Patent ID: 8996396
Filing Date: 2015-03-31
Classification: E21B,G06Q

Abstract:
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 convergence paths based on the total monetary cost of that geometric convergence path relative to the total monetary costs of the other geometric convergence paths; outputting, by the computer system, the selected geometric convergence path; feeding the selected geometric convergence path to a controller of a drilling rig; and controlling the drilling rig, by the controller associated with the drilling rig, to drill a well in accordance with the selected geometric convergence path.