Local / hybrid blockchain for implementing integrity of oil and gas operations

Abstract

Methods and systems for blockchain-related systems for oil and gas infrastructure are disclosed. In one aspect, a blockchain-related system includes a node disposed at an oil or gas infrastructure site, the node including a memory configured to store blockchain data and a processor configured to receive a first data item to append to a blockchain, add the first data item to the blockchain, but when communication with a second node is unavailable, the blockchain-related system can split the blockchain and add the first data item to the split blockchain.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference paragraphs

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 828,974, filed April 3, 2019, entitled “Local / Hybrid Blockchain for Oil and Gas Operations Integrity,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Oilfield operations are complex and involve collaboration between systems and operators to achieve desired results. In many cases, oilfield operations and other energy production, capture, and transmission environments take place in remote settings, which can impact the ability to maintain a stable, reliable, or deterministic connection to a network.

[0004] The expectation is to use blockchain technology in the oilfield industry, as well as in other energy production, capture, and transmission environments in fields and towns, to provide inherent trust in audit trails and activity ledgers in ways that were previously impossible. For example, blockchain can provide tamper-proof records that cannot be altered once created and can be verified through a distributed set of nodes on a network.

[0005] However, current blockchain technology operates on wide area networks, with nodes distributed around the world. Block requesters may contact nodes to create new entries in the blockchain, and the nodes coordinate themselves to create unique and immutable new blocks. This chain protects information such as financial records of transactions.

[0006] In oilfield operational sites (such as well sites, drilling rig sites, and other oilfield facilities) and other energy production, capture, and transmission environments, connections to the internet or dedicated networks may be intermittent, nonexistent, or limited by data rates or latency. Blockchain systems cannot be deployed and operated when there are questions about the reliance on distributed wide area network (WAN) connectivity and / or cloud access, especially when the high transaction rates that oilfield systems can generate cannot be confined outside the well site due to a lack of performance connectivity.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a local / hybrid blockchain system and method for oil and gas, as well as other energy production, capture, and transmission environments, to improve operational integrity. Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to some embodiments, a method for securing winch transportation data using a blockchain is provided, where a winch transportation location includes a site computing infrastructure, the method including, at a computing infrastructure including one or more blockchain nodes: receiving a first data item from the site computing infrastructure; and at a first blockchain node of the one or more blockchain nodes: updating a first blockchain ledger to include the first data item, thereby creating a first updated blockchain ledger; sending the first updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure when the site computing infrastructure is available; maintaining the first updated blockchain ledger as a first split branch when the site computing infrastructure is unavailable; and upon determining that the site computing infrastructure is unavailable, and in response to receiving a second data item from the site computing infrastructure: coordinating the first split branch and the second data item to generate a second updated blockchain ledger; and sending the second updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure. In further embodiments, at least a plurality of the blockchain nodes in the computing infrastructure are disposed in a remote cloud-based infrastructure, and in response to receiving the first data item for processing, the first blockchain ledger is updated using the plurality of remote blockchain nodes. In further embodiments, the first updated blockchain ledger is audited. In further embodiments, updating the first blockchain ledger includes performing a cryptographic operation.

[0009] According to some embodiments, a method for securing drilling operations data using a blockchain is provided, where a drilling operations location includes a site computing infrastructure, the method including, at a computing infrastructure including one or more blockchain nodes: receiving a first data item from the site computing infrastructure; and at a first blockchain node of the one or more blockchain nodes: updating a first blockchain ledger to include the first data item, thereby creating a first updated blockchain ledger; sending the first updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure when the site computing infrastructure is available; maintaining the first updated blockchain ledger as a first split branch when the site computing infrastructure is unavailable; and upon determining that the site computing infrastructure is unavailable, and in response to receiving a second data item from the site computing infrastructure: coordinating the first split branch and the second data item to generate a second updated blockchain ledger; and sending the second updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure. In further embodiments, at least a plurality of the blockchain nodes in the computing infrastructure are disposed in a remote cloud-based infrastructure, and in response to receiving the first data item for processing, the first blockchain ledger is updated using the plurality of remote blockchain nodes. In further embodiments, the first updated blockchain ledger is audited. In further embodiments, updating the first blockchain ledger includes performing a cryptographic operation.

[0010] According to some embodiments, a method for securing oil and gas production operations data using a blockchain is provided, where an oil and gas production operations site includes a site computing infrastructure, the method including, at a computing infrastructure including one or more blockchain nodes: receiving a first data item from the site computing infrastructure; and at a first blockchain node of the one or more blockchain nodes: updating a first blockchain ledger to include the first data item, thereby creating a first updated blockchain ledger; sending the first updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure when the site computing infrastructure is available; maintaining the first updated blockchain ledger as a first split branch when the site computing infrastructure is unavailable; and upon determining that the site computing infrastructure is unavailable, and in response to receiving a second data item from the site computing infrastructure: reconciling the first split branch and the second data item to generate a second updated blockchain ledger; and sending the second updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure. In further embodiments, at least a plurality of the blockchain nodes of the computing infrastructure are disposed in a remote cloud-based infrastructure, and in response to receiving a first data item for processing, the first blockchain ledger is updated using the plurality of remote blockchain nodes. In further embodiments, the first updated blockchain ledger is audited. In further embodiments, updating the first blockchain ledger includes performing a cryptographic operation.

[0011] Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc. implementing various aspects of the subject innovation are also disclosed.

[0012] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the of the Invention. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] The features and advantages of the described implementations can be better understood with reference to the following description together with the accompanying drawings.

[0014] Figure 1 Examples of equipment in a geological environment are shown.

[0015] Figure 2 Examples of equipment and examples of wellbore types are shown.

[0016] Figure 3 Examples of systems are shown.

[0017] Figure 4 Examples of wellsite systems and examples of computing systems are shown.

[0018] Figure 5 Examples of equipment in a geological environment are shown.

[0019] Figure 6 A side elevation view of a wind turbine is shown.

[0020] Figure 7 A wind turbine farm is shown.

[0021] Figure 8 A solar panel is shown.

[0022] Figure 9 A solar panel farm is shown.

[0023] Figure 10 An ocean power farm is shown.

[0024] Figure 11 A local model blockchain creation and augmentation workflow is shown.

[0025] Figure 12 A conceptual blockchain infrastructure for a wellsite or rig site is shown.

[0026] Figure 13A A method of updating a blockchain according to some embodiments disclosed herein is shown.

[0027] Figure 13B Redundant communication of blocks in a blockchain is shown.

[0028] Figure 14A A conceptual hybrid blockchain infrastructure for a wellsite or rig site is shown.

[0029] Figure 14B A method of updating a blockchain according to some embodiments disclosed herein is shown.

[0030] Figure 14C A concept of splitting a blockchain according to some embodiments disclosed herein is shown.

[0031] Figure 15A A conceptual cloud or remote based blockchain infrastructure for a wellsite or rig site is shown.

[0032] Figure 15B A method of updating a blockchain according to some embodiments disclosed herein is shown.

[0033] Figure 16 An example of a method and an example of a system are shown.

[0034] Figure 17 An example of a well construction ecosystem including one or more slip state engines is shown.

[0035] Figure 18 An example of a computing system is shown.

[0036] Figure 19 Example components of systems and networked systems are shown.

[0037] Figure 20 A method of updating a blockchain according to some embodiments disclosed herein is shown.

[0038] Figure 21 A method of updating a blockchain according to some embodiments disclosed herein is shown.

[0039] Figure 22 A method of updating a blockchain according to some embodiments disclosed herein is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Reference will now be made in detail embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description of embodiments, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present application. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present application can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments.

[0041] It will also be appreciated that, although terms such as first, second, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first object or step could be termed a second object or step, and, similarly, a second object or step could be termed a first object or step, without departing from the scope of the present application. The first object or step and the second object or step are both, objects or steps, respectively, but they are not to be considered the same object or step.

[0042] The terminology used in the description of the application herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. As used in the description of the application and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms "includes," "including," "comprises," and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0043] As used herein, the term "if' can be construed to mean "when" or "upon" or "in response to determining" or "in response to detecting," depending on the context. Similarly, the term "if determined" or "if detected [the condition or event]" can be construed to mean "upon determining" or "in response to determining" or "upon detecting [the condition or event]" or "in response to detecting [the condition or event]," depending on the context.

[0044] In oilfield or other energy production, capture, and transmission environments, blockchain can protect information such as rig activity, personnel movement and actions, system status and reports, which have highly adverse impact if such records are altered and limit or prevent performance or event reviews, through which altered records can support a false storyline to fraudulently protect participants in the system.

[0045] According to one aspect, local blockchain distributed infrastructure is deployed where operations are taking place, which can autonomously increase trust in transaction ledgers indoors.

[0046] According to another aspect, models are defined to increase trust by using hybrid models and extending to the cloud when connectivity exists and performance is good.

[0047] The present disclosure relates to improved processing systems, devices, and methods for oilfield and other energy production, capture, and transmission environments to provide ordered combinations that provide new results in processing. In one example, the present application describes a new processing device that provides local / hybrid blockchain in a new form, provides new functionality such as providing blockchain that was not previously available, has higher reliability, uses lower processing resources, or provides improved performance. The described devices and methods cannot be performed manually in any useful sense. Simplified data sets can be used for illustrative purposes, but it should be understood that the present disclosure extends to data sets having thousands of points, requiring the new hardware-based processing systems described herein.

[0048] Examples of oil and gas applications in which the described blockchain infrastructure can be deployed include wireline operations, drilling and well construction operations, and production facilities and testing operations. Examples of other energy production, capture, and transmission environments in which the described blockchain infrastructure can be deployed include solar installations, nuclear power plants, power transmission lines and grids, hydroelectric power plants and infrastructure, tidal, ocean current, and wave energy installations, geothermal power stations, wind power stations, and other power generation facilities and their grids, instrumentation, power transmission lines, and sensors with data transmission capability, where data transmitted can be collected and managed using blockchain technology.

[0049] Figure 1An example of a geological environment 120 is shown. In Figure 1 The geological environment 120 can be a depositional basin including multiple layers (e.g., stratified) including a reservoir 121 and can intersect, e.g., by a fault 123 (e.g., or multiple faults). As an example, the geological environment 120 can be equipped with any of a variety of sensors, detectors, actuators, etc. For example, equipment 122 can include communication circuitry to receive and transmit information relative to one or more networks 125. Such information can include information associated with downhole equipment 124, which can be equipment to gather information, assist resource recovery, etc. Other equipment 126 can be located remote from a well site and include sensing, detecting, emitting, or other circuitry. Such equipment can include storage and communication circuitry to store and communicate data, instructions, etc. As an example, one or more pieces of equipment can provide measurement, collection, communication, storage, analysis, etc. of data (e.g., regarding one or more resources being extracted, etc.). As an example, one or more satellites can be provided for communication, data gathering, etc. purposes. For example, Figure 1 A satellite is shown in communication with a network 125 that can be configured for communication, noting that the satellite can additionally or alternatively include circuitry for imaging (e.g., spatial, spectral, temporal, radiation, etc.).

[0050] Figure 1 The geological environment 120 is also shown as optionally including equipment 127 and 128 associated with a well including a substantially horizontal portion (or lateral portion) that can intersect one or more fractures 129. For example, consider a well in a shale formation that can include natural fractures, artificial fractures (e.g., hydraulic fractures), or a combination of natural and artificial fractures. As an example, a well can be drilled into a laterally extending reservoir. In such examples, there can be lateral variations in properties, stresses, etc., where evaluation of such variations can assist in planning, operation, etc. to develop the reservoir (e.g., via fracturing, injection, extraction, etc.). As an example, equipment 127 and / or 128 can include components, one or more systems, etc. for fracturing, seismic sensing, seismic data analysis, evaluating one or more fractures, injection, production, etc. As an example, equipment 127 and / or 128 can provide measurement, collection, communication, storage, analysis, etc. of data (e.g., production data, etc.) regarding one or more resources being extracted. As an example, one or more satellites can be provided for communication, data gathering, etc. purposes.

[0051] Figure 1 Examples of equipment 170 and examples of equipment 180 are also shown. Such equipment (which can be systems of components) can be suitable for the geological environment 120. While equipment 170 and 180 are shown as land-based, various components can be suitable for offshore systems (e.g., offshore rigs, etc.).

[0052] Equipment 170 includes a platform 171, a derrick 172, a crown block 173, a wireline 174, a traveling block assembly 175, a drawworks 176, and a rig floor 177 (e.g., a catwalk). As an example, the wireline 174 can be controlled at least in part via the drawworks 176 such that the traveling block assembly 175 travels in a vertical direction relative to the platform 171. For example, by taking in the wireline 174, the drawworks 176 can cause the wireline 174 to move through the crown block 173 and up away from the platform 171 to lift the traveling block assembly 175; while by paying out the wireline 174, the drawworks 176 can cause the wireline 174 to move through the crown block 173 and down toward the platform 171 to lower the traveling block assembly 175. Where the traveling block assembly 175 carries drill pipe (e.g., casing, etc.), tracking the movement of the traveling block 175 can provide an indication of how much drill pipe has been deployed.

[0053] A derrick can be a structure for supporting a crown block and a traveling block operatively coupled to the traveling block at least in part via a wireline. The derrick can be pyramid shaped and provide a suitable strength to weight ratio. The derrick can be moved as one unit or piece by piece (e.g., to be assembled and disassembled).

[0054] As an example, a drawworks can include a reel, a brake, a power source, and various ancillary devices. The drawworks can be controlled to pay out and take in wireline. The wireline can be wound on the crown block and coupled to the traveling block to obtain a mechanical advantage in a "catenary" or "pulley" fashion. Paying out and taking in the wireline can cause the traveling block (e.g., and anything possibly suspended thereunder) to be lowered into or raised out of a borehole. Paying out the wireline can be powered by gravity and taking in by a motor, engine, etc. (e.g., electric motor, diesel engine, etc.).

[0055] As an example, a crown block can include a set of pulleys (e.g., sheaves) through which a wireline can pass. A traveling block can include a set of sheaves that can move up and down in a derrick or mast via the wireline passing through the set of sheaves in the traveling block and the set of sheaves in the crown block. The crown block, the traveling block, and the wireline can form a pulley system of the derrick or mast that can enable handling of heavy loads (e.g., drill string, drill pipe, casing, liner, etc.) to be lifted away or lowered into a borehole. For example, the wireline can be about one centimeter to about five centimeters in diameter, such as a wireline cable. By using a set of sheaves, such a wireline can carry a heavier load than the wireline could support in a single strand.

[0056] As an example, a rigger can be a drilling crew member working on a platform attached to a derrick or mast. The derrick can include a doghouse where the rigger can stand. As an example, such a doghouse can be about 10 meters or more above the drill floor. In an operation known as tripping out of hole (TOH), the rigger can wear a safety harness that enables the rigger to lean out from the workbench (e.g., doghouse) to reach a drill pipe located at or near the center of the derrick or mast, and to wrap a rope around the drill pipe and pull the drill pipe back to its storage location (e.g., finger board) until the drill pipe can need to be tripped back into the borehole. As an example, the rig can include automated drill pipe handling equipment so that the rigger controls the machinery rather than handling the drill pipe by physical strength.

[0057] As an example, tripping can refer to the act of pulling equipment out of a borehole and / or tripping equipment into a borehole. As an example, the equipment can include a drill string that can be pulled out of and / or tripped into or replaced into a wellbore. As an example, tripping of drill pipe can be performed in a situation where a drill bit has been dulled or has otherwise ceased to be effective at drilling in and is to be replaced. As an example, a trip to pull equipment out of a borehole can be referred to as pulling out of hole (POOH), while a trip to trip equipment into a borehole can be referred to as running in hole (RIH).

[0058] Figure 2 An example of a wellsite system 200 (e.g., at a wellsite that can be located on land or offshore) is shown. As shown, the wellsite system 200 can include a mud tank 201 for storing mud and other materials (e.g., where the mud can be a drilling fluid); a suction line 203 that serves as an inlet for a mud pump 204 for pumping mud from the mud tank 201 so that the mud flows to a vibrating hose 206; a drawworks 207 for tripping one or more drilling wires 212; a kelly hose 209 for receiving mud from the vibrating hose 206; one or more goosenecks 210; a traveling block 211; a crown block 213 (e.g., see crown block 173 of Figure 1 ) for carrying the traveling block 211 via the one or more drilling wires 212; a derrick 214 (e.g., see derrick 172 of Figure 1 ); a kelly 218 or top drive 240; a kelly saver sub 219; a rotary table 220; a drill floor 221; a bell nipple 222; one or more blowout preventers (BOPs) 223; a drill string 225; a drill bit 226; a casing head 227; and flow lines 228 for transporting mud and other materials to, for example, the mud tank 201.

[0059] In the example system of Figure 2 , a wellbore 232 is formed in a subterranean formation 230 by rotary drilling; note that various example embodiments can also use one or more directional drilling techniques, equipment, etc.

[0060] As shown in the example of FIG. 2, a drill string 225 is suspended within a wellbore 232 and has a drill string assembly 250 that includes a drill bit 226 at a lower end thereof. As an example, the drill string assembly 250 can be a bottom hole assembly (BHA). Figure 2

[0061] The wellsite system 200 can provide for operation of the drill string 225 and other operations. As shown, the wellsite system 200 includes a traveling block 211 and a derrick 214 positioned above the wellbore 232. As mentioned, the wellsite system 200 can include a rotary table 220, with the drill string 225 passing through an opening in the rotary table 220.

[0062] As shown in the example of FIG. 2, the wellsite system 200 can include a kelly 218 and associated components, etc., or a top drive 240 and associated components. With respect to the kelly example, the kelly 218 can be a square or hexagonal metal / alloy rod with a hole drilled through it that serves as a mud flow path. The kelly 218 can be used to transfer rotational motion from the rotary table 220 to the drill string 225 via a kelly bushing 219 while allowing the drill string 225 to be lowered or raised during rotation. The kelly 218 can pass through the kelly bushing 219, which can be driven by the rotary table 220. As an example, the rotary table 220 can include a main bushing that is operatively coupled to the kelly bushing 219 such that rotation of the rotary table 220 can turn the kelly bushing 219 and thus the kelly 218. The kelly bushing 219 can include an interior profile that matches an exterior profile of the kelly 218 (e.g., square, hexagonal, etc.); however, it has a slightly larger size so that the kelly 218 can move freely up and down within the kelly bushing 219. Figure 2 With respect to the top drive example, the top drive 240 can provide the functionality performed by the kelly and rotary table. The top drive 240 can turn the drill string 225. As an example, the top drive 240 can include one or more (e.g., electric and / or hydraulic) motors that are connected with appropriate gearing to a short section of pipe called a hollow shaft, which in turn can be screwed into a stabber joint or the drill string 225 itself. The top drive 240 can be suspended from the traveling block 211, so this rotary mechanism can be moved freely up and down the derrick 214. As an example, the top drive 240 can allow for drilling to be performed using more stand-alone sections of pipe than the kelly / rotary table approach.

[0063] In the example of FIG. 2, a mud tank 201 can store mud, which can be one or more types of drilling fluid. As an example, a wellbore can be drilled to extract, inject, or both (e.g., hydrocarbons, minerals, water, etc.) a fluid.

[0064] Figure 2 In the example of FIG. 2, a mud tank 201 can store mud, which can be one or more types of drilling fluid. As an example, a wellbore can be drilled to extract, inject, or both (e.g., hydrocarbons, minerals, water, etc.) a fluid.

[0065] In the example of FIG. 2, a mud tank 201 can store mud, which can be one or more types of drilling fluid. As an example, a wellbore can be drilled to extract, inject, or both (e.g., hydrocarbons, minerals, water, etc.) a fluid. Figure 2 ​​In the example of FIG. 2, drill string 225 (e.g., including one or more downhole tools) can be composed of a series of drill pipes threadably connected together to form a long tube with drill bit 226 at its lower end. As drill string 225 is run into the wellbore for drilling, at some point before or coincident with drilling, mud can be pumped by pump 204 from mud tank 201 (e.g., or other source) via lines 206, 208, and 209 to a port of kelly 218, or for example, to a port of top drive 240. The mud can then flow via a channel (e.g., multiple channels) in drill string 225 and out a port located on drill bit 226 (e.g., see directional arrows). As the mud exits drill string 225 via the port in drill bit 226, the mud can circulate up the annular region between one or more outer surfaces of drill string 225 and one or more surrounding well walls (e.g., open hole, casing, etc.), as indicated by directional arrows. In this manner, the mud lubricates drill bit 226 and carries thermal energy (e.g., friction or other energy) and formation cuttings to the surface, where the mud (e.g., and cuttings) can be returned to mud tank 201, for example, for recirculation (e.g., by treatment to remove cuttings, etc.).

[0066] The mud pumped by pump 204 into drill string 225 can form a mud cake that adheres to the wellbore after exiting drill string 225, which can reduce friction between drill string 225 and one or more surrounding well walls (e.g., wellbore, casing, etc.), among other functions. The reduction in friction can facilitate advancement or retraction of drill string 225. During drilling operations, the entire drill string 225 can be tripped out of the wellbore and optionally replaced, for example, with a new or sharp drill bit, a smaller diameter drill string, etc. As mentioned, the act of tripping out of or replacing a drill string in a wellbore is referred to as tripping. Depending on the direction of tripping, tripping can be referred to as tripping out or tripping out or tripping in or tripping in.

[0067] As an example, consider tripping in, where upon drill bit 226 of drill string 225 reaches the bottom of the wellbore, pumping of mud begins to lubricate drill bit 226 for the purpose of drilling in to enlarge the wellbore. As mentioned, mud can be pumped by pump 204 into a channel of drill string 225, and upon filling the channel, the mud can serve as a transmission medium for transmitting energy (e.g., energy that can encode information like mud pulse telemetry).

[0068] As an example, mud pulse telemetry equipment can include downhole devices configured to effectuate pressure changes in the mud to produce one or more acoustic waves upon which information can be modulated. In such examples, information from downhole equipment (e.g., one or more modules of drill string 225) can be transmitted uphole to a surface device, which can relay such information to other equipment for processing, control, etc.

[0069] As an example, telemetry equipment can operate by transmitting energy via the drill string 225 itself. For example, consider a signal generator that delivers an encoded energy signal to the drill string 225, and a repeater that can receive such energy and relay it to further transmit the encoded energy signal (e.g., information, etc.).

[0070] As an example, the drill string 225 can be equipped with telemetry equipment 252 that includes a rotatable drive shaft, a turbine impeller mechanically coupled to the drive shaft such that mud can cause the turbine impeller to rotate, a modulator rotor mechanically coupled to the drive shaft such that rotation of the turbine impeller causes the modulator rotor to rotate, a modulator stator mounted adjacent or proximate to the modulator rotor such that rotation of the modulator rotor relative to the modulator stator creates pressure pulses in the mud, and a controllable brake for selectively braking rotation of the modulator rotor to modulate the pressure pulses. In such an example, an alternator can be coupled to the aforementioned drive shaft, where the alternator includes at least one stator winding that is electrically coupled to control circuitry to selectively short the at least one stator winding to electromagnetically brake the alternator, thereby selectively braking rotation of the modulator rotor to modulate the pressure pulses in the mud.

[0071] In Figure 2 examples, a wellhead control and / or data acquisition system 262 can include circuitry for sensing pressure pulses generated by the telemetry equipment 252 and, for example, transmitting the sensed pressure pulses or information derived therefrom for processing, control, etc.

[0072] The components 250 of the illustrated example include a logging-while-drilling (LWD) module 254, a measuring-while-drilling (MWD) module 256, optional modules 258, a rotary steerable system (RSS) and / or motor 260, and a drill bit 226. Such components or modules can be referred to as tools, where a drill string can include multiple tools.

[0073] For RSS, it relates to techniques for directional drilling. Directional drilling involves drilling into the earth to create a deviated borehole, such that the trajectory of the borehole is not vertical; rather, the trajectory deviates from vertical along one or more portions of the borehole. As an example, consider a target that is located at a lateral distance from a surface location at which a possible rig is fixed. In such an example, the drilling can start from a vertical portion, and then deviate from vertical, such that the borehole is aimed at the target and ultimately reaches the target. Directional drilling can be implemented in cases where a target is not reachable at a vertical location on the surface of the earth, in cases where there are materials on the earth that can impede drilling or otherwise be harmful (e.g., consider salt domes, etc.), in cases where the formation is laterally extensive (e.g., consider a reservoir that is relatively thin but laterally extensive), in cases where multiple boreholes are to be drilled from a single surface borehole, in cases where a relief well is desired, etc.

[0074] One approach to directional drilling involves a mud motor; but mud motors can encounter some challenges, depending on factors such as rate of penetration (ROP), transfer of weight on bit (e.g., bit weight on bit, WOB) to the drill bit due to friction, etc. Mud motors can operate (e.g., during directional drilling, etc.) as positive displacement motors (PDMs) that drive the drill bit. PDMs operate as drilling fluid is pumped through them, which PDMs convert the hydraulic power of the drilling fluid into mechanical power to rotate the drill bit.

[0075] As an example, PDMs can operate in a combined rotary mode, in which the drill bit of the drill string is rotated by surface equipment (e.g., a rotary table, a top drive, etc.) that rotates the entire drill string, and by the drilling fluid that rotates the drill bit of the drill string. In such an example, surface RPM (SRPM) can be determined by using the surface equipment, and downhole RPM of the mud motor can be determined using various factors related to drilling fluid flow, mud motor type, etc. As one example, in combined rotary mode, assuming that the directions of SRPM and mud motor RPM are the same, the drill bit RPM can be determined or estimated as the sum of SRPM and mud motor RPM.

[0076] As an example, PDM mud motors can operate in a so-called sliding mode when the drill string is not rotated from the surface. In such an example, drill bit RPM can be determined or estimated based on RPM of the mud motor.

[0077] RSSs can be deployed while directional drilling (e.g., deviated, horizontal, or extended wells). RSSs can be designed to minimize interaction with the wellbore wall, which can help maintain wellbore quality. RSSs can be designed to exert a relatively consistent lateral force similar to stabilizers that rotate with the drill string or direct the drill bit in a desired direction while continuously rotating at the same number of revolutions per minute as the drill string.

[0078] The LWD module 254 can be housed in a suitable type of drill collar and can contain one or more selected types of logging tools. It should also be understood that more than one LWD and / or MWD module can be employed, e.g., as represented by module 256 of the drill string assembly 250. Where reference is made to the location of an LWD module, by way of example, it can refer to a module at the location of the LWD module 254, module 256, etc. The LWD module can include capabilities for measuring, processing, and storing information, as well as for communicating with surface equipment. In the illustrated example, the LWD module 254 can include seismic measurement devices.

[0079] The MWD module 256 can be housed in a suitable type of drill collar and can contain one or more devices for measuring characteristics of the drill string 225 and drill bit 226. By way of example, the MWD tool 254 can include equipment for generating electrical power, e.g., to power various components of the drill string 225. By way of example, the MWD tool 254 can include telemetry equipment 252, e.g., in which turbine impellers can generate electrical power from the flow of mud; it can be appreciated that other power sources and / or battery systems can be employed to power various components. By way of example, the MWD module 256 can include one or more of the following types of measurement devices: weight-on-bit measurement devices, torque measurement devices, vibration measurement devices, shock measurement devices, stick slip measurement devices, direction measurement devices, and inclination measurement devices.

[0080] Figure 2 Some examples of types of wellbores that can be drilled are also illustrated. For example, consider a straight deviated wellbore 272, an S-shaped wellbore 274, a deep-inclination wellbore 276, and a horizontal wellbore 278.

[0081] By way of example, drilling operations can include directional drilling, in which at least a portion of the well includes a curved axis. For example, consider a well that defines a radius of curvature in which the inclination relative to the vertical can vary until an angle between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees is reached, or, for example, an angle of about 90 degrees or possibly greater than about 90 degrees is reached.

[0082] As an example, a directional well can include a variety of shapes, where each shape can be intended to meet a particular operational requirement. As an example, in passing information to a drilling engineer, drilling processes can be performed based on the information. As an example, inclination and / or direction can be modified based on information received during a drilling process.

[0083] As an example, deviation of a borehole can be achieved in part by using a bottom hole motor and / or a turbine. With respect to a motor, for example, a drill string can include a positive displacement motor (PDM).

[0084] As an example, a system can be a steering system and include equipment for performing a method such as geosteering. As mentioned, a steering system can be or include an RSS. As an example, a steering system can include a PDM or turbine located at a lower portion of a drill string, just above a drill bit, to which a bend sub can be installed. As an example, above the PDM, MWD equipment and / or LWD equipment can be installed that provide real-time or near real-time data of interest (e.g., inclination, direction, pressure, temperature, actual weight on bit, torque stress, etc.). With respect to the latter, LWD equipment can send various types of data of interest to the surface, including, for example, geologic data (e.g., gamma ray, resistivity, density, and sonic logs, etc.).

[0085] Coupling the sensors to provide information about a wellbore trajectory in real-time or near real-time (e.g., with one or more logging curves that characterize a formation from a geologic perspective) can allow for implementing a geosteering method. Such a method can include navigating a subsurface environment, for example, to follow a desired route to reach a desired target or targets.

[0086] As an example, a drill string can include an azimuthal density neutron (ADN) tool for measuring density and porosity; a MWD tool for measuring inclination, azimuth, and shock; a compensated dual resistivity (CDR) tool for measuring resistivity and gamma ray related phenomena; one or more variable-gauge stabilizers; one or more bend subs; and a geosteering tool, which can include a motor and optionally equipment for measuring and / or responding to one or more of inclination, resistivity, and gamma ray related phenomena.

[0087] As an example, geosteering can include intentional directional control of a wellbore based on downhole geologic logging measurements in a manner intended to keep the directional wellbore within a desired area, zone (e.g., a producing zone), etc. As an example, geosteering can include steering a wellbore to keep the wellbore within a particular interval of a reservoir, for example, to minimize gas and / or water breakthrough, and, for example, to maximize economic production of a well that includes the wellbore.

[0088] Referring again to Figure 2In some examples, wellsite system 200 can include one or more sensors 264 operatively coupled to control and / or data acquisition system 262. As an example, one or more sensors can be located at a surface location. As an example, one or more sensors can be located at a downhole location. As an example, one or more sensors can be located at one or more remote locations within about one hundred meters from wellsite system 200. As an example, one or more sensors can be located at a make-up wellsite, where wellsite system 200 and the make-up wellsite are in a common oil and / or gas field.

[0089] As an example, one or more sensors 264 can be provided to track a drill pipe, to track movement of at least a portion of a drill string, and / or the like.

[0090] As an example, system 200 can include one or more sensors 266 that can sense and / or transmit signals to a fluid conduit, such as a drilling fluid conduit (e.g., a drilling mud conduit). For example, in system 200, one or more sensors 266 can be operatively coupled to a portion of standpipe 208 through which mud flows. As an example, a downhole tool can generate a pulse, which can pass through mud and be sensed by one or more of one or more sensors 266. In such examples, a downhole tool can include associated circuitry, for example, encoding circuitry that can encode a signal, for example, to reduce requirements for transmission. As an example, surface-located circuitry can include decoding circuitry to decode encoded information transmitted at least in part via mud pulse telemetry. As an example, surface-located circuitry can include encoder circuitry and / or decoder circuitry, and downhole circuitry can include encoder circuitry and / or decoder circuitry. As an example, system 200 can include a transmitter that can generate a signal that can be transmitted downhole via mud (e.g., drilling fluid) as a transmission medium.

[0091] As an example, one or more portions of a drill string can become stuck. The term "stuck" can refer to one or more different degrees of phenomena in which a drill string cannot be moved or removed from a borehole. As an example, in a stuck condition, it can be possible to rotate a drill pipe or lower it back into a borehole, or for example, in a stuck condition, it can not be possible to move a drill string axially in a borehole, but some amount of rotation is possible. For example, in a stuck condition, it can not be possible to move at least a portion of a drill string axially and rotationally.

[0092] The term "stuck" can refer to a portion of the drill string that is unable to rotate or move axially. As an example, a condition known as "differential stuck" can be a situation where the drill string cannot move along the axis of the borehole (e.g., rotate or reciprocate). Differential stuck can occur when high contact forces, caused by low reservoir pressure, high wellbore pressure, or both, are applied over a sufficiently large area of ​​the drill string. Differential stuck can have both time and economic costs.

[0093] As an example, stuck force can be the product of the pressure differential between the wellbore and the reservoir and the area over which the pressure differential acts. This means that applying a relatively low pressure differential (Δp) over a large working area can be just as effective at causing stuck force as applying a high pressure differential over a small area.

[0094] As an example, a condition known as "mechanical stuck" can be one in which the movement of the drill string is restricted or prevented by a mechanism other than differential pressure stuck. For example, mechanical stuck can be caused by one or more of the following: debris in the wellbore, abnormal wellbore geometry, cement, keyway, or cuttings accumulation in the annulus.

[0095] Figure 3 An example of system 300 is shown, which includes various equipment for evaluation 310, planning 320, engineering design 330, and operation 340. For example, a drilling workflow framework 301, a seismic-to-simulation framework 302, a technical data framework 303, and a drilling framework 304 can be implemented to perform one or more processes, such as evaluating formation 314, evaluating processes 318, generating trajectories 324, validating trajectories 328, establishing constraints 334, designing equipment and / or processes 338 at least in part based on constraints, performing drilling 344, and evaluating drilling and / or formations 348.

[0096] exist Figure 3 In the example, the earthquake simulation frame 302 can be, for example, the PETREL frame (Schlumberger, Houston, Texas), and the technical data frame 303 can be, for example, the TECHLOG frame (Schlumberger, Houston, Texas).

[0097] As an example, the framework may include entities, which may include earth entities, geological objects, or other objects such as wells, surfaces, reservoirs, etc. Entities may include virtual representations of actual physical entities reconstructed for one or more purposes such as assessment, planning, engineering design, operation, etc.

[0098] An entity can include an entity based on data (e.g., seismic data and / or other information) acquired via sensing, observation, etc. An entity can be characterized by one or more attributes (e.g., a geometric grid entity of an earth model can be characterized by a porosity attribute). These attributes can represent one or more measurements (e.g., acquired data), calculations, etc.

[0099] A framework can be an object-based framework. In such a framework, entities can include entities based on predefined classes, e.g., to facilitate modeling, analysis, simulation, etc. An example of an object-based framework is the MICROSOFT.NET framework (Redmond, Washington), which provides a set of extensible object classes. In the.NET framework, an object class encapsulates a module of reusable code and associated data structures. An object class can be used to instantiate object instances for use by a program, script, etc. For example, a wellbore class can define an object for representing a wellbore based on well data.

[0100] As an example, a framework can be implemented within or in operatively coupled fashion with a DELFI Cognitive Exploration and Production (E&P) environment (Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas), which is a secure, cognitive, cloud-based collaboration environment that integrates data and workflows using digital technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. As an example, such an environment can provide for operations involving one or more frameworks.

[0101] As an example, a framework can include analysis components that can allow for interaction with models or model-based results (e.g., simulation results, etc.). With respect to simulation, a framework can be operatively linked to or include a simulator, such as an ECLIPSE reservoir simulator (Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas), an INTERSECT reservoir simulator (Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas), etc.

[0102] The above-referenced PETREL framework provides components that allow for optimization of exploration and development operations. The PETREL framework includes seismic-to-simulation software components that can output information for use in improving reservoir performance, e.g., by improving asset team productivity. By using such a framework, various professionals (e.g., geophysicists, geologists, well engineers, reservoir engineers, etc.) can develop collaborative workflows and integrate operations to streamline processes. Such a framework can be considered an application and can be considered a data-driven application (e.g., in the case of inputting data for purposes of modeling, simulation, etc.).

[0103] As mentioned with respect to the DELFI environment, one or more frameworks can be interoperable and / or run on one or the other. As an example, a framework environment under the trade name OCEAN framework environment (Schlumberger, Houston, Texas) can be utilized, which allows for the integration of add-ons (or plug-ins) into the PETREL framework workflow. In example embodiments, various components can be implemented as add-ons (or plug-ins) that conform to the specifications of the framework environment and operate according to the specifications of the framework environment (e.g., according to application programming interface (API) specifications, etc.).

[0104] As an example, a framework can include a model simulation layer as well as a framework services layer, a framework core layer, and a module layer. In a framework environment (e.g., OCEAN, DELFI, etc.), the model simulation layer can include or be operatively linked to a model-centric framework. In example embodiments, the framework can be considered a data-driven application. For example, the PETREL framework can include features for model building and visualization. As an example, a model can include one or more grids, where a grid can be a spatial grid that conforms to the spatial locations of each acquired data (e.g., satellite data, well logging data, seismic data, etc.).

[0105] As an example, the model simulation layer can provide domain objects, act as a data source, provide rendering, and provide various user interfaces. The rendering capability can provide a graphics environment in which an application can display its data, while the user interface can provide a common look and feel for application user interface components.

[0106] As an example, domain objects can include entity objects, property objects, and optionally other objects. Entity objects can be used to represent wells, surfaces, reservoirs, etc. in a geometric fashion, while property objects can be used to provide attribute values as well as data versions and display parameters. For example, an entity object can represent a well, with a property object providing well logging information as well as version information and display information (e.g., displaying the well as part of a model).

[0107] As an example, data can be stored in one or more data sources (or data stores, typically physical data storage devices), which can be located at the same or different physical sites, and can be accessed via one or more networks. As an example, the model simulation layer can be configured to model projects. As such, a particular project can be stored, where the stored project information can include inputs, models, results, and cases. Thus, upon completion of a modeling session, a user can store a project. Later, the project can be accessed and restored using the model simulation layer, which can recreate instances of the relevant domain objects.

[0108] As an example, system 300 can be used to execute one or more workflows. A workflow can be a process that includes a number of work steps. A work step can operate on data, e.g., create new data, update existing data, etc. As an example, a workflow can operate on one or more inputs and create one or more results, e.g., based on one or more algorithms. As an example, a system can include a workflow editor for creation, editing, execution, etc. of a workflow. In such an example, the workflow editor can provide selection of one or more predefined work steps, one or more custom work steps, etc. As an example, a workflow can be a workflow that is at least partially implementable in a PETREL framework, e.g., that operates on seismic data, one or more seismic attributes, etc.

[0109] As an example, seismic data can be data acquired via a seismic survey in which sources and receivers are positioned in a geological environment to emit and receive seismic energy, where at least a portion of such energy can reflect off of subsurface structures. As an example, one or more seismic data analysis frameworks can be utilized to determine depths, extents, attributes, etc. of subsurface structures, e.g., consider the OMEGA framework sold by Schlumberger, Houston, Texas. As an example, seismic data analysis can include forward modeling and / or inversion, e.g., to iteratively build a model of a subsurface region of a geological environment. As an example, a seismic data analysis framework can be part of or operably coupled to a seismic-to-simulation framework, e.g., the PETREL framework, etc.

[0110] As an example, a workflow can be a process that is at least partially implementable in a framework environment and implementable by one or more frameworks. As an example, a workflow can include one or more work steps that access a set of instructions, e.g., external executable code, etc., such as a plug-in. As an example, a framework environment can be cloud-based, where cloud resources that can be operably coupled to one or more pieces of field equipment are utilized, such that data can be acquired, transmitted, stored, processed, analyzed, etc. using features of the framework environment. For example, a framework environment can employ various types of services, which can be backend services, frontend services, or both. For example, consider a client-server type of architecture, where communication can occur via one or more application programming interfaces (APIs), one or more microservices, etc.

[0111] As an example, a framework can provide modeling of a hydrocarbon system. For example, a modeling framework under the trade name PETROMOD framework (Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas) includes features for inputting various types of information (e.g., seismic, well, geology, etc.) to model the evolution of a sedimentary basin. The PETROMOD framework provides hydrocarbon system modeling via input of various data such as seismic data, well data, and other geological data, for example, to model the evolution of a sedimentary basin. The PETROMOD framework can predict whether and how reservoirs are filled with hydrocarbons, including, for example, the source and timing of hydrocarbon generation, migration pathways, volumes, pore pressure, and hydrocarbon types under subsurface or surface conditions. In conjunction with a framework such as the PETREL framework, a workflow can be constructed to provide a basin-to-prospect scale exploration solution. Data exchange between the frameworks can facilitate model building, data analysis (e.g., PETROMOD framework data analyzed using PETREL framework capabilities), and coupling of workflows.

[0112] As mentioned, the drill string can include various tools that can take measurements. As an example, the measurements can be taken using a wireline tool or another type of tool. As an example, the tool can be configured to acquire electrical borehole images. As an example, a Fullbore Formation Micro Imager (FMI) tool (Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas) can acquire borehole image data. A data acquisition sequence for such a tool can include running the tool into the borehole with the acquisition pads closed, opening the pads and pressing the pads against the borehole wall, delivering electrical current to the material defining the borehole as the tool is translated in the borehole, and remotely sensing the current as it is altered by interaction with the material.

[0113] Analysis of the formation information can reveal features such as caves, dissolution planes (e.g., dissolution along a layer), stress-related features, dip events, and the like. As an example, the tool can acquire information that can be helpful in characterizing a reservoir (optionally, a fractured reservoir), where the fractures can be natural and / or artificial (e.g., hydraulic fractures).

[0114] As an example, the information acquired by one or more tools can be analyzed using a framework such as the TECHLOG framework. For example, the TECHLOG framework can be interoperable with one or more other frameworks such as the PETREL framework.

[0115] As an example, various aspects of the workflow can be completed automatically, can be partially automated, or can be completed manually, such as by a human user interacting with software applications executing using hardware (e.g., locally and / or remotely). As an example, the workflow can be cyclical and can include, for example, four stages, such as an evaluation stage (e.g., see evaluation equipment 310), a planning stage (e.g., see planning equipment 320), an engineering design stage (e.g., see engineering design equipment 330), and an execution stage (e.g., see operations equipment 340). As an example, the workflow can begin at one or more stages, which can progress (e.g., in a serial manner, in a parallel manner, in a cyclical manner, etc.) to one or more other stages.

[0116] As an example, the workflow can begin at an evaluation stage, which can include a geoscience service provider evaluating a formation (e.g., see evaluation block 314). As an example, the geoscience service provider can use a computing system executing a software package customized for such activities to conduct the formation evaluation; or, for example, one or more other suitable geoscience platforms can be employed (e.g., alternatively or additionally). As an example, the geoscience service provider can evaluate the formation using, for example, an earth model, a geophysical model, a basin model, a petroleum technology model, a combination thereof, etc. Such models can take into account a variety of different inputs, including compensated well data, seismic data, pilot well data, other geoscience data, etc. The models and / or inputs can be stored in a database maintained by a server and accessed by the geoscience service provider.

[0117] As an example, the workflow can progress to a geoscience and geophysics (“G&G”) service provider, which can generate a well trajectory (e.g., see generation block 324), which can involve executing one or more G&G software packages. An example of such a software package includes the PETREL framework. As an example, the G&G service provider can determine a well trajectory or portions thereof based on, for example, one or more models provided by the formation evaluation (e.g., according to evaluation block 314) and / or other data accessed, for example, from one or more databases (e.g., maintained by one or more servers, etc.). As an example, the well trajectory can take into account various “basis of design” (BOD) constraints, such as general surface location, target (e.g., reservoir) location, etc. As an example, the trajectory can incorporate information about tools, bottom hole assembly, casing size, etc. that can be used in drilling the well. The well trajectory determination can take into account a variety of other parameters, including risk tolerance, fluid weight and / or plan, bottom hole pressure, drilling time, etc.

[0118] As an example, the workflow can proceed to a first engineering design service provider (e.g., one or more processors associated therewith), which can validate the well trajectory and, for example, a relief well design (e.g., see validation block 328). Such a validation process can include evaluating physical properties, computed results, risk tolerances, integration with other aspects of the workflow, etc. As an example, one or more parameters used for such determinations can be maintained by the server and / or the first engineering design service provider; note that one or more models, one or more well trajectories, etc. can be maintained by the server and accessed by the first engineering design service provider. For example, the first engineering design service provider can include one or more computing systems executing one or more software packages. As an example, in the event that the first engineering design service provider rejects or otherwise suggests adjustments to the well trajectory, the well trajectory can be adjusted or a message or other notification requesting such modifications can be sent to the G&G service provider.

[0119] As an example, one or more engineering design service providers (e.g., first, second, etc.) can provide casing designs, bottom hole assembly (BHA) designs, fluid designs, etc. to implement the well trajectory (e.g., see design block 338). In some embodiments, the second engineering design service provider can use one or more software applications to perform such designs. Such designs can be stored in one or more databases maintained by one or more servers, which can for example employ the STUDIO framework tool (Schlumberger, Houston, Texas), and can be accessed by one or more of the other service providers in the workflow.

[0120] As an example, the second engineering design service provider can seek approval of one or more designs established with the well trajectory from a third engineering design service provider. In such an example, the third engineering design service provider can consider various factors as to whether the well engineering design plan is acceptable, such as economic variables (e.g., oil production forecasts, cost per barrel, risk, drilling time, etc.), and can request expenditure authorization such as from an operations company representative, a well owner representative, etc. (e.g., see approval block 334). As an example, at least some of the data upon which such determinations are based can be stored in one or more databases maintained by one or more servers. As an example, the first engineering design service provider, the second engineering design service provider, and / or the third engineering design service provider can be provided by a single team of engineers or even a single engineer, and thus can or can not be separate entities.

[0121] As an example, in cases where economics can not be acceptable or a grant is denied, the engineering design service provider can suggest changes to the casing, bottom hole assembly, and / or fluid design, or otherwise notify and / or return control to a different engineering design service provider so that adjustments can be made to the casing, bottom hole assembly, and / or fluid design. In cases where modification of one or more of such designs is impractical within drilling constraints, trajectory, etc., the engineering design service provider can suggest adjustments to the well trajectory and / or the workflow can return or otherwise notify the initial engineering design service provider and / or the G&G service provider so that either or both can modify the well trajectory.

[0122] As an example, the workflow can include consideration of the well trajectory, including the accepted well engineering design plan and formation evaluation. Such a workflow can then pass control to a drilling service provider, which can implement the well engineering design plan, establish a safe and efficient drilling, maintain well integrity, and report progress and operational parameters (see, e.g., blocks 344 and 348). As an example, operational parameters, encountered formations, data collected while drilling (e.g., using logging while drilling or measurement while drilling techniques) can be passed back to the geology service provider for evaluation. As an example, the geology service provider can then reevaluate the well trajectory or one or more other aspects of the well engineering design plan, and in some cases, given the predetermined constraints, the well engineering design plan can be adjusted according to real-world drilling parameters (e.g., based on data collected on-site, etc.).

[0123] Depending on the particular implementation, the workflow can proceed to a post review (see, e.g., evaluation block 318) whether the well is fully drilled or completes a portion thereof. As an example, the post review can include review of drilling performance. As an example, the post review can also include reporting of drilling performance (e.g., to one or more related engineering design, geology, or G&G service providers).

[0124] Various activities of the workflow can be performed consecutively and / or can not be performed in order (e.g., based in part on information from templates, nearby wells, etc., to fill in any gaps in information to be provided by another service provider). As an example, undertaking one activity can affect the results or basis of another activity, and thus changes to one or more workflow activities, work products, etc., can be invoked manually or automatically. As an example, a server can allow information to be stored on a central database accessible to various service providers, where changes can be sought by communicating with the appropriate service provider, can be made automatically, or changes can otherwise manifest as a suggestion to the relevant service provider. This approach can be considered a holistic approach to the drilling workflow as compared to an ordered, segmented approach.

[0125] As an example, various actions of a workflow can be repeated multiple times during drilling of a wellbore. For example, feedback from a drilling service provider can be provided in real-time or near real-time in one or more automated systems, and data collected during drilling can be fed to one or more other service providers, which can adjust their portions of the workflow accordingly. Such adjustments can permeate the workflow, e.g., in an automated manner, due to dependencies in other areas of the workflow. In some embodiments, a cycle process can additionally or alternatively be performed after reaching a certain drilling objective (such as completing a portion of a wellbore) and / or after drilling an entire wellbore, or on a daily, weekly, monthly, etc. basis.

[0126] Well planning can include determining a path (e.g., trajectory) of a well that can extend into a reservoir, e.g., to economically produce fluids, such as hydrocarbons, therefrom. Well planning can include selecting drilling and / or completion components that can be used to implement a well plan. As an example, various constraints can be imposed as part of well planning that can influence well design. As an example, such constraints can be imposed based at least in part on information about known geology of a subsurface region, one or more other wells (e.g., actual and / or planned, etc.) present in the region (e.g., to consider collision avoidance), etc. As an example, one or more constraints can be imposed based at least in part on characteristics of one or more tools, components, etc. As an example, one or more constraints can be based at least in part on factors associated with drilling time and / or risk tolerance.

[0127] As an example, a system can allow for reduction of waste, e.g., as defined according to LEAN. In the context of LEAN, one or more of the following types of waste are considered: transportation (e.g., unnecessarily moving items, whether physical items or data items); inventory (e.g., components, whether physical components or information components, such as work-in-process, and unprocessed finished goods); motion (e.g., personnel or equipment unnecessarily moving or walking to perform a desired process); waiting (e.g., information waiting, production interruptions during shift changes, etc.); overproduction (e.g., production of materials, information, equipment, etc. beyond what is needed); overprocessing (e.g., created activity by poor tools or product design); and defects (e.g., work involved in inspecting and repairing plans, data, equipment, etc.). As an example, a system that allows actions (e.g., methods, workflows, etc.) to be performed in a collaborative manner can help reduce one or more types of waste.

[0128] As an example, a system can be utilized to implement a method for facilitating distributed well engineering, planning, and / or drilling system design across multiple computing devices, where collaboration can occur between a variety of different users (e.g., some local users, some remote users, some mobile users, etc.). In such a system, various users can be operatively coupled via one or more networks (e.g., local and / or wide area networks, public and / or private networks, land-based, sea-based, and / or regional networks) via appropriate devices.

[0129] As an example, a system can allow for well engineering, planning, and / or drilling system design via a subsystem approach, where a wellsite system is comprised of various subsystems, which can include equipment subsystems and / or operational subsystems (e.g., control subsystems, etc.). As an example, computations can be performed using various computing platforms / devices that are operatively coupled via communication links (e.g., network links, etc.). As an example, one or more links can be operatively coupled to a common database (e.g., a server site, etc.). As an example, a particular server or servers can manage receiving notifications from one or more devices and / or issuing notifications to one or more devices. As an example, a system can be implemented for a project, where the system can output a well plan as, for example, a digital well plan, a paper well plan, a digital and paper well plan, etc. Such a well plan can be a complete well engineering plan or design for a particular project.

[0130] Figure 4 An example of a wellsite system 400 is shown, specifically, Figure 4 An example of a wellsite system 400 is shown, specifically,

[0131] In Figure 4 In an example, a wellsite system 400 can include a cabin 410, a rotary table 422, a drawworks 424, a mast 426 (e.g., optionally carrying a top drive, etc.), a mud tank 430 (e.g., having one or more pumps, one or more shakers, etc.), one or more pump houses 440, a boiler house 442, an HPU house 444 (e.g., having a rig oil tank, etc.), a combination house 448 (e.g., having one or more generators, etc.), a pipe line 462, a catwalk 464, a flare 468, etc. Such equipment can include one or more associated functions and / or one or more associated operational risks, which can be risks in terms of time, resources, and / or personnel.

[0132] As Figure 4As shown in the example of FIG. 4, the wellsite system 400 can include a system 470 that includes one or more processors 472, a memory 474 operatively coupled to at least one of the one or more processors 472, instructions 476 that can be, for example, stored in the memory 474, and one or more interfaces 478. As an example, the system 470 can include one or more processor-readable media including processor-executable instructions that are executable by at least one of the one or more processors 472 to cause the system 470 to control one or more aspects of the wellsite system 400. In such examples, the memory 474 can be or include the one or more processor-readable media, where the processor-executable instructions can be or include the instructions. As an example, the processor-readable media can be a computer- readable storage medium that is not a signal and is not a carrier wave.

[0133] Figure 4 Also shown is a battery 480 that can be operatively coupled to the system 470, for example, to power the system 470. As an example, the battery 480 can be a backup battery that operates when another power source is not available to power the system 470. As an example, the battery 480 can be operatively coupled to a network, which can be a cloud network. As an example, the battery 480 can include smart battery circuitry and can be operatively coupled to one or more pieces of equipment via an SMBus or other type of bus.

[0134] In Figure 4 As an example, the services 490 can be part of a system such as the system 300 of FIG. 3. Figure 3 As an example, the services 490 can be part of a system such as the system 300 of FIG. 3.

[0135] Figure 5 A diagram depicting an example of a drilling operation of a directional well in a plurality of zones is shown. Figure 5 The drilling operation depicted in FIG. 5 includes a wellsite drilling system 500 and a field management tool 520 for managing various operations associated with drilling a wellbore 550 of a directional well 517. The wellsite drilling system 500 includes various components (e.g., a drill string 512, an annulus 513, a bottom hole assembly (BHA) 514, a kelly 515, a mud pit 516, etc.). As Figure 5 As shown in the example of FIG. 5, the target reservoir can be remote from a surface location of the well 517 (rather than being directly at the surface location of the well). In such examples, special tools or techniques can be used to ensure reaching a particular location of the target reservoir along the path of the borehole 550.

[0136] As an example, the BHA 514 can include sensors 508, a rotary steerable system (RSS) 509, and a drill bit 510 to direct drilling toward a target guided by a predetermined survey program for measuring details of a location in the well. Further, the subterranean formation through which the directional well 517 is drilled can include multiple layers (not shown) having different compositions, geophysical properties, and geological conditions. Drilling planning during a well design phase and actual drilling according to a drilling plan during a drilling phase can be conducted in multiple sections (e.g., see sections 501, 502, 503, and 504), which can correspond to one or more of the multiple layers in the subterranean formation. For example, certain sections (e.g., sections 501 and 502) can be reinforced with cement 507 around the casing 506 due to particular formation compositions, geophysical properties, and geological conditions.

[0137] In Figure 5 In an example, the surface unit 511 can be operatively linked to the wellsite drilling system 500 and the field management tool 520 via a communication link 518. The surface unit 511 can be configured with functionality to control and monitor drilling activities of each section in real-time via the communication link 518. The field management tool 520 can be configured with functionality to store oilfield data (e.g., historical data, actual data, surface data, subterranean data, equipment data, geological data, geophysical data, target data, counter-target data, etc.) and determine relevant factors for configuring drilling models and generating drilling plans. The oilfield data, drilling models, and drilling plans can be transmitted via the communication link 518 according to a drilling operation workflow. The communication link 518 can include a communication subcomponent.

[0138] During various operations at a wellsite, data can be acquired for analysis and / or monitoring of one or more operations. Such data can include, for example, subterranean formation data, equipment data, historical data, and / or other data. Static data can relate to, for example, stratigraphic structure and geologic stratigraphy defining the geological structure of the subterranean formation. Static data can also include data regarding the borehole, such as inner diameter, outer diameter, and depth. Dynamic data can relate to, for example, fluids flowing through the geological structure of the subterranean formation over time. Dynamic data can include, for example, pressure, fluid composition (e.g., gas-oil ratio, water cut, and / or other fluid composition information), and status of various equipment, among other information.

[0139] Static and dynamic data collected via boreholes, formations, equipment, etc. can be used to create and / or update a three-dimensional model of one or more subsurface formations. As an example, static and dynamic data from one or more other boreholes, sites, etc. can be used to create and / or update the three-dimensional model. As an example, data can be collected using hardware sensors, core sampling, and logging techniques. As an example, static measurements can be collected using downhole measurements such as core sampling and logging techniques. Logging involves deploying downhole tools into a wellbore to collect various downhole measurements at different depths, such as density, resistivity, etc. Such logging can be performed using, for example, drilling tools and / or wireline tools or sensors located on downhole production equipment. Once a well is formed and completed, depending on the purpose of the well (e.g., injection and / or production), fluids can flow to (and / or from) the surface using tubing and other completion equipment. As the fluids pass through, various dynamic measurements can be monitored, such as fluid flow rate, pressure, and composition. These parameters can be used to determine various characteristics of the subsurface formation, downhole equipment, downhole operations, etc.

[0140] As an example, a system can include a framework that can acquire data, such as, for example, real-time data associated with one or more operations, such as, for example, one or more drilling operations. As an example, consider the PERFORM TM toolpack framework (Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas).

[0141] As an example, a service can be or can include one or more of the OPTIDRILL TM , OPTILOG TM , and / or other services marketed by Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas.

[0142] The OPTIDRILL TM technology can help manage downhole conditions and BHA dynamics as a real-time drilling intelligence service. The service can incorporate rigsite displays (e.g., wellsite displays) that integrate downhole and surface data that provide actionable information to reduce risk and improve efficiency. As an example, such data can be stored to, for example, a database system (e.g., consider a database system associated with the STUDIO TM framework).

[0143] The OPTILOG TM technology can help assess drilling system performance through unit or multi-location measurements of drilling dynamics and internal temperatures from a recorder. As an example, post-run data can be analyzed to provide input for future well planning.

[0144] As an example, information from a drill bit database can be accessed and utilized. For instance, consider information from Smith Bits (Schlumberger Inc. in Houston, Texas), which may include information from various operations (e.g., drilling operations) associated with different drill bits, drilling conditions, formation types, etc.

[0145] As an example, one or more QTRAC services (Schlumberger, Houston, Texas) can be provided for one or more well site operations. In such examples, data can be acquired and stored, which may include time-series data that can be received and analyzed.

[0146] For example, one or more M-ISWACOs can be provided for one or more well site operations. TM Services (MI LLC, Houston, Texas). For example, consider value-added well completion and reservoir drilling fluids, additives, cleaning tools, and engineering design services. In such examples, data can be acquired and stored, which may include time-series data that can be received and analyzed.

[0147] For example, one or more ONE-TRAX can be provided for one or more well site operations. TM Services (e.g., via the ONE-TRAX software platform, MI LLC, Houston, Texas). In such examples, data can be acquired and stored, which may include time-series data that can be received and analyzed.

[0148] For example, various operations can be defined with respect to WITS or WITSML, which are acronyms for Well Site Information Transmission Specification or Standard (WITS) and Markup Language (WITSML). WITS / WITSML specifies how a drilling platform or offshore platform conducts data communication. For example, regarding slips, which are components that clamp and suspend the drill string on the rotary table in a relatively non-destructive manner, WITS / WITSML defines operations such as defining "bottom to slip" time as the time interval between emerging from the bottom and setting the slip for the current connection; "in slip" as the time interval between setting the slip and then releasing it for the current connection; and "slip to bottom" as the time interval between releasing the slip and returning to the bottom (setting weight on the drill bit) for the current connection.

[0149] Well construction can be carried out according to various procedures, which can take many forms. As an example, procedures can be specified digitally and can be, for example, digital plans, such as digital well plans. A digital well plan can be an engineering design plan for constructing a wellbore. As an example, procedures may include well geometry, casing procedures, mud considerations, well control issues, initial drill bit selection, compensation well information, pore pressure estimation, economics, and special procedures that may be used during well construction and production. While drilling procedures can be carefully developed and specified, various conditions may arise that require adjustments to the drilling procedures.

[0150] As an example, adjustments can be made at the drilling site when the acquisition equipment obtains information about conditions, such as the conditions of the drilling equipment, formation conditions, fluid conditions, and environmental conditions (e.g., weather, sea conditions). These adjustments can be made based on the personal knowledge of one or more individuals at the drilling site. For example, an operator might understand that conditions require increasing mud flow, decreasing drilling pressure, etc. Such an operator can evaluate data acquired via one or more sensors (e.g., torque, temperature, vibration, etc.). Such an operator might request the execution of procedures, which could be test procedures to obtain additional data to better understand the actual physical conditions and phenomena that may be occurring or are occurring. The operator may be subject to one or more time constraints that may be driven by physical phenomena, such as fluid flow, fluid pressure, rock compaction, borehole stability, etc. In such examples, the decisions made by the operator can depend on time as conditions evolve. For example, in an environment with changing fluid pressures, a decision made at one fluid pressure might be suboptimal at another. In such examples, the timing of a decision made as an adjustment to a procedure can have a wide-ranging impact. Adjusting a procedure too late or too early, compared to adjusting it at the optimal time (e.g., and implementing it at the optimal time), can have adverse effects on other procedures.

[0151] like Figure 6 As shown, the wind turbine 600 typically includes a generator ( Figure 6 The nacelle 602 (not shown in the diagram) is a shell mounted on top of the tower 604. Figure 6 Only a portion of the tower is shown. The tower 604 can be located on land or at sea. The height of the tower 604 is selected based on factors and conditions known in the art and can extend to a height of up to 60 meters or higher. The wind turbine 600 can be installed on any terrain, providing access to areas with ideal wind conditions. The terrain can vary considerably and may include, but is not limited to, mountainous terrain or offshore locations. The wind turbine 600 also includes a rotor 606, which comprises one or more rotor blades 608. Although... Figure 6The wind turbine 600 shown in FIG. 6 includes three rotor blades 608, but there is no specific limitation on the number of rotor blades 608 required.

[0152] The wind turbine 600 and tower 604 include a variety of equipment and components that are susceptible to vandalism and / or theft, particularly in wind turbines 600 installed in more remote locations. Certain components are susceptible to theft, while other components are susceptible to damage or destruction from entry. In addition, the exterior surface of the tower 604 can be damaged, requiring repair or maintenance.

[0153] The wind turbine 600 utilizes one or more cameras, sensors, and other devices 610 that can emit data for transmission to a remote location for analysis to determine whether components are missing, damaged, or otherwise in need of maintenance. In addition, if unauthorized personnel are detected, an agency or emergency services can be contacted and / or dispatched to the wind turbine 600 and tower 604.

[0154] Figure 7 A wind turbine monitoring system 700 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The system 200 includes a central monitoring device 701 and a plurality of wind turbines 600 at one or more sites. The number of wind turbines 600 in the system 700 is not limited and can include one or a large number of wind turbines 600. The devices 610 are installed on or within one or more wind turbines 600 and corresponding towers 604 and generate data 710 that can include, but is not limited to, operational and environmental conditions, computing power of data processing infrastructure, including the ability to manage and use cryptographic keys, hashing and functionality, equipment-related data, sensor data and measurements, maintenance information, visual data from cameras, and the like. The central monitoring device 701 can be a data collection device such as a computer, a data storage device, or other analysis tool. In another embodiment, the central monitoring device 701 can be a communication device, a tablet, or other computing device that can be used by personnel. In another embodiment, the central monitoring device 701 is a power control device for a wind farm or utility that operates the wind farm. The central monitoring device 701 can be autonomous or can be integrated in a wind farm control device. The data 710 can be transmitted to and / or from the wind turbines 600 and towers 704 in order to provide control as a response to conditions requiring maintenance in response to any received signals or otherwise communicate with the wind turbines 600. In certain embodiments, equipment or other operational parameters can be transmitted and received.

[0155] In some embodiments, data 710 includes blockchain-managed data according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, central monitoring device 701 places data 710 in cloud 715 for access by others over a network.

[0156] While in some embodiments data 710 emanating from device 610 is transmitted via wireless transmission according to typical methods, in other embodiments wired connections such as via Ethernet can be used for data transmission to central monitoring device 710. Figure 7

[0157] In some embodiments, data 920 includes blockchain-managed data according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, central monitoring device 901 places data 920 in cloud 915 for access by others over a network. Figure 8

[0158] Figure 9 A solar panel monitoring system 900 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. System 200 includes a central monitoring device 901 and a plurality of solar panels 810 at one or more sites. The number of panels 810 in system 900 is not limited and can include one or a large number of panels. An instrumentation package 812 is installed on or within one or more panels and generates data 920 which can include, but is not limited to, operational and environmental conditions, equipment-related data, sensor data and measurements, maintenance information, visual data from cameras, and the like. Central monitoring device 901 can be a data collection device such as a computer, a data storage device, or other analysis tool. In another embodiment, central monitoring device 901 can be a communication device, a tablet, or other computing device usable by personnel. In another embodiment, central monitoring device 901 is a power control device for a solar panel field or utility operating the field. Central monitoring device 901 can be autonomous or can be integrated within a solar panel field control device. Data 920 can be transmitted to and / or from panels 810 in order to provide control or otherwise communicate with panels 810 in response to conditions requiring maintenance in response to any received signals. In certain embodiments, equipment or other operational parameters can be transmitted and received.

[0159] In some embodiments, data 920 includes blockchain-managed data according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, central monitoring device 901 places data 920 in cloud 915 for access by others over a network.

[0160] ​​While in Figure 9 data 920 from device 812 is transmitted via wireless transmission according to typical methods, in other embodiments wired connections such as via Ethernet can be used for data transmission to central monitoring device 901.

[0161] In Figure 10 the ocean 1050 has wave and tidal fluctuations that move one or more water-based power generation devices including a buoyancy actuator 1010, the entire system assembly including instrumentation package 1012 that utilizes one or more cameras, sensors, and other devices that can emit data for transmission to a remote location for analysis to determine if components are lost, damaged, or otherwise in need of maintenance. Additionally, if unauthorized personnel or aggressive sharks are detected, authorities or emergency services can be contacted and / or dispatched to the water-based power generation device.

[0162] System 1000 according to embodiments of the present disclosure includes a central monitoring device 1001 and a plurality of water-based power generation devices including one or more buoyancy actuators 1010 at one or more sites in the sea. The number of water-based power generation devices in system 1000 is not limited and can include one or a large number of water-based power generation devices. An instrumentation package 1012 is located on or within the water-based power generation device and generates data 1020 that can include, but is not limited to, operational and environmental conditions, equipment related data, sensor data and measurements, maintenance information, visual data from cameras, and the like. Central monitoring device 1001 can be a data collection device such as a computer, a data storage device, or other analysis tool located above or below the surface of the ocean 1050. In some embodiments, central monitoring device 1001 can be located on a ship. In another embodiment, central monitoring device 1001 can be a communication device, a tablet, or other computing device that can be used by personnel. In another embodiment, central monitoring device 1001 is a land-based power control facility for operating the utility of the array of water-based power generation devices. Central monitoring device 1001 can be autonomous or can be integrated within the control device of the array. Data 1020 can be transmitted to and / or from the water-based power generation device to provide control or otherwise communicate in response to any received signals for conditions requiring maintenance. In certain embodiments, equipment or other operational parameters can be transmitted and received.

[0163] In some embodiments, data 1020 includes data managed according to a blockchain according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, central monitoring device 1001 places data 1020 in the cloud 1015 for access by others through a network.

[0164] While in Figure 10In this embodiment, data 1020 transmitted from device 1012 is transmitted wirelessly (e.g., using hydrophones and other data transmission and conversion technologies for sea-based communication, passing through and over the water surface via a water column to be received on or above the water surface), but in other embodiments, a wired connection (such as via Ethernet) may be used for data transmission to central monitoring device 1001 (e.g., when central monitoring device 1001 is on shore and connected via cable).

[0165] Although other power generation environments (including but not limited to, remote geothermal power generation locations, nuclear power, etc.) are not depicted in the figures, those skilled in the art will understand that the disclosed data transmission capabilities can also be utilized using the disclosed blockchain invention. Similarly, infrastructure such as power transmission lines and power grids that require various secure and traceable information transmissions can also utilize the disclosed blockchain invention.

[0166] refer to Figure 11 This section will discuss the systems and interactions that occur within a local blockchain workflow 1100. The blockchain ledger can be empty or an existing ledger, containing information that requires trust and tamper-proof protection. New entries that may not yet be protected could be activity logs, system-captured decisions, or other data elements. In various implementations, the local blockchain computing infrastructure includes more than one node, which may include a CPU with one or more cores.

[0167] exist Figure 11 In example workflow 1100, the system captures new activity 1105; this activity will be appended to the blockchain security ledger (see...). Figure 11 1105, local data transmitters participate in new activities to be protected in the first blockchain ledger.

[0168] In operation, new entries in the ledger are provided to the local infrastructure, which interfaces with the blockchain system to create and verify new blocks for those entries (see [link to blockchain system]). Figure 11 The local data transmitter sends a new data entry for the first blockchain ledger to the local infrastructure (the first blockchain ledger may already exist or it may be a new ledger). The new block is appended to the existing ledger (or a new ledger is created based on this request, and the new entry is merged) (see [link to documentation]). Figure 11 The local infrastructure interfaces with the blockchain computing infrastructure to create a first ledger if it is empty, and then appends new data entries to the first ledger. The blockchain system then sends the modified first ledger back to the local infrastructure (see [link to documentation]). Figure 11 The blockchain computing infrastructure sends the modified first ledger to the local computing infrastructure.

[0169] In various embodiments, the local blockchain infrastructure includes one or more of: a) physical protections to make it impossible for unauthorized users to access the computing or network resources of the infrastructure, b) private keys used to create blocks are protected during provisioning via hardware or using hardware, and c) high-security software protections are implemented throughout the system, avoiding vulnerabilities that could change the system.

[0170] In some embodiments, an optional audit workflow 1125 is provided so that the public key can be used to validate the ledger locally or in a town (see Figure 11 , the audit workflow to validate the ledger).

[0171] Referring to Figure 12 , the deployment of the blockchain infrastructure 1200 at a wellsite / drilling site will be discussed. The wellsite / drilling site system 1205 can include multiple systems, such as a rig system 1210 and a logging unit 1215.

[0172] In a wellsite system, multiple computing nodes can be used. A distributed computing infrastructure can be implemented over a local network 1220 to support the operations involved with the rig and logging 1225. This computing infrastructure can be used and augmented to support multiple blockchain nodes 1230. The wellsite can include a gateway system 1235 to connect the site to remote systems 1240, such as private or public internets and cloud services, depending on the operator, coverage, and other limitations.

[0173] Figure 13A An example method 1300 of interaction between the computing infrastructure at the wellsite to protect an operational record is shown. In the sequence shown, the method 1300 includes creating 1305 an operational record by a computing node (e.g., Figure 12 other computing nodes for the rig system 1225; Figure 13A of 1305), and the computing infrastructure requests to protect the record by transmitting the record to a block computing node (e.g., Figure 12 block computing node 1230 of 1310). In some embodiments, the computing node transmits 1315 the record. Figure 13A The block computing node establishes consensus and defines a cryptographically protected block that incorporates the operational record (1320 of 1320). The modified and updated blockchain that includes the record is then returned to the calling computing node and / or system (e.g.,

[0174] rig system 1210, other computing nodes for the rig system 1225; Figure 13A of 1325). Figure 12 Figure 13A

[0175] Figure 13B ​​The diagram illustrates redundant communication of block 1345 between nodes 1350 in the local blockchain. For example, the system can continue to operate even if some nodes 1350 fail (or if the interconnections between some nodes fail). It also provides scalability as the number of nodes and redundancy increase, and improves integrity by making it more difficult to compromise.

[0176] refer to Figure 14A and Figure 14B The discussion will cover hybrid on-premises and cloud workflows 1400 based on several implementation schemes. The blockchain ledger 1405 can be empty or an existing ledger containing information requiring trust and tamper-proof protection. New entries 1410 that may not yet be protected could be activity logs, system-captured decisions, or other data elements to be sent to the on-premises computing infrastructure 1412. The blockchain infrastructure 1415 includes one or more local nodes 1415-L and one or more remote nodes 1415-R. Nodes may include CPUs with one or more cores.

[0177] exist Figure 14B In the example workflow 1450 shown, the system captures a new activity; this activity will be appended to the blockchain security ledger (see...). Figure 14B 1455, local data transmitters participate in new activities to be protected in the first blockchain ledger.

[0178] In operation, new entries in the ledger are provided to the local infrastructure, which interfaces with the blockchain system to create and verify new blocks for those entries (see [link to blockchain system]). Figure 14B At 1460, the local data transmitter sends a new data entry to the local infrastructure for a first blockchain ledger, which may already exist or may be a new ledger; for example, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 14A (1405, 1412 and 1415).

[0179] In the example of workflow 1450 (which is a hybrid local-remote blockchain workflow), local blockchain nodes interact with remote blockchain nodes to supplement the block creation of new entries in the ledger (see [link to example workflow]). Figure 14B 1465, local infrastructure interfaces with blockchain computing infrastructure to create the first ledger in the event that the first ledger is empty.

[0180] The new block is appended to the existing ledger (or a new ledger is created based on this request, incorporating the new entry) (see [link to documentation]). Figure 14B In step 1470, the local node of the blockchain computing infrastructure interfaces with a remote blockchain node to append new data entries to the first ledger. The blockchain system then sends the modified first ledger back to the local infrastructure (see step 1475). Figure 14B of 1475, the blockchain computing infrastructure sends the modified first ledger to the local computing infrastructure.

[0181] In various embodiments, the local blockchain infrastructure includes one or more of: a) physical protections to make it impossible for unauthorized users to access the computing or network resources of the infrastructure, b) private keys used to create blocks are protected during provisioning via hardware or using hardware, and c) software protections are implemented throughout the system to avoid vulnerabilities that could change the system.

[0182] In some embodiments, an optional audit workflow 1480 is provided so that the ledger can be verified using public keys either locally or in the town (see Figure 14B of 1480, the audit workflow to verify the ledger).

[0183] In hybrid local and cloud systems, such as the hybrid local and cloud system shown in Figure 14A and Figure 14B In hybrid local and cloud systems, such as the hybrid local and cloud system shown in

[0184] In the example of workflow 1450, when one or more nodes are unable to communicate, the hybrid local / remote blockchain ledger can be split 1472 (see Figure 14B of 1472, the ledger is split to rely only on local blockchain nodes when remote blockchain nodes are inaccessible); in this case, blocks representing new entries can continue to be added to the now local blockchain ledger. When the nodes reconnect, i.e., when the inaccessible remote or otherwise unavailable remote or local blockchain nodes become available, the information in the local blockchain can be combined (see Figure 14B of 1474, the local ledger is combined with the remote blockchain nodes when the remote blockchain nodes are accessible and there are locally stored events). In some embodiments, the process of combining the split ledgers, local or remote, can be repeated with the blockchain branches in one or more ledgers. In one example, the availability of the local system from the cloud blockchain system can be dynamically discovered and, when / if the remote / cloud system becomes unavailable (e.g., for connectivity or other reasons, such as a disruption in the cloud infrastructure), the combined local and remote (cloud) nodes can be provided to extend the capacity and integrity of the system.

[0185] Turning to Figure 14CConcept flow 1490 tracks the reorganization and splitting of multiple blockchains when local and / or remote blockchain nodes reconnect or communication is lost. In this example, blockchain branches 1492 and 1493 refer to the local and remote management branches of a blockchain ledger, respectively. When a new event occurs at 1494 and the inaccessible node becomes available again due to reconnection, the accessible blockchain node reassembles branches 1492 and 1493 with the new event into a single blockchain node 1494. In some implementations, this corresponds to... Figure 14B 1474.

[0186] When a connection to one or more blockchain nodes is lost, the unified blockchain at 1494 can be split at 1495 to produce separate blockchain branches 1496 and 1497. In some implementations, this corresponds to... Figure 14B 1472.

[0187] In some implementations, the mathematical proof requirements of the local blockchain can be adjusted to allow remote nodes with limited computational power to add blocks to the local blockchain. For example, an adaptive algorithm can be used that adjusts the number of bits used in the algorithm based on the capabilities of the connected nodes.

[0188] refer to Figure 15A The concept of blockchain will be discussed in the example context of a well site or drilling rig site, specifically in cloud workflows or remote workflows 1500. The blockchain ledger 1503 can be empty or an existing ledger containing information that requires trust and tamper-proof protection. New entries 1504 that may not yet be protected can be activity logs, system-captured decisions, or other data elements. The cloud-based blockchain infrastructure 1505 includes multiple remote nodes 1507-R, which may include CPUs with one or more cores.

[0189] exist Figure 15B In the example workflow 1520 shown, the system captures a new activity; this activity will be appended to the blockchain security ledger (see...). Figure 15B 1522, local data transmitters participate in new activities to be protected in the first blockchain ledger.

[0190] In operation, new entries in the ledger are provided to the local infrastructure, which interfaces with the blockchain system to create and verify new blocks for those entries (see [link to blockchain system]). Figure 15B At 1530, the local data transmitter sends a new data entry to the local infrastructure for a first blockchain ledger, which may already exist or may be a new ledger; for example, see Figure 15A (1503, 1504 and 1505).

[0191] In an example of workflow 1520, which is a remote or cloud-based blockchain workflow, the local blockchain node interacts with a remote blockchain node to supplement the block creation of a new entry in the ledger (see Figure 15B of 1540, the local infrastructure interfaces with the remote blockchain computing infrastructure to create the first ledger in the event that the first ledger is empty; see, e.g., Figure 15A of 1505, 1507-R).

[0192] The new block is appended 1550 to the existing ledger (or creates the ledger in accordance with this request and incorporates the new entry) (see Figure 15B of 1550, the local computing infrastructure interfaces with the remote blockchain node to append the new data entry to the first ledger). The blockchain system then sends the modified first ledger back 1560 to the local infrastructure (see Figure 15B of 1560, the blockchain computing infrastructure sends the modified first ledger to the local computing infrastructure).

[0193] In various embodiments, the local blockchain infrastructure includes one or more of the following: a) physical protections such that unauthorized users cannot access the computing or network resources of the infrastructure, b) private keys used to create blocks are protected during provisioning via hardware or using hardware, and c) software protections are implemented throughout the system to avoid vulnerabilities that can change the system.

[0194] In some embodiments, an optional auditing workflow 1570 is provided such that the ledger can be verified locally or in the city using public keys (see Figure 15B of 1570, the auditing workflow to verify the ledger).

[0195] One example benefit of the local hybrid blockchain system described is that transfer proof can be provided via an immutable transaction ledger. Trust can be provided through a distributed (as opposed to centralized) verification process. Auditing trails can be provided for site operators or third parties.

[0196] In some embodiments performed in one or more methods disclosed herein, such as examples of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, and 2200, transfer proof via an immutable transaction ledger is incorporated into the method. In certain implementations of such embodiments, trust and verification operations are implemented in a distributed verification process, which can be provided for site operators or third parties to audit.

[0197] Examples of resources that can be protected include people (identity, activity, responsibility), assets (financial, materials and equipment, sensitive information), and systems (operation, activity, responsibility, sequence of events).

[0198] In some embodiments performed in conjunction with one or more methods disclosed herein, such as examples of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, and 2200, protection of people (identity, activity, responsibility), assets (financial, materials and equipment, sensitive information), and systems (operation, activity, responsibility, sequence of events) is incorporated into the methods.

[0199] Examples of risks that the described blockchain system embodiments can audit or mitigate include data alteration (to the detriment of site operators or for other gain), lack of audibility or trust in operators or third parties (such as by government or other oversight agencies). Examples of assets that can need protection include production information, subsurface information, operational integrity, financial and sensitive information, and security (such as data and identity).

[0200] One example advantage of deploying the described blockchain system in a production environment is that tampering with projected oil reserve reports can be limited or avoided. The impact of such tampering can include information related to operator or government financial and asset reports. False information can result in significant liability risk, as lack of trusted audit of natural reserves can result in significant financial and geopolitical consequences. The described blockchain system can avoid such false information by providing a secure, auditable ledger.

[0201] Accordingly, in some embodiments performed in conjunction with one or more methods disclosed herein, such as examples of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, and 2200, a method of protecting projected oil reserve information is provided, wherein: oil or gas reserve information is identified; the oil or gas reserve information is protected by any of 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, or 2200, and the protected oil or gas reserve information is transmitted to interested parties.

[0202] One example advantage of deploying the described blockchain system in a subsurface survey environment is that tampering with seismic survey data, such as subsurface medium to high fidelity models, can be limited or avoided. The impact of such tampering can include affecting strategies for developing and producing oil field resources, resulting in significant expenditures and loss of reputation. The described blockchain system can avoid such false information by providing a secure, auditable ledger.

[0203] Thus, in some embodiments performed in conjunction with one or more of the methods disclosed herein, such as the examples of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, and 2200, a method of protecting seismic survey data is provided, wherein: seismic survey data is identified; the seismic survey data is protected by any of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, or 2200, and the protected seismic survey data is transmitted to a party of interest.

[0204] One example advantage of deploying the described blockchain system in an operational integrity environment is that tampering with operational facts can be limited or avoided. The effects of such tampering can include changing perceptions of actual events versus expected events, such as manipulating the operating costs of a contractor or manipulating liability to avoid responsibility in an operational incident. The described blockchain system can avoid such misinformation by providing a secure, auditable ledger to provide trust in the auditable and limit or prevent tampering with operations.

[0205] Thus, in some embodiments performed in conjunction with one or more of the methods disclosed herein, such as the examples of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, and 2200, a method of protecting operational integrity data is provided, wherein: operational integrity data is identified; the operational integrity data is protected by any of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, or 2200, and the protected operational integrity data is transmitted to a party of interest.

[0206] One example advantage of deploying the described blockchain system in a financial and sensitive information environment is that tampering with corporate, financial, asset, resource, or employee information facts can be limited or avoided. The effects of such tampering can include loss of reputation or other gains for individual actors or third parties, thereby harming the financial image of the operator. The described blockchain system can avoid such misinformation by providing a secure, auditable ledger to provide trust in the auditable and limit or prevent tampering with such information.

[0207] Thus, in some embodiments performed in conjunction with one or more methods disclosed herein, such as examples of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, and 2200, a method of protecting financial and sensitive information related to energy generation, capture, storage, and transmission data is provided, where financial and sensitive energy generation, capture, storage, and transmission data is identified; the energy generation, capture, storage, and transmission data is protected by any of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, or 2200, and the protected financial and sensitive energy generation, capture, storage, and transmission data is transmitted to interested parties.

[0208] One example advantage of deploying the described blockchain system in a secure environment is that access logs that tamper with sensitive information can be limited or avoided. The described blockchain system can avoid such misinformation by providing a secure, auditable ledger to provide trust in audibility and limit or prevent unwanted data access, use, or manipulation and identify users or systems attempting such violations.

[0209] Thus, in some embodiments performed in conjunction with one or more methods disclosed herein, such as examples of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, and 2200, a method of protecting secure information related to energy generation, capture, storage, and transmission data is provided, where: secure information related to energy generation, capture, storage, and transmission data is identified; the energy generation, capture, storage, and transmission data is protected by any of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, or 2200, and the protected secure information energy generation, capture, storage, and transmission data is transmitted to interested parties.

[0210] In one particular example, transactions in a data lake or data ecosystem are tracked in a blockchain system to establish transparency and trust in the integrity of the system data. Transactions can be reviewed by website operators and third parties without being tampered with by others. The blockchain can also provide access logs to maintain evidence of use.

[0211] Thus, in some embodiments performed in conjunction with one or more methods disclosed herein, such as examples of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, and 2200, a method of protecting transactions in a data lake or data ecosystem related to energy generation, capture, storage, and transmission data is provided, where: transactions are identified; the transactions are protected by any of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, or 2200, and the protected transactions are transmitted to interested parties.

[0212] In a particular example in the application of winch transport, an operator on site can be responsible for a large asset and responsible for adhering to operating procedures. Operator-related events can occur (distraction, decision errors, lack of knowledge and adherence to procedures). Events recorded outside of a blockchain can provide limited protection (basic hashing of log files, log files can be deleted by users, etc.). However, the distributed nature of the described blockchain can provide improved data security protection.

[0213] Thus, in some embodiments performed in connection with one or more methods disclosed herein, such as examples of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, and 2200, a method of protecting winch transport data is provided, wherein: winch transport data is identified; the winch transport data is protected by any of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, or 2200, and the winch transport data is transmitted to a party of interest.

[0214] In a particular example in the application of drilling operations, an operator on site can be responsible for a large asset and responsible for adhering to operating procedures. Operator-related events can occur (distraction, decision errors, lack of knowledge and adherence to procedures). Events recorded outside of a blockchain can provide limited protection (basic hashing of log files, log files can be deleted by users, etc.). However, the distributed nature of the described blockchain can provide improved data security protection.

[0215] Thus, in some embodiments performed in connection with one or more methods disclosed herein, such as examples of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, and 2200, a method of protecting drilling operation data is provided, wherein: drilling operation data is identified; the drilling operation data is protected by any of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, or 2200, and the drilling operation data is transmitted to a party of interest.

[0216] In a particular example in the application of oil and gas production operations, an operator on site can be responsible for a large asset and responsible for adhering to operating procedures. Operator-related events can occur (distraction, decision errors, lack of knowledge and adherence to procedures). Events recorded outside of a blockchain can provide limited protection (basic hashing of log files, log files can be deleted by users, etc.). However, the distributed nature of the described blockchain can provide improved data security protection.

[0217] Accordingly, in some embodiments performed in conjunction with one or more methods disclosed herein, such as the examples of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, and 2200, a method of securing oil and gas production operations data is provided, wherein: oil and gas production operations data is identified; the oil and gas production operations data is secured by any of methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, or 2200, and the oil and gas production operations data is transmitted to a party of interest.

[0218] Figure 16 An example of method 1600 and an example of system 1690 are shown. Method 1600 includes receiving block 1610 to receive sensor data for a plurality of channels for rig site operations, determining block 1620 to determine slips-on instances and slips-off instances, computing block 1630 to compute a hook load threshold based on the instances, and characterizing block 1640 to characterize the rig site operations with respect to slip status using the computed hook load threshold.

[0219] Method 1600 is shown to include various computer-readable storage medium (CRM) blocks 1611, 1621, 1631, and 1641, which can include processor-executable instructions that can direct a computing system (which can be a control system) to perform one or more of the actions described with respect to method 1600.

[0220] In the example of Figure 16 System 1690 includes one or more information storage devices 1691, one or more computers 1692, one or more networks 1695, and instructions 1696, in the example. With respect to one or more computers 1692, each computer can include one or more processors (e.g., or processing cores) 1693 and memory 1694 to store instructions 1696 that can be executed by at least one of the one or more processors 2193, for example (see, e.g., blocks 1611, 1621, 1631, and 1641). As examples, the computers can include one or more network interfaces (e.g., wired or wireless), one or more graphics cards, display interfaces (e.g., wired or wireless), and the like.

[0221] As an example, the method 1600 can be for a workflow that can be implemented using one or more frameworks that can be within a framework environment. For example, the system 1690 can include local and / or remote resources. For example, a browser application executing on a client device is considered a local resource with respect to a user of the browser application, and a cloud-based computing device is considered a remote resource with respect to the user. In such examples, the user can interact with the client device via the browser application, with information being transmitted to the cloud-based computing device(s) and where information can be received and presented to a display device operably coupled to the client (e.g., via a service, API, etc.) in response.

[0222] Figure 17 An example of a system 1700, which can be a well construction ecosystem, is shown. As shown, the system 1700 can include one or more instances of a slip state engine (SSE) 1701 (e.g., see Figure 9 The system 1700 can include a rig infrastructure 1710 and a drilling plan component 1720, which can generate or otherwise transmit information associated with plans executed with the rig infrastructure 1710, e.g., via a drilling operations layer 1740, which includes a rigsite component 1742 and an offsite component 1744. As shown, data acquired and / or generated by the drilling operations layer 1740 can be transmitted to a data archive component 1750, which can be used, e.g., for the purpose of planning one or more operations (e.g., per the drilling plan component 1720).

[0223] As an example, a method can include receiving sensor data for a plurality of channels for a rigsite operation; determining a slips on instance and a slips off instance; based on the instances, calculating a hook load threshold; using the calculated hook load threshold to characterize the rigsite operation with respect to a slip state. In such examples, the calculating can include calculating a hook load threshold HK LD CUT: (HK LD CUT = (HK LD MED Slips On + HK LD MED Slips Off) / 2), where MED is a median of the hook load sensor data channels.

[0224] As an example, the characterizing can include determining at least one state of the rig at the rigsite.

[0225] As an example, the determining can include calculating statistical data for each of the plurality of channels at a predetermined time interval. For example, consider that the predetermined time interval is greater than 1 second and less than 120 seconds; the predetermined time interval is greater than 1 second and less than 60 seconds; the predetermined time interval is greater than 1 second and less than 40 seconds; or, the predetermined time interval is greater than 10 seconds and less than 30 seconds.

[0226] As an example, a method can include determining a kelly make instance and a kelly break instance performed within a predetermined time interval. For example, consider determining instances for multiple intervals of the predetermined time interval.

[0227] As an example, a method can include adjusting a total depth value of a borehole to ensure that a total depth of a total depth channel does not decrease.

[0228] As an example, a method can include presenting a graph to a display including a kelly status marker. In such examples, the graph can include a plot of a hook load sensor channel versus time, the plot including a hook load threshold versus time.

[0229] As an example, the hook load threshold can change during rig site operations. For example, the hook load threshold can be dynamic and can change at various points in time, e.g., according to a predetermined interval of the multi-channel data analyzed.

[0230] As an example, the hook load threshold can change in response to a maximum hook load of the hook load channel sensed by the hook load sensor.

[0231] As an example, a method of computing a hook load threshold (e.g., dynamically) can be implemented, where the weight of the block is significant compared to the drill string, which can occur at shallow depths, particularly offshore operations.

[0232] As an example, a system can include: a processor; a memory accessible by the processor; processor-executable instructions stored in the memory and executable to instruct the system to: receive sensor data of multiple channels for rig operations; determine kelly make instances and kelly break instances; based on the instances, compute a hook load threshold; and use the computed hook load threshold to characterize rig site operations with respect to kelly status.

[0233] As an example, one or more computer-readable storage media can include processor-executable instructions to instruct a computing system to: receive sensor data of multiple channels for rig operations; determine kelly make instances and kelly break instances; based on the instances, compute a hook load threshold; and use the computed hook load threshold to characterize rig site operations with respect to kelly status.

[0234] As an example, a method can be implemented, in part, using a computer- readable medium (CRM), which can include information such as instructions executable by one or more processors (or processor cores) to cause a computing device or system to perform one or more actions. As an example, a single medium can be configured with instructions to, at least in part, allow performance of various actions of a method. As an example, a computer-readable medium (CRM) can be a computer-readable storage medium (e.g., a non-transitory medium).

[0235] According to one embodiment, one or more computer-readable media can include computer-executable instructions to instruct a computing system to output information for controlling a process. For example, such instructions can provide output to a sensing process, an injection process, a drilling process, an extraction process, a squeezing process, a pumping process, a heating process, etc.

[0236] In some embodiments, one or more methods can be performed by a computing system. Figure 18 An example of a system 1800 is shown that can include one or more computing systems 1801-1, 1801-2, 1801-3, and 1801-4, which can be operatively coupled via one or more networks 1809, which can include wired and / or wireless networks.

[0237] As an example, a system can include a single computer system or a distributed computer system of arrangements. In Figure 18 In an example, a computer system 1801-1 can include one or more modules 1802, which can be or can include, for example, processor-executable instructions executable to perform various tasks (e.g., receive information, request information, process information, simulations, output information, etc.).

[0238] As an example, a module can be executed independently or in coordination with one or more processors 1804, which can be operatively coupled to one or more storage media 1806 (e.g., via wired, wirelessly, etc.). As an example, one or more of the one or more processors 1804 can be operatively coupled to at least one of one or more network interfaces 1807. In such examples, a computer system 1801-1 can transmit and / or receive information, for example, via one or more networks 1809 (e.g., consider one or more of the Internet, a private network, a cellular network, a satellite network, etc.).

[0239] As an example, computer system 1801-1 can receive information from and / or transmit information to one or more other devices, which can be or include, for example, one or more of a computer system 1801-2, etc. The devices can be located at the same or at different physical locations. As examples, locations can be, for example, processing facility locations, data center locations (e.g., server farm, etc.), rig locations, wellsite locations, downhole locations, etc.

[0240] As an example, a processor can be or can include a microprocessor, microcontroller, processor module or subsystem, programmable integrated circuit, programmable gate array, or another control or computing device.

[0241] As an example, storage medium 1806 can be implemented as one or more computer- or machine-readable storage media. As an example, storage can be distributed across multiple internal and / or external hard drives, and / or solid state drives, and / or across one or more memory devices of a computing system and / or additional computing systems.

[0242] As an example, the one or more storage media can include one or more different forms of memory including semiconductor memory devices, such as dynamic or static random access memories (DRAMs or SRAMs), erasable and programmable read-only memories (EPROMs), electrically erasable and programmable read-only memories (EEPROMs) and flash memories; magnetic disks such as fixed, floppy and removable disks; other magnetic media including tape; optical media such as compact disks (CDs) or digital video disks (DVDs), BLUERAY disks, or other types of optical storage devices; or other types of storage devices.

[0243] As an example, the one or more storage media can be located in the machine that runs the machine-readable instructions, or located at a remote site from which the machine-readable instructions can be downloaded over a network for execution.

[0244] As an example, various components of a system, such as a computer system, can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both hardware and software (e.g., including firmware), including one or more signal processing and / or application specific integrated circuits.

[0245] As an example, a system can include a processing device, which can be or can include a general purpose processor or a special purpose chip (e.g., or chip set), such as an ASIC, an FPGA, a PLD, or other appropriate device.

[0246] Figure 19Components of computing system 1900 and networked system 1910 are shown. System 1900 includes one or more processors 1902, memory and / or storage components 1904, one or more input and / or output devices 1906, and bus 1908. According to an embodiment, instructions can be stored in one or more computer-readable media (e.g., memory / storage component 1904). Such instructions can be read by one or more processors (e.g., one or more processors 1902) via a communication bus (e.g., bus 1908), which can be wired or wireless. The one or more processors can execute such instructions to (partly or wholly) implement one or more attributes (e.g., as part of a method). A user can view output from and interact with a process via an I / O device (e.g., device 1906). According to an embodiment, a computer-readable medium can be a storage component, such as a physical memory storage device, e.g., a chip, chip on a package, memory card, etc.

[0247] According to an embodiment, components can be distributed across, for example, network system 1910. Network system 1910 includes components 1922-1, 1922-2, 1922-3,... 1922-N. For example, component 1922-1 can include one or more processors 1902, while one or more components 1922-3 can include memory accessible by one or more processors 1902. Additionally, one or more components 1922-2 can include I / O devices for display and optionally interaction with a method. A network can be or include the Internet, an intranet, a cellular network, a satellite network, etc.

[0248] As an example, a device can be a mobile device that includes one or more network interfaces for communication of information. For example, a mobile device can include a wireless network interface (e.g., operable via IEEE 802.11, ETSI GSM, BLUETOOTH, satellite, etc.). As an example, a mobile device can include components such as a main processor, memory, a display, display graphics circuitry (e.g., optionally including touch and gesture circuitry), a SIM slot, audio / video circuitry, motion processing circuitry (e.g., accelerometer, gyroscope), wireless LAN circuitry, smart card circuitry, transmitter circuitry, GPS circuitry, and a battery. As an example, a mobile device can be configured as a cellular telephone, a tablet computer, etc. As an example, a method can be implemented (e.g., in whole or in part) using a mobile device. As an example, a system can include one or more mobile devices.

[0249] As an example, a system can be a distributed environment, e.g., a so-called "cloud" environment, in which various devices, components, etc. interact for data storage, communication, computation, etc. purposes. As an example, a device or system can include one or more components for communicating information via one or more of the Internet (e.g., where communication is via one or more Internet protocols), a cellular network, a satellite network, etc. As an example, a method can be implemented in a distributed environment (e.g., all or part of as a cloud-based service).

[0250] As an example, information can be input from a display (e.g., consider a touchscreen), output to a display, or both. As an example, information can be output to a projector, a laser device, a printer, etc. so that the information can be viewed. As an example, information can be output stereographically or holographically. With respect to a printer, consider a 2D or 3D printer. As an example, a 3D printer can include one or more substances that can be output to build a 3D object. For example, data can be provided to a 3D printer to build a 3D representation of a subsurface formation. As an example, layers can be built in 3D (e.g., a horizon, etc.), geologic bodies built in 3D, etc. As an example, wellbores, fractures, etc. can be built in 3D (e.g., as positive structures, as negative structures, etc.).

[0251] Turning to Figure 20 Method 2000 is discussed for managing oil or gas related data issued at oil or gas related locations by using a blockchain.

[0252] Method 2000 includes receiving 2010 a first data item at a first node disposed at an oil or gas infrastructure site (e.g., see also Figure 11 , Figure 13A , Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A , Figure 15B ).

[0253] At times, communications from remote sites, such as oil and gas related locations in the field, can be spotty. Accordingly, method 2000 includes appending 2020, by the second node, the first data item to a first blockchain when communication with the second node is available (e.g., see also Figure 11 , Figure 13A , Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A , Figure 15B ).

[0254] In some embodiments, method 2000 includes appending 2030 the first data item to the first blockchain includes performing a cryptographic operation.

[0255] In some embodiments, the second node is geographically remote from the first node (see Figure 20 2040 of FIG. 20; see also, e.g., Figure 12 , Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A , Figure 15B ) of FIG. 20.

[0256] Following resolution of the intermittent communication from the remote oil and gas related site, the method 2000 includes splitting 2050 the blockchain at the first node and adding the first data item to the split blockchain at the first node when communication with the second node is unavailable (see Figure 20 2050 of FIG. 20; see also, e.g., Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 14C , Figure 15A , Figure 15B ) of FIG. 20.

[0257] In some embodiments, the method 2000 includes adding 2060 one or more additional data items to the first blockchain using the second node when communication with the second node is available (see Figure 20 2060 of FIG. 20; see also, e.g., Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 14C , Figure 15A , Figure 15B ) of FIG. 20. In such embodiments, the method 2000 further includes adding 2062 one or more additional data items to the split blockchain using the first node when communication with the second node is unavailable (see Figure 20 2062 of FIG. 20; see also, e.g., Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 14C , Figure 15A , Figure 15B ) of FIG. 20.

[0258] In some embodiments, the method 2000 includes merging 2070 the split blockchain with the first blockchain when communication with the second node is available (see Figure 20 2070 of FIG. 20; see also, e.g., Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 14C , Figure 15A , Figure 15B ) of FIG. 20.

[0259] In some embodiments, the method 2000 includes auditing 2080 the first blockchain ledger (see Figure 20 2080 of FIG. 20.

[0260] Turning to Figure 21, the method 2100 involves storing energy-related data emitted at energy-related locations using a blockchain.

[0261] The method 2100 is performed at a local computing infrastructure at an energy-related location, where the local infrastructure includes a first blockchain node that receives 2110 a first data item from a data emitter at the first blockchain node (see Figure 21 of 2110; see also, e.g. Figure 11 , Figure 13A , Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A , Figure 15B ).

[0262] In some embodiments, the first blockchain node is the local computing infrastructure (see Figure 21 of 2112).

[0263] At times, communications from remote sites, such as energy-related locations in the field, can be intermittent. The method 2100 and other embodiments described herein help address these issues while helping to maintain data integrity.

[0264] The method 2100 includes, at the first blockchain node, identifying 2120 a first blockchain ledger to store the first data item therein, and sending the first data item of the first blockchain ledger to a second node different from the first blockchain node (see Figure 21 of 2120; see also, e.g. Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13A , Figure 13B , Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A , Figure 15B ).

[0265] In some embodiments, the second node is remote from the first blockchain node (see Figure 21 of 2125; see also, e.g. Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13A , Figure 13B , Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A , Figure 15B ).

[0266] In some embodiments, the second node is disposed in a remote cloud-based infrastructure that includes a plurality of blockchain nodes, and sending the first data item for processing includes causing one or more of the plurality of blockchain nodes to update the first blockchain ledger (see Figure 21 of 2127; see also, e.g. Figure 11 、 Figure 12 、 Figure 13A 、 Figure 13B 、 Figure 14A 、 Figure 14B 、 Figure 15A 、 Figure 15B , including Figure 13A 1320, where the plurality of nodes establish consensus regarding the record.

[0267] Following resolution of the intermittent communication from the remote energy-related site, the method 2100 includes updating the second blockchain ledger to include the first data item when the second node is available, and the first blockchain node receiving the second blockchain ledger from the second node. Conversely, when the second node is not available, storing at the first blockchain node a split branch of the blockchain ledger that is updated to include the first data item (see Figure 21 2130; see also, for example, Figure 14A 、 Figure 14B 、 Figure 14C 、 Figure 15A 、 Figure 15B ).

[0268] In some embodiments, in response to determining that the second node has become available, the second node merges the split branch with the first blockchain ledger to create an updated blockchain ledger that includes the first data item (see Figure 21 2140; see also, for example, Figure 14A 、 Figure 14B 、 Figure 14C 、 Figure 15A 、 Figure 15B ).

[0269] In some embodiments, cryptographic operations are performed on the blockchain ledger (see Figure 21 2150). For example, cryptography can also be employed when updating the first blockchain ledger as discussed above at 2120.

[0270] In some embodiments, the updated blockchain ledger is audited (see Figure 21 2160).

[0271] Turning to Figure 22 , the method 2200 involves storing energy-related data issued at an energy-related location using a blockchain, and the energy-related location will include a site computing infrastructure. The method 2200 is performed with a computing infrastructure that includes one or more blockchain nodes (see, for example, Figure 11 、 Figure 12 、 Figure 13B 、 Figure 14A 、 Figure 14B 、 Figure 14C 、 Figure 15AFIG. 15B).

[0272] Method 2200 includes receiving, at a computing infrastructure 2210, a first data item from a site computing infrastructure (see Figure 22 2210, e.g., also see Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13B , Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A , Figure 15B ) from a remote site (such as an energy-related location on-site). In some embodiments, the computing infrastructure is in the cloud (see Figure 22 2212; e.g., also see Figure 12 , Figure 13A , Figure 13B , Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A , Figure 15B ) from a remote site (such as an energy-related location on-site). In some embodiments, the computing infrastructure is in the cloud (see

[0273] Method 2200 includes, at a first blockchain node of the one or more blockchain nodes, updating 2220 the first blockchain ledger to include the first data item, thereby creating a first updated blockchain ledger (see Figure 22 2220; e.g., also see Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13A , Figure 13B , Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A , Figure 15B )

[0274] In some embodiments, at least a plurality of the blockchain nodes in the computing infrastructure are disposed in a remote cloud-based infrastructure, and in response to receiving the first data item for processing, the first blockchain ledger is updated using a plurality of the remote blockchain nodes (see Figure 22 2222; e.g., also see Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13A , Figure 13B , Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A , Figure 15B , including Figure 13A 1320, where the plurality of nodes reach consensus on the record.

[0275] At times, communications from a remote site (such as an energy-related location on-site) can be intermittent. Method 2200 and other embodiments described herein help address these issues while helping to maintain data integrity.

[0276] When the site computing infrastructure is available, the method 2200 includes sending the first updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure; but when the site computing infrastructure is unavailable, the method 2200 includes maintaining the first updated blockchain ledger as a first split branch (see Figure 22 of 2230; see also, for example Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 14C , Figure 15A , Figure 15B ).

[0277] Next, to address the problem of intermittent communication from the remote energy-related site, upon determining that the site computing infrastructure is unavailable, and in response to later receiving a second data item from the site computing infrastructure (which indicates that the site computing infrastructure is again in communication with the computing infrastructure): coordinating the first split branch and the second data item to generate a second updated blockchain ledger, and sending the second updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure (see Figure 22 of 2240; see also, for example Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 14C , Figure 15A , Figure 15B ).

[0278] In some embodiments, cryptographic operations are performed on the blockchain ledger (see Figure 21 of 2150). For example, cryptography can also be used when updating the first blockchain ledger at 2220, as discussed above.

[0279] In some embodiments, the updated blockchain ledger is audited (see Figure 21 of 2160).

[0280] In some embodiments implementing the method 2100 and 2200, the stored energy-related data includes one or more data types selected from the group consisting of: oil and gas applications, solar power applications, nuclear power applications, hydroelectric power applications, wind power applications, tidal, current, and wave power applications, geothermal power applications, and power storage, generation, and transmission applications.

[0281] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the above-described workflows, including methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, and 2200, can be implemented in many environments, including but not limited to the following: oil and gas applications, in which the described blockchain infrastructure can be deployed, including wireline operations, drilling and well construction operations, production facilities, and testing operations; and other energy production, capture, and transmission environments, in which the described blockchain infrastructure can be deployed, including solar installations, nuclear power plants, power transmission lines and grids, hydroelectric power plants and infrastructure, tidal, ocean current, and wave energy installations, geothermal power stations, wind energy stations and other power generation facilities and their grids, instrumentation, power transmission lines; and sensors with data transmission capabilities, in which blockchain technology can be used to collect and manage the emitted data.

[0282] Further, methods 1100, 1300, 1450, 1520, 2000, 2100, and 2200 are shown as including various computer-readable storage medium (CRM) blocks 1105m, 1110m, 1115m, 1120m, 1125m, 1305m, 1310m, 1315m, 1320m, 1325m, 1455m, 1460m, 1465m, 1470m, 1472m, 1474m, 1475m, 1480m, 1522m, 1530m, 1540m, 1550m, 1560m, 1570m, 2010m, 2020m, 2030m, 2050m, 2060m, 2062m, 2070m, 2080m, 2110m, 2120m, 2127m, 2130m, 2140m, 2150m, 2160m, 2210m, 2220m, 2222m, 2230m, 2240m, 2250m, and 2260m, which include processor-executable instructions that can direct a computing system (which can be a control system) to perform one or more actions described in connection with their respective methods.

[0283] According to some embodiments, a method for securing winch transportation data using a blockchain is provided, where a winch transportation location includes a site computing infrastructure, the method including, at a computing infrastructure including one or more blockchain nodes: receiving a first data item from the site computing infrastructure; and at a first blockchain node of the one or more blockchain nodes: updating a first blockchain ledger to include the first data item, thereby creating a first updated blockchain ledger; sending the first updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure when the site computing infrastructure is available; maintaining the first updated blockchain ledger as a first split branch when the site computing infrastructure is unavailable; and upon determining that the site computing infrastructure is unavailable, and in response to receiving a second data item from the site computing infrastructure: coordinating the first split branch and the second data item to generate a second updated blockchain ledger; and sending the second updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure. In further embodiments, at least a plurality of the blockchain nodes in the computing infrastructure are disposed in a remote cloud-based infrastructure, and in response to receiving the first data item for processing, the first blockchain ledger is updated using the plurality of remote blockchain nodes. In further embodiments, the first updated blockchain ledger is audited. In further embodiments, updating the first blockchain ledger includes performing a cryptographic operation.

[0284] According to some embodiments, a method for securing drilling operations data using a blockchain is provided, where a drilling operations location includes a site computing infrastructure, the method including, at a computing infrastructure including one or more blockchain nodes: receiving a first data item from the site computing infrastructure; and at a first blockchain node of the one or more blockchain nodes: updating a first blockchain ledger to include the first data item, thereby creating a first updated blockchain ledger; sending the first updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure when the site computing infrastructure is available; maintaining the first updated blockchain ledger as a first split branch when the site computing infrastructure is unavailable; and upon determining that the site computing infrastructure is unavailable, and in response to receiving a second data item from the site computing infrastructure: coordinating the first split branch and the second data item to generate a second updated blockchain ledger; and sending the second updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure. In further embodiments, at least a plurality of the blockchain nodes in the computing infrastructure are disposed in a remote cloud-based infrastructure, and in response to receiving the first data item for processing, the first blockchain ledger is updated using the plurality of remote blockchain nodes. In further embodiments, the first updated blockchain ledger is audited. In further embodiments, updating the first blockchain ledger includes performing a cryptographic operation.

[0285] According to some embodiments, a method for securing oil and gas production operations data using a blockchain is provided, where an oil and gas production operations site includes a site computing infrastructure, the method including, at a computing infrastructure including one or more blockchain nodes: receiving a first data item from the site computing infrastructure; and at a first blockchain node of the one or more blockchain nodes: updating a first blockchain ledger to include the first data item, thereby creating a first updated blockchain ledger; sending the first updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure when the site computing infrastructure is available; maintaining the first updated blockchain ledger as a first split branch when the site computing infrastructure is unavailable; and upon determining that the site computing infrastructure is unavailable, and in response to receiving a second data item from the site computing infrastructure: reconciling the first split branch and the second data item to generate a second updated blockchain ledger; and sending the second updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure. In further embodiments, at least a plurality of the blockchain nodes of the computing infrastructure are disposed in a remote cloud-based infrastructure, and in response to receiving a first data item for processing, the first blockchain ledger is updated using the plurality of remote blockchain nodes. In further embodiments, the first updated blockchain ledger is audited. In further embodiments, updating the first blockchain ledger includes performing a cryptographic operation.

[0286] While only a few examples have been described above, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that many modifications can be made of these examples. Therefore, it is intended that all such modifications are included within the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. In the claims, means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited functions and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. Thus although a nail and a screw can not be structural equivalents in that a nail employs a cylindrical surface to secure wooden parts together, whereas a screw employs a helical surface, in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail and a screw can be equivalent structures. It is the express intention of the applicants not to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6 to require description in terms of means-plus-function unless the claims expressly recite the means-plus-function limitation.

Claims

1. A blockchain system comprising: a node disposed at an oil or gas infrastructure site, the node comprising: a memory configured to store blockchain data; and a processor configured to receive a first data item to append to a blockchain and add the first data item to the blockchain, wherein the processor is configured to split the blockchain and add the first data item to the split blockchain when communication with a second node is unavailable.

2. The blockchain system of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to merge the split blockchain with the blockchain when communication with the second node is available.

3. The blockchain system of claim 1, wherein the second node is remote.

4. The blockchain system of claim 3, wherein the processor is configured to: add one or more additional data items to the blockchain using the second node when the second node is available; and add one or more additional data items to the blockchain locally at the node when the second node is unavailable.

5. The blockchain system of claim 1, wherein adding the first data item to the blockchain comprises performing a cryptographic operation.

6. A method for storing energy-related data issued at an energy-related location using a blockchain, the method comprising: at a local computing infrastructure at the energy-related location, wherein the local infrastructure comprises a first blockchain node: receiving a first data item from a data emitter at the first blockchain node; at the first blockchain node: identifying a first blockchain ledger to store the first data item therein; sending the first data item of the first blockchain ledger to a second node different from the first blockchain node; and when the second node is available, receiving a second blockchain ledger from the second node that is updated to include the first data item, and when the second node is unavailable, storing a split branch of the blockchain ledger at the first blockchain node that is updated to include the first data item.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the second node is remote from the first blockchain node.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein: the second node is disposed in a remote cloud-based infrastructure, the remote cloud-based infrastructure comprising a plurality of blockchain nodes, and sending the first data item for processing comprises instructing one or more of the plurality of blockchain nodes to update the first blockchain ledger.

9. The method of claim 6, further comprising, in response to determining that the second node has become available, instructing the second node to merge the split branch with the first blockchain ledger to create an updated blockchain ledger that includes the first data item.

10. The method of claim 6, wherein the stored energy-related data comprises one or more data types selected from the group consisting of: oil and gas applications, solar applications, nuclear power applications, hydroelectric power applications, wind power applications, tidal, current, and wave power applications, geothermal power applications, and power storage, generation, and transmission applications.

11. The method of claim 6, further comprising auditing the updated blockchain ledger.

12. The method of claim 6, wherein the first blockchain node is an on-premise computing infrastructure.

13. A blockchain system comprising: a node disposed at an energy-related location, the node comprising: a memory configured to store blockchain data; and a processor configured to perform the method of any of claims 6-12.

14. One or more computer-readable storage media comprising processor-executable instructions for instructing a computing system to perform the method of any of claims 6-12.

15. A method for storing energy-related data emitted at an energy-related location using a blockchain, wherein the energy-related location comprises an on-premise computing infrastructure, the method comprising: at a computing infrastructure comprising one or more blockchain nodes: receiving a first data item from the on-premise computing infrastructure; and at a first blockchain node of the one or more blockchain nodes: updating a first blockchain ledger to include the first data item to create a first updated blockchain ledger; when the on-premise computing infrastructure is available, sending the first updated blockchain ledger to the on-premise computing infrastructure; and when the on-premise computing infrastructure is unavailable, maintaining the first updated blockchain ledger as a first split branch.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: upon determining that the on-premise computing infrastructure is unavailable, and in response to receiving a second data item from the on-premise computing infrastructure: coordinating the first split branch and the second data item to generate a second updated blockchain ledger; and sending the second updated blockchain ledger to the on-premise computing infrastructure.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the computing infrastructure is in the cloud.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein: at least a plurality of the blockchain nodes in the computing infrastructure are disposed in a remote cloud-based infrastructure, and in response to receiving the first data item for processing, a plurality of the remote blockchain nodes are used to update the first blockchain ledger.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein the stored energy-related data comprises one or more data types selected from the group consisting of: oil and gas applications, solar applications, nuclear power applications, hydroelectric power applications, wind power applications, tidal, current, and wave power applications, geothermal power applications, and power storage, generation, and transmission applications. ​ ​ ​ 20. The method of claim 15, further comprising auditing the first updated blockchain ledger.

21. The method of claim 15, wherein updating the first blockchain ledger comprises performing a cryptographic operation.

22. A blockchain system comprising: a node disposed at an energy-related location, the node comprising: a memory configured to store blockchain data; and a processor configured to perform the method of any one of claims 15 to 21.

23. One or more computer-readable storage media comprising processor-executable instructions for instructing a computing system to perform the method of any one of claims 15 to 21.

24. A method for managing oil or gas-related data emitted at an oil or gas-related location using a blockchain, the method comprising: receiving a first data item at a first node disposed at an oil or gas infrastructure site; when communication with a second node is available, appending the first data item to a first blockchain, wherein the appending is done at the second node; when communication with the second node is not available, at the first node: splitting the blockchain, and adding the first data item to the split blockchain.

25. The method of claim 24, further comprising: when communication with the second node is available, using the second node to add one or more additional data items to the first blockchain; and when communication with the second node is not available, using the first node to add one or more additional data items to the split blockchain.

26. The method of claim 24, further comprising merging the split blockchain with the first blockchain when communication with the second node is available.

27. The method of claim 24, wherein the second node is geographically remote from the first node.

28. The method of claim 24, wherein adding the first data item to the first blockchain comprises performing a cryptographic operation.

29. The method of claim 24, further comprising auditing the first blockchain ledger.

30. A method for storing winch transportation data emitted at an oil or gas-related location using a blockchain, wherein the oil or gas-related location comprises a site computing infrastructure, the method comprising: at a computing infrastructure comprising one or more blockchain nodes: receiving a first data item from the site computing infrastructure; and at a first blockchain node of the one or more blockchain nodes: updating a first blockchain ledger to include the first data item thereby creating a first updated blockchain ledger; when the site computing infrastructure is available, sending the first updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure; when the site computing infrastructure is not available, maintaining the first updated blockchain ledger as a first split branch; upon determining that the site computing infrastructure is not available, and in response to receiving a second data item from the site computing infrastructure: coordinating the first split branch and the second data item to generate a second updated blockchain ledger; and sending the second updated blockchain ledger to the site computing infrastructure.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein: at least a plurality of the blockchain nodes in the computing infrastructure are disposed in a remote cloud-based infrastructure, and in response to receiving the first data item for processing, using a plurality of the remote blockchain nodes to update the first blockchain ledger.

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