BR122012001010A2 - drilling rig used for drilling an underground well and method of drilling an underground well - Google Patents

Abstract

drilling rig used for drilling an underground well and method of drilling an underground well. a drilling apparatus (100) used to drill an underground well. the drilling apparatus (100) includes a generally tubular gun carrier (106) and a load carrier (104) pivotally mounted to the gun carrier (1 to 6). at least one directed jet explosive charge (102) is mounted on the load carrier (104) and is operable to drill the well upon detonation. a dynamically adjustable weight system (124) is operatively associated with the load support (104). the dynamically adjustable weight system (124) is operable to adjust the center of gravity (120) of the load carrier (104) such that gravity will cause the load carrier (104) to rotate within the gun carrier ( 106) to position at least one directed jet explosive charge (102) in a desired circumferential direction relative to the well prior to drilling.

Description

(54) Title: DRILLING EQUIPMENT USED TO DRILL AN UNDERGROUND WELL AND METHOD OF DRILLING AN UNDERGROUND WELL (51) Int. Cl .: E21B 43/119.

(30) Unionist Priority: 13/03/2009 US 12 / 403,420.

(71) Depositor (s): HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC ..

(72) Inventor (s): JOHN H. HALES; ALLISON E. NOVAK; JOHN D. BURLESON.

(86) PCT Order: PCT US2010023545 of 02/09/2010 (87) PCT Publication: WO 2010/104634 of 16/09/2010 (85) National Phase Date: 16/01/2012 (62) Original order of the split : PI1006406-0 - 09/02/2010 (57) Abstract: DRILLING EQUIPMENT USED TO DRILL AN UNDERGROUND WELL AND METHOD OF DRILLING AN UNDERGROUND WELL. A drilling rig (100) used to drill an underground well. The drilling rig (100) includes a generally tubular gun carrier (106) and a load carrier (104) pivotally mounted on the gun carrier (106). At least one directed jet explosive charge (102) is mounted on the load carrier (104) and is operable to drill the well by detonation. A dynamically adjustable weight system (124) is operatively associated with the load support (104). The dynamically adjustable weight system (124) is operable to adjust the center of gravity (120) of the load carrier (104) in such a way that gravity will cause the load carrier (104) to rotate inside the cannon carrier ( 106) to position at least one directed jet explosive charge (102) in a desired circumferential direction relative to the well prior to drilling.

DRILLING EQUIPMENT USED TO DRILL AN UNDERGROUND WELL AND METHOD OF DRILLING AN UNDERGROUND WELL Divided from PI 1006406-0 deposited on 9/13/2011 Technical field of the invention

The present invention relates, in general, to the drilling of a well hole that passes through an underground formation containing fluid using explosive directed jet loads and in particular to an apparatus and method for dynamically adjusting the center of gravity of an apparatus drilling.

Background of the invention

Without limiting the scope of the present invention, its background will be described with reference to the drilling of an underground formation with a directed explosive jet drilling rig 15 as an example.

After drilling the various sections of an underground well hole that passes through a formation, individual lengths of metal tubing with relatively large diameter are typically clamped together to form a casing column that is positioned inside the well hole. This coating column increases the integrity of the well bore and provides a path to produce fluids from production intervals to the surface. Conventionally, the coating column 25 is cemented into the well bore. To produce fluids in the coating column, hydraulic opening or drilling must be done through the coating column, the cement and a short distance into the formation.

Typically, these perforations are created by detonating a series of directed jet explosive charges located on the coating column that are positioned adjacent to the desired formation. Specifically, one or more charge carriers are charged with directed jet explosive charges that are connected to a detonation device, such as a detonating cord. The loaders are then connected in a column

of tool that is lowered into the coated well hole at the end of a column of electrical wires, line or similar. After the properly positioned explosive formation of jet loads to the slippery ones, loaders in the jet bore being drilled are explosive charges of lines that detonate explosive blasts, jets that explode through the charger. Each jet through the liner and creates a cement pipe, spiral loading pipe line to be such well directed, the loads detonated. By means of a directed jet, they create scallop or recess hydraulic opening and enter the formation forming a perforation.

It has been found, for example, that drilling is often advantageous, however, a well bore that is sometimes in a specific direction in relation to the hole in a deviated well, inclined or forming perforations or the desired range of well. For horizontal, it is in the ascending direction, descending direction or both. Attempts have been made to achieve this goal of drilling wells in specific directions. A method of directing drilling loads to the bottom of the well requires that the loads be rigidly mounted on a cannon conveyor so that they are pointed in the desired directions in relation to the loader. The cannon conveyor is then transferred into a well hole and laterally physically propped to one side of the hole __of the well. so that. the cannon carrier looks for the bottom portion of the borehole due to gravity, or the cannon carrier is pivotally supported with its center of gravity laterally offset from the borehole. This method is based on the cannon carrier rotating in the well hole, so that the cannon carrier can be oriented in relation to the force of gravity. Often, such an orientation rotation is unreliable due to friction between the gun carrier and the borehole, debris in the borehole or the like.

More recently, the assignee of the present invention

developed a cannon drilling that includes one * cannon carrier tubular, multiple loads in 5 drilling, multiple structures of Assembly loading and w multiple supports in rotation. This device in

Internally oriented drilling has successfully provided increased reliability in directing drilling loads to fire in the desired directions from a well. In this drawing, the direction or directions of the perforations are established when the cannon is assembled in its manufacturing facility.

However, it has been found that in certain installations, it is necessary to avoid shooting in a specific direction or directions. For example, one or more communication lines or control lines can extend along the outside of the casing column. During installation, these ducts are commonly wrapped around the casing column in such a way that the exact location of these lines can only be determined after installation, for example, by profiling the well.

Therefore, a need arose for an operable apparatus and method to obtain reliable downhole guidance of the directed jet explosive charges in a drilling apparatus such that the directed jet explosive charges fire in desired directions. In addition, a need arose for such an operable apparatus and method to obtain guidance. reliably explosive charges of directed jet on a drilling rig 30 in such a way that the directed jet explosive charges do not fire in undesirable directions.

Summary of the invention

The present invention disclosed in this document comprises an apparatus and method for dynamically adjusting the center 35 of gravity of a drilling apparatus. The apparatus and method of the present invention are operable to obtain reliable downhole guidance of directed jet explosive charges in a drilling rig in such a way that the directed jet explosive charges fire in desired directions. In addition, the apparatus and method of the present invention are operable to obtain reliable downhole guidance of directed jet explosive charges in a drilling rig such that the directed jet explosive charges do not fire in undesirable directions.

In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a drilling rig used to drill an underground well. The drilling apparatus includes a generally tubular gun carrier having a load support pivotally mounted thereon. At least one explosive directed jet charge is mounted on the load carrier and is operable to drill the well after detonation. A dynamically adjustable weight system is operatively associated with the load support. The dynamically adjustable weight system is operable to adjust the center of gravity of the load carrier in such a way that gravity will cause the load carrier to rotate inside the gun carrier to position at least one explosive jet load directed in one direction circumferential dimension in relation to the well before drilling.

In one embodiment, the dynamically adjustable weight system includes a plurality of discrete weights that are individually coupled to the load carrier in a plurality of -Locations__Iongi.tudinai.s ____ Nes.sa. embodiment, for each of the longitudinal locations, the load carrier may include a plurality of openings distributed circumferentially as openings uniformly distributed between increments of approximately 15 and 60 degrees. Alternatively, for each of the longitudinal locations, the load carrier can include a circumferentially extended slot that can extend circumferentially between approximately 90 and 180 degrees.

In another embodiment, the dynamically adjustable weight system includes a plurality of iongitudinally operable extended tubes to contain a heavy material in them. In an additional embodiment, the dynamically adjustable weight system includes weights formed from a malleable material. In yet another embodiment, the dynamically adjustable weight system includes a weight tube that is rotatable in relation to the load support. In any of these embodiments, at least one directed jet explosive charge may include a plurality of directed jet explosive charges that can be positioned on the load carrier to fire substantially in the same circumferential direction or the directed jet explosive charges can be positioned on the carrier charge to fire in multiple circumferential directions.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a drilling rig used to drill an underground well. The drilling rig includes a generally tubular cannon carrier having a load tube rotatingly mounted thereon. The loading tube includes a plurality of slits extending circumferentially. At least one explosive directed jet charge is mounted on the charge tube and is operable to drill the well after detonation. A dynamically adjustable weight system is attached to the load tube. The dynamically adjustable weight system includes a plurality of discrete weights that are attached to the tube --- of loading in the slits in such a way that the circumferential location of the weights is adjustable along the length of the slits to adjust the center of gravity of the tube. load in such a way that gravity will cause the load tube to rotate inside the cannon carrier to position at least one explosive jet charge directed in a desired circumferential direction relative to the well prior to drilling.

In one embodiment, adjacent slits in the loading tube extend in circumferentially opposite directions. In another embodiment, the weights are fixed to the load tube using screws that are selectively slidable within the slits.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of drilling an underground well. The method includes identifying at least one undesirable circumferential direction associated with a drilling interval in the well; adjusting components of a dynamically adjustable weight system 10 to change the center of gravity of a rotatingly mounted load carrier within a cannon carrier; position the gun carrier at the drilling interval in the well; gravitationally aligning at least one explosive jet-driven charge 15 mounted on the load carrier at least in a desired circumferential direction relative to the well that does not correspond to at least one undesirable circumferential direction; and firing at least one explosive jet charge directed to drill the well in at least one desired circumferential direction.

The method may also include relocating discrete weights circumferentially around the load carrier. This can be accomplished by relocating the discrete weights in relation to the circumferentially distributed openings in the load support or relocating the discrete weights in relation to circumferentially extended slots in the load support. Alternatively, the method may include changing the amount of material weighed at least in a longitudinally extended tube, remolding the malleable material arranged on the load carrier, or rotating a weight tube relative to the load carrier.

Brief description of the drawings

For a more complete understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention, reference is now made to the detailed description of the invention together with the accompanying figures in which corresponding numerals in the different figures refer to corresponding parts and in which:

Figure 1 of gas and gravity apparatus invention;

The modality figure is an oil for schematic illustration of an offshore platform to adjust apparatuses a view that operates a dynamically drilling an gravity apparatus of an apparatus of the present invention;

The lateral figures 3A from the center of dynamically adjusting the drilling apparatus of the Figures 4A lateral of the dynamically plurality of the center of the present in cross section of one to dynamically adjust the drilling of the to 3B are seen in cross section a modality of an apparatus for center of gravity of a present invention;

cross-sectional views and an embodiment of an apparatus for the center of gravity of a present invention;

in cross section of one of an apparatus to dynamically adjust the gravity of a drilling apparatus of the present invention;

The embodiment figure 4B is to adjust the drilling apparatus of The embodiment figure is a center-to-center view and is a cross-sectional view of one of an apparatus for dynamically adjusting the gravity of a drilling apparatus of the present invention;

Figures 7A to 7B are a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an apparatus for dynamically adjusting the center of gravity of a drilling apparatus of the present invention;

Figures 8A to 8G are various views of an embodiment of an apparatus for dynamically adjusting the center of gravity of a drilling apparatus of the present invention;

Figures 9A to 9B are a side and top view of an embodiment of an apparatus for dynamically adjusting the center of gravity of a drilling apparatus of the present invention; and

Figures 10A to 10C are various views of an embodiment of an apparatus for dynamically adjusting the center of gravity of a drilling apparatus of the present invention.

Detailed description of the invention

Although the making and use of various embodiments of the present invention are discussed in detail below, it should be recognized that the present invention provides many applicable inventive concepts that can be incorporated in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specific modalities discussed here are merely illustrative of specific ways to make and use the invention, and do not limit the scope of the present invention.

Referring initially to Figure 1, a plurality of devices for dynamically adjusting the center of gravity of drilling devices operating from an offshore oil and gas platform is illustrated schematically and generically designated

10. A semi-submersible platform 12 is centered on a submerged oil and gas formation 14 located below the seafloor 16. An underwater conduit 18 extends from deck 20 of platform 12 to the wellhead installation 22 including submarine eruption preventive controllers 24. Platform 12 has a lifting device 26 and a tower 28 for raising and lowering columns of. tube as working column 30.. . .

A well bore 32 extends through the various layers of the earth including formation 14. A coating 34 is cemented into the well bore 32 by cement 36. The working column 30 includes various tools such as a plurality of drilling or cannon 38 devices. When it is desired to perforate the liner 34, the working column 30 is lowered through the liner 34 until the drilling cannons 38 are properly positioned in relation to formation 14. Subsequently, the explosive charges of a jet directed on the drilling cannons column 38 they are sequentially fired, in a direction from an ascending hole to an ascending hole or from a descending hole to an ascending hole. After detonation, the shells of the directed jet explosive charges form jets that create a spaced series of perforations extending out through the sheath 34, cement 36 and into the formation 14, thereby allowing fluid communication between formation 14 and borehole. well 32.

In the illustrated embodiment, well hole 32 has a generally vertical, initial portion 40 and a generally offset, lower portion 42 which is illustrated as being horizontal. It should be noted, however, by those skilled in the art that the apparatus for dynamically adjusting the center of gravity of a drilling rig of the present invention is equally well suited for use in other well configurations including, but not limited to, inclined wells, wells with restrictions, non-diverted wells, multilateral wells and the like. In addition, although an offshore operation has been depicted in Figure 1, the apparatus for dynamically adjusting the center of gravity of a drilling rig of the present invention is equally well suited for use in coastal operations.

The working column 30 includes a packer 44 that can be sealingly engaged with the liner 34 and is illustrated in the vertical. At the lower end of the working column 30 is the cannon column including the plurality of drill cannons 38, a nozzle with orifice 46 and a firing head 48. In the illustrated embodiment, cannons 38 include internal orientation features that allow rotation secure the load tube in the cannon carrier as described in US patent 6,595,290, issued to Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. on July 22, 2003, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

Referring now to figure 2, there is shown a drilling rig which includes an apparatus for dynamically adjusting the center of gravity of the drilling apparatus of the present invention which is generically designated 100. In the following description of apparatus 100 as well as the others apparatus and methods described here, directional terms such as above, below, top, bottom and the like are used for convenience when referring to the illustrations since it should be understood that the various modalities of the invention can be used in various orientations such as inclined, inverted, horizontal , vertical and similar and in various configurations, without departing from the principles of the invention. Cannon 100 includes a plurality of directed jet explosive charges 102 that are securely mounted on a load carrier that is represented as load tube 104. Load tube 104 is pivotally mounted within cannon carrier 106. Preferably the load tube 104 is made of cylindrical tubing, but it should be understood that it is not necessary for load tube 104 to be tubular or to have an acylindrical shape in accordance with the principles of the invention. The loading tube 104 includes multiple supports 108 that allow the loading tube 104 to rotate inside the cannon conveyor 106. This way of rotating the loading tube 104 prevents loads 1.02 or any other portion of the _pipe_feed 104 contact the interior of the cannon carrier 106.

Each of the supports 108 includes bearing elements or bearings 110 that contact the interior of the cannon conveyor 106. For example, the bearings 110 can be ball bearings, rolling bearings, plain bearings or the like. Bearings 110 allow supports 108 to suspend the loading tube 104 in the cannon conveyor 106 and allow rotation thereof. In addition, optional axial thrust bearings 112 can be positioned between each end of the loading tube 104 and cannon conveyor 106 such that axial thrust bearings 112 contact devices 114 attached to each end of cannon conveyor 106. Each device 114 can be tandems that are used to couple two cannons to each other, a junction plug used to terminate a cannon column, a firing head, or any other type of device that can be attached to the cannon carrier 106. As with bearings 110 described above, axial thrust bearings 112 can be any type of bearings. Axial thrust bearings 112 hold the load tube 104 against axial load within the cannon carrier 106, while allowing the load tube 104 to rotate within the cannon carrier 106.

loading tube 104, charges 102 and other portions of cannon 100 supported on cannon conveyor 106 by supports 108 including, for example, a detonating cord 116 extending to each of the loads and portions of the supports themselves, are part of a rotating assembly general 118. By displacing a center of gravity 120 of the assembly 118 in relation to a longitudinal rotational geometric axis 122 of the bearings 110, the assembly 118 is gravity-propelled to rotate to a specific position in which the center of gravity 120 is located directly below of the axis of rotation 122.

L set lh8 may, due to - the construction __. Of the various elements thereof, initially have the center of gravity 120 in a desired position in relation to loads 102. However, to ensure that loads 102 are directed to fire in directions respective predetermined values, the center of gravity 120 can be repositioned using a dynamically adjustable weight system that is represented as weights 124. In the illustrated embodiment, on the left side of figure 2, weights 124 are added to the assembly 118 to guide the loads 102 to fire upwards, while on the right side of figure 2, weights 124 are added to the assembly 118 to direct the loads 102 to fire downwards. As discussed in more detail below, weights 124 can be otherwise positioned to direct loads 102 to fire in any desired direction, or combination of directions, and to avoid firing in undesirable directions.

The cannon conveyor 106 is wall thickness reduced circumferentially around overlapping each of the loads 102. as the loads 102 106, portions 126 remain directed.

126 can be formed in the loader 106 forging, lathe cutting or appropriate. With reference provided with portions with 126, extending from the loader 106

In this way, they rotate inside the magazine to shoot through the thickness of any wall reduced by lamination, another technique illustrated in the following views

3Ά and 3B, are lateral transverse to a center for section figures dynamically adjusting a generically designated drilling apparatus 130. represented as gravity apparatus of the present invention which is apparatus 130 includes a load tube load support 132 housing a plurality of directed jet explosive charges 134. In the illustrated embodiment, directed jet explosive charges 134 are configured in a 180 degree phase pattern, however, those skilled in the art will recognize q; c any number of alternate phase patterns of the mold charges is possible and are considered within the scope of the present invention.

Apparatus 130 also includes a dynamically adjustable weight system represented as weights 136. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the weights 136 includes a threaded portion that is operable to receive a complementary 138 threaded screw therein. Weights 136 are therefore attached to the loading tube 132 by passing the rod portion of a screw 138 through one of a plurality of openings 140 in the loading tube 132 and then rotatingly coupling that screw 138 to one of the weights 136. As illustrated, each longitudinal location of the loading tube 132 which is designed to receive a weight 5 136 has eight openings 140 which are circumferentially separated in 45 degree increments. It should be understood by those skilled in the art, however, that any number of openings having any desired uniform and non-uniform circumferential spacing 10 is possible and is considered to be within the scope of the present invention, provided that the structural integrity of the loading tube 132 is maintained. For example, it may be desirable to have openings that are evenly spaced circumferentially around a loading tube in 15 increments between approximately 15 and approximately 60 degrees.

As used here, the term dynamically adjustable refers to the ability to change the center of gravity of a drilling rig in the field as opposed to 20 only when the drilling rig is manufactured.

This capability provides the versatility to make adjustments to the device 130 that will not only allow personnel in the field to shoot in a desired direction but also prevent firing in an undesirable direction, such as in the direction of a control line arranged outside the column. coating. Continuing with this example, if one or more control lines are positioned towards the -exterior- of the - coating column, it is_ imperative to avoid damaging the control lines during the drilling process. As these control lines commonly assume a spiral configuration around the casing column during installation, the actual location of the control lines must be determined before drilling the well, for example, by profiling the well. After the circumferential location of the control lines is known for each depth of the well, the present invention allows field personnel to customize the design of the drill cannon in such a way that the control lines can be avoided and the well can be drilled in the desired directional orientations.

In the illustrated embodiment, this is accomplished by repositioning the weights 136 in relation to any of the respective openings 140 circumferentially spaced around the loading tube 132. For example, if the loading tube 132 was installed inside a cannon carrier as configured in figure 3B and used in a horizontal well 10, weights 136 would cause the loading tube 132 to rotate to the position shown in figure 3B where explosive directed jet loads 134 would fire at 0 and 180 degrees into the well. If weights 136 were individually moved to the next adjacent position, explosive loads of directed jet 134 would fire 45 and 225 degrees into the well. Similarly, if weights 136 were individually moved back to the next adjacent position, explosive charges from directed jet 134 would fire 90 and 270 degrees into the well. Therefore, the directions that the directed jet explosive charges will drill into the well can be dynamically adjusted by personnel in the field after the location of any hazards in the well bore has been determined.

Although figures 3A and 3B represented the apparatus 25 130 as having a weight positioned between an adjacent directed explosive jet charge, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that no specific relationship is necessary between the __number of __weight and the number of explosive jet charges. driven on a given drilling rig. The number and configuration of the directed jet explosive weights and loads will vary based on factors such as the desired shots per foot, the diameter of the cargo tube, the explosive mass of the loads, the size of the weights, the spacing between charges and the like. The important factor is that the center of gravity is dynamically adjustable to cause the loading tube to rotate inside the cannon carrier to the desired position.

Referring to figures 4A and 4B, they are shown in the same cross-sectional and side views of an apparatus for dynamically adjusting the center of gravity of a drilling apparatus of the present invention which is generically designated 150. Apparatus 150 includes a load carrier represented as load tube 152 that houses a plurality of directed jet explosive charges 154. In the illustrated embodiment, 10 directed jet explosive charges 154 are configured in a 180 degree phase pattern, however, those skilled in the art will recognize that any number of alternative phase patterns of directed jet explosive charges is possible and considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

Apparatus 150 also includes a dynamically adjustable weight system represented as weights 156. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the weights 156 includes a threaded portion that is operable to receive a complementary threaded screw 158 therein. Weights 156 are fixed, for example, therefore, to the loading tube 152 by passing the rod portion of a screw 158 through a slot 160 in the loading tube 152 and then rotatingly coupling that screw 158 to one of the weights 156. As shown, 25 each longitudinal location of the loading tube load 152 that is designed to receive a weight 156 has a slit 160 that circumferentially passes 180 degrees from the load tube 152 -------- Slots --- adjacent 160 of the apparatus 150 ..... are configured in such a way so that they extend on opposite sides of the loading tube 152. This design increases the structural integrity of the loading tube 152 and allows infinite variability in the center of gravity of the apparatus 150. In certain implementations, weights 156 can be placed in each of the slots 160. In other implementations, it may be desirable to have weights 156 in alternating slit 160 such that each of the weights 156 can be positioned in the same circumferential position. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the slits 160 could have other circumferential orientations and could have another arrangement of relative spacing, both uniform and non-uniform, without departing from the principles of the present invention, as long as the structural integrity of the load tube 152 is maintained.

As discussed above, the combination of slots 160 and weights 156 allows dynamic adjustments to the center of gravity of a field drill. This capability provides the versatility to make adjustments to the device 150 that only non-directional direction will allow it to be desired as undesirable, as a control or column of another danger lining personnel in the field also prevents them from shooting towards or inside the column shooting at shooting at a line on the outside is a line of coating.

Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, this is accomplished by repositioning weights 156 circumferentially along slots 160 by loosening screws 158, sliding weights 156 to the desired circumferential position and fixing weights 156 to load tube 152 again with screws 158 If loading tube 152 were installed on a cannon conveyor as loaded in figure 4B and used in a horizontal well, weights 156 would cause load tube 152 to rotate to the position shown in figure 4B where explosive charges of directed jet 154 would fire at 0 and 180 degrees in the well. The repositioning of weights 156 along slits 160, as described above, would allow firing in any desired circumferential direction. Therefore, the directions that the directed jet explosive charges will drill into the well can be dynamically adjusted by field personnel after the location of any hazards in the well bore has been determined.

Referring to Figure 5, a cross-sectional view of an apparatus is shown to dynamically adjust the center of gravity of a drilling apparatus of the present invention which is generically designated 170. Apparatus 170 includes a load carrier represented as a tube load 172 housing a plurality of directed jet explosive charges (not shown). Apparatus 170 also includes a dynamically adjustable weight system 174 which is represented as a plurality of tubes 176. Tubes 176 extend at least partially longitudinally in the loading tube 172 and are operable to contain a heavy material such as a fluid or a solid. As illustrated, apparatus 170 includes seven tubular tubes 176 which are circumferentially distributed in the loading tube 172 in 30 degree increments. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that tubes 176 could have other circumferential orientations, both uniform and non-uniform, in the loading tube 172 without departing from the principles of the present invention. Similarly, although tubes 176 are represented as having a tubular cross section, tubes 176 could alternatively have other cross sections including, but not limited to, oval cross sections, rectangular cross sections, arc shaped cross sections and the like. In addition, those skilled in the art will recognize that not all tubes 176 need to have the same cross section or be the same size.

In operation, the dynamically adjustable weight system 174 of apparatus 170 allows field personnel to make dynamic adjustments to the center of gravity of a field drill. This capability provides the versatility to make adjustments to the 170 that will not only allow personnel in the field to shoot in a desired direction but also avoid shooting in an undesirable direction, such as in the direction of a control line or other hazard placed outside the column. or inside the coating column. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, this is accomplished by adding or reducing the weight in tubes 176, for example, by adding or removing a fluid such as water from tubes 17 6. As the weight is adjusted in the various tubes 176, the bottom rotation of desired well of loading tube 172 can be obtained. Therefore, the directions that the directed jet explosive charges will drill into the well can be dynamically adjusted by field personnel after the location of any hazards in the well bore has been determined.

Referring to Figure 6, there is shown a cross-sectional view of an apparatus for dynamically adjusting the center of gravity of a drilling apparatus of the present invention which is generically designated 180. Apparatus 180 includes a load carrier shown as a loading tube 182 that houses a plurality of directed jet explosive charges (not shown). The apparatus 180 also includes a dynamically adjustable system 184 which is represented as a plurality of tubes 186. The tubes 186 extend at least partially longitudinally in the loading tube 182 and are operable to contain a heavy material such as a fluid or a solid. As illustrated, apparatus 180 includes seven tubular tubes 186 which are circumferentially distributed in the loading tube 182 in 30 degree increments. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that tubes 186 could have other circumferential orientations, both uniform and non-uniform, in the loading tube 182 without departing from the principles of the present invention. Similarly, while tubes 186 are represented as having a tubular cross section, tubes 186 could alternatively have other cross sections including, but not limited to, oval cross sections, rectangular cross sections, arc shaped cross sections and the like. In addition, those skilled in the art will recognize that not all tubes 186 need to have the same cross section or be the same size.

In operation, the dynamically adjustable weight system 184 of the apparatus 180 allows personnel in the field to make dynamic adjustments to the center of gravity of a drilling rig in the field. This capability provides the versatility to make adjustments to the device 180 that will not only allow personnel in the field to shoot in a desired direction but also avoid firing in an undesirable direction, such as in the direction of a control line or other hazard outside the camera. coating column 10 or within the coating column.

Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, this is done by adding or reducing the weight in the tubes 186, for example, by adding or removing a fluid such as water from the tubes 186. As the weight is adjusted in the various tubes 15 186, the bottom rotation of desired loading tube well

182 can be obtained. Therefore, the directions that the directed jet explosive charges will drill into the well can be dynamically adjusted by field personnel after the location of any hazards in the well bore 20 has been determined.

Although figures 5 and 6 represented tubes located respectively inside and outside a cargo tube that are operable to receive a heavy material in them, those skilled in the art must recognize that alternative configurations could also be used and would be considered to be within the scope of the present invention including, but not limited to, forming '' one or more passages in the load tube or similar tubular wall operable to receive a heavy material 30 therein.

With reference to figures 7A and 7B, cross-sectional views of an apparatus are shown to dynamically adjust the center of gravity of a drilling apparatus of the present invention which is generically designated 190. Apparatus 190 includes a load carrier shown as a charge tube 192 housing a plurality of directed jet explosive charges (not shown). Apparatus 190 also includes a dynamically adjustable weight system 194 that is represented as malleable weight elements 196 that can be formed of a metal such as lead or a polymer. Malleable weight elements 196 can extend at least partially longitudinally along the inside of the loading tube 192 or can be discrete weight elements similar to the weights 136 and 156 described above. As illustrated, each malleable weight element 196 10 is coupled to the load tube 192 using one or more screws 198. In operation, the dynamically adjustable weight system 194 of the apparatus 190 allows personnel in the field to make dynamic adjustments to the center of gravity of a drilling rig in the field. This 15 capability provides the versatility to make adjustments to the 190 device that will not only allow personnel in the field to shoot in a desired direction but will also prevent it from shooting in an undesirable direction, such as in the direction of a control line or other hazard set out in the 20 outside the coating column or inside the coating column. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, this is accomplished by applying pressure or force to the malleable material that forms malleable weight elements 196 using, for example, an adjustment tool that is sized to extend into the loading tube.

192. The location of at least a portion of the mass of malleable weight elements 196 can then be adjusted, as seen in a comparison with figures 7A and 7B such that the desired downhole rotation of the charge tube 192 can be adjusted. be obtained. Therefore, the directions that the directed jet explosive charges will drill into the well can be dynamically adjusted by personnel in the field after the location of any hazards in the well bore has been determined.

Referring to figures 8A-8G, various views of an apparatus are shown therein to dynamically adjust the center of gravity of a drilling apparatus of the present invention which is generically designated 200. When assembled, the apparatus

200 forms a rotating assembly 202 which is pivotally mounted on a gun carrier in a manner described above. The apparatus 200 includes a charging stand

204 that supports a plurality of directed jet explosive charges 206. The load carrier 204 is coupled to end plates 208. Each end plate 208 includes a plurality of notches 210 which are illustrated to be 10 circumferentially positioned around end plates 208 in 60 degree increments, however, those skilled in the art will recognize that the notches

210 could have alternative configurations including having different circumferential spacing. In addition, depending on the length of the load carrier 204, it may be desirable to have addition structures that are similar to extreme plates 208 positioned at intermediate locations along the load carrier 204 between certain directed jet explosive charges 206. The apparatus 20 200 it also includes a dynamically adjustable weight system represented as weight tube 212. Weight tube 212 is formed of a substantially tubular member having a window 214, as best seen in figure 8E. In the illustrated embodiment, window 214 extends 25 approximately 120 degrees circumferentially around weight tube 212, however, those skilled in the art will recognize that window 214 could have alternative configurations including having a different circumferential width or multiple sections of window 30 circumferentially distributed. around weight tube 212. Weight tube 212 includes circumferential end sections 216 that are loosely sized to receive end plates 208. Weight tube 212 includes a plurality of rails 218 that are designed to groove 210 of the extreme plates 208.

In operation, the dynamically adjustable weight system of the apparatus 200 allows field personnel to make dynamic adjustments to the center of gravity of a field drill. This capability provides the versatility to make adjustments to the device 200 that will not only allow personnel in the field to shoot in a desired direction, but will also prevent them from shooting in an undesirable direction, such as in the direction of a control line or other hazard outwardly disposed. the coating column or within the coating column. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, this is accomplished by inserting the load carrier 204 into the weight tube 212 in such a way that directed jet explosive charges 206 are oriented in the desired direction. For example, if the load support 204 were installed in the weight tube 212 as shown in figure 8F and used in a horizontal well, the weight tube 212 would cause the rotation assembly 202 to rotate to the position shown in figure 8F in that explosive charges of 206 directed jet would fire at 0 degrees in the well. If the load carrier 204 were rotated 60 degrees in any direction to realign rails 218 and notches 210, explosive directed jet loads 206 would fire 60 degrees or 300 degrees into the well. Therefore, the directions in which the directed jet explosive charges will drill into the well can be dynamically adjusted by personnel in the field after the location of any hazards in the well hole has been determined.

With reference to figures 9A-9B, there is represented - top view and '' labyrinth of an apparatus for dynamically adjusting the center of gravity of a drilling apparatus of the present invention which is generically designated 220. When assembled, the apparatus 220 forms a rotating assembly 222 which is pivotally mounted on a cannon conveyor in a manner described above via bearings 224. Apparatus 220 includes a load carrier 226 that supports a plurality of directed jet explosive charges 228. Apparatus 220 also includes a dynamically adjustable weight system

230. The tube is partially selectively tubular in weight.

swivel represented as tube

230 is formed from the weight of an element

The bracket mounted inside load

226 is from the weight tube

230 in such a way that the load carrier 226 can be rotated approximately 120 degrees circumferentially inside the weight tube 230. In operation, the dynamically adjustable weight system of the device 220 allows personnel in the field to make dynamic adjustments at the center of 10 gravity drilling rig in the field. This capability provides the versatility to make adjustments to device 220 that will not only allow personnel in the field to shoot in a desired direction but will also prevent it from shooting in an undesirable direction, such as in the direction of a control line or other hazard intended for the operator. outside the coating column or inside the coating column. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, this is accomplished by selectively releasing a connection such as a pin, a clamping screw or the like between the load carrier 226 and the weight tube 230 then rotating the load carrier 226 such that loads directed jet explosives 228 are oriented in the desired direction. For example, if the load support 226 were installed in the weight tube 230 as shown in figure 9A 25 and used in a horizontal well, the weight tube 230 would cause the rotation assembly 222 to rotate to the position shown in figure 9A where explosive charges from 228 jet would fire at 0 degrees into the well. If another circumferential direction is desired, however, the load support 226 can be incrementally adjusted in certain modes or infinitely adjusted in other modes to any position between the maximum displacement locations that have been described above as approximately 60 degrees from the 35 vertical in any direction in the illustrated mode. Therefore, the directions in which the directed jet explosive charges will drill into the well can be dynamically adjusted by personnel in the field after the location of any hazards in the well bore has been determined. With reference to figures 10A-10C, the drilling of the designated 240 is still dynamically varied.

center views of a gravity device of invention that

240 includes a represented to fit apparatus of generally represented load support that is pivotally mounted present apparatus as a load tube 'in a conveyor one

Gun 242 in a manner described above via bearings 244, as best seen in figures 10A and 10C. The loading tube 242 supports a plurality of directed jet explosive charges 246. Apparatus 240 also includes a dynamically adjustable weight system represented as weight tube 250, as best seen in figures 10B and 10C. The weight tube 250 is formed of a partially tubular element. The weight tube 250 is pivotally mounted on a hinge element 252 which is mounted on the load tube 242 such that the weight tube 250 can be rotated approximately 120 degrees circumferentially within the load tube 242. One or more elements of coupling represented as pins 254 are used to selectively prevent rotation of the weight tube 250 in relation to the hinge element 252. In operation, the dynamically adjustable weight system of the device 240 allows personnel in the field to make dynamic adjustments at the center of gravity drilling rig in the field. This capability provides the versatility to make adjustments to the device 240 that will not only allow personnel in the field to shoot in a desired direction but will also prevent them from shooting in an undesirable direction, such as in the direction of a control line or other hazard that is outwardly directed. the coating column or within the coating column. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, this is accomplished by selectively releasing the connection, like pins 254, between the weight tube 250 and the hinge element 252 then rotating the weight tube 250 in relation to the hinge element 252 such that the tube of weight 250 is positioned in the desired orientation with respect to explosive loads of directed jet 246. For example, if the tube of weight 250 was installed in relation to explosive loads of directed jet 246 as shown in figures 10B to 10C and used in in a horizontal well, the weight tube 250 would cause the load tube 242 to rotate to the position shown in figures 10B to 10C where explosive charges from jet 10 directed 246 would fire at 0 degrees in the well. If another circumferential direction is desired, however, the weight tube 250 can be incrementally adjusted in certain modalities or infinitely adjusted in other modalities to any position between the maximum displacement locations that have been described above as approximately 60 degrees from the vertical in any direction in the illustrated mode. Therefore, the directions in which the directed jet explosive charges will drill into the well can be dynamically adjusted by personnel in the field after the location of any hazards in the well hole has been determined.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to illustrative modalities, this description is not intended to be interpreted in a limiting sense.

Various modifications and combinations of the illustrative modalities as well as other modalities of the invention will be apparent to persons skilled in the art after reference to the description. Therefore, the attached claims are intended to cover any such modifications or modalities.

Claims (10)

1. Drilling apparatus used to drill an underground well, referred to as a drilling apparatus, characterized by the fact that it comprises: 5 - a cannon carrier; - a weight tube arranged inside the cannon carrier and rotatingly mounted on it; - a load support arranged inside the weight tube and selectively pivotally mounted on the weight tube; and 10 - at least one explosive jet driven load mounted on the load carrier and operable to drill the well by detonation; where the weight tube and the load carrier form a rotatable assembly operable to rotate within the cannon carrier; and where the selective rotation of the load carrier in relation to the weight tube adjusts the center of gravity of the rotating assembly, so that gravity will rotate inside the conveyor of the cannon assembly to rotate 20 position at least one explosive jet charge directed in a desired circumferential direction in relation to the well prior to drilling. 2. Drilling apparatus, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the The weight further comprises a partially tubular member. 3. Drilling apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the weight tube ^- comprises ^- still a tubular element having a circumferential window extending longitudinally. 30 4. Drilling apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that the circumferential window extending longitudinally extends circumferentially about 120 degrees. 5. Drilling apparatus, according to Claim 1, characterized in that the weight tube and the load support are selectively rotatable about 120 degrees relative to each other. 6. Drilling apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the load support is incrementally adjustable in relation to the weight tube. 5 7. Device drilling, wake up with The claim 1, characterized by the fact that the Support in load be infinitely adjustable in relationship. to the tube in Weight. 8. Apparatus drilling, wake up with The 10 claim 1, characterized by fact of the tube in weight is selectively fastenable to the load carrier using a coupling selected from the group consisting of a pin connection, a fastening screw connection and a notched end plate connection. 15 9. Method of drilling an underground well, characterized by the fact that it comprises the steps of: identifying at least one undesirable circumferential direction associated with a drilling interval in the well; 20 - adjust the center of gravity of a rotating assembly positioned inside a cannon conveyor by rotating a rotating assembly load carrier in relation to a rotating assembly weight tube, the weight tube disposed within the cannon conveyor and mounted 25 rotatingly therein, the load carrier disposed within the weight tube and selectively mounted rotatively thereon; position the. cannon carrier ~ within ~ the well drilling range; 30 - align in a gravitational manner at least one explosive jet driven load mounted on the load carrier at least in a desired circumferential direction in relation to the well that does not correspond to at least one undesirable circumferential direction; and 35 - fire at least one explosive jet charge directed at drilling the well at least in a desired circumferential direction. Method according to claim 9, characterized in that the rotation of a load support of the rotating assembly in relation to a weight tube of the rotating assembly also comprises incrementally adjusting the load support in relation to the weight tube. Method according to claim 9, characterized in that the rotation of a load support of the rotating assembly in relation to a weight tube of the rotating assembly also comprises infinitely adjusting the load support in relation to the weight tube. 12. Method according to claim 9, characterized in that the firing of at least one explosive jet charge directed to drill the well at least in a desired circumferential direction further comprises firing a plurality of explosive jet charges directed substantially in the same circumferential direction. 13. Method according to claim 9, characterized in that the firing of at least one explosive jet charge directed to drill the well at least in a desired circumferential direction further comprises firing a plurality of explosive jet directed charges in multiple circumferential directions. 1/7