This paper describes a trial deploying and operating a computer-vision system on a deepwater rig to measure drilled cuttings in real time using a remotely monitored camera system. By autonomously characterizing drilled cuttings, the system aims to enhance drilling efficiency, optimize penetration rates, and prevent packoff events. The successful application of image analysis to digital shaker surveillance represents a promising advancement in cuttings-recovery-rate measurement.
Problem Statement
Finding the optimal combination of drilling parameters and mud characteristics to avoid the excessive accumulation of cuttings in the wellbore and associated risks can be a major challenge. The situation is worsened if rock fragments of larger dimensions (known as cavings) unexpectedly fall into the wellbore from the borehole wall.
