Computerized Inspection Protocol for Oil and Gas Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current inspection methods for oil and gas equipment are prone to errors due to human fallibility, leading to incomplete inspections, misidentification of equipment, and incorrect replacement parts, which can result in costly damage and safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A computerized inspection method that uses a touch-screen interface to guide inspectors through a standardized protocol, ensuring all components are inspected and recorded, with color-coded status indicators and integrated training resources, and generates reports for tracking and accountability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual visual inspection by trained inspectors is used, then inspection can be performed with existing resources, but inspection completeness and accuracy deteriorate due to human fallibility
Solution Approach 1:
A computerized inspection system acts as an intermediary between the inspector and the equipment being inspected. The system provides structured protocols, component checklists, and guidance to ensure complete and accurate inspections while reducing reliance on inspector memory and attention. The computer system mediates the inspection process by requiring inspectors to follow predetermined protocols and record findings in a standardized manner.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of human memory and manual record-keeping with a computerized information system. Instead of relying on inspectors to remember all components and criteria, the system stores inspection protocols, component lists, and criteria in digital form, presenting them to inspectors through a computer interface and automatically recording results.
2Productivity
If multiple inspectors work on the same equipment, then inspection productivity increases, but inspection completeness deteriorates due to parts being overlooked
Solution Approach 1:
The computerized system provides immediate feedback to inspectors about which components have been inspected and which remain. The system tracks inspection progress in real-time and alerts inspectors when components are missed or when inspection protocols are not fully followed. This feedback mechanism ensures that multiple inspectors working together maintain complete coverage without overlooking parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection system is designed to be universal and applicable to multiple inspectors simultaneously working on the same or different equipment. The computerized protocol system provides consistent guidance to all inspectors, ensuring that everyone follows the same comprehensive inspection criteria regardless of their experience level or which specific equipment they are inspecting.
3Measurement precision
If detailed inspection protocols are followed for each component, then inspection accuracy improves, but inspection time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Inspection protocols are prepared in advance and stored in the computerized system. The system presents the appropriate protocol to the inspector before the inspection begins, allowing the inspector to understand the full scope of required inspections and prepare accordingly. Common inspection criteria and measurement methods are predetermined and standardized, reducing the time needed to make decisions during the actual inspection.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection process is segmented into discrete component-level tasks, each with specific criteria and requirements. The computerized system breaks down the overall inspection into manageable sections, allowing inspectors to focus on one component at a time with clear guidance. This segmentation makes detailed inspection more efficient by preventing inspectors from being overwhelmed by the entire equipment system at once.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of inspecting equipment to ensure quality control that employs a computer program to assist in the inspection. The program contains an inspection protocol adapted to specific equipment. The inspector follows the protocol to inspect component parts of the equipment. The inspection protocol can only be closed, indicating completion of the inspection, when the protocol has been followed. The program is capable of generating a variety of inspection reports.