Autonomous Wireline Control for Safer Wellbore Tool Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Controlling wireline systems in wellbores is difficult and dangerous, requiring skilled operators and prone to human error, which can lead to tool damage and costly recovery operations.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous control system for wireline systems that utilizes a master controller to manage wireline operations based on accessed information, including job plans, depth, tension, and safety monitoring, enabling autonomous deployment and retrieval of tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If skilled operators manually control wireline systems, then operational flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but human error increases and safety decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The wireline system performs operations autonomously without continuous human intervention. The controller automatically controls the winch mechanism, depth measurement system, and tool operations based on pre-programmed sequences and real-time sensor feedback, eliminating the need for skilled manual operation while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates depth measurement systems, tension sensors, and operational feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor system state and adjust operations automatically. This closed-loop control ensures reliable operation while reducing dependence on operator skill and minimizing human error
2Reliability
If autonomous control is implemented, then safety and error reduction improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller serves multiple functions: it manages winch operations, processes depth measurements, monitors tension sensors, controls tool operations, and coordinates communication between components. This multi-functional design consolidates complexity into a single control unit rather than distributing it across multiple specialized systems
Solution Approach 2:
The autonomous control system is integrated within the existing wireline tool structure. The controller is housed within the tool body, with sensors and measurement systems nested within the mechanical components. This nested arrangement minimizes overall system complexity by embedding control functions within existing structural elements
3Ease of operation
If manual operation is used, then system simplicity is maintained, but human error and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Operational sequences are pre-programmed into the controller before deployment. The system automatically executes predetermined sequences for tool deployment, formation evaluation, and retrieval, eliminating the need for operators to manually coordinate multiple operations and reducing errors associated with manual coordination
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the subject technology relate to autonomously controlling a wireline system. Wireline information associated with operation of a wireline system can be accessed. The wireline system can include a wireline tool operating in relation to a wellbore at a wellsite. Operation of the wireline system can be autonomously controlled at the wellsite based on the wireline information.