US Patent 7230542 Streamlining data transfer to/from logging while drilling tools

The invention provides a more efficient way to transfer data to or from a logging tool during a drilling process. A memory module is provided for rapid insertion and retrieval from a logging while drilling tool between drilling runs. The memory module records and stores data collected during the drilling process. A process of the invention includes removing the memory module from the tool; loading a new memory module into the tool that contains the desired tool parameters for the next run. The retrieved memory module is then connected to an independent surface system to download the stored data.