Autonomous Wellbore Drilling Using Satisficing Envelopes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current drilling technologies face challenges in optimizing drilling parameters in real-time, leading to inefficiencies and potential instability during wellbore drilling operations, as they require significant data processing and may not account for rapid changes in drilling conditions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a wellbore-drilling envelope that defines a satisficing zone for drilling parameters, allowing for quicker adaptation to changing conditions by using satisficing values that achieve drilling objectives without necessarily being optimal, utilizing a computing system to calculate stability limits and automatically control drilling equipment based on real-time data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optimal drilling parameters are determined through comprehensive data processing, then drilling objective achievement is maximized, but processing time and computational resources increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the drilling parameter control into two distinct zones: an optimal zone for maximum efficiency and a satisficing zone for acceptable performance. This segmentation allows the system to quickly determine which zone to target, reducing processing time while maintaining reliability through predefined parameter ranges for each zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by determining satisficing drilling parameters that achieve acceptable drilling objectives without requiring full optimization. This partial optimization approach reduces computational complexity and processing time while still meeting drilling goals, particularly in dynamic conditions where rapid adjustment is prioritized over maximum efficiency.
2Productivity
If comprehensive data processing is used to optimize drilling parameters, then drilling efficiency is maximized, but the system cannot adapt quickly to real-time changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by creating adaptive drilling parameter zones that can shift between optimal and satisficing states based on real-time drilling conditions. The system dynamically adjusts the target zone and parameter values according to changing formation characteristics, equipment status, and operational requirements, enabling rapid adaptation without comprehensive reprocessing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically determining whether to target the optimal or satisficing zone based on real-time feedback from drilling sensors and operational data. This self-adjusting mechanism enables rapid response to changing conditions without requiring external intervention or extensive computational analysis, improving both adaptability and efficiency.
3Productivity
If optimal drilling parameters are calculated, then maximum drilling performance is achieved, but equipment stability and wear reduction are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by defining distinct parameter zones with different characteristics: the optimal zone for maximum performance and the satisficing zone for stable, wear-reducing operation. The system selectively applies appropriate parameter sets based on local drilling conditions, equipment status, and formation characteristics, ensuring both high performance when conditions permit and equipment protection when stability is prioritized.
Data Source
AI summary
A system is described for controlling wellbore drilling operations autonomously using satisficing parameters. The system can determine a wellbore-drilling envelope defining a zone for satisficed values of drilling parameters for a drilling operation. The system can receive real-time data for the drilling parameters and can compare the real-time data to the wellbore-drilling envelope. The system can output a command for automatically controlling the drilling operation in response to comparing the real-time data to the wellbore-drilling envelope.