Low complexity processing method for drilling attitude sensor faults

To address the issues of high cost, complex system design, fragile redundant components, and heavy burden on the main controller in traditional attitude measurement while drilling (MWD) sensor fault handling methods, as well as the limitations of current high-complexity algorithms in downhole resources and real-time performance, a low-complexity fault handling approach based on sensor information redundancy is proposed. First, a fault diagnosis theoretical framework and fault tree model are established, focusing on the impact of sensor faults on attitude determination. Next, fault location is diagnosed using the fault tree model, and attitude solving is performed via an algorithm switching strategy to isolate faults and generate accurate attitude parameters. A fault code corresponding to the studied fault conditions is designed, and attitude calculation under sensor fault conditions is validated through hardware-in-the-loop simulation. Experimental results demonstrate that, under hard sensor faults, the proposed fault detection and treatment method ensures attitude calculation meets drilling requirements. Complexity analysis confirms the low computational complexity of the method, ensuring reliable attitude output with acceptable accuracy even under sensor failure.