Abstract: A drill bit having a rotatable ball bit includes a first bit head and a second bit head, a first set of cutters on the first bit head, and a second set of cutters on the second bit head. The rotatable ball bit is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position, wherein the first bit head is distal to the second bit head in the first position, and wherein the second bit head is distal to the first bit head in the second position. A method of operating a rotatable ball bit includes orienting the rotatable ball bit in a first position, wherein a first bit head is oriented distally, rotating the rotatable ball bit about a longitudinal axis, orienting the rotatable ball bit in a second position, wherein a second bit head is oriented distally, and rotating the rotatable ball bit about the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: An example system for operation in a borehole in a hydrocarbon-bearing rock formation includes a logging tool for detecting one or more conditions in the borehole. The logging tool includes a tool body and a 4D printed sensing element. The 4D printed sensing element includes a 3D printed shape-memory material configured to alter in at least one spatial dimension in response to one or more stimuli, thereby generating a data signal. The example system includes a data recording device in communication with the logging tool to receive and record one or more data signals transmitted from the logging tool.

Abstract: A rotational power slips system includes a static base comprising at least one circular opening; a rotating ring disposed within the static base and including a circular outer surface interfacing with the static base; at least one slips wedge disposed within the rotating ring and including a radially inner grip surface for gripping at least one component of a drilling string; and at least one wedge actuator disposed on the rotating ring and rotatably coupled to both the rotating ring and the slips wedge, thereby causing the slips wedge to move while the component of a drilling string is rotating.