Schlumberger Technology Corporation

Richard Edward Thorp

James C Mayes

Raju M Eason

Mario A Araya

A while drilling system and method for determining downhole parameters is provided. The system includes a retrievable while drilling tool positionable in a downhole drilling tool, a sensor chassis and at least one sensor. The while drilling tool is positionable in the downhole drilling tool and has a first communication coupler at an end thereof. The sensor chassis is supported in the drilling tool. The sensor chassis has a second communication coupler at an end thereof for operative connection with the first communication coupler. The sensor is positioned in the chassis and is adapted to measure internal and/or external parameters of the drilling tool. The sensor is operatively connected to the while drilling tool via the communication coupler for communication therebetween. The sensor may be positioned in the while drilling tool and retrievable with the drilling tool. Preferably, the system is operable in high temperature and high pressure conditions.

While drilling system and method

An apparatus and related method are useful for compensating the pressure of drilling fluid in a drill collar disposed in a borehole. The apparatus includes a stator adapted for being secured within the drill collar against rotation relative to the drill collar, and a shaft rotatably carried within the stator so as to define a fluid-conducting annular gap between the shaft and the stator. The shaft has a fluid-conducting channel extending axially therethrough. A rotor is secured about the shaft for rotation therewith. A portion of the rotor is disposed adjacent a portion of the stator so as to define an inlet between the rotor and stator portions through which drilling fluid in the drill collar will be conducted. The rotor portion further cooperates with the stator and the shaft to define a first annular cavity that fluidly communicates with the gap and the inlet. A rotary seal is disposed in the first cavity for isolating the gap from the inlet. Either the rotor, the shaft, or a combination thereof, are equipped with a first compensating chamber for holding a compensating fluid. The first compensating chamber fluidly communicates with the gap. A movable barrier is disposed in the first compensating chamber for isolating the compensating fluid. At least one port extends through the rotor for communicating drilling fluid pressure to the compensating fluid via the movable barrier.

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Richmond, TX, United States of America

Richard Edward Thorp