Shoulder rest for violin having rack rail based width adjustment mechanism

Shoulder rest for use with violin is disclosed. The rest includes a base including two half portions each including a central channel, a guide rail along either side of the base, a rack rail at either side of the channel, and two half sections each comprising clamping means; a support including a leg inserted into the channel, two latched members slidably fastened at underside of the channel, and two toothed stops engaged with the rack rail; and pivotal means comprising a body having a top hole for receiving a threaded stem of the clamping means, a parallel snapping element, and a bar interconnected the body and the snapping element, the bar being pivotal about a cavity of the support having a bifurcation sandwiched by the body and the snapping element. Two side flanges of the support are mounted to the guide rails. Thus, the support is moveable along the channel.

Methods, systems, and software for identifying functional biomolecules

The present invention generally relates to methods of rapidly and efficiently searching biologically-related data space. More specifically, the invention includes methods of identifying bio-molecules with desired properties, or which are most suitable for acquiring such properties, from complex bio-molecule libraries or sets of such libraries. The invention also provides methods of modeling sequence-activity relationships. As many of the methods are computer-implemented, the invention additionally provides digital systems and software for performing these methods.

Methods, systems, and software for identifying functional biomolecules

The present invention generally relates to methods of rapidly and efficiently searching biologically-related data space. More specifically, the invention includes methods of identifying bio-molecules with desired properties, or which are most suitable for acquiring such properties, from complex bio-molecule libraries or sets of such libraries. The invention also provides methods of modeling sequence-activity relationships. As many of the methods are computer-implemented, the invention additionally provides digital systems and software for performing these methods.

System and method for defining a drilling path based on cost

Provided are a system and method for calculating and selecting a convergence path based on cost. In one example, the method includes identifying multiple geometric convergence paths that each provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target path. A total monetary cost is calculated for each of the geometric convergence paths using an offset cost based on a distance of the geometric convergence path from the target path, a curvature cost based on an amount of curvature of the geometric convergence path, and a time cost based on an estimated amount of time needed to drill the geometric convergence path. The total monetary costs of the geometric convergence paths are compared and one of the geometric convergence paths is selected based on the total monetary cost of that geometric convergence path relative to the total monetary costs of the other geometric convergence paths.

Apparatus and methods for controlling drilling

A drilling control system may access a drilling plan for a borehole comprising one or more of planned path for the borehole, drill string information, mud properties, drill bit properties, formation properties, and drill rig properties. The system may receive a plurality of operating parameters from a rig for the borehole including one or more of an observed toolface, a spindle setting, a rate of penetration, a differential pressure, and a weight-on-bit. The system may receive one or more propagation functions for the borehole determined by a model of the drill string. The system may determine one or more spindle changes or block speed changes based at least in part on the propagation functions and the plurality of operating parameters. The system may generate one or more predicted drill properties from a simulator using the one or more spindle changes or the one or more block speed changes.

System and method for controlling a drilling path based on drift estimates

A method includes receiving toolface information corresponding to a location of the bottom hole assembly (BHA) with respect to a target drilling path and drift information. The surface steerable system calculates a first toolface vector from a first location of the BHA to the target drilling path to create a convergence path to the target drilling path and calculates an adjustment of the first toolface vector to a second toolface vector to account for system drift defined by the drift information such that the BHA will converge with the target drilling path by drilling in accordance with the second toolface vector. The surface steerable system modifies at least one drilling parameter to alter a drilling direction of the BHA based on the calculated second toolface vector and transmits the at least one drilling parameter to the drilling rig to target the BHA in accordance with the second toolface vector.

Apparatus and methods for automated slide drilling

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi-manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator.

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATED SLIDE DRILLING

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi-manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator.

METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND SOFTWARE FOR IDENTIFYING FUNCTIONAL BIO-MOLECULES

The present invention generally relates to methods of rapidly and efficiently searching biologically-related data space. More specifically, the invention includes methods of identifying bio-molecules with desired properties, or which are most suitable for acquiring such properties, from complex bio-molecule libraries or sets of such libraries. The invention also provides methods of modeling sequence-activity relationships. As many of the methods are computer-implemented, the invention additionally provides digital systems and software for performing these methods.

System and method for remotely controlled surface steerable drilling

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives feedback information from a drilling rig and calculates an estimated position of a drill bit in a formation based on the feedback information. The system compares the estimated position to a desired position along a planned path of a borehole. The system calculates multiple solutions if the comparison indicates that the estimated position is outside a defined margin of error relative to the desired position. Each solution defines a path from the estimated position to the planned path. The system calculates a cost of each solution and selects one of the solutions based at least partly on the cost. The system produces control information representing the selected solution and outputs the control information for the drilling rig.

METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND SOFTWARE FOR IDENTIFYING FUNCTIONAL BIOMOLECULES

The present invention generally relates to methods of rapidly and efficiently searching biologically-related data space. More specifically, the invention includes methods of identifying bio-molecules with desired properties, or which are most suitable for acquiring such properties, from complex bio-molecule libraries or sets of such libraries. The invention also provides methods of modeling sequence-activity relationships. As many of the methods are computer-implemented, the invention additionally provides digital systems and software for performing these methods.

Surface steerable drilling system for use with rotary steerable system

A method for rotary steerable drilling, comprising calculating a first plurality of convergence plans if an estimated position of a drill bit is not within a defined margin of error of a desired point along a planned path for a borehole, calculating a second plurality of convergence plans if the estimated position of the drill bit is not within the margin of error, selecting a convergence plan that best satisfies a set of target parameters from the first and second plurality of convergence plans, producing a set of control parameters representing the selected convergence plan, transmitting one or more commands to one or more rotary steering components to actuate the one or more rotary steering components, in order to alter the planned path for the borehole in accordance with the set of control parameters, and drilling at least a portion of the borehole based on the set of control parameters.

System and method for remotely controlled surface steerable drilling

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives feedback information from a drilling rig and calculates an estimated position of a drill bit in a formation based on the feedback information. The system compares the estimated position to a desired position along a planned path of a borehole. The system calculates multiple solutions if the comparison indicates that the estimated position is outside a defined margin of error relative to the desired position. Each solution defines a path from the estimated position to the planned path. The system calculates a cost of each solution and selects one of the solutions based at least partly on the cost. The system produces control information representing the selected solution and outputs the control information for the drilling rig.

Methods, systems, and software for identifying functional biomolecules

The present invention generally relates to methods of rapidly and efficiently searching biologically-related data space. More specifically, the invention includes methods of identifying bio-molecules with desired properties, or which are most suitable for acquiring such properties, from complex bio-molecule libraries or sets of such libraries. The invention also provides methods of modeling sequence-activity relationships. As many of the methods are computer-implemented, the invention additionally provides digital systems and software for performing these methods.

Methods, systems, and software for identifying functional biomolecules

The present invention generally relates to methods of rapidly and efficiently searching biologically-related data space. More specifically, the invention includes methods of identifying bio-molecules with desired properties, or which are most suitable for acquiring such properties, from complex bio-molecule libraries or sets of such libraries. The invention also provides methods of modeling sequence-activity relationships. As many of the methods are computer-implemented, the invention additionally provides digital systems and software for performing these methods.

System and method for controlling a drilling path based on drift estimates

A surface steerable system coupled to a drilling rig receives BHA information from a bottom hole assembly (BHA) located in a borehole. The BHA information corresponds to a first location of the BHA with respect to a target drilling path and geological formation drift information. The surface steerable system calculates a toolface vector to create a convergence path from the first location of the BHA to the target drilling path that accounts for geological formation drift defined by the geological formation drift information such that the BHA will converge with the target drilling path by drilling in accordance with the toolface vector. The surface steerable system causes at least one control parameter to be modified in order to alter a drilling direction of the BHA based on the calculated toolface vector and transmits the at least one control parameter to the drilling rig to target the BHA in accordance with the calculated toolface vector.

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATED SLIDE DRILLING

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi-manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator. 1. An automated slide drilling system , comprising:a computer system in communication with and operable to control at least one control system of a drilling rig, wherein the computer system further comprises a processor, a memory, and instructions stored in the memory that are capable of execution by the processor, wherein the computer system is adapted to receive data during drilling and the instructions are adapted to perform the following operations:(i) begin a slide drilling operation either from a rotary drilling mode or from a cessation of drilling;(ii) determine a target tool face for the slide drilling operation;(iii) maintaining toolface within predetermined limits during the slide drilling operation by at least one of: adjusting the angular displacement of a top drive, adjusting weight on bit, and adjusting differential pressure;(iv) control the slide drilling operation until the computer system determines that the slide drilling operation is complete; and(v) resume rotary drilling mode or prepare for a survey upon completion of the slide drilling operation.2. The automated slide drilling system according to claim 1 , wherein the computer system is adapted to perform any one or more of the operations (i)-(v) after first obtaining a user input to proceed.3. The automated slide drilling system according to claim 1 , wherein the computer system is adapted to perform any one or more of the operations (i)-(v) after first providing a display of the operation or ...

IFN-alpha homologues

Alpha interferon homologues (both nucleic acids and polypeptides) are provided. Compositions including these interferon homologue polypeptides and nucleic acids, recombinant cells comprising said homologue polypeptides and nucleic acids, methods of making the new homologues, antibodies to the new homologues, and methods of using the homologues are provided. Integrated systems comprising the sequences of the nucleic acids or polypeptides are also provided.

System and method for determining the location of a bottom hole assembly

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives toolface information for a bottom hole assembly (BHA) and non-survey sensor information corresponding to a location of the BHA in a borehole. The system calculates an amount of incremental progress made by the BHA based on the non-survey sensor information and calculates an estimate of the location based on the toolface information and the amount of incremental progress. The system repeats the steps of receiving toolface information and non-survey sensor information and calculating an amount of incremental progress to calculate an estimate of a plurality of locations representing a path of the BHA from a first survey point towards a second sequential survey point.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DRILLING A WELL

Provided is a method for selecting one of a plurality of convergence paths that may be drilled by a bottom hole assembly (BHA) comprising identifying, by a computer system, a plurality of geometric convergence paths, wherein each of the geometric convergence paths provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target drilling path of a well plan. An offset distance is calculated for drilling by the BHA each of the geometric convergence paths connecting the BHA location to the target drilling path. A drill path curvature associated with drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. A time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. An optimal geometric convergence path of the plurality of geometric convergence paths is determined responsive to the offset distance for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths, the drill path curvature associated with each of the geometric convergence paths and the time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths. The determined optimal geometric convergence path is fed to a controller associated with a display of a drilling rig and used to control the display of the drilling rig to display the determined optimal geometric convergence path.

Methods, systems, and software for identifying functional biomolecules

The present invention generally relates to methods of rapidly and efficiently searching biologically-related data space. More specifically, the invention includes methods of identifying bio-molecules with desired properties, or which are most suitable for acquiring such properties, from complex bio-molecule libraries or sets of such libraries. The invention also provides methods of modeling sequence-activity relationships. As many of the methods are computer-implemented, the invention additionally provides digital systems and software for performing these methods.

System for drilling a selected convergence path

Provided is a method for selecting one of a plurality of convergence paths that may be drilled by a bottom hole assembly (BHA) comprising identifying, by a computer system, a plurality of geometric convergence paths, wherein each of the geometric convergence paths provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target drilling path of a well plan. An offset distance is calculated for drilling by the BHA each of the geometric convergence paths connecting the BHA location to the target drilling path. A drill path curvature associated with drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. A time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. An optimal geometric convergence path of the plurality of geometric convergence paths is determined responsive to the offset distance for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths, the drill path ...

System and method for surface steerable drilling to provide formation mechanical analysis

A method for determining geological formation characteristics involves driving a bottom hole assembly (BHA) in a borehole. At least one mechanical drilling parameter generated is detected responsive to operation of the BHA in the borehole. At least one geological formation characteristic is identified responsive to the detected at least one mechanical drilling parameter. The identified at least one geological formation characteristic is provided to a surface steerable drilling system. Operation of the surface steerable drilling system is controlled responsive to the at least one geological formation characteristic.

Apparatus and methods for automated slide drilling

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi-manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator.

Shoulder rest for violin having rack rail based width adjustment mechanism

Shoulder rest for use with violin is disclosed. The rest includes a base including two half portions each including a central channel, a guide rail along either side of the base, a rack rail at either side of the channel, and two half sections each comprising clamping means; a support including a leg inserted into the channel, two latched members slidably fastened at underside of the channel, and two toothed stops engaged with the rack rail; and pivotal means comprising a body having a top hole for receiving a threaded stem of the clamping means, a parallel snapping element, and a bar interconnected the body and the snapping element, the bar being pivotal about a cavity of the support having a bifurcation sandwiched by the body and the snapping element. Two side flanges of the support are mounted to the guide rails. Thus, the support is moveable along the channel.

Systems and methods for drilling a well

Provided is a method for selecting one of a plurality of convergence paths that may be drilled by a bottom hole assembly (BHA) comprising identifying, by a computer system, a plurality of geometric convergence paths, wherein each of the geometric convergence paths provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target drilling path of a well plan. An offset distance is calculated for drilling by the BHA each of the geometric convergence paths connecting the BHA location to the target drilling path. A drill path curvature associated with drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. A time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. An optimal geometric convergence path of the plurality of geometric convergence paths is determined responsive to the offset distance for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths, the drill path ...

Methods, systems, and software for identifying functional bio-molecules

The present invention generally relates to methods of rapidly and efficiently searching biologically-related data space. More specifically, the invention includes methods of identifying bio-molecules with desired properties, or which are most suitable for acquiring such properties, from complex bio-molecule libraries or sets of such libraries. The invention also provides methods of modeling sequence-activity relationships. As many of the methods are computer-implemented, the invention additionally provides digital systems and software for performing these methods.

Systems and methods for controlling a drilling path based on drift estimates

In a drilling system, a control system coupled to a drilling rig controls a bottom hole assembly (BHA) to drill a borehole through a geological formation along a drilling path. The control system determines a present position of the BHA and calculates a toolface vector to create a convergence path from the present position of the BHA to a desired target path. The control system also receives geological information and compensates the toolface vector to account for an estimated geologic formation drift. The control system causes at least one control parameter to be modified in order to alter a drilling direction of the BHA based on the calculated toolface vector and transmits the at least one control parameter to the drilling rig to target the BHA in accordance with the calculated toolface vector. The control system iteratively performs this process until convergence with the desired target path is achieved.

Methods, systems, and software for identifying functional biomolecules

The present invention generally relates to methods of rapidly and efficiently searching biologically-related data space. More specifically, the invention includes methods of identifying bio-molecules with desired properties, or which are most suitable for acquiring such properties, from complex bio-molecule libraries or sets of such libraries. The invention also provides methods of modeling sequence-activity relationships. As many of the methods are computer-implemented, the invention additionally provides digital systems and software for performing these methods.

Apparatus and methods for automated slide drilling

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi-manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator.

System and method for controlling a drilling path based on drift estimates in a rotary steerable system

A method for drilling, comprising receiving, by a surface steerable system coupled to a drilling rig, BHA information from a rotary steerable bottom hole assembly (BHA) located in a borehole, calculating, by the surface steerable system, torsional and spatial forces acting on the rotary steerable BHA at a first location of the rotary steerable BHA with respect to a target drilling path responsive to the BHA information, calculating, by the surface steerable system, a first vector to create a convergence path from the first location of the rotary steerable BHA to the target drilling path that accounts for the torsional and the spatial forces acting on the rotary steerable BHA, causing, by the surface steerable system, at least one drilling parameter to be modified in order to alter a drilling direction of the rotary steerable BHA based on the calculated first vector, transmitting the at least one drilling parameter to the drilling rig to target the rotary steerable BHA in accordance with ...

Systems and Methods for Controlling a Drilling Path Based on Drift Estimates

In a drilling system, a control system coupled to a drilling rig controls a bottom hole assembly (BHA) to drill a borehole through a geological formation along a drilling path. The control system determines a present position of the BHA and calculates a toolface vector to create a convergence path from the present position of the BHA to a desired target path. The control system also receives geological information and compensates the toolface vector to account for an estimated geologic formation drift. The control system causes at least one control parameter to be modified in order to alter a drilling direction of the BHA based on the calculated toolface vector and transmits the at least one control parameter to the drilling rig to target the BHA in accordance with the calculated toolface vector. The control system iteratively performs this process until convergence with the desired target path is achieved.

Methods, systems, and software for identifying functional biomolecules

The present invention generally relates to methods of rapidly and efficiently searching biologically-related data space. More specifically, the invention includes methods of identifying bio-molecules with desired properties, or which are most suitable for acquiring such properties, from complex bio-molecule libraries or sets of such libraries. The invention also provides methods of modeling sequence-activity relationships. As many of the methods are computer-implemented, the invention additionally provides digital systems and software for performing these methods.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING THE LOCATION OF A BOTTOM HOLE ASSEMBLY

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives toolface information for a bottom hole assembly (BHA) and non-survey sensor information corresponding to a location of the BHA in a borehole. The system calculates an amount of incremental progress made by the BHA based on the non-survey sensor information and calculates an estimate of the location based on the toolface information and the amount of incremental progress. The system repeats the steps of receiving toolface information and non-survey sensor information and calculating an amount of incremental progress to calculate an estimate of a plurality of locations representing a path of the BHA from a first survey point towards a second sequential survey point.

Methods, systems, and software for identifying functional biomolecules

The present invention generally relates to methods of rapidly and efficiently searching biologically-related data space. More specifically, the invention includes methods of identifying bio-molecules with desired properties, or which are most suitable for acquiring such properties, from complex bio-molecule libraries or sets of such libraries. The invention also provides methods of modeling sequence-activity relationships. As many of the methods are computer-implemented, the invention additionally provides digital systems and software for performing these methods.

Evolved interferon-alpha polypeptides

The present invention provides evolved interferon-alpha polypeptides, and conjugates thereof, and nucleic acids encoding the polypeptides. The invention also includes compositions comprising these polypeptides, conjugates, and nucleic acids; cells containing or expressing the polypeptides, conjugates, and nucleic acids; methods of making the polypeptides, conjugates, and nucleic acids; and methods of using the polypeptides, conjugates, and nucleic acids.

Apparatus for automated slide drilling

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi-manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator.

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATED SLIDE DRILLING

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi-manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator. 1. An automated slide drilling system for drilling a well borehole , comprising:at least one processor; andat least one memory coupled to the at least one processor and storing instructionsexecutable by the at least one processor, wherein the instructions comprise instructions for: receiving information from a measurement-while-drilling (MWD) system, receiving information from at least one sensor, and receiving information from at least one rig control system during drilling of a well borehole by a drilling rig, the drilling rig further comprising a drill string having a bottom hole assembly including the MWD system;determining, responsive to the information received, when a slide is to be performed;determining a current tool face;responsive to the current tool face, determining whether a tool face adjustment is indicated for the slide; determining an amount of the tool face adjustment; and', 'sending a first control signal to the at least one drilling rig control system to adjust the current tool face by the amount of the tool face adjustment;', 'establishing a desired torque in the drill string,, 'when the tool face adjustment is indicatedwhen oscillation of the drill string is indicated to assist the slide, determining a magnitude and a frequency indicated for the oscillation of the drill string, and sending a second control signal to the at least one drilling rig control system to implement the magnitude and the frequency indicated for the oscillation;sending a ...

System and method for defining a drilling path based on cost

Provided is a method for selecting one of a plurality of convergence paths that may be drilled by a bottom hole assembly (BHA) comprising identifying, by a computer system, a plurality of geometric convergence paths, wherein each of the geometric convergence paths provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target drilling path of a well plan. An offset distance is calculated for drilling by the BHA each of the geometric convergence paths connecting the BHA location to the target drilling path. A drill path curvature associated with drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. A time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. An optimal geometric convergence path of the plurality of geometric convergence paths is determined responsive to the offset distance for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths, the drill path curvature associated with each of the geometric convergence paths and the time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths. The determined optimal geometric convergence path is fed to a controller associated with a display of a drilling rig and used to control the display of the drilling rig to display the determined optimal geometric convergence path.

System and method for determining incremental progression between survey points while drilling

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives toolface information for a bottom hole assembly (BHA) and non-survey sensor information corresponding to a location of the BHA in a borehole. The system calculates an amount of incremental progress made by the BHA based on the non-survey sensor information and calculates an estimate of the location based on the toolface information and the amount of incremental progress. The system repeats the steps of receiving toolface information and non-survey sensor information and calculating an amount of incremental progress to calculate an estimate of a plurality of locations representing a path of the BHA from a first survey point towards a second sequential survey point.

SURFACE STEERABLE DRILLING SYSTEM FOR USE WITH ROTARY STEERABLE SYSTEM

A method for drilling, comprising receiving, by a surface steerable system coupled to a drilling rig, BHA information from a rotary steerable bottom hole assembly (BHA) located in a borehole, calculating, by the surface steerable system, torsional and spatial forces acting on the rotary steerable BHA at a first location of the rotary steerable BHA with respect to a target drilling path responsive to the BHA information, calculating, by the surface steerable system, a first vector to create a convergence path from the first location of the rotary steerable BHA to the target drilling path that accounts for the torsional and the spatial forces acting on the rotary steerable BHA, causing, by the surface steerable system, at least one drilling parameter to be modified in order to alter a drilling direction of the rotary steerable BHA based on the calculated first vector, transmitting the at least one drilling parameter to the drilling rig to target the rotary steerable BHA in accordance with the first vector, and drilling the borehole using the rotary steerable BHA in response to the at least one drilling parameter. 1. A drilling system for use with a drilling rig , comprising:a processor; instructions for calculating a plurality of convergence plans if an estimated position of a drill bit does not match a desired point along a planned path for a borehole, within a defined margin of error, wherein each of the plurality of convergence plans defines a solution vector to realign the drill bit with the planned path based on drilling operation information that includes a set of cost parameters;', 'instructions for selecting one of the plurality of convergence plans based at least in part on a capability of the bottom hole assembly (BHA) to drill the selected convergence plan;', 'instructions for producing a set of control parameters for drilling the selected convergence plan; and', 'wherein the processor is configured, upon execution of one of the plurality of instructions, ...

System and method for determining incremental progression between survey points while drilling

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives toolface information for a bottom hole assembly (BHA) and non-survey sensor information corresponding to a location of the BHA in a borehole. The system calculates an amount of incremental progress made by the BHA based on the non-survey sensor information and calculates an estimate of the location based on the toolface information and the amount of incremental progress. The system repeats the steps of receiving toolface information and non-survey sensor information and calculating an amount of incremental progress to calculate an estimate of a plurality of locations representing a path of the BHA from a first survey point towards a second sequential survey point.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING INCREMENTAL PROGRESSION BETWEEN SURVEY POINTS WHILE DRILLING

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives toolface information for a bottom hole assembly (BHA) and non-survey sensor information corresponding to a location of the BHA in a borehole. The system calculates an amount of incremental progress made by the BHA based on the non-survey sensor information and calculates an estimate of the location based on the toolface information and the amount of incremental progress. The system repeats the steps of receiving toolface information and non-survey sensor information and calculating an amount of incremental progress to calculate an estimate of a plurality of locations representing a path of the BHA from a first survey point towards a second sequential survey point. 1. A method for calculating a path during drilling comprising:receiving, by a surface steerable system coupled to a drilling rig, toolface information from a bottom hole assembly (BHA) located in a borehole, wherein the toolface information corresponds to a current location of the BHA between a first measured survey point that has been passed and a second sequential measured survey point that has not yet been reached;receiving, by the surface steerable system, sensor information from at least one of the drilling rig, the BHA, or a drillstring coupling the drilling rig to the BHA, wherein the sensor information is accumulated as the BHA moves from a previous location between the first and second measured survey points to the current location;calculating, by the surface steerable system, an amount of incremental progress made by the BHA since a previous amount of incremental progress was calculated for the previous location, wherein calculating the amount of incremental progress includes calculating a displacement and a build rate of the BHA from the previous location to the current location based on the sensor information;calculating, by the surface steerable system, an estimate of the current location based ...

System and method for surface steerable drilling

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the method includes monitoring operating parameters for drilling rig equipment and bottom hole assembly (BHA) equipment for a BHA, where the operating parameters control the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment. The method includes receiving current inputs corresponding to performance data of the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment during a drilling operation and determining that an amount of change between the current inputs and corresponding previously received inputs exceeds a defined threshold. The method further includes determining whether a modification to the operating parameters has occurred that would result in the amount of change exceeding the defined threshold and identifying that a problem exists in at least one of the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment if no modification has occurred to the operating parameters. The method includes performing a defined action if a problem exists.

Flexible Light Treatment Head

A flexible light treatment head comprising one or more light source modules interconnected by a hinge apparatus along a flexing edge thereof. The light source modules have light emitting elements, such as LEDs or LASERs. The hinge apparatus comprises one or more hinges. Each hinge has a head wiring channel disposed to form a continuous wiring channel along the hinge apparatus. A head wiring channel is also provided for routing wires into the light source module. 1. A flexible light treatment head comprising one or more light source modules interconnected by a hinge apparatus along a flexing edge thereof.2. The flexible light treatment head of claim 1 , wherein the hinge apparatus comprises a plurality of hinge joints.3. The flexible light treatment head of claim 2 , wherein each said hinge joint is substantially identical.4. The flexible light treatment head of claim 2 , wherein said hinge joint has a first end and a second end claim 2 , said first end adapted to fit rotatably in a corresponding second end of an adjacent hinge joint.5. The flexible light treatment head of claim 4 , wherein said hinge joint comprises a head wiring channel disposed from said first end to said second end.6. The flexible light treatment head of claim 5 , wherein said hinge joint comprises a module wiring channel extending from said head wiring channel.7. The flexible light treatment head of claim 6 , wherein said module wiring channel extends substantially perpendicularly from said head wiring channel.8. The flexible light treatment head of claim 1 , wherein said hinge apparatus provides a radius of curvature of 20 mm concavely and 87 mm convexly with reference to a treatment surface of said flexible light treatment head.9. The flexible light treatment head of claim 3 , wherein said hinge apparatus is unbiased.10. The flexible light treatment head of claim 3 , wherein said hinge joint rotates along only one axis relative to an adjacent hinge joint.11. The flexible light treatment head ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DEFINING A DRILLING PATH BASED ON COST

Provided are a system and method for calculating and selecting a convergence path based on cost. In one example, the method includes identifying multiple geometric convergence paths that each provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target path. A total monetary cost is calculated for each of the geometric convergence paths using an offset cost based on a distance of the geometric convergence path from the target path, a curvature cost based on an amount of curvature of the geometric convergence path, and a time cost based on an estimated amount of time needed to drill the geometric convergence path. The total monetary costs of the geometric convergence paths are compared and one of the geometric convergence paths is selected based on the total monetary cost of that geometric convergence path relative to the total monetary costs of the other geometric convergence paths. 1. A method for selecting one of a plurality of convergence paths based on cost comprising:identifying, by a computer system, a plurality of geometric convergence paths, wherein each of the geometric convergence paths provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target path for a bore hole;calculating, by the computer system, a total monetary cost for each of the geometric convergence paths, wherein calculating the total monetary cost includes identifying an offset cost based on a distance of the geometric convergence path from the target path, identifying a curvature cost based on an amount of curvature of the geometric convergence path, identifying a time cost based on an estimated amount of time needed to drill the geometric convergence path and combining the offset cost, the curvature cost and the time cost to obtain the total monetary cost;comparing, by the computer system, the total monetary costs of the geometric convergence paths to one another;selecting, by the computer system, one of the geometric ...

Systems and methods for drilling a well

Provided is a method for selecting one of a plurality of convergence paths that may be drilled by a bottom hole assembly (BHA) comprising identifying, by a computer system, a plurality of geometric convergence paths, wherein each of the geometric convergence paths provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target drilling path of a well plan. An offset distance is calculated for drilling by the BHA each of the geometric convergence paths connecting the BHA location to the target drilling path. A drill path curvature associated with drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. A time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. An optimal geometric convergence path of the plurality of geometric convergence paths is determined responsive to the offset distance for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths, the drill path curvature associated with each of the geometric convergence paths and the time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths. The determined optimal geometric convergence path is fed to a controller associated with a display of a drilling rig and used to control the display of the drilling rig to display the determined optimal geometric convergence path.

Surface steerable drilling system for use with rotary steerable system

A method for rotary steerable drilling, comprising calculating a first plurality of convergence plans if an estimated position of a drill bit is not within a defined margin of error of a desired point along a planned path for a borehole, calculating a second plurality of convergence plans if the estimated position of the drill bit is not within the margin of error, selecting a convergence plan that best satisfies a set of target parameters from the first and second plurality of convergence plans, producing a set of control parameters representing the selected convergence plan, transmitting one or more commands to one or more rotary steering components to actuate the one or more rotary steering components, in order to alter the planned path for the borehole in accordance with the set of control parameters, and drilling at least a portion of the borehole based on the set of control parameters.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REMOTELY CONTROLLED SURFACE STEERABLE DRILLING

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives feedback information from a drilling rig and calculates an estimated position of a drill bit in a formation based on the feedback information. The system compares the estimated position to a desired position along a planned path of a borehole. The system calculates multiple solutions if the comparison indicates that the estimated position is outside a defined margin of error relative to the desired position. Each solution defines a path from the estimated position to the planned path. The system calculates a cost of each solution and selects one of the solutions based at least partly on the cost. The system produces control information representing the selected solution and outputs the control information for the drilling rig. 1. A method for identifying potential issues while drilling comprising:monitoring, by a surface steerable system located remotely at a location separate from a drilling rig, a plurality of operating parameters for drilling rig equipment that is part of the drilling rig and bottom hole assembly (BHA) equipment for a BHA coupled to the drilling rig and positioned in a borehole that is being drilled, wherein the operating parameters control the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment;receiving, by the surface steerable system located remotely at the location separate from the drilling rig, a plurality of current inputs corresponding to performance data of the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment during a drilling operation of the borehole;determining, by the surface steerable system located remotely at the location separate from the drilling rig, that an amount of change between any of the plurality of current inputs and a corresponding plurality of previously received inputs exceeds a defined threshold;determining, by the surface steerable system located remotely at the location separate from the drilling rig, whether a modification to the ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING INCREMENTAL PROGRESSION BETWEEN SURVEY POINTS WHILE DRILLING

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives toolface information for a bottom hole assembly (BHA) and non-survey sensor information corresponding to a location of the BHA in a borehole. The system calculates an amount of incremental progress made by the BHA based on the non-survey sensor information and calculates an estimate of the location based on the toolface information and the amount of incremental progress. The system repeats the steps of receiving toolface information and non-survey sensor information and calculating an amount of incremental progress to calculate an estimate of a plurality of locations representing a path of the BHA from a first survey point towards a second sequential survey point. 1receiving, by a surface steerable system coupled to a drilling rig, toolface information from a bottom hole assembly (BHA) located in a borehole, wherein the toolface information corresponds to a location of the BHA between a first survey point that has been passed and a second sequential survey point that has not yet been reached;receiving, by the surface steerable system, non-survey sensor information corresponding to a state of at least one of the drilling rig, the BHA, or a drillstring coupling the drilling rig to the BHA;calculating, by the surface steerable system, an amount of incremental progress made by the BHA since a previous amount of incremental progress was calculated, wherein calculating the amount of incremental progress is based on the non-survey sensor information;calculating, by the surface steerable system, an estimate of the location based on the toolface information and the amount of incremental progress;causing, by the surface steerable system, at least one drilling parameter to be modified in order to alter a drilling direction of the BHA based on the estimate if the surface steerable system determines that the estimate indicates the drilling direction needs to be altered; ...

System and method for surface steerable drilling using tactical tracking

An apparatus associated with a drilling rig includes a surface steerable system for controlling drilling direction of a bottom hole assembly (BHA). The surface steerable system is configured to receive drilling rig parameters from the BHA. A database stores historical data related to the drilling rig. The historical data relates to previously tracked operations of the drilling rig. The surface steerable system is further configured to perform a plurality of tracking functions with respect to the drilling rig parameters. The plurality of tracking functions cause the surface steerable system to track drilling rig parameters from sensors associated with the drilling rig, access the database of the historical data relating to previously tracked operations of the drilling rig and control operating functions of the drilling rig responsive to at least one of the drilling rig parameters from the sensors associated with the drilling rig and the historical data from the database.

System for drilling a selected convergence path

Provided is a method for selecting one of a plurality of convergence paths that may be drilled by a bottom hole assembly (BHA) comprising identifying, by a computer system, a plurality of geometric convergence paths, wherein each of the geometric convergence paths provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target drilling path of a well plan. An offset distance is calculated for drilling by the BHA each of the geometric convergence paths connecting the BHA location to the target drilling path. A drill path curvature associated with drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. A time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. An optimal geometric convergence path of the plurality of geometric convergence paths is determined responsive to the offset distance for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths, the drill path curvature associated with each of the geometric convergence paths and the time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths. The determined optimal geometric convergence path is fed to a controller associated with a display of a drilling rig and used to control the display of the drilling rig to display the determined optimal geometric convergence path.

Systems and methods for controlling a drilling path based on drift estimates

In a drilling system, a control system coupled to a drilling rig controls a bottom hole assembly (BHA) to drill a borehole through a geological formation along a drilling path. The control system determines a present position of the BHA and calculates a toolface vector to create a convergence path from the present position of the BHA to a desired target path. The control system also receives geological information and compensates the toolface vector to account for an estimated geologic formation drift. The control system causes at least one control parameter to be modified in order to alter a drilling direction of the BHA based on the calculated toolface vector and transmits the at least one control parameter to the drilling rig to target the BHA in accordance with the calculated toolface vector. The control system iteratively performs this process until convergence with the desired target path is achieved.

APPARATUS FOR AUTOMATED SLIDE DRILLING

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi-manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator. 1. A drilling system , comprising:a computer system coupled to at least one control system of a drilling rig, wherein the computer system further comprises a processor, a memory, and instructions stored in the memory that are capable of execution by the processor, wherein the computer system comprises or is adapted to receive a well plan, wherein the well plan comprises information relating to a well comprising a plurality of zones, and wherein the computer system is adapted to receive data during drilling of the well and the instructions are adapted to perform the following operations:(i) identify a zone in which a slide drilling operation is to occur;(ii) responsive to the well plan, begin the slide drilling operation with one or more drilling parameters associated with the zone;(iii) responsive to the well plan, control the slide drilling operation until the computer system determines that the slide drilling operation is complete; and(iv) resume rotary drilling mode with one or more drilling parameters associated with the zone.2. The drilling system according to claim 1 , wherein the computer system is adapted to perform any one or more of the operations (i)-(iv) after first obtaining a user input to proceed.3. The drilling system according to claim 1 , wherein the computer system is adapted to perform any one or more of the operations (i)-(iv) after first providing a display of the slide drilling operation or operations to be performed.4. The drilling system ...

System and Method for Detecting a Mode of Drilling

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the method includes monitoring operating parameters for drilling rig equipment and bottom hole assembly (BHA) equipment for a BHA, where the operating parameters control the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment. The method includes receiving current inputs corresponding to performance data of the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment during a drilling operation and determining that an amount of change between the current inputs and corresponding previously received inputs exceeds a defined threshold. The method further includes determining whether a modification to the operating parameters has occurred that would result in the amount of change exceeding the defined threshold and identifying that a problem exists in at least one of the drilling rig equipment and BA equipment if no modification has occurred to the operating parameters. The method includes performing a defined action if a problem exists. 1. A computer system for detecting a slide drilling mode of a drilling rig system , the computer system comprising:a processor coupled to a drilling rig system and to a memory, the memory comprising instructions executable by the processor, wherein the instructions comprise instructions for:(a) receiving data from one or more surface sensors of the drilling rig system;(b) detecting a flow rate of a drilling mud, a stationary condition of a bottom hole assembly (BHA) in a wellbore, and an on bottom condition of the BHA, wherein the detection of the flow rate of the drilling mud is determined when a standpipe pressure exceeds a standpipe pressure threshold; and(c) responsive to the flow rate of the drilling mud, the stationary condition of the BHA, and the on bottom condition of the BHA, determining if the drilling rig system is in a slide mode of drilling.2. The computer system according to wherein the instructions further comprise instructions for determining claim 1 , if a slide ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SURFACE STEERABLE DRILLING

A system and apparatus for displaying toolface orientation data including a surface steerable system for controlling drilling direction of a bottom hole assembly (BHA). The surface steerable system configured to receive toolface orientation data from the BHA and generate display data responsive thereto. A circular chart display is generated responsive to the display data responsive to the display data from the surface steerable system, the circular chart display representing current and historical toolface orientation data. The current and historical toolface orientation data is represented as an arc indicator defined on the circular chart illustrating a range in degrees of the current and historical toolface orientations. 1. A method for displaying toolface orientation data , comprising:receiving, by a surface steerable system coupled to a drilling rig, toolface orientation data from a bottom hole assembly (BHA) over a period of time;generating, responsive to the toolface orientation data, a circular chart representing current and historical toolface orientation data, the current and historical toolface orientation data represented as an arc indicator defined on the circular chart illustrating a range in degrees of the current and historical toolface orientations; anddisplaying the circular chart represent the current and historical toolface orientation data on a display associated with the surface steerable system.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of generating further comprises the step of generating a plurality of visual indicators illustrating toolface orientation over a period of time.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of generating further comprises generating an error indicator to indicate a magnitude and direction of error of a drill bit position from a planned path.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of generating further comprises the step of generating a marker indicating an ideal slide direction.5. The method of further ...

System and method for defining a drilling path based on cost

Provided are a system and method for calculating and selecting a convergence path based on cost. In one example, the method includes identifying multiple geometric convergence paths that each provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target path. A total monetary cost is calculated for each of the geometric convergence paths using an offset cost based on a distance of the geometric convergence path from the target path, a curvature cost based on an amount of curvature of the geometric convergence path, and a time cost based on an estimated amount of time needed to drill the geometric convergence path. The total monetary costs of the geometric convergence paths are compared and one of the geometric convergence paths is selected based on the total monetary cost of that geometric convergence path relative to the total monetary costs of the other geometric convergence paths.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SURFACE STEERABLE DRILLING

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the method includes monitoring operating parameters for drilling rig equipment and bottom hole assembly (BHA) equipment for a BHA, where the operating parameters control the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment. The method includes receiving current inputs corresponding to performance data of the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment during a drilling operation and determining that an amount of change between the current inputs and corresponding previously received inputs exceeds a defined threshold. The method further includes determining whether a modification to the operating parameters has occurred that would result in the amount of change exceeding the defined threshold and identifying that a problem exists in at least one of the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment if no modification has occurred to the operating parameters. The method includes performing a defined action if a problem exists. 1. A method for dynamically predicting a drilling build rate during drilling of a borehole , comprising:monitoring, by a surface steerable system coupled to a drilling rig, a plurality of parameters relating to a bottom hole assembly (BHA) and a surrounding geological environment;receiving, by the surface steerable system, a plurality of current inputs relating to the plurality of parameters relating to the bottom hole assembly (BHA) and the surrounding geological environment;determining, by the surface steerable system, a current drilling build rate responsive to the plurality of parameters relating to the BHA and the surrounding geological environment; andpredicting a future drilling build rate responsive to the plurality of parameters relating to the BHA and the surrounding geological environment.2. The method of claim 1 , further including determining claim 1 , by the surface steerable system claim 1 , an angle of attack of the BHA to a formation transition responsive to the ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A DRILLING PATH BASED ON DRIFT ESTIMATES

A method includes receiving toolface information corresponding to a location of the bottom hole assembly (BHA) with respect to a target drilling path and drift information. The surface steerable system calculates a first toolface vector from a first location of the BHA to the target drilling path to create a convergence path to the target drilling path and calculates an adjustment of the first toolface vector to a second toolface vector to account for system drift defined by the drift information such that the BHA will converge with the target drilling path by drilling in accordance with the second toolface vector. The surface steerable system modifies at least one drilling parameter to alter a drilling direction of the BHA based on the calculated second toolface vector and transmits the at least one drilling parameter to the drilling rig to target the BHA in accordance with the second toolface vector. 1. A method for drilling , comprising:receiving, by a surface steerable system coupled to a drilling rig, toolface information from a bottom hole assembly (BHA) located in a borehole, wherein the toolface information corresponds to a location of the BHA with respect to a target drilling path and drift information;calculating, by the surface steerable system, a first toolface vector to create a convergence path from a first location of the BHA to the target drilling path;calculating, by the surface steerable system, an adjustment of the first toolface vector to a second toolface vector to account for BHA drift defined by the drift information such that the BHA will converge with the target drilling path by drilling in accordance with the second toolface vector;causing, by the surface steerable system, at least one drilling parameter to be modified in order to alter a drilling direction of the BHA based on the calculated second toolface vector; andtransmitting the at least one drilling parameter to the drilling rig to target the BHA in accordance with the second ...

System and method for determining the location of a bottom hole assembly

System and method for determining the location of a bottom hole assembly (BHA) during drilling of a well are provided. During drilling, a computer system determines an increase in measured depth during a time interval, and adjusts the determined measured depth to account for tensile and compressive forces, which may stretch or compress, respectively, the length of the drillstring. The computer system also determines a curvature projection of the drillstring responsive to a plane of arc and a build rate estimate, and uses the curvature projection to determine a position of the BHA.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A DRILLING PATH BASED ON DRIFT ESTIMATES

A surface steerable system coupled to a drilling rig receives BHA information from a bottom hole assembly (BHA) located in a borehole. The BHA information corresponds to a first location of the BHA with respect to a target drilling path and geological formation drift information. The surface steerable system calculates a toolface vector to create a convergence path from the first location of the BHA to the target drilling path that accounts for geological formation drift defined by the geological formation drift information such that the BHA will converge with the target drilling path by drilling in accordance with the toolface vector. The surface steerable system causes at least one control parameter to be modified in order to alter a drilling direction of the BHA based on the calculated toolface vector and transmits the at least one control parameter to the drilling rig to target the BHA in accordance with the calculated toolface vector. 1. A method for drilling , comprising:receiving, by a surface steerable system coupled to a drilling rig, BHA information from a bottom hole assembly (BHA) located in a borehole, wherein the BHA information corresponds to a first location of the BHA with respect to a target drilling path and geological formation drift information;calculating, by the surface steerable system, a toolface vector to create a convergence path from the first location of the BHA to the target drilling path that accounts for geological formation drift defined by the geological formation drift information such that the BHA will converge with the target drilling path by drilling in accordance with the toolface vector;causing, by the surface steerable system, at least one control parameter to be modified in order to alter a drilling direction of the BHA based on the calculated toolface vector; andtransmitting the at least one control parameter to the drilling rig to target the BHA in accordance with the calculated toolface vector.2. The method of claim 1 , ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING INCREMENTAL PROGRESSION BETWEEN SURVEY POINTS WHILE DRILLING

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives toolface information for a bottom hole assembly (BHA) and non-survey sensor information corresponding to a location of the BHA in a borehole. The system calculates an amount of incremental progress made by the BHA based on the non-survey sensor information and calculates an estimate of the location based on the toolface information and the amount of incremental progress. The system repeats the steps of receiving toolface information and non-survey sensor information and calculating an amount of incremental progress to calculate an estimate of a plurality of locations representing a path of the BHA from a first survey point towards a second sequential survey point. 1. A method comprising:receiving, by a surface steerable system coupled to a drilling rig, toolface information from a bottom hole assembly (BHA) located in a borehole, wherein the toolface information corresponds to a plurality of toolface vectors of the BHA between a first survey point and a second sequential survey point;calculating, by the surface steerable system, a potential build rate of the BHA responsive to the plurality of toolface vectors between the first survey point and the second sequential survey point; anddetermining a predicted build rate for a future path segment responsive to the calculated potential build rate.2. The method of claim 1 , further including calculating claim 1 , by the surface steerable system claim 1 , an effective build rate of the BHA between the first survey point and the second sequential survey point responsive to the plurality of toolface vectors of the BHA between the first survey point and the second sequential survey point.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the step of determining further comprises determining the predicted build rate for the future path segment responsive to the calculated potential build rate and the calculated effective build rate.4. The ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REMOTELY CONTROLLED SURFACE STEERABLE DRILLING

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives feedback information from a drilling rig and calculates an estimated position of a drill bit in a formation based on the feedback information. The system compares the estimated position to a desired position along a planned path of a borehole. The system calculates multiple solutions if the comparison indicates that the estimated position is outside a defined margin of error relative to the desired position. Each solution defines a path from the estimated position to the planned path. The system calculates a cost of each solution and selects one of the solutions based at least partly on the cost. The system produces control information representing the selected solution and outputs the control information for the drilling rig. 1. A method for drilling comprising:receiving, by a surface steerable system located remotely at a location separate from a drilling rig, a plurality of inputs including a planned path for a borehole, formation information for the borehole, drilling rig equipment information for the drilling rig, bottom hole assembly (BHA) equipment information for a BHA coupled to the drilling rig, a set of financial cost parameters, and a set of reliability parameters;processing, by the surface steerable system located remotely at a location separate from the drilling rig, the planned path, the formation information, the drilling rig equipment information, the BHA equipment information, the set of financial cost parameters, and the set of reliability parameters to produce a set of control parameters for the drilling rig, wherein the control parameters define a plurality of drilling operations to be executed by the drilling rig to form the borehole;outputting, by the surface steerable system located remotely at a location separate from the drilling rig, the set of control parameters for the drilling rig;processing, by the surface steerable system located ...

System and Method for Drilling a Borehole

A system and apparatus for displaying toolface orientation data including a surface steerable system for controlling drilling direction of a bottom hole assembly (BHA). The surface steerable system configured to receive toolface orientation data from the BHA and generate display data responsive thereto. A circular chart display is generated responsive to the display data responsive to the display data from the surface steerable system, the circular chart display representing current and historical toolface orientation data. The current and historical toolface orientation data is represented as an arc indicator defined on the circular chart illustrating a range in degrees of the current and historical toolface orientations. 1. A system for drilling a borehole , the system comprising:a processor;a memory coupled to the processor;computer software instructions stored in the memory and executable by the processor, the computer software instructions comprising instructions for:receiving information regarding one or more characteristics of a bottom hole assembly (BHA) in a borehole of a well;receiving information regarding one or more characteristics of one or more geological formations;determining an estimated position of a drill bit in the borehole;determining a predicted build rate for the borehole, wherein the predicted build rate is determined responsive to the one or more BHA characteristics and the one or more geological formation characteristics;determining whether the estimated position of the drill bit is further from a target position for the drill bit than a predetermined amount;if the estimated position of the drill bit is further from the target position than the predetermined amount, then determining a convergence plan for drilling the borehole so that the drill bit will converge with a target point of a planned path for the borehole, wherein the convergence plan is determined responsive to the predicted build rate; andcontrolling one or more drilling ...

System and method for defining a drilling path based on cost

Provided is a method for selecting one of a plurality of convergence paths that may be drilled by a bottom hole assembly (BHA) comprising identifying, by a computer system, a plurality of geometric convergence paths, wherein each of the geometric convergence paths provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target drilling path of a well plan. An offset distance is calculated for drilling by the BHA each of the geometric convergence paths connecting the BHA location to the target drilling path. A drill path curvature associated with drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. A time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. An optimal geometric convergence path of the plurality of geometric convergence paths is determined responsive to the offset distance for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths, the drill path curvature associated with each of the geometric convergence paths and the time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths. The determined optimal geometric convergence path is fed to a controller associated with a display of a drilling rig and used to control the display of the drilling rig to display the determined optimal geometric convergence path.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTION OF SLIDE AND ROTATION MODES

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the method includes monitoring operating parameters for drilling rig equipment and bottom hole assembly (BHA) equipment for a BHA, where the operating parameters control the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment. The method includes receiving current inputs corresponding to performance data of the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment during a drilling operation and determining that an amount of change between the current inputs and corresponding previously received inputs exceeds a defined threshold. The method further includes determining whether a modification to the operating parameters has occurred that would result in the amount of change exceeding the defined threshold and identifying that a problem exists in at least one of the drilling rig equipment and BA equipment if no modification has occurred to the operating parameters. The method includes performing a defined action if a problem exists. 1. An apparatus , comprising:a slide estimator associated with a surface steerable system for a drilling rig for generating information relating to slides responsive to externally monitored data;wherein the slide estimator can detect whether a borehole assembly (BHA) connected to the drilling rig is in a slide mode of operation or a rotary mode of operation responsive to the externally monitored data.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the slide estimator detects a slide mode responsive to detection of at least one of a predetermined level of circulation of drilling mud claim 1 , a stationary BHA and an on bottom condition of the BHA.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein detection of the predetermined level of circulation may be determined by a flow of the drilling mud exceeding a predetermined flow circulation threshold responsive to an output of a digital flow rate meter.4. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the detection of the predetermined level of circulation may be ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A DRILLING PATH BASED ON DRIFT ESTIMATES IN A ROTARY STEERABLE SYSTEM

A method for drilling, comprising receiving, by a surface steerable system coupled to a drilling rig, BHA information from a rotary steerable bottom hole assembly (BHA) located in a borehole, calculating, by the surface steerable system, torsional and spatial forces acting on the rotary steerable BHA at a first location of the rotary steerable BHA with respect to a target drilling path responsive to the BHA information, calculating, by the surface steerable system, a first vector to create a convergence path from the first location of the rotary steerable BHA to the target drilling path that accounts for the torsional and the spatial forces acting on the rotary steerable BHA, causing, by the surface steerable system, at least one drilling parameter to be modified in order to alter a drilling direction of the rotary steerable BHA based on the calculated first vector, transmitting the at least one drilling parameter to the drilling rig to target the rotary steerable BHA in accordance with the first vector, and drilling the borehole using the rotary steerable BHA in response to the at least one drilling parameter. 1. A method for drilling , comprising:receiving, by a surface steerable system coupled to a drilling rig, BHA information from a rotary steerable bottom hole assembly (BHA) located in the borehole;calculating, by the surface steerable system, torsional and spatial forces acting on the rotary steerable BHA at a first location of the rotary steerable BHA with respect to a target drilling path responsive to the BHA information;calculating, by the surface steerable system, a first vector to create a convergence path from the first location of the rotary steerable BHA to the target drilling path that accounts for the torsional and the spatial forces acting on the rotary steerable BHA;causing, by the surface steerable system, at least one drilling parameter to be modified in order to alter a drilling direction of the rotary steerable BHA based on the calculated ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SURFACE STEERABLE DRILLING TO PROVIDE FORMATION MECHANICAL ANALYSIS

A method for determining geological formation characteristics involves driving a bottom hole assembly (BHA) in a borehole. At least one mechanical drilling parameter generated is detected responsive to operation of the BHA in the borehole. At least one geological formation characteristic is identified responsive to the detected at least one mechanical drilling parameter. The identified at least one geological formation characteristic is provided to a surface steerable drilling system. Operation of the surface steerable drilling system is controlled responsive to the at least one geological formation characteristic. 1. A method for determining geological formation characteristics , comprising:driving a bottom hole assembly (BHA) in a borehole;detecting at least one mechanical drilling parameter generated responsive to operation of the BHA in the borehole;identifying at least one geological formation characteristic responsive to the detected at least one mechanical drilling parameter;providing the identified at least one geological formation characteristic to a surface steerable drilling system; andcontrolling operation of the surface steerable drilling system responsive to the at least one geological formation characteristic.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of detecting further comprises the step of detecting variations in at least one of drilling efficiencies claim 1 , rates of deviation in rotary drift and effective build rate of a mud motor.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the step of identifying further comprises the step of identifying at least one of fault zones and geological stress zones responsive to at least one of the drilling efficiencies claim 2 , the rates of deviation in rotary drift and the effective build rate of the mud motor.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of detecting further comprises the step of detecting a change in at least one of rate of penetration and change in an orientation of the BHA.5. The method of claim 4 , ...

Methods, systems, and software for identifying the functional biomolecules

Disk drive writing wedge RRO values in a butterfly pattern

A disk drive is disclosed comprising a plurality of servo sectors that define a plurality of tracks, and a head comprising a read element radially offset from a write element. The read element is positioned over a first track, and the first track is read to generate first read wedge repeatable runout (WRRO) values. A first seek operation of the head positions the read element over a second track, and the second track is read to generate first write WRRO values. The first write WRRO values are used to write the first read WRRO values to the first track. A second seek operation of the head positions the read element over a third track, and the third track is read to generate second write WRRO values. The second write WRRO values are used to write the first write WRRO values to the second track.

Flexible light treatment head

A flexible light treatment head comprising one or more light source modules interconnected by a hinge apparatus along a flexing edge thereof. The light source modules have light emitting elements, such as LEDs or LASERs. The hinge apparatus comprises one or more hinges. Each hinge has a head wiring channel disposed to form a continuous wiring channel along the hinge apparatus. A head wiring channel is also provided for routing wires into the light source module.

Surface steerable drilling system for use with rotary steerable system

A method for rotary steerable drilling, comprising calculating a first plurality of convergence plans if an estimated position of a drill bit is not within a defined margin of error of a desired point along a planned path for a borehole, calculating a second plurality of convergence plans if the estimated position of the drill bit is not within the margin of error, selecting a convergence plan that best satisfies a set of target parameters from the first and second plurality of convergence plans, producing a set of control parameters representing the selected convergence plan, transmitting one or more commands to one or more rotary steering components to actuate the one or more rotary steering components, in order to alter the planned path for the borehole in accordance with the set of control parameters, and drilling at least a portion of the borehole based on the set of control parameters. WO 2016/054586 PCT/US2015/053846 Nh, a o_ U- I- Q-I 0- ()f,, (X 0rt O 0 m -2-7 - zz M 0 0 cn~ 0 O W S0 00 C)0 C,) z z IxI I LH 0- 0N 0 0 LL LL, C__ _ _ _ _ _ z= z)

Apparatus and methods for controlling drilling

A drilling control system may access a drilling plan for a borehole comprising one or more of planned path for the borehole, drill string information, mud properties, drill bit properties, formation properties, and drill rig properties. The system may receive a plurality of operating parameters from a rig for the borehole including one or more of an observed toolface, a spindle setting, a rate of penetration, a differential pressure, and a weight-on-bit. The system may receive one or more propagation functions for the borehole determined by a model of the drill string. The system may determine one or more spindle changes or block speed changes based at least in part on the propagation functions and the plurality of operating parameters. The system may generate one or more predicted drill properties from a simulator using the one or more spindle changes or the one or more block speed changes.

Methods, systems, and software for identifying functional biomolecules

System and method for surface steerable drilling

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives feedback information from a drilling rig and calculates an estimated position of a drill bit in a formation based on the feedback information. The system compares the estimated position to a desired position along a planned path of a borehole. The system calculates multiple solutions if the comparison indicates that the estimated position is outside a defined margin of error relative to the desired position. Each solution defines a path from the estimated position to the planned path. The system calculates a cost of each solution and selects one of the solutions based at least partly on the cost. The system produces control information representing the selected solution and outputs the control information for the drilling rig.

Apparatus and methods for automated slide drilling

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi -manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator.

Methods, systems, and software for identifying functional bio-molecules

The present invention generally relates to methods of rapidly and efficiently searching biologically-related data space. More specifically, the invention includes methods of identifying bio-molecules with desired properties, or which are most suitable for acquiring such properties, from complex bio-molecule libraries or sets of such libraries. The invention also provides methods of modeling sequence-activity relationships. As many of the methods are computer-implemented, the invention additionally provides digital systems and software for performing these methods.

Ifn-alpha homologues

Alpha interferon homologues (both nucleic acids and polypeptides) are provided. Compositions including these interferon homologue polypeptides and nucleic acids, recombinant cells comprising said homologue polypeptides and nucleic acids, methods of making the new homologues, antibodies to the new homologues, and methods of using the homologues are provided. Integrated systems comprising the sequences of the nucleic acids or polypeptides are also provided.

System and method for drilling a borehole

A system and apparatus for displaying toolface orientation data including a surface steerable system for controlling drilling direction of a bottom hole assembly (BHA). The surface steerable system configured to receive toolface orientation data from the BHA and generate display data responsive thereto. A circular chart display is generated responsive to the display data responsive to the display data from the surface steerable system, the circular chart display representing current and historical toolface orientation data. The current and historical toolface orientation data is represented as an arc indicator defined on the circular chart illustrating a range in degrees of the current and historical toolface orientations.

Disk drive writing wedge RRO data along a sinusoidal path to compensate for reader/writer offset

A disk drive is disclosed including a disk having a plurality of tracks, wherein each track comprises a plurality of servo sectors. The disk drive further comprises a head having a read element offset from a write element by a reader/writer offset. The read element is positioned over a first track and the write element is positioned over a second track. A first servo control signal is generated for servoing the head in response to the servo sectors in the first track, and first wedge repeatable runout (RRO) data is written to the second track along a substantially sinusoidal path corresponding to the reader/writer offset, wherein the first wedge RRO data are for writing data to a third track.

System and method for surface steerable drilling

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives feedback information from a drilling rig and calculates an estimated position of a drill bit in a formation based on the feedback information. The system compares the estimated position to a desired position along a planned path of a borehole. The system calculates multiple solutions if the comparison indicates that the estimated position is outside a defined margin of error relative to the desired position. Each solution defines a path from the estimated position to the planned path. The system calculates a cost of each solution and selects one of the solutions based at least partly on the cost. The system produces control information representing the selected solution and outputs the control information for the drilling rig.

Methods, systems, and software for identifying functional biomolecules

System and method for selecting a drilling path based on cost

Provided are a system and method for calculating and selecting a convergence path based on cost. In one example, the method includes identifying multiple geometric convergence paths that each provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target path. A total monetary cost is calculated for each of the geometric convergence paths using an offset cost based on a distance of the geometric convergence path from the target path, a curvature cost based on an amount of curvature of the geometric convergence path, and a time cost based on an estimated amount of time needed to drill the geometric convergence path. The total monetary costs of the geometric convergence paths are compared and one of the geometric convergence paths is selected based on the total monetary cost of that geometric convergence path relative to the total monetary costs of the other geometric convergence paths.

Methods, systems, and software for identifying functional bio-molecules

System and method for surface steerable drilling

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives feedback information from a drilling rig and calculates an estimated position of a drill bit in a formation based on the feedback information. The system compares the estimated position to a desired position along a planned path of a borehole. The system calculates multiple solutions if the comparison indicates that the estimated position is outside a defined margin of error relative to the desired position. Each solution defines a path from the estimated position to the planned path. The system calculates a cost of each solution and selects one of the solutions based at least partly on the cost. The system produces control information representing the selected solution and outputs the control information for the drilling rig.

Evolved interferon-alpha polypeptides

System and method for mag ranging drilling control

System and method for controlling the drilling of a second wellbore in close proximity to a first well bore. A computer system obtains information regarding a previously drilled wellbore, as well as information regarding a second wellbore being drilled. Using information obtained from one or more magnetic sensors, the computer system determines an optimal target path for continued drilling of the second wellbore and may issue one or more control signals to one or more control systems coupled to a drilling rig to automatically drill in accordance with the selected path. The computer system can generate a plurality of potential paths using one or more cost curves and/or value curves to determine the optimal path for the second wellbore.

Apparatus and methods for automated slide drilling

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi-manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator.

Apparatus and methods for automated slide drilling

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi-manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator.

Apparatus for automated slide drilling

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi-manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator.

Systems and methods for drilling a well

Provided is a method for selecting one of a plurality of convergence paths that may be drilled by a bottom hole assembly (BHA) comprising identifying, by a computer system, a plurality of geometric convergence paths, wherein each of the geometric convergence paths provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target drilling path of a well plan. An offset distance is calculated for drilling by the BHA each of the geometric convergence paths connecting the BHA location to the target drilling path. A drill path curvature associated with drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. A time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. An optimal geometric convergence path of the plurality of geometric convergence paths is determined responsive to the offset distance for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths, the drill path curvature associated with each of the geometric convergence paths and the time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths. The determined optimal geometric convergence path is fed to a controller associated with a display of a drilling rig and used to control the display of the drilling rig to display the determined optimal geometric convergence path.

System and method for detecting a mode of drilling

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the method includes monitoring operating parameters for drilling rig equipment and bottom hole assembly (BHA) equipment for a BHA, where the operating parameters control the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment. The method includes receiving current inputs corresponding to performance data of the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment during a drilling operation and determining that an amount of change between the current inputs and corresponding previously received inputs exceeds a defined threshold. The method further includes determining whether a modification to the operating parameters has occurred that would result in the amount of change exceeding the defined threshold and identifying that a problem exists in at least one of the drilling rig equipment and BA equipment if no modification has occurred to the operating parameters. The method includes performing a defined action if a problem exists.

Apparatus and methods for automated slide drilling

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi -manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator.

System and method for drilling a borehole

A system and apparatus for displaying toolface orientation data including a surface steerable system for controlling drilling direction of a bottom hole assembly (BHA). The surface steerable system configured to receive toolface orientation data from the BHA and generate display data responsive thereto. A circular chart display is generated responsive to the display data responsive to the display data from the surface steerable system, the circular chart display representing current and historical toolface orientation data. The current and historical toolface orientation data is represented as an arc indicator defined on the circular chart illustrating a range in degrees of the current and historical toolface orientations.

Systems and methods for managing temperatures in wellbores

In some implementations, a plurality of thermoelectric devices may be arranged to cool one or more components of a downhole drilling component during drilling operations. A current can be applied to one or more thermoelectric devices to generate a cooling effect. The thermoelectric devices can be located and arranged so that they cool some or all of a bottom hole assembly or components thereof, such as one or more sensors, batteries, processors, electrics, and the like. The thermoelectric devices also may be located and arranged to cool sensors, batteries, other downhole components, and/or drilling mud in a wellbore during drilling operations. A plurality of thermoelectric devices may be used to generate electric power downhole from a temperature difference. The electric power may be used to power sensors, processors, charge batteries, and be used by one or more downhole electric components, such as those in a bottom hold assembly. One or more thermal storage devices may be used with the thermoelectric devices to store thermal energy for use when needed. A control system may be used to control the activation and/or deactivation of one or more thermoelectric devices to provide cooling or electricity when desired and to switch between such operations.

Apparatus and methods for automated slide drilling

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi -manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator.

System and method for detecting a mode of drilling

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the method includes monitoring operating parameters for drilling rig equipment and bottom hole assembly (BHA) equipment for a BHA, where the operating parameters control the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment. The method includes receiving current inputs corresponding to performance data of the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment during a drilling operation and determining that an amount of change between the current inputs and corresponding previously received inputs exceeds a defined threshold. The method further includes determining whether a modification to the operating parameters has occurred that would result in the amount of change exceeding the defined threshold and identifying that a problem exists in at least one of the drilling rig equipment and BA equipment if no modification has occurred to the operating parameters. The method includes performing a defined action if a problem exists.

Systems and methods for downhole power generation

In some implementations, a plurality of thermoelectric devices may be arranged to cool one or more components of a downhole drilling component during drilling operations. A current can be applied to one or more thermoelectric devices to generate a cooling effect. The thermoelectric devices can be located and arranged so that they cool some or all of a bottom hole assembly or components thereof, such as one or more sensors, batteries, processors, electrics, and the like. The thermoelectric devices also may be located and arranged to cool sensors, batteries, other downhole components, and/or drilling mud in a wellbore during drilling operations. A plurality of thermoelectric devices may be used to generate electric power downhole from a temperature difference. The electric power may be used to power sensors, processors, charge batteries, and be used by one or more downhole electric components, such as those in a bottom hold assembly. One or more thermal storage devices may be used with the thermoelectric devices to store thermal energy for use when needed. A control system may be used to control the activation and/or deactivation of one or more thermoelectric devices to provide cooling when desired.

Systems and methods for managing temperatures in wellbores

In some implementations, a plurality of thermoelectric devices may be arranged to cool one or more components of a downhole drilling component during drilling operations. A current can be applied to one or more thermoelectric devices to generate a cooling effect. The thermoelectric devices can be located and arranged so that they cool some or all of a bottom hole assembly or components thereof, such as one or more sensors, batteries, processors, electrics, and the like. The thermoelectric devices also may be located and arranged to cool sensors, batteries, other downhole components, and/or drilling mud in a wellbore during drilling operations. A plurality of thermoelectric devices may be used to generate electric power downhole from a temperature difference. The electric power may be used to power sensors, processors, charge batteries, and be used by one or more downhole electric components, such as those in a bottom hold assembly. One or more thermal storage devices may be used with the thermoelectric devices to store thermal energy for use when needed. A control system may be used to control the activation and/or deactivation of one or more thermoelectric devices to provide cooling or electricity when desired and to switch between such operations.

Apparatus and methods for automated slide drilling

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi-manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator.

Apparatus and methods for controlling drilling

A drilling control system may access a drilling plan for a borehole comprising one or more of planned path for the borehole, drill string information, mud properties, drill bit properties, formation properties, and drill rig properties. The system may receive a plurality of operating parameters from a rig for the borehole including one or more of an observed toolface, a spindle setting, a rate of penetration, a differential pressure, and a weight-on-bit. The system may receive one or more propagation functions for the borehole determined by a model of the drill string. The system may determine one or more spindle changes or block speed changes based at least in part on the propagation functions and the plurality of operating parameters. The system may generate one or more predicted drill properties from a simulator using the one or more spindle changes or the one or more block speed changes.

Apparatus and methods for automated slide drilling

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi-manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator.

Apparatus and methods for controlling drilling

A drilling control system may access a drilling plan for a borehole comprising one or more of planned path for the borehole, drill string information, mud properties, drill bit properties, formation properties, and drill rig properties. The system may receive a plurality of operating parameters from a rig for the borehole including one or more of an observed toolface, a spindle setting, a rate of penetration, a differential pressure, and a weight-on-bit. The system may receive one or more propagation functions for the borehole determined by a model of the drill string. The system may determine one or more spindle changes or block speed changes based at least in part on the propagation functions and the plurality of operating parameters. The system may generate one or more predicted drill properties from a simulator using the one or more spindle changes or the one or more block speed changes.

System and method for drilling a borehole

A system and method for drilling are provided. Responsive to receipt of information, the system determines an estimated position of a drill bit in a borehole and whether the estimated position is within a defined margin of error on the planned path. If the estimated position is not within the defined margin of error, the system calculates a first plurality of convergence plans, each defining a path from the estimated position to the planned path or from a projected position of the drill bit. The system defines a second plurality of convergence plans defining a subset of the first plurality, each falling within a window of correction. The system selects a convergence plan from the second plurality that optimizes target parameters and produces control parameters associated with drilling the selected plan. The system drills at least a portion of the borehole based on the produced control parameters.

Systems and methods for downhole power generation

In some implementations, a plurality of thermoelectric devices may be arranged to cool one or more components of a downhole drilling component during drilling operations. A current can be applied to one or more thermoelectric devices to generate a cooling effect. The thermoelectric devices can be located and arranged so that they cool some or all of a bottom hole assembly or components thereof, such as one or more sensors, batteries, processors, electrics, and the like. The thermoelectric devices also may be located and arranged to cool sensors, batteries, other downhole components, and/or drilling mud in a wellbore during drilling operations. A plurality of thermoelectric devices may be used to generate electric power downhole from a temperature difference. The electric power may be used to power sensors, processors, charge batteries, and be used by one or more downhole electric components, such as those in a bottom hold assembly. One or more thermal storage devices may be used with the thermoelectric devices to store thermal energy for use when needed. A control system may be used to control the activation and/or deactivation of one or more thermoelectric devices to provide cooling when desired.

Systems and methods for managing temperatures in wellbores

In some implementations, a plurality of thermoelectric devices may be arranged to cool one or more components of a downhole drilling component during drilling operations. A current can be applied to one or more thermoelectric devices to generate a cooling effect. The thermoelectric devices can be located and arranged so that they cool some or all of a bottom hole assembly or components thereof, such as one or more sensors, batteries, processors, electrics, and the like. The thermoelectric devices also may be located and arranged to cool sensors, batteries, other downhole components, and/or drilling mud in a wellbore during drilling operations. A plurality of thermoelectric devices may be used to generate electric power downhole from a temperature difference. The electric power may be used to power sensors, processors, charge batteries, and be used by one or more downhole electric components, such as those in a bottom hold assembly. One or more thermal storage devices may be used with the thermoelectric devices to store thermal energy for use when needed. A control system may be used to control the activation and/or deactivation of one or more thermoelectric devices to provide cooling or electricity when desired and to switch between such operations.

Systems and methods for downhole power generation

In some implementations, a plurality of thermoelectric devices may be arranged to cool one or more components of a downhole drilling component during drilling operations. A current can be applied to one or more thermoelectric devices to generate a cooling effect. The thermoelectric devices can be located and arranged so that they cool some or all of a bottom hole assembly or components thereof, such as one or more sensors, batteries, processors, electrics, and the like. The thermoelectric devices also may be located and arranged to cool sensors, batteries, other downhole components, and/or drilling mud in a wellbore during drilling operations. A plurality of thermoelectric devices may be used to generate electric power downhole from a temperature difference. The electric power may be used to power sensors, processors, charge batteries, and be used by one or more downhole electric components, such as those in a bottom hold assembly. One or more thermal storage devices may be used with the thermoelectric devices to store thermal energy for use when needed. A control system may be used to control the activation and/or deactivation of one or more thermoelectric devices to provide cooling when desired.

Apparatus and methods for automated slide drilling

System and method for selecting a drilling path based on cost

Provided are a system and method for calculating and selecting a convergence path based on cost. In one example, the method includes identifying multiple geometric convergence paths that each provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target path. A total monetary cost is calculated for each of the geometric convergence paths using an offset cost based on a distance of the geometric convergence path from the target path, a curvature cost based on an amount of curvature of the geometric convergence path, and a time cost based on an estimated amount of time needed to drill the geometric convergence path. The total monetary costs of the geometric convergence paths are compared and one of the geometric convergence paths is selected based on the total monetary cost of that geometric convergence path relative to the total monetary costs of the other geometric convergence paths.

System and method for selecting a drilling path based on cost

Provided are a system and method for calculating and selecting a convergence path based on cost. In one example, the method includes identifying multiple geometric convergence paths that each provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target path. A total monetary cost is calculated for each of the geometric convergence paths using an ofTset cost based on a distance of the geometric convergence path from the target path, a curvature cost based on an amount of curvature of the geometric convergence path, and a time cost based on an estimated amount of time needed to drill the geometric convergence path. The total monetary costs of the geometric convergence paths are compared and one of the geometric convergence paths is selected based on the total monetary cost of that geometric convergence path relative to the total monetary costs of the other geometric convergence paths.

System and method for selecting a drilling path based on cost

Provided are a system and method for calculating and selecting a convergence path based on cost. In one example, the method includes identifying multiple geometric convergence paths that each provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target path. A total monetary cost is calculated for each of the geometric convergence paths using an offset cost based on a distance of the geometric convergence path from the target path, a curvature cost based on an amount of curvature of the geometric convergence path, and a time cost based on an estimated amount of time needed to drill the geometric convergence path. The total monetary costs of the geometric convergence paths are compared and one of the geometric convergence paths is selected based on the total monetary cost of that geometric convergence path relative to the total monetary costs of the other geometric convergence paths.

System an method for determining incremental progression between survey points while drilling

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the system receives toolface information for a bottom hole assembly (BHA) and non-survey sensor information corresponding to a location of the BHA in a borehole. The system calculates an amount of incremental progress made by the BHA based on the non-survey sensor information and calculates an estimate of the location based on the toolface information and the amount of incremental progress. The system repeats the steps of receiving toolface information and non-survey sensor information and calculating an amount of incremental progress to calculate an estimate of a plurality of locations representing a path of the BHA from a first survey point towards a second sequential survey point.

Apparatus for automated slide drilling

An automated slide drilling system (ASDS) may be used with a drilling rig system to control slide drilling. The ASDS may autonomously control slide drilling without user input during the slide drilling. The ASDS may further support a transition from rotary drilling to slide drilling to rotary drilling without user input during the transitions. The ASDS may also support user input and user notifications for various steps to enable manual or semi-manual control of slide drilling by a driller or an operator.

Systems and methods for drilling a well

Provided is a method for selecting one of a plurality of convergence paths that may be drilled by a bottom hole assembly (BHA) comprising identifying, by a computer system, a plurality of geometric convergence paths, wherein each of the geometric convergence paths provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target drilling path of a well plan. An offset distance is calculated for drilling by the BHA each of the geometric convergence paths connecting the BHA location to the target drilling path. A drill path curvature associated with drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. A time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. An optimal geometric convergence path of the plurality of geometric convergence paths is determined responsive to the offset distance for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths, the drill path curvature associated with each of the geometric convergence paths and the time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths. The determined optimal geometric convergence path is fed to a controller associated with a display of a drilling rig and used to control the display of the drilling rig to display the determined optimal geometric convergence path.

Systems and methods for drilling a well

Provided is a method for selecting one of a plurality of convergence paths that may be drilled by a bottom hole assembly (BHA) comprising identifying, by a computer system, a plurality of geometric convergence paths, wherein each of the geometric convergence paths provides a convergence solution from a defined bottom hole assembly (BHA) location to a target drilling path of a well plan. An offset distance is calculated for drilling by the BHA each of the geometric convergence paths connecting the BHA location to the target drilling path. A drill path curvature associated with drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. A time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths by the BHA is determined by the computer system. An optimal geometric convergence path of the plurality of geometric convergence paths is determined responsive to the offset distance for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths, the drill path curvature associated with each of the geometric convergence paths and the time required for drilling each of the geometric convergence paths. The determined optimal geometric convergence path is fed to a controller associated with a display of a drilling rig and used to control the display of the drilling rig to display the determined optimal geometric convergence path.

System and method for utilizing tracking functions for drilling control

System and method for controlling drilling rig operations where a control system coupled to a drilling rig obtains performance information during drilling of a well. Using the performance information obtained during drilling of the well, historical data regarding performance information relating to wells previously drilled, and a well plan, the control system can predict the time required to complete drilling of one or more subsequent portions of the well and the cost associated with the time. The control system can compare the cost associated with the time to a target value. If the difference between the cost associated with the time and the target value exceeds a threshold, then the control system can generate an updated drilling path and control information can be sent to drill the well according to said updated drilling path.

System and method for surface steerable drilling

A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the method includes monitoring operating parameters for drilling rig equipment and bottom hole assembly (BHA) equipment for a BHA, where the operating parameters control the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment. The method includes receiving current inputs corresponding to performance data of the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment during a drilling operation and determining that an amount of change between the current inputs and corresponding previously received inputs exceeds a defined threshold. The method further includes determining whether a modification to the operating parameters has occurred that would result in the amount of change exceeding the defined threshold and identifying that a problem exists in at least one of the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment if no modification has occurred to the operating parameters. The method includes performing a defined action if a problem exists.