosed tops table can be
presented in the executive dashboard.
[00061] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to construct a wellbore profile, to save the wellbore profile in the
cloud data
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
storage, and to present the wellbore profile in the executive dashboard.
[00062] The wellbore profile can include a composite visualization of a
plurality of true
vertical depths (TVD) of the wellbore, as can be more easily understood with
reference to the figures below.
[00063] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to use the imported data to form a stratigraphic cross section in
the wellbore
profile.
[00064] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to position the actual location of the drill bit onto the
stratigraphic cross
section. The stratigraphic cross section can include a depiction of a
formation dipping
away from an angle perpendicular to a horizontal plane representing the
surface
surrounding the wellbore. The stratigraphic cross section can include a
depiction of a
formation dipping toward the angle perpendicular to the horizontal plane
representing
the surface surrounding the wellbore.
[00065] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to compute and plot the actual drilling path using the actual survey
data.
[00066] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to overlay
the actual drilling
path onto the stratigraphic cross section. The stratigraphic cross section can
continuously be viewable in the executive dashboard in both three dimensions
and
two dimensions, such as during overlaying. The actual drilling path can be
overlaid
and plotted onto the projected path for the drilling bit in the stratigraphic
cross section
of the wellbore profile. With the actual drilling path overlaid and plotted
onto the
projected path for the drilling bit, the users can monitor the actual drilling
path in
real-time on the executive dashboard. The actual drilling path in view of the
projected
path of the drilling bit can be updated continually and/or continuously for
real-time
presentation on the executive dashboard.
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[00067] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions configured to
instruct the
cloud processor to present a plurality of control buttons on a display within
the
executive dashboard. The control buttons can be viewed and operated by users.
[00068] For example, the user can increase or decrease a starting measured
depth of the
drilling to predict drilling paths using one or more of the control buttons.
The user can
modify an ending measured depth of the drilling using one or more of the
control
buttons. The user can use the control buttons to modify values by increasing
or
decreasing the true vertical depth offset. The user can use the control
buttons to
increase or decrease dip or dip angle of formations, and to change which
section of
the wellbore is a portion of interest in the stratigraphic cross section.
[00069] In one or more embodiments, the cloud data storage can include
computer
instructions configured to allow a user to increase or decrease values
associated with
each control button to modify: the start measured depth, ending measured
depth, true
vertical depth offset, dip or dip angle, or combinations thereof of portions
of interest
in the stratigraphic cross section to correctly identify the location of the
drill bit in the
stratigraphic cross section.
[00070] One or more embodiments can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to measure a distance, such as in feet or meters, at a angle
perpendicular to
a horizontal plane representing the surface surrounding the wellbore or the
true
vertical depth of the wellbore.
[00071] The measurements can be initiated from a rotary table bushing, also
known as a kelly
bushing, to determine a current or final depth of the wellbore as plotted
against the
measured depth of a borehole. The measured depth of the wellbore can be
equivalent
to a length of the drill string when the drill bit is at a bottom or end of
the borehole.
[00072] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to present additional control buttons that control the rates of
adjustment or
granularity of the other controls.
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[00073] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to provide an alarm. The alarm can be provided when it appears or is
determined that continued drilling within a formation will violate a permit,
cause a
safety hazard, cause an environmental hazard, cause an economic hazard, cause
another hazard, or combinations thereof.
[00074] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to superimpose the projected path for the drilling bit over a
formation
structure map, and to position the formation structure map behind the
projected path
to establish faults in the formation relative to the projected path and/or the
actual
drilling path. The formation structure map can be imported and/or inputted
into the
cloud data storage from an external source and saved therein, and can include
a
calculated stratigraphic cross section before the wellbore has been drilled.
[00075] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to superimpose the projected path for the drilling bit over
stratigraphic
cross section, and to position the stratigraphic cross section behind the
projected path
to establish formations simultaneously both in two dimensions and in three
dimensions.
[00076] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to form at least one report.
[00077] Each report can include: any information imported and/or inputted into
the cloud data
storage; any information and/or data stored in the cloud data storage; any
data
received from the directional drilling equipment; any information and/or data
presented within the executive dashboard; any information and/or date included
within the various reports described herein; any information and/or data
associated
with the wellbore, the drilling equipment, and the drilling process; or
combinations
thereof. Similarly, the executive dashboard can present: any information
imported
and/or inputted into the cloud data storage; any information and/or data
stored in the
cloud data storage; any data received from the directional drilling equipment;
any
information and/or date included within the various reports described herein;
any
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
information and/or data associated with the wellbore, the drilling equipment,
and the
drilling process; or combinations thereof.
[00078] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to plot an actual drilling path on a real-time basis in view of the
projected
path, and to transmit the plot along with images and a text report to a
plurality of
users simultaneously over the network from the computing cloud for
presentation on
the executive dashboard.
[00079] The executive dashboard can include a report for a wellbore of current
information.
The current information can include: a current measured depth, such as 10500
feet,
which can be adjustable using an onscreen control button. The current
information
can also include a current formation name, such as "Selman Formation". The
formation name can be procured from an offset/type log table that the cloud
processor
can obtain from communicating with another cloud data storage accessible
through
the network.
[00080] The current information can include a "next formation name", such as
"Juanita
Shale", which can be obtained from the same or a similar cloud data storage.
The next
formation name can be the name of the next formation through which the drill
bit is
expected pass through along the projected path. The current information can
include
location information for the current formation and for the next formation.
1000811 The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to compute a "distance to next formation" from the current
formation, and
to present the computed distance to next formation to the user within the
executive
dashboard.
[00082] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to compute an "estimated subsea depth of next formation", such as
¨7842
feet, using the kelly bushing elevation and the estimated true vertical depth
of the
next formation. The estimated subsea depth of next formation can be presented
to the
user on the executive dashboard.
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[00083] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to compute the "current dip or dip angle". The current dip or dip
angle, as
the term is used herein, can be the angle of a formation referenced from the
horizontal
plane representing the surface surrounding the wellbore. In operation, if the
angle is
positive and the angle points towards the surface or is shallower, the current
dip or
dip angle can be referred to as "dipping towards" the wellbore; whereas if the
angle is
negative and the angle points away from the surface or is deeper, the current
dip or
dip angle can be referred to as "dipping away" from the wellbore.
[00084] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to present a "current true vertical depth" in the executive
dashboard, which
can represent the distance measured at the angle perpendicular to the
horizontal plane
representing the surface surrounding the wellbore to the drill bit using the
kelly
bushing as a reference point on top of the wellbore.
[00085] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to present a "current subsea true vertical depth" in the executive
dashboard.
The current subsea true vertical depth can be a true vertical depth that is
referenced
from sea level, wherein positive numbers can indicate depths that are above
sea level
and negative numbers can indicate depths that are below sea level.
[00086] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to present a report to the users in addition to, and simultaneously
with the
executive dashboard.
[00087] The report can include past drilling data and estimated future
drilling data. The report
can include: at least one, and up to several thousand formation names,
projected tops
of each listed formation, and a true vertical depth as drilled for each
formation. The
report can include a value representing a difference between a projected top
of a
formation and a formation top as drilled. The report can include a dip or dip
angle,
measured in degrees, of a plurality of formations as drilled at the tops of
the
formations. The report can include each drill angle, measured in degrees. The
drill
angle can be the angle of inclination of the wellbore at the top of the
formation as
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
drilled. For example, the drill angle can be 25.3 degrees. The report can
include an
estimated distance needed for the drill bit to travel to reach a top of the
next formation
or to reach a selected formation considering the current drill angle and the
current dip
or dip angle of the formation. The report can include an estimated/actual
subsea depth
of formation relative to sea level of an encountered formation, of the next
formation,
or of a selected formation, considering the current drill angle and the
current dip or
dip angle of the formation.
[00088] The report can include identification information. The identification
information can
include: a job number; a well number; a location in which the well is being
drilled,
such as a country name, a state name, a county name; a rotary table bushing
elevation,
such as a kelly bushing elevation; a field name, such as the name of the field
where
the well is being drilled; a start date for drilling; a start depth for
drilling, such as
1240 feet; an API number, wherein the term "API" refers to American Petroleum
Institute; a UWI, wherein the term "UWI" refers to a Unique Well Identifier; a
ground level elevation, such as 783 feet; a unit number, such as unit 2 of the
Lyon
field with 12 units; an end date of drilling; an end depth of the drilling,
such as 10,700
feet; and other information. The API number can be a unique, permanent,
numeric
identifier assigned to each well drilled for oil and gas in the United States.
[00089] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to display an actual location of a drilling bit on the actual
drilling path
within the executive dashboard for real-time identification of the drilling
bit during
horizontal drilling.
[00090] In one more embodiments, the stratigraphic cross section and/or the
portion of
interest in the stratigraphic cross section can be calculated using: the
offset/type tops
section through which the projected path will follow, which can be shown as a
thicknesses between lines; the starting measured depths for the stratigraphic
section
of the wellbore; the ending measured depths for the stratigraphic section of
the
wellbore; the true vertical depth offset for the stratigraphic section of the
wellbore;
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
and the dip or dip angle for the stratigraphic cross section, which can be
shown as an
angle of tilt in the formation.
[00091] In one or more embodiments, the wellbore profile can be displayed with
actual
curves, which can be gamma ray curves. The wellbore profile can be displayed
with
curves that are total gas curves. Total gas can be the volume of gas detected
at a
particular measured depth. The actual curve can be a curve that includes
multiple data
points, such as those from a gamma ray analysis or another commonly known
analytical Cloud computing method. Each data point can include a magnitude and
a
depth.
[00092] The stratigraphic cross section can be presented on the executive
dashboard as a
colored and/or visual map prior to importing the actual survey. Within the
executive
dashboard, different colors can represent different estimated tops of
formations and
other related data.
[00093] In one or more embodiments, the wellbore profile can include and
provide a plot of
the subsea true vertical depth against the true vertical depth and the
measured depth
of the wellbore.
[00094] A unique benefit of one or more embodiments is that projected
formations can be
presented as a geological hypothesis of the actual geological formation,
thereby
enabling users to perform adjustments to the drilling equipment in real-time
using the
data and controls provided by the executive dashboard. The user can adjust
different
values relative to the geological hypothesis using the control buttons,
thereby
enabling the geological hypothesis to continue to update as the drilling
continues in
real-time.
[00095] The geological prognosis, as the term is used herein, can include a
stratigraphic
section or map. The stratigraphic section or map can include: at least one
identified
depth of a formation top, at least one identified depth of a formation bottom,
at least
one anticline, at least one syncline, at least one depth of a fault, at least
one bedding
16
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
plane between two formations, a fracture line of at least one fault, or
combinations
thereof
[00096] The geological prognosis can be generated using computer instructions
stored in the
cloud data storage that instruct the cloud processor to use a surface
elevation or a
rotary table bushing elevation of a surface for a start of a wellbore, and at
least one
offset/type top of the projected formation provided by a user.
[00097] In one or more embodiments, the actual curves and projected curves can
be used as
gamma curves from a type log.
[00098] The overlaying of the projected path onto the stratigraphic cross
section can be
performed by overlaying the projected path onto a three dimensional
stratigraphic
cross section, with the three dimensions being: casting, northing, and true
vertical
depth as overlaid on the azimuth of the projected path.
[00099] In one or more embodiments, a type log can be used as a test well to
calculate
thicknesses of formations and thicknesses of rock between formations. For
example,
by calculating an absolute value of the difference between the top true
vertical depth
of a first formation, the Juanita Shale formation, and the top true vertical
depth of a
second formation, the Nikki Sand formation, which, in this example, is the
next
deepest formation underneath the first formation, the thickness of the Juanita
shale
formation can be obtained.
[0001001 In one or more embodiments, the plurality of offset/type tops can
include a type log.
An illustrative type log for the formation Juanita Shale can be the top true
vertical
depth value of 1,020 feet, and an illustrative type log for the formation
Nikki Sand
can be the top true vertical depth value of 1,200 feet.
[000101] The projected path can be generated using computer instructions in
the cloud data
storage that instruct the cloud processor to calculate the projected path
using a kick
off point, such as a depth of 4,500 feet, a build rate, such as 8 degrees/100
feet, and a
target depth, such as 6,632 feet. In one or more embodiments, a user can
provide the
projected path, such as by uploading the projected path into the cloud data
storage.
17
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000102] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to provide correlation points for at least one actual curve, or for
at least one
point along an actual curve of a stratigraphic section.
[000103] Each correlation point can be tied to a known type log curve for
confirming accuracy
of the actual curve. For example, a plurality of sampling data points along a
plot of an
actual curve can be compared with sampling data points along a plot of a
related type
log curve. Correlation between the actual curve and the type log curve can be
confirmed when the sampling data points in the actual curve match the sampling
data
points in the type log curve. An actual curve that has more matching sampling
data
points with the type log curve has a greater degree of correlation.
[000104] One or more embodiments can include computer instructions in the
cloud data storage
configured to allow a user to thicken or thin a curve of the stratigaphic
cross section
in order to fit or correlate with type log curves.
[000105] In one or more embodiments, the user can be a cloud processor, a
computer, or
another like device in communication with the cloud processor of the system.
[000106] In one or more embodiments, after the wellbore is drilled, a user can
analyze the
wellbore profile to determine portions of the wellbore that are appropriate
for
perforation, fracking, and/or production stimulation during completion stage
operations.
[000107] For example, the user can highlight portions of the wellbore within
the wellbore
profile, such as by using an input device in communication with the executive
dashboard.
[000108] The cloud data storage can include computer instructions to instruct
the cloud
processor to configure the executive dashboard to allow the user to highlight
portions
of the wellbore profile within the executive dashboard.
[000109] The user can highlight portions to indicate the portions of the
wellbore that are
appropriate for perforation, fracking, and/or production stimulation.
Therefore, users,
18
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
such as engineers, at a location remote for the drilling site can analyze the
wellbore
profile and can highlight portions for further drilling exploration. Then,
users, such as
wellbore completion personnel, located at the drilling site can see those
highlighted
portions on a presentation of the same executive dashboard and can use the
information to perform well completion operations. The engineers can use the
executive dashboard to communicate to drill site personnel which areas within
the
wellbore to perform further perforation, fracking, and/or production
stimulation.
[000110] The cloud computing method therefore provides a unique graphical
representation
and communication means for indicating perforation, fracking, and/or
production
stimulation areas within a wellbore.
[000111] The user can also highlight portions of the wellbore within the
wellbore profile to
indicate portions of the wellbore that the user has determined are not
appropriate for
perforating, fracking, and/or production stimulation.
[000112] For example, the user can highlight portions of the wellbore that are
appropriate for
perforating, fracking, and/or production stimulation in a first color, and can
highlight
portions of the wellbore that are not appropriate for perforating, fracking,
and/or
production stimulation in a second color. Users of the cloud computing method
can
therefore more efficiently implement perforating, fracking, and/or production
stimulation in a wellbore without having to perform fracking, and/or
production
stimulation in areas which are not appropriate for fracking, and/or production
stimulation, such as areas wherein an environmental, economic, or safety
hazard
exists.
[000113] In one or more embodiments, a textual report regarding areas
appropriate and not
appropriate for fracking and/or production stimulation can be produced. This
textual
report can be presented in the executive dashboard along with the highlighted
portions in the wellbore profile, and can be used in combination with the
highlighted
portions of the wellbore profile for determinations and communications.
19
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000114] Turning now to the Figures, Figure 1 is a schematic representation of
a system for
geosteering during directional drilling of a wellbore 3 that can be used to
implement
the cloud computing method.
[000115] The system can include a first computing cloud 2a containing a
plurality of cloud
processors 6a and 6b in communication with a plurality of cloud data storages
7a and
7b. The cloud processors 6a and 6b can be in communication with a network 65.
The
network 65 can be in communication with one or more client devices, here shown
including client device 67a and client device 67b. Client device 67a is shown
associated with a first user 56a, while client device 67b is shown associated
with a
second user 56b. Each client device 67a and 67b has a display 8a and 8b
respectively,
for presenting the executive dashboard, shown as executive dashboard 26a and
executive dashboard 26b respectively.
[000116] The first computing cloud 2a with cloud processors 6a and 6b can be
in
communication with directional drilling equipment 4 for steering a drill bit
10 in the
wellbore 3.
[000117] In operation, the first computing cloud 2a with cloud processors 6a
and 6b can
receive data 9a from the directional drilling equipment 4 concerning a current
status
of the drilling. The first cloud data storages 7a and 7b can store this
received data 9a
and use computer instructions in the first cloud data storage(s) to present
this data 9a
in various forms to the client devices 67a and 67b in the executive dashboards
26a
and 26b. The first computing cloud 2a can send data and/or commands 9b to the
directional drilling equipment 4.
[000118] The first computing cloud 2a can also receive additional data from
other sources,
including data that is input by users or data from additional computing clouds
2b with
second cloud data storages 16a, 16b and 16c.
[000119] The executive dashboards 26a and 26b can present this additional data
along with the
received data 9a to the users 56a and 56b. The first computing cloud's cloud
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
processor 6a, for example, can use the received data 9a and additional data to
perform
calculations and to make determinations associated with the drilling process.
[000120] The executive dashboards 26a and 26b can allow the users 56a and 56b
to analyze the
received data 9a and the additional data, and to provide control commands
using
control buttons on the executive dashboards 26a and 26b.
[000121] In embodiments, control commands can be performed by one user on the
executive
dashboard that can be seen by all user's viewing the executive dashboard.
[000122] A depth 221 for a formation 302 with a formation dipping away from a
perpendicular
angle from a horizontal plane representing a surface surrounding the wellbore
21 and
a formation dipping toward the perpendicular angle from the horizontal plane
representing the surface surrounding the wellbore 23 is depicted. A projected
path 12
of the drill bit 10 is depicted passing through the formation 302. Also, a
distance to
the next formation 72 is shown.
[000123] A surface 5 of the wellbore 3 is depicted with a kelly bushing 31 of
a drilling rig 300.
A perpendicular angle 28 can be computed from the kelly bushing 31.
[000124] A horizontal plane 29 representing the surface 5 where the wellbore 3
is drilled along
with the perpendicular angle 28 from the horizontal plane 29 can be used to
determine
the true vertical depth 27 (TVD) of the wellbore 3.
[000125] Figure 2 depicts an embodiment of the executive dashboard 26 of the
system for
geosteering during directional drilling that can be used to implement the
Cloud
computing method.
[000126] The executive dashboard 26 can be a composite visualization that
presents a wellbore
profile 25. The wellbore profile 25 can include true vertical depth 27 (TVD)
and
subsea true vertical depth 114 (SSTVD) plotted with respect to measured depth
33.
The actual location of the drill bit 101 can be seen in the wellbore profile
25.
[000127] The true vertical depth 27 for the stratigraphic cross section is
shown here ranging
from 6,200 feet to 6,900 feet. The measured depth 33 of the vertical section
is shown
21
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
here ranging from 5,500 feet to 10,700 feet. The subsea true vertical depth is
shown
here ranging from -4,966 feet to -5,666 feet. Any variation of feet for a
given
formation can be used.
[000128] The executive dashboard 26 can include a toolbar located at a top of
the executive
dashboard. The tool bar can include a job management menu 134 that allows a
user to
choose at least one of the following options: new, open from local database,
open
from file, close, edit job information, save/export job to file, and exit
program.
[000129] The toolbar can include a report generation menu 136 that allows the
user to choose
at least one of the following options: create a PDF report or create a rich
text format
report (RTF report).
[000130] The toolbar can include a tops button 138 that can produce a drop
down menu
allowing the user to edit a type log and edit a prognosed tops table.
[000131] The toolbar can include a survey button 140 that allows the user to
choose at least one
of the following: edit a planned survey or edit an actual survey. For example,
a
planned survey can include the kick off point for a proposed wellbore, a
landing point
for the proposed wellbore, and a target true vertical depth for the proposed
wellbore.
[000132] The toolbar can include a stratigaphy button 142 that permits the
user to edit
stratigraphy adjustments to cause the fitting/correlation of the actual curve,
such as a
gamma ray curve 110 and total gas curve 111, to a reference curve, such as a
type log
gamma ray curve.
[000133] The toolbar can include a curve button 144 that enables the user to
perform editing of
continuous curves used in the wellbore profile 25, such as the gamma ray curve
110
and the total gas curves 111. For example, the user can add values versus
measured
depths in a table that produces the continuous curves of the wellbore profile.
[000134] The toolbar can include an update button 145 that allows the user to
update data from
data sources in a synchronized manner.
22
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000135] The toolbar can include a configure button 146 that allows the user
to select at least
one of the following: formations, curves, data sources, data source mappings,
alarms,
the number of days left on a license key, and information on the validity of a
license
key. For example, the user can select the formations and can configure a
formation set
of data by adding formations to the formation set; removing formations from
the
formation set; configuring line styles, line thicknesses, and line colors of
formations;
or combinations thereof.
[000136] The toolbar can include a help button 148 that allows the user to
type questions and
receive answers based on key words within the user's questions.
[000137] The executive dashboard 26 can include report information, including:
a job number
86 shown as 44455; a well name or number 87, shown as PUMA #5; a county 88,
shown as Midland; a kelly bushing elevation 89, shown as 1234; a field name
90,
shown as WILDCAT; a start date for drilling 91, shown as 8/11/2010; a start
depth
for drilling 92, shown as 5500 feet; an American Petroleum Institute (API)
number
93, shown as 12-345-67890 which is a unique number for a well drilled in the
United
States; a state in which the drilling occurs 94, shown as Texas; a ground
level
elevation 95, shown as 1204; a unit number 96, shown as 99; an end date of
drilling
97, shown as 8/25/2010; and an end depth of the drilling 98, shown as 10700
feet.
[000138] The executive dashboard 26 can include current information 68, which
can include: a
current measured depth 69, shown as 10300.0 feet; a current formation name 70,
such
as MATT SPRINGS; a next formation name 71, such as HARD BOTTOM; a
distance to next formation 72, show as 358.7 feet; an estimated subsea of next
formation 73, shown as -5501.4 feet; a current dip 74, shown as 8.60 degrees;
a
current true vertical depth 75, shown as 6636.1 feet; and a current subsea
true vertical
depth 76, shown as -5402.1 feet.
[000139] The executive dashboard 26 can include a report 77, which can
include: at least one
formation name 78, such as UPPER TOMMY; at least one projected top 79 of the
formation associated with the formation name, such as 6418.0; at least one
true
vertical depth as drilled 80, shown as 6397.3; at least one difference between
a
23
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
projected top and an as drilled top 81, shown as -20.7; at least one dip for a
formation
name as drilled at a top of the formation 82, shown as -0.90; at least one
drill angle 83
of the wellbore at the top of the formation with a drilled top, shown as
47.40; at least
one distance to formation 84, shown as 0.0; and at least one estimated/actual
subsea
of formation depth relative to sea level of the current formation 85, shown as
-5163.3.
The at least one distance to formation 84 can be a distance to the next
formation or to
a selected formation at a known drill angle and at a known dip of the current
formation.
[000140] The executive dashboard 26 can include a legend 34 which can show the
planned
wellbore, the actual wellbore, formation names, current formation name, next
formation name, total gas curves and gamma ray curves, other curves, as well
as other
information.
[000141] The executive dashboard 26 can display the gamma ray curve 110, which
are also
known as "gamma curves", and the total gas curve 111. The gamma ray curve 110
can be formed by plotting a real-time value 115, here shown with a range from
0 to
300, against the measured depth 33 of the wellbore, shown ranging from 5500
feet to
10700 feet. The total gas curve 111 can be formed by plotting a lag time value
117,
shown ranging from 0 to 8000, against the measured depth 33 of the wellbore.
[000142] The executive dashboard 26 can present a three dimensional plot 63 of
a projected
path for a drill bit simultaneously as superimposed over the stratigraphic
cross
section.
[000143] The three dimensional plot 63 includes northing 59 as the Y-axis,
easting 220 as the
X-axis, and true vertical depth 27 as the Z-axis.
[000144] Each portion of the executive dashboard 26 can be presented
simultaneously to a
plurality of users with client devices over a network, providing for constant
monitoring and increased safety during drilling operations.
[000145] An alarm 58 is shown as a "red flag area" indicated on the executive
dashboard 26.
The alarm 58 can inform the user that the drill bit is about to enter
dangerous territory
24
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
and should be realigned. The alarm 58 can be formed from computer instructions
that
transmit an alarm when the data from the actual drill bit location exceeds or
does not
meet preprogrammed levels in the computer instructions resident in the cloud
data
storage associated with the cloud processor that controls the directional
geosteering.
[000146] In one or more embodiments the executive dashboard can include an
indicator or box
on the first relative matching graph that shows the position of the first
relative
matching graph with respect to the second relative matching graph.
[000147] Figure 3 depicts an embodiment of an executive dashboard 26 with a
plurality of
control buttons that can be presented to a user to manipulate, such as by
clicking a
mouse over the buttons.
[000148] The control buttons can include: a control button 36a to manipulate a
start measured
depth, a control button 36b to manipulate an ending measured depth, a control
button
36c to manipulate a true vertical depth offset, and a control button 36d to
manipulate
a dip or dip angle in degrees. For example, the user can increase values,
decrease
values, or replace a value with a new value using the control buttons.
[000149] A first indicator 37a to identify dipping away from the projected
path of the drill bit,
and a second indicator 37b to identify dipping towards the projected path of
the drill
bit are also depicted.
[000150] Additional navigation controls can be presented to the user,
including a first
navigation control 150 for moving the portion of interest in the stratigraphic
section
in a first direction along the stratigraphic cross section, and a second
navigation
control 152 for moving a portion of interest in the stratigraphic section 57
in a second
direction along the stratigraphic cross section. In one or more embodiments,
the
navigation controls can have "double" arrows for moving a user to the end or
start of
a stratigraphic cross section.
[000151] The executive dashboard 26 can have additional buttons that can be
used to
manipulate a first relative matching graph 43a and a second relative matching
graph
43b.
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000152] The additional control buttons include an actual scale factor button
40 that can be
used to increase or decrease a scale value of the actual curves for both of
the relative
matching graphs, such as the gamma ray curve and the total gas curve.
[000153] The executive dashboard 26 can include a control button to set,
change, increase, or
decrease a starting true vertical depth offset of a type log curve for both of
the relative
matching graphs 42.
[000154] The additional controls for the first relative matching graph 43a can
include a control
button for each of the relative matching graphs that can be used for depth
zoom-in 44
and a control button for each of the relative matching graphs that can be used
for
depth zoom-out 45. For example, a user can use a depth zoom-in to examine the
curve values in more detail to achieve a better or desired curve fit.
[000155] A control button for each of the relative matching graphs that can be
used for value
zoom-in 46, a control button for each of the relative matching graphs that can
be used
for value zoom-out 47, and a control button for each of the relative matching
graphs
that can be used to scroll up 48 along the first relative matching graph 43a.
For
example, a user can use a value zoom-out button to examine the curve from a
macro
perspective rather than in detail.
[000156] A control button for each of the relative matching graphs can be used
to scroll down
50 along the first relative matching graph 43a. For example, the user can use
the
control button to view different portions of the relative graph. The second
relative
matching graph 43b can have the same additional control buttons, which are not
labeled in this figure.
[000157] The relative matching graphs can be formed by plotting the target
relative depth scale
51 versus the value scale 52. The target relative depth scale 51 can be a true
vertical
depth scale that is relative to the target true vertical depth. For example,
if the target
true vertical depth is 6632 feet, this target true vertical depth can be set
as a zero on
the target relative depth scale 51, such that a value of -100 feet on the
target relative
depth scale 51 would represent 6532 feet in terms of true vertical depth, and
a value
26
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
of 50 feet on the target relative depth scale 51 would represent 6682 feet in
terms of
true vertical depth. The value scale 52 can be a real-time value of the actual
curves
and type log curves, such as the gamma ray curves and other curves.
[000158] The first relative matching graph 43a can include: the first
formation/marker top 53,
the second formation/marker top 54, and the third formation/marker top 55. In
operation, a user can use the two relative matching graphs to view two
separate views
of the actual curve overlaid onto the type log curve, thereby simultaneously
viewing a
macro and a micro view of the curve fit.
[000159] The executive dashboard 26 can include additional control buttons,
which can be
disposed below the plot of the actual curves, such as the gamma ray curve 110,
which
is disposed below the wellbore profile 25. For example, the executive
dashboard 26
can include a control button to add a stratigraphic section to the wellbore
profile 38,
and control button to delete a stratigraphic section to the wellbore profile
39. For
example, the user can add a stratigraphic section representing the measured
depths of
the wellbore starting at 7040 feet and ending at 7650 feet to the wellbore
profile 25.
The executive dashboard 26 can include speed control 41a and speed control
41b,
which can each be used to adjust a rate of change of the other controls of the
executive dashboard 26.
[000160] The wellbore profile 25 and the plot of the actual curves, such as
the gamma ray
curve 110, can include a portion of interest in the stratigraphic section 57.
A portion
of the actual curve 49a within the portion of interest in the stratigraphic
section 57
can be plotted within each of the relative matching graphs 43a and 43b, shown
as 49b
and 49c respectively, along with the type log curves 103a and 103b
respectively.
[000161] In operation, the user can add stratigraphic sections using the
control buttons. Then,
for each stratigraphic section, the user can adjust a width of the portion of
interest in
the stratigraphic section 57. Then, for each stratigraphic section, the user
can then
adjust true vertical depth offset and the dip or dip angle using the control
buttons such
that the actual curve overlays the type log curve to achieve the highest
degree of
fit/correlation between the two curves as is possible. Adjusting the true
vertical depth
27
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
offset in the actual curve changes the vertical shift of the actual curve as
plotted.
Adjusting the dip or dip angle of the actual curve changes the thickness,
shape, and
direction of the actual curve as plotted.
[000162] Upon selection of the portion of interest in the stratigraphic
section 57 within the
wellbore profile 25, the portion of the actual curve 49a-49c within the
portion of
interest in the stratigraphic section 57 is presented within the relative
matching graphs
43a and 43b along with the type log curves 103a and 103b. Upon adjustments to
the
true vertical depth offset and the dip or dip angle using the control buttons
36c and
36d, the adjustments can also be reflected in the relative matching graphs 43a
and 43b
and in the wellbore profile 25. The user can then use the actual curves 49a-
49c and
the type log curves 103a and 103b presented within the relative matching
graphs 43a
and 43b to match portions of the actual curve to portions of the type log
curve in
order to determine the best fit/correlation between the two curves. The user
can repeat
the above steps for all of the portions of interest in the stratigraphic
section 57 for
which the user has an actual curve 49a-49c to match with a type log curve 103a
and
103b. As the wellbore is drilled, new data can be received by the cloud
processor
from the directional drilling equipment, thereby providing new actual curves,
and
allowing portions of the new actual curves to be compared to the type log
curves 103a
and 103b for fitting/correlation.
[000163] Figures 4A-4F are a representation of the cloud data storage. The
computer
instructions disclosed herein can be used to perform various steps of the
cloud
computing method.
[000164] Figure 4A shows that the first cloud data storage 7a can include
computer instructions
to instruct the cloud processor to create an executive dashboard and to
continuously
present the executive dashboard on a display to a user in real-time 600.
[000165] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to identify a projected path, simultaneously in two dimensions and
three
dimensions, for the drilling bit during directional drilling, and to store the
projected
path in the cloud data storage 602.
28
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000166] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to import data, including a plurality of offset/type tops of a
projected
formation through which the projected path will follow, from a second cloud
data
storage to an offset/type table 604.
[000167] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to import data including an actual survey of the wellbore from one
or more
of the second cloud data storages 606.
[000168] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to import data including a geological prognosis from one or more of
the
second cloud data storages to a prognosed tops table into the first cloud data
storage
608.
[000169] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to compute a wellbore profile using the imported data, wherein the
wellbore profile is a composite visualization of a plurality of true vertical
depths, and
to compute the stratigraphic cross section for the wellbore profile 610.
[000170] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to plot an actual drilling path using the actual survey 612.
[000171] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to overlay the actual drilling path onto the projected path in the
stratigraphic cross section in the wellbore profile, thereby enabling a real-
time and
moment-by-moment updating of the actual drilling path over the projected path
for
the drill bit 614. A user can therefore view the actual drilling path and the
projected
drilling path in the executive dashboard.
[000172] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to present control buttons to the user on the executive dashboard
enabling
the user to increase or decrease, for at least one portion of the
stratigraphic cross
section, each member of the group consisting of: a starting measured depth, an
ending
measured depth, a true vertical depths offset, and a dip 616.
29
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000173] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to enable the user to increase or decrease values associated with
each
control button to modify: the starting measured depth, the ending measured
depth, the
true vertical depths offset, the dip, or combinations thereof of portions of
the
stratigraphic cross section to correctly identify a location of the drill bit
in the
stratigraphic cross section 617.
[000174] Figure 4B is a continuation of Figure 4A. The first cloud data
storage 7a can include
computer instructions to instruct the cloud processor to compute the true
vertical
depths as measured at the perpendicular angle from the horizontal plane
representing
the surface surrounding the wellbore using measured depths, inclinations, and
azimuths; to plot the true vertical depths versus the measured depths of the
drill bit;
and to present the plotted true vertical depths versus the measured depths
within the
wellbore profile in the executive dashboard 618.
[000175] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to present a first speed control button in the executive dashboard
to control
a rate of adjustment for control buttons, and a second speed control button to
control a
rate of adjustment for control buttons 620.
[000176] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to transmit an alarm if continued drilling in a formation: will
violate a
permit, will pose a safety hazard, will be an economic hazard, or combinations
thereof 622.
[000177] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to superimpose the projected path for the drill bit over a formation
structure
map to determine faults through which the projected path will pass 624.
[000178] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to superimpose the projected path for the drill bit over the
stratigraphic
cross section to determine formations through which the projected path will
pass 626.
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000179] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to form a report of the projected path and the actual drilling path,
and to
present the report of the projected path and the actual drilling path in the
executive
dashboard to be viewed in real-time by a plurality of users simultaneously
628.
[000180] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to form a report of past drilling data and planned drilling actions
associated
with the executive dashboard 630.
[000181] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to display in the executive dashboard an actual location of the
drill bit on
the actual drilling path for instantaneous identification of the drill bit
during
horizontal drilling 632.
[000182] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to use a surface elevation or a rotary table bushing elevation of a
surface for
a start of a bore hole and at least one offset/type tops of the projected
formation to
generate the geological prognosis 634.
[000183] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to use type log tops from a vertical well proximate the wellbore to
calculate
thicknesses of formations, thicknesses of rock between formations, other
geological
features, or combinations thereof 636. The vertical well proximate the
wellbore can
be used as a reference point to represent geological features of the area
proximate the
wellbore, such as thicknesses of formations and thicknesses of rock between
formations.
[000184] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to generate the projected path by calculating the projected path
using a kick
off point, a build rate, a landing point, and a target angle 638. The kick off
point can
be the portion of the wellbore wherein the horizontal drilling begins. The
build rate
can be the rate of change of inclination of the wellbore to reach the landing
point. The
landing point can be the point at which the wellbore reaches a target depth.
The target
31
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
angle can be the angle of inclination of the wellbore as it extends from the
landing
point.
[000185] Figure 4C is a continuation of Figure 4B. The first cloud data
storage 7a can include
computer instructions to instruct the cloud processor to provide correlation
points for
at least one actual curve or at least one point along an actual curve of the
stratigraphic
cross section, wherein each correlation point is tied to a known type log
curve for
confirming accuracy of the actual curve, accuracy of a fit of the actual curve
to the
known type log curve, or combinations thereof 640.
[000186] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to provide correlation points for at least one actual curve or at
least one
point along an actual curve of the stratigraphic cross section to allow the
user to
thicken or thin each actual curve of the stratigraphic cross section to fit a
known type
log curve 642.
[000187] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to present the projected path in the executive dashboard
simultaneously in
two dimensions and in three dimensions 644. The three dimensional presentation
of
the projected path includes an overlay of an ownership map for the land and a
micro-
seismic plot of the land along an azimuth of the wellbore. The ownership map
can be
used to determine whether or not the actual drilling path and the projected
path are
within land ownership/lease boundaries.
[000188] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to store data received from the directional drilling equipment
within the
cloud data storage 646.
[000189] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to communicate over a network and to import the plurality of
offset/type
tops of the projected formation through which the projected path will follow
648.
[000190] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to save the wellbore profile in the cloud data storage 650.
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000191] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to transmit the wellbore profile to the display 652.
[000192] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to compute a "distance to next formation" using the measured depth
from
the current formation, and present the computed "distance to next formation"
to the
user within the executive dashboard 654.
[000193] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to use an estimated true vertical depth of the next formation and a
kelly
bushing elevation to compute an "estimated subsea depth of next formation",
and
present the "estimated subsea depth of next formation" to the user in the
executive
dashboard 656.
[000194] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to determine a "current dip" 658. For example, the computer
instructions
can be used to determine a current dip angle of a current formation.
[000195] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to calculate a "current true vertical depth", and to present the
"current true
vertical depth" in the executive dashboard 660.
[000196] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to present the reports to the user in addition to and simultaneously
with the
executive dashboard 662.
[000197] Figure 4D is a continuation of Figure 4C. The first cloud data
storage 7a can include
computer instructions to instruct the cloud processor to configure the
executive
dashboard to allow users to highlight portions of the wellbore profile 664.
[000198] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to plot an actual curve and to plot a type log curve within the same
graph
for fitting/correlation of the actual curve to the type log curve 666.
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000199] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to form a plot of a portion of the actual curve within the portion
of interest
in the stratigraphic section versus the target relative depth scale 668.
10002001 The calculation used to plot the portion of the actual curve within
the portion of
interest in the stratigraphic section versus the target relative depth scale
can include as
factors: the true vertical depths of the wellbore that passes through the
stratigraphic
section, as well as any formation dips and/or faults that occur in the
stratigraphic
section. For example, the plot of the portion of the actual curve within the
portion of
interest in the stratigraphic section versus the target relative depth scale
can be
calculated by taking each sampling data point along the portion of the actual
curve
having a measured depth and an actual value, and performing calculations on
those
sampling data points.
[000201] The calculations performed on the sampling data points can be
performed using
computer instructions. For example, the first cloud data storage 7a can
include
computer instructions to instruct the cloud processor to calculate a change in
true
vertical depth due to a dip or dip angle 670. The calculation of the change in
true
vertical depth due to the dip or dip angle can be performed by multiplying the
tangent
of the negation of the dip angle for the stratigraphic section with the
absolute value of
the difference in the measured depth and the starting measured depth of the
stratigraphic section.
[000202] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to calculate the true vertical depth at the starting measured depth
for the
stratigraphic section using the actual survey stored in the cloud data storage
672. The
calculation of the true vertical depth at the starting measured depth for the
stratigraphic section using the actual survey stored in the cloud data storage
can also
be performed using the computer instructions 660, but using a measured depth
other
than the current measured depth.
[000203] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to calculate the true vertical depth at the measured depth of the
data point
34
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
along the actual curve using the actual survey within the cloud data storage
674. The
calculation of the true vertical depth at the measured depth at the data point
along the
actual curve using the actual survey within the cloud data storage can be
performed
using the computer instructions 660.
[000204] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to calculate a change in the true vertical depth due to a change in
true
vertical depth in the actual survey by determining a difference between the
true
vertical depth at the starting measured depth and the true vertical depth at
the
measured depth at the data point along the actual curve 676.
[000205] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to calculate a change in target relative depth by performing a
summation of
the change in true vertical depth due to dip and the change in true vertical
depth due
to the change in true vertical depth in the actual survey 678.
[000206] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to calculate an X-axis value for the plot of the portion of the
actual curve
within the portion of interest in the stratigraphic section versus the target
relative
depth scale by multiplying an actual value of the data point with an actual
scale factor
680.
[000207] The actual scale factor can be set by a user using the control
buttons in the executive
dashboard.
[000208] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to calculate a Y-axis value for the plot of the portion of the
actual curve
within the portion of interest in the stratigraphic section versus the target
relative
depth scale by determining a difference between the starting target relative
depth of
the stratigraphic section and the change in target relative depth, and then
subtract the
true vertical depth shift from the determined difference 682.
[000209] The true vertical depth shift can be set by a user using the control
buttons in the
executive dashboard.
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000210] The plot of the portion of the actual curve within the portion of
interest in the
stratigraphic section versus the target relative depth scale can be displayed
as one or
more the relative matching graphs as described herein.
[000211] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to plot the stratigraphic cross section 684.
[000212] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to calculate the stratigraphic cross section consisting of multiple
curves
representing tops of formations through which the wellbore has traversed or is
expected to traverse 686.
[000213] In one or more embodiments, the multiple curves can represent
formations through
which the wellbore is expected not to traverse.
[000214] Figure 4E is a continuation of Figure 4D. The first cloud data
storage 7a can include
computer instructions to instruct the cloud processor to plot curves for each
formation
in the stratigraphic cross section using: the true vertical depth offsets, the
starting
measured depth, the ending measured depth, the dip, and thicknesses from the
offset/type tops table 688.
[000215] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to determine two points along the plotted curves for each formation
in the
stratigraphic cross section, wherein a first point represents a starting point
for a
portion of the plotted curve, and a second point represents an ending point
for the
portion of the plotted curve, and wherein the portion of the plotted curve
represents a
formation within the portion of interest in the stratigraphic section 690. The
portion of
the plotted curve can be the portion of interest in the stratigraphic section.
The first
point can have a first X-axis value and a first Y-axis value, and the second
point can
have a second X-axis value and a second Y-axis value.
[000216] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to use an X-axis value of the first point of a previous
stratigraphic section
as the starting measured depth for the current stratigraphic section 692.
36
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000217] In one or more embodiments, the computer instructions can instruct
the cloud
processor to use the second X-axis value of a previous portion of interest in
the
stratigraphic section as the start measured depth for a current portion of
interest in the
stratigraphic section.
[000218] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to calculate a Y-axis value of the first point by summing a Y-axis
value of a
second point of a previous stratigraphic section and the true vertical depth
offset a
current stratigraphic section 694.
[000219] In one or more embodiments, the computer instructions can instruct
the cloud
processor to calculate the first Y-axis value for the current portion of
interest in the
stratigraphic section by summing the second Y-axis value of the previous
portion of
interest in the stratigraphic section with a true vertical depth offset of the
current
portion of interest in the stratigraphic section. The previous portion of
interest in the
stratigraphic section can be the portion of interest of the stratigraphic
section
previously analyzed, and the current portion of interest in the stratigraphic
section can
be the portion of interest in the stratigraphic section currently being
analyzed,
wherein the previous portion of interest in the stratigraphic section has
lower
measured depths than the current portion of interest in the stratigraphic
section.
[000220] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to use an X-axis value of the second point as the ending measured
depth for
the current stratigraphic section 696.
[000221] In one or more embodiments, the computer instructions can instruct
the cloud
processor to use the second X-axis value of the current portion of interest in
the
stratigraphic section as an ending measured depth for the current portion of
interest in
the stratigraphic section.
[000222] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to calculate a change in measured depth as the absolute value of the
difference in the ending measured depth and the starting measured depth of the
37
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
current stratigraphic section 698. In one or more embodiments of the
calculation
performed by computer instructions 698, the current stratigraphic section can
be
replaced with the current portion of interest in the stratigraphic section.
[000223] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to calculate a change in true vertical depth by multiplying the
tangent of the
negation of the dip angle for the stratigraphic section with the change in
measured
depth of the current stratigraphic section 700. In one or more embodiments of
the
calculation performed by the computer instructions 700, the stratigraphic
section and
the current stratigraphic section can be replaced with the current portion of
interest in
the stratigraphic section.
[000224] The first cloud data storage 7a can include computer instructions to
instruct the cloud
processor to calculate a Y-axis value of the second point by summing a Y-axis
value
of the first point and the change in true vertical depth of the current
stratigraphic
section 702. In one or more embodiment of the calculation performed by
computer
instructions 702, the current stratigraphic section can be replaced with the
current
portion of interest in the stratigraphic section.
[000225] Figure 4F is a continuation of Figure 4E.
[000226] The cloud data storage can include various portions of data stored
therein including:
the stratigraphic cross section 11 with a formation dipping away from a
perpendicular
angle from a horizontal plane representing a surface surrounding the wellbore
21 and
a formation dipping toward the perpendicular angle from the horizontal plane
representing the surface surrounding the wellbore 23; the projected path 12;
the
offset/type table 15 with the plurality of offset/type tops including
offset/type top 14a
and offset/type top 14b; the actual survey 18; the prognosed tops table 24
with the
geological prognosis 22 and the depth 221; the wellbore profile 25; and the
formation
structure map 60.
[000227] The actual drilling path 35 can also be stored in the first cloud
data storage 7a. For
example, during drilling actual surveys can be performed in manners well known
in
38
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
the art. Data from the actual surveys can be imported into the first cloud
data storage
7a for use in plotting the actual drilling path.
[000228] The report of past drilling data and planned drilling actions 62
associated with the
executive dashboard can be stored in the first cloud data storage 7a, and can
include:
at least one formation name 78; at least one projected top of the formation
associated
with the formation name 79; at least one true vertical depth as drilled 80; at
least one
difference between a projected top and an as drilled top 81; at least one dip
for a
formation name as drilled at a top of a formation 82; at least one drill angle
of the
wellbore at the top of the formation with a drilled top 83; at least one
estimated
distance needed for the drill bit to travel to reach a top of a next formation
or a
selected formation at a known drill angle and at a known dip of the formation
84; and
at least one estimated/actual subsea formation depth relative to sea level of
the current
formation, the next formation, or a selected formation at the known drill
angle and at
the known dip of the current formation 85.
[000229] The actual location of the drill bit 101, the estimated true vertical
depth of the next
formation 105, the kelly bushing elevation 89, and the estimated subsea depth
of next
formation 73 can all be stored in the first cloud data storage 7a.
[000230] The distance to next formation 72 can be stored in the first cloud
data storage 7a. For
example, the cloud processor can use the current measured depth of the drill
bit, the
current true vertical depth of the drill bit, the current inclination of the
wellbore, the
current dip of the formations, and the estimated true vertical depth of the
next
formation to calculate the distance the wellbore must be extended to reach the
next
formation.
[000231] The current dip 74 can be stored in the first cloud data storage 7a.
For example, the
current dip can be a property of a portion of interest within the
stratigraphic section.
In operation, given a current measured depth, the cloud processor can
determine
which saved portion of interest within the cloud data storage corresponds to
the
current measured depth. The cloud processor can the retrieve the current dip
associated and saved with that saved portion of interest within the cloud data
storage.
39
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000232] The current true vertical depth 75 can be stored in the first cloud
data storage 7a. The
current true vertical depth can be determined by using the current measured
depth and
measured depths in the actual survey to interpolate between two measured
depths in
the actual survey, wherein the current measured depth is a depth of the
wellbore
between the two measured depths; or extrapolate to the current measured depth
using
at least one measured depth from the actual survey.
[000233] Also stored in the cloud data storage are: measured depths 33,
received data 9a, and
sent data and/or commands 9b.
[000234] Figure 5 is presentation of a geological prognosis 22 usable in the
invention. The
geological prognosis 22 can include: header information 168, payzones 170,
formation information 172, top depths of formations 174, base depths of
formations
178, and a target line 180. For example, the header information 168 can
include
information about the wellbore including: contact information, identifying
information for the wellbore, and other information. The payzones 170 can also
be
referred to as target objectives, project objectives, zones of interest, and
formations of
interest. The formation information 172 can include formation names, formation
markers, and annotated points of interest. The target line 180 can include the
target
true vertical depth, the target angle, and a range above and below the target
depth
forming a target zone. The top depths of formations 174 can be true vertical
depths or
measured depths. The base depths of formations 178 can be true vertical depths
or
measured depths.
[000235] Figure 6 is a representation of an offset/type table 15 usable in the
system usable to
implement the Cloud computing method, including a table identifier 181 that
identifies the type log tops being stored in the offset/type table.
[000236] The offset/type table 15 can include rows and columns of data. A
first column of data
182 can include formation names. The first column of data 182 can include a
plurality
of offset/type tops of a projected formation, including offset/type top 14a,
offset/type
top 14d, offset/type top 14g, and offset/type top 14j.
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000237] The offset/type table 15 can include: a top depths of formations
column 184, such as
depth 2110.0 feet for the Selman Sand formation.
[000238] The offset/type table 15 can include a true vertical depth tops
column 186, which can
be 3744.0 for the Midland Silt marker formation.
[000239] The offset/type table 15 can include a true vertical depths base
column 188, such as
4850 for the Thomas SS formation.
[000240] The offset/type table 15 can include a subsea true vertical depth
tops column 190,
such as -4032 for the Brian market 1 formation.
[000241] Additionally the offset/type table 15 can include a subsea true
vertical depth base
column 192, such as -911.0 for the Selman Sand formation, and a thickness
column
194, such as 264.0 for the Midland silt marker.
[000242] The offset/type table 15 can have a first selector button 191 that
allows a user to enter
a true vertical depth into the top depths of formations column 184. A second
selector
button 195 can allow a user to enter a subsea true vertical depth into the top
depths of
formations column 184.
[000243] The offset/type table 15 can have three storage buttons including a
save and close
button 193 that can be used to save data that has been edited in the table 15
to the first
cloud data storage 7a of Figure 1, and saves the presented template of the
offset/type
table 15, and can remove the offset/type table 15 from the display. A save
button 197
can be used to save the data that has been edited in the offset/type table 15
to the first
cloud data storage 7a. A close button 199 can be used to close a template of
the
offset/type table 15, and to remove the template from the display.
[000244] Figure 7 is a representation of an actual survey 18 usable in the
system usable to
implement the cloud computing method. The actual survey 18 can include: a
measured depth 196; an inclination 198; an azimuth 200; a tool type 202; a
survey
table name 204; a proposed azimuth 206, such as 149.0 degrees; a target angle
208,
such as 90 degrees; a survey calculation cloud computing method 210, such as
the
41
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
minimum curvature cloud computing method; a target true vertical depth 212,
such as
6632.2; an initial value true vertical depth 214; an initial value vertical
section 216; a
northing 59, and an easting 220.
[000245] The actual survey 18 can include exemplary survey points. The
exemplary survey
points can include the measured depths at which the actual survey is being or
has
been conducted, such as at 5890 feet. The actual survey 18 can show that the
survey
is using a gyro tool, as depicted in the tool type 202 column. For example,
the gyro
tool can measure the inclination as 2.3 degrees from vertical, and the azimuth
can be
a compass direction at 172.8 degrees when at a depth of 5890 feet. The actual
survey
18 can include a save and close button, a save button, and a close button
which can
function the same as those described for the offset/type table depicted in
Figure 6.
10002461 Figure 8 is a detailed view of a stratigraphic cross section 11 for
the wellbore profile
25. The stratigraphic cross section 11 can include: a projected path 12 for a
drilling
bit, an actual path 35 for the drilling bit, a true vertical depth offset for
the
stratigraphic cross section of the wellbore 106, a dip angle for the
stratigraphic cross
section of the wellbore 108, which is shown as a dip away that is
approximately a 30
degree angle. The stratigraphic cross section 11 can include: one of the
offset type
tops sections through which the projected path will follow 100, a starting
measured
depth 102 for a stratigraphic section 57 of the wellbore, and an ending
measured
depth 104 for the stratigraphic section 57.
[000247] Figure 9 depicts an embodiment of a prognosed tops table 24.
[000248] The prognosed tops table 24 can include a table identifier 181 that
identifies the type
log tops being stored in the prognosed tops table 24.
[000249] The prognosed tops table 24 can include rows and columns of data. A
first column of
data 182 can include formation names. The first column of data 182 can include
a
plurality of offset/type tops of a projected formation, including offset/type
top 14a,
offset/type top 14d, offset/type top 14g, and offset/type top 14j.
42
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000250] The prognosed tops table 24 can include: top depths of formations
column 184, such
as depth 2110.0 feet for the Selman Sand formation.
[000251] The prognosed tops table 24 can include a true vertical depth tops
column 186, which
can be 3744.0 for the Midland Silt marker formation.
[000252] The prognosed tops table 24 can include a true vertical depths base
column 188, such
as 4850 for the Thomas SS formation.
[000253] The prognosed tops table 24 can include a subsea true vertical depth
tops column 190,
such as -4032 for the Brian market 1 formation.
[000254] Additionally the prognosed tops table 24 can include a subsea true
vertical depth base
column 192, such as -911.0 for the Selman Sand formation, and a thickness of
formation column 194, such as 264.0 for the Midland silt marker.
[000255] The prognosed tops table 24 can have a first selector button 191 that
allows a user to
enter a true vertical depth into the top depths of formations column 184. A
second
selector button 195 can allow a user to enter a subsea true vertical depth
into the top
depths of formations column 184.
[000256] The prognosed tops table 24 can have three storage buttons including
a save and close
button 193 that can be used to save data that has been edited in the prognosed
tops
table to the cloud data storage 7 of Figure 1, and saves the presented
template of the
prognosed tops table, and can remove the prognosed tops table 24 from the
display. A
save button 197 can be used to save the data that has been edited in the
prognosed
tops table 24 to the cloud data storage 7. A close button 199 can be used to
close the
prognosed tops table 24, and to remove the prognosed tops table from the
display.
[000257] Figures 10A-10E depict an embodiment of the cloud computing method
for
geo steering during directional drilling of a wellbore.
[000258] Figure 10A shows that the cloud computing method can include as a
first step, using
computer instructions to form an executive dashboard and continuously present
the
43
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
executive dashboard in real-time to a display of a client device of a user, as
illustrated
by box 1000.
[000259] The cloud computing method can using computer instructions to present
within the
executive dashboard to the user: at least a portion of received data from
directional
drilling equipment and a portion of interest in a stratigraphic cross section
for user
identification of: a drill bit in the stratigraphic cross section, formations
in the
stratigraphic cross section, other formation data, as illustrated by box 1002.
[000260] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
identify a
projected path for the drill bit during directional drilling and presenting
the projected
path within the executive dashboard, as illustrated by box 1004.
[000261] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
compute a
wellbore profile for the wellbore, as illustrated by box 1006.
[000262] For example, the wellbore profile can be computed using: an
offset/type table
including a plurality of offset/type tops of a projected formation through
which the
projected path is expected to pass; an actual survey of the wellbore; and a
geological
prognosis from a prognosed tops table comprising at least one depth for at
least one
formation top through which the projected path is expected to pass, wherein
the
wellbore profile is a composite visualization of a plurality of true vertical
depths.
[000263] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
compute the
stratigraphic cross section for the wellbore profile, as illustrated by box
1008.
[000264] For example, the stratigraphic cross section can be computed using
the imported data,
wherein the stratigraphic cross section comprises: a formation dipping away
from a
perpendicular angle from a horizontal plane representing a surface surrounding
the
wellbore; a formation dipping toward the perpendicular angle from the
horizontal
plane representing the surface surrounding the wellbore; or combinations
thereof.
[000265] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
plot an
actual drilling path for the drill bit using the actual survey, as illustrated
by box 1010.
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000266] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
overlay the
actual drilling path onto the projected path in the stratigraphic cross
section in the
wellbore profile, thereby enabling real-time updating of the actual drilling
path over
the projected path, as illustrated by box 1012.
10002671 The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
present
"clickable" or actuateable control buttons to the user on the executive
dashboard
enabling the user to increase or decrease: a starting measured depth, ending
measured
depth, and true vertical depth offset of the portion of interest in the
stratigraphic cross
section; and a dip of the projected formation for the portion of the
stratigraphic cross
section, as illustrated by box 1014.
[000268] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
send data
and/or commands to the directional drilling equipment using the executive
dashboard
to steer the drill bit in the wellbore or allowing the user to send data
and/or commands
to the directional drilling equipment, essentially enabling a user to use the
executive
dashboard to steer the drill bit in the wellbore, as illustrated by box 1016.
[000269] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
compute a
portion of interest of the stratigraphic section, as illustrated by box 1018.
[000270] For example, the portion of interest of the stratigraphic section can
be computed
using: one of the plurality of offset/type tops of the projected formation
through
which the projected path is expected to pass; the start measured depth; the
ending
measured depth; the true vertical depth offset; and the dip angle.
[000271] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
present an
actual curve with the wellbore profile in the executive dashboard, as
illustrated by
box 1020.
[000272] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
form a plot
of a portion of the actual curve within the portion of interest in the
stratigraphic cross
section versus a target relative depth scale, as illustrated by box 1022.
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000273] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
calculate a
change in true vertical depth due to the dip angle, as illustrated by box
1024.
[000274] Figure 10B is a continuation of Figure 10A. The cloud computing
method can include
using computer instructions to calculate a true vertical depth at the start
measured
depth for the portion of interest in the stratigraphic cross section using the
actual
survey, as illustrated by box 1026.
[000275] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
calculate the
trite vertical depth at a measured depth of a plurality of sampling data
points along the
actual curve using the actual survey, as illustrated by box 1028.
[000276] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
calculate a
change in the true vertical depth, as illustrated by box 1030.
[000277] For example, the change in the true vertical depth can be calculated
by determining a
difference between the true vertical depth at the start measured depth and the
true
vertical depth at the measured depth of each of the plurality of sampling data
points
along the actual curve.
[000278] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
calculate a
change in target relative depth, as illustrated by box 1032.
[000279] For example, the change in target relative depth can be calculated by
performing a
summation of the change in true vertical depth using the dip angle and the
change in
true vertical depth.
[000280] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
calculate an
X-axis value for the plot of the portion of the actual curve versus the target
relative
depth scale, as illustrated by box 1034.
[000281] For example, the X-axis value can be calculated by multiplying an
actual value of one
of the plurality of data points with an actual scale factor.
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
10002821 The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
calculate a
Y-axis value for the plot of the portion of the actual curve versus the target
relative
depth scale, as illustrated by box 1036.
10002831 For example, the Y-axis value can be calculated by subtracting a
starting target
relative depth of the portion of interest in the stratigraphic cross section
from a
change in target relative depth forming a difference, and then subtracting a
true
vertical depth shift from the difference.
10002841 The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
display the
plot of the portion of the actual curve versus the target relative depth scale
simultaneously in a first relative matching graph and a second relative
matching
graph allowing the user to correlate the actual curve to the type log curve,
as
illustrated by box 1038.
10002851 The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
present
within the executive dashboard various controls, buttons, legends, and
indicators
allowing the user to control portions of the executive dashboard, as
illustrated by box
1040.
10002861 For example, the various controls, buttons, legends, and indicators
can include: an
actual scale factor button allowing the user to increase or decrease the scale
factor of
the actual curve for both of the relative matching graphs; a control button to
set,
change, increase, or decrease a starting true vertical depth offset of the
type log curve
for both of the relative matching graphs; a control button for each of the
relative
matching graphs allowing the user to depth zoom-in; a control button for each
of the
relative matching graphs allowing the user to depth zoom-out; a control button
for
each of the relative matching graphs allowing the user to value zoom-in; a
control
button for each of the relative matching graphs allowing the user to value
zoom-out; a
control button for each of the relative matching graphs allowing the user to
scroll up
along each relative matching graph; a control button for each of the relative
matching
graphs allowing the user to scroll down along each relative matching graph; a
control
button to add stratigraphic cross sections to the wellbore profile; a control
button to
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
delete stratigraphic cross sections from the wellbore profile; a first
indicator to
identify dipping away from the projected path; a second indicator to identify
dipping
towards the projected path; a first navigation control for moving the portion
of
interest in the stratigraphic section in a first direction along the
stratigraphic cross
section; a second navigation control for moving portion of interest in the
stratigraphic
section in a second direction along the stratigraphic cross section; a legend
showing: a
planned wellbore, an actual wellbore, formation names, a current formation
name, a
next formation name, total gas curves, gamma ray curves, or other curves; at
least one
speed control button to control a rate of adjustment for at least one of the
control
buttons; and combinations thereof.
[000287] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
plot as the
actual curve: a gamma ray curve, a total gas curve, a geologic curve, a
seismic curve,
or combinations thereof, as illustrated by box 1042.
[000288] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
present a
toolbar within the executive dashboard allowing the user to perform tasks.
[000289] The toolbar can include various drop down menus to perform various
tasks as
described in Figure 2.
[000290] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
present
controls within the executive dashboard that allow the user to correlate the
actual
curve to the type log curve including controls that allow the user to: adjust
a width of
the portion of interest in the stratigraphic section; and adjust true vertical
depth offset
and the dip angle using the control buttons such that the actual curve
overlays the
type log curve to achieve the correlation, as illustrated by box 1044.
[000291] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
compute and
plot the stratigraphic cross section for the wellbore profile, as illustrated
by box 1046.
[000292] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
calculate the
stratigraphic cross section, as illustrated by box 1048.
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000293] The stratigraphic cross section consists of multiple curves
representing tops of
formations through which the wellbore has traversed, is expected to traverse,
is
expected to not traverse, or combinations thereof
[000294] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
plot curves
for each formation in the stratigraphic cross section, as illustrated by box
1050.
[000295] For example, the plotting of curves for each formation in the
stratigraphic cross
section can use: true vertical depth offsets from the portion of interest in
the
stratigraphic section, start measured depths from the portion of interest in
the
stratigraphic section, ending measured depths from the portion of interest in
the
stratigraphic section, dips from the portion of interest in the stratigraphic
section, and
thicknesses from the offset/type tops table.
[000296] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
determine a
first point along the plotted curves for each formation in the stratigraphic
cross
section that represents a starting point for the portion of interest in the
stratigraphic
section, as illustrated by box 1052.
[000297] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
determine a
second point along the plotted curves for each formation in the stratigraphic
cross
section that represents an ending point for the portion of interest in the
stratigraphic
section, as illustrated by box 1054.
[000298] The portion of interest in the stratigraphic section can represent a
formation within
the portion of interest in the stratigraphic cross section. The first point
can include a
first X-axis value and a first Y-axis value, and the second point can include
a second
X-axis value and a second Y-axis value.
[000299] Figure 10C is a continuation of Figure 10B. The cloud computing
method can include
using computer instructions to use the second X-axis value of a previous
portion of
interest in the stratigraphic section as the start measured depth for a
current portion of
interest in the stratigraphic section, as illustrated by box 1056.
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000300] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
calculate the
first Y-axis value for the current portion of interest in the stratigraphic
section, as
illustrated by box 1058.
[000301] For example, the first Y-axis value for the current portion of
interest in the
stratigraphic section can be calculated by summing the second Y-axis value of
the
previous portion of interest in the stratigraphic section with a true vertical
depth offset
of the current portion of interest in the stratigraphic section.
[000302] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
use the
second X-axis value of the current portion of interest in the stratigraphic
section as an
ending measured depth for the current portion of interest in the stratigraphic
section,
as illustrated by box 1060.
[000303] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
calculate a
change in measured depth, as illustrated by box 1062.
[000304] For example the change in measured depth can be calculated as an
absolute value of a
difference in the ending measured depth and the starting measured depth of the
current portion of interest in the stratigraphic section.
[000305] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
calculate a
change in true vertical depth, as illustrated by box 1064.
10003061 For example, the change in true vertical depth can be calculated by
multiplying a
tangent of a negation of a dip angle for the current portion of interest in
the
stratigraphic section with the change in measured depth of the current portion
of
interest in the stratigraphic section.
[000307] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
calculate the
second Y-axis value, as illustrated by box 1066.
[000308] For example, the second Y-axis value can be calculated by summing the
first Y-axis
value and the change in true vertical depth of the current portion of interest
in the
stratigraphic section.
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000309] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
include
various portions of data within the actual survey, as illustrated by box 1068.
[000310] For example, the various portions of data can include a member of the
group
consisting of: a measured depth, an inclination, an azimuth, a tool type, a
survey table
name, a proposed azimuth, a target angle, a survey calculation Cloud computing
method, a target true vertical depth, an initial true vertical depth, an
initial vertical
section, an initial northing, an initial casting, and combinations thereof.
[000311] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
include
columns of data and buttons within both the offset/type table and the
prognosed tops
table, as illustrated by box 1070.
[000312] For example, the offset/type table and the prognosed tops table can
include the
columns of data and buttons shown in Figures 6 and 9 herein.
[000313] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
compute the
plurality of true vertical depths as measured at the perpendicular angle from
the
horizontal plane representing the surface surrounding the wellbore using
measured
depths, inclinations, and azimuths, as illustrated by box 1072.
[000314] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
plot the
plurality of true vertical depths versus measured depths of the drill bit, as
illustrated
by box 1074.
[000315] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
present the
plotted true vertical depths versus the measured depths within the wellbore
profile in
the executive dashboard, as illustrated by box 1076.
[000316] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
transmit an
alarm, as illustrated by box 1078.
[000317] For example, an alarm can be transmitted if continued drilling in a
formation: will
violate a permit, will pose a safety hazard, will be an economic hazard, or
combinations thereof, wherein the alarm is transmitted to the client device of
the user.
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000318] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
superimpose
the projected path over a formation structure map of the projected formation,
and
using the superimposed projected path over the formation structure map to
determine
faults through which the projected path is expected to pass, as illustrated by
box 1080.
[000319] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
superimpose
the projected path over the stratigraphic cross section, and using the
superimposed
projected path over the stratigraphic cross section to determine at least one
projected
formation through which the projected path is expected to pass, as illustrated
by box
1082.
[000320] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
form a
report of the projected path and the actual drilling path, and presenting the
report of
the projected path and the actual drilling path in the executive dashboard to
be viewed
in real-time by a plurality of users simultaneously, as illustrated by box
1084.
[000321] Figure 10D is a continuation of Figure 10C. The cloud computing
method can include
using computer instructions to present current information within the
executive
dashboard for simultaneous display to the plurality of users, as illustrated
by box
1086.
[000322] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
form a
report of past drilling data and planned drilling actions and presenting the
report of
past drilling data and planned drilling actions within the display, as
illustrated by box
1088.
[000323] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
display in
the executive dashboard an actual location of the drill bit on the actual
drilling path in
the wellbore profile for instantaneous identification of the drill bit, as
illustrated by
box 1090.
[000324] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
plot the
subsea true vertical depth against: the true vertical depth, the start
measured depth,
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
and the ending measured depth; and including the plot of the subsea true
vertical
depth within the wellbore profile, as illustrated by box 1092.
[000325] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
determine
the projected formation using a geological hypothesis of an actual geological
formation, as illustrated by box 1094.
[000326] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
generate the
geological prognosis using a surface elevation or a rotary table bushing
elevation of
the surface for a start of the wellbore and at least one offset/type top of
the projected
formation; or allowing the user to provide the geological prognosis, as
illustrated by
box 1096.
[000327] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
use
offset/type log tops from a vertical well proximate the wellbore to calculate
thicknesses of formations, thicknesses of rock between formations, other
geological
features, or combinations thereof, as illustrated by box 1098.
[000328] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
include a
type log in each of the plurality of offset/type tops, as illustrated by box
1100.
[000329] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
generate the
projected path by calculating the projected path using a kick off point, a
build rate, a
landing point, and a target angle; or allowing the user to provide the
projected path, as
illustrated by box 1102.
[000330] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
provide
correlation points for at least one actual curve or at least one point along
the actual
curve of the stratigraphic cross section, and tying each correlation point to
one or
more known type log curve for confirming: accuracy of the actual curve,
accuracy of
a fit of the actual curve to the known type log curve, or combinations
thereof, as
illustrated by box 1104.
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000331] The cloud computing method can also include using computer
instructions to display
multiple type logs on the stratigraphic cross section, as illustrated at box
1105. These
computer instructions can identify a location of a bit and identify type logs,
pre-stored
in the computing cloud, close to the bit and replace a previous type log with
a type
log identified as closest to the bit, and correlate the type log identified as
closest to
the bit with the location of the bit.
[000332] The cloud computing method can also include using computer
instructions to create
type logs for previously drilled portions of a wellbore and provide a detailed
view of
planar surfaces on the left and right of a drilled borehole or drill bit,
providing
additional planar surface information in a three dimensional model, as
illustrated at
box 1106. These computer instructions can use data from the previous portion
of a
wellbore to create data points for insertion into an existing type log using
geometric
calculations to provide for more accurate curve fittings as geosteering
continues.
[000333] The cloud computing method can further include using computer
instructions to
display multiple drilled wells in two dimensions and three dimensions, and
display
multiple laterals using a single vertical wellbore, as illustrated at box
1107.
[000334] Figure 10E is a continuation of Figure 10D. The cloud computing
method can include
using computer instructions to allow the user to thicken or thin each actual
curve
within the portion of interest of the stratigraphic section to fit the known
type log
curve, as illustrated by box 1109.
[000335] The cloud computing method can using computer instructions to create
type logs for
previously drilled portions of a wellbore and provide a detailed view of
planar
surfaces on the left and right of a drilled borehole or drill bit, and provide
additional
planar surface information in a three dimensional model., as illustrated by
box 1110.
[000336] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
store the
received data from the directional drilling equipment within a cloud data
storage, as
illustrated by box 1111.
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CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000337] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
communicate over a network and import the plurality of offset/type tops of the
projected formation through which the projected path will follow into the
cloud data
storage, as illustrated by box 1112.
[000338] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
save the
wellbore profile in the cloud data storage, as illustrated by box 1114.
[000339] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
transmit the
wellbore profile to the display, as illustrated by box 1116.
[000340] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
compute a
"distance to next formation" using measured depth from a current formation,
and
present the computed "distance to next formation" to the user within the
executive
dashboard, as illustrated by box 1118.
[000341] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
compute an
"estimated subsea depth of next formation" using an estimated true vertical
depth of a
next formation and a kelly bushing elevation, and present the "estimated
subsea depth
of next formation" to the user in the executive dashboard, as illustrated by
box 1120.
[000342] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
determine a
"current dip angle" of a current formation, as illustrated by box 1122.
[000343] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
configure
the executive dashboard to allow the user to highlight portions of the
wellbore profile,
as illustrated by box 1124.
[000344] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
calculate a
"current true vertical depth", and present the "current true vertical depth"
in the
executive dashboard, as illustrated by box 1126.
[000345] The cloud computing method can include using computer instructions to
present the
report to the user in addition to and simultaneously with the executive
dashboard, as
illustrated by box 1128.
CA 02827351 2013-09-18
[000346] While these embodiments have been described with emphasis on the
embodiments, it
should be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the
embodiments
might be practiced other than as specifically described herein.
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