Patent ID: 8991526
Filing Date: 2015-03-31
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
1. A fixed cutter drill bit having a bit axis and a gauge diameter, the drill bit comprising: a bit body, the bit body having a proximal end adapted for connecting with a drill string, a distal end, and a plurality of blades extending from the distal end toward the proximal end, wherein the blades define a cutting profile between the bit axis and the gauge diameter; and (b) a plurality of cutters attached to the blades, wherein the cutters are distributed on the blades in a cutter layout along the cutting profile; wherein the cutter layout is comprised of a balanced cutter pattern comprising a plurality of balanced cutters, wherein the balanced cutter pattern extends outward from the bit axis toward the gauge diameter, wherein the balanced cutter pattern has a balanced cutter diameter, wherein the center of the balanced cutter diameter coincides with the bit axis, wherein the balanced cutter diameter is less than or equal to 50 percent of the gauge diameter and wherein the balanced cutter pattern extends only to the balanced cutter diameter such that the balanced cutter diameter provides a transition between the balanced cutter pattern and an intermediate cutter region wherein some cutter offset is provided amongst the cutters.