Cobot Fluid Testing System for Wellbore Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laboratory testing methods for wellbore fluids are limited by the need for manual operation during work hours and are prone to errors due to complexity and coordination requirements, necessitating an automated system for fluid testing.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a robot arm and a controller that receives data on wellbore operations to select and perform tests on fluid samples, using interchangeable end-of-arm tools to adjust parameters of the wellbore operations based on test results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual testing methods are used during work hours, then testing can be conducted with personnel coordination, but testing is limited to work hours and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automation where the robot arm independently performs fluid sampling, testing, and data recording without human intervention. The controller automatically selects tests based on operation data and the system self-corrects errors through automated procedures, eliminating reliance on manual personnel operations during work hours only.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations by lab personnel are replaced with an automated robot arm system. The robot arm mechanically performs sampling, container handling, and testing operations, substituting human manual labor with automated mechanical systems that operate continuously without fatigue or error.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple testing devices and coordination are used, then comprehensive fluid analysis is achieved, but complexity increases and errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The robot arm serves as a universal platform that can perform multiple different testing functions by changing end-effectors or tools. Instead of requiring separate specialized devices for each test type, the single robot arm can be configured with appropriate tools to perform various fluid analysis tasks, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary that manages the complexity between the robot arm and multiple testing functions. It receives operation data, automatically selects appropriate tests, and coordinates the robot arm's actions, thereby simplifying the interface and reducing errors that would arise from direct complex coordination between multiple testing devices and personnel.
3Productivity
If automated testing is implemented, then testing can occur outside work hours and error rate decreases, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated testing system is segmented into distinct functional modules: the robot arm for physical operations, the controller for intelligence and decision-making, and various interchangeable tools for specific testing functions. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies maintenance and operation, reducing the perceived complexity despite the high productivity achieved.
Data Source
AI summary
A testing system for a wellbore operation and method of testing a fluid sample from a wellbore. A fluid sample is obtained from the wellbore operation. The fluid sample is received at a first test station having a first robot arm for performing a test on the fluid sample. A controller receives data on the wellbore operation, selects the test based on the data and controls the first robot arm to perform the test. A result of the test is used to adjust a parameter of the wellbore operation.