Downhole Propulsion/Steering Mechanism for Wellbore Trajectory Control in Directional Drilling

Abstract

Advanced directional drilling, especially rotary steerable systems, provides directional control of wellbore while continuously rotating the drill bit. Downhole propulsion/steering mechanism is one of the key components in rotary closed-loop drilling system. Downhole steering/propulsion mechanisms currently used for directional control include adjustable stabilizer, steerable downhole motor and steering actuators used in state-of-the-art rotary steerable systems. The novel electro-mechanical propulsion and steering mechanisms are introduced, in order to produce downhole weight on bit (WOB) and directional control of the drill bit while rotating it as well. The mechanisms are based on high-reduction ratio planetary gear system and DC motor. This propulsion/steering mechanism introduces a unique rotary steering method with a manner of turning screw inside borehole. As a downhole propulsion/steering mechanism, it can be integrated with an existing MWD system to provide directional control and downhole propulsion force on drill bit.