Autonomous Downhole Robot Computing for Wellbore Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tethered robotic systems for hydrocarbon recovery operations require skilled operator input and are inadequate in harsh downhole environments, lacking autonomy, adaptability, and fault tolerance, and are not economical for unskilled operators.
Innovation Solution
An untethered downhole robot equipped with a robust onboard compute engine, sensors, and a driving mechanism, capable of autonomous navigation, data processing, and job planning, using algorithms like AI planning, constraint satisfaction programming, and reinforcement learning to operate in extreme conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If tethered robotic systems are used for downhole operations, then operator control is maintained, but skilled operator input is required and autonomy is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The downhole robot is equipped with an onboard compute engine that enables it to perform evaluation, navigation, and stimulation tasks autonomously without requiring continuous operator input or tethered control, allowing the system to serve itself in harsh environments
Solution Approach 2:
The compute engine is extracted from surface control systems and placed onboard the downhole robot, enabling local processing and autonomous decision-making at the point of operation, eliminating the need for tethered connection to surface computers
2Reliability
If conventional control systems are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but fault tolerance and adaptability in harsh environments are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The compute engine is designed with built-in fault tolerance capabilities and robust algorithms that anticipate and compensate for harsh downhole conditions including high heat, pressure, and vibration, providing reliability before failures occur
Solution Approach 2:
The system adapts to harsh environments by adjusting operational parameters and using algorithms that can function across varying temperature, pressure, and vibration conditions, maintaining reliability despite environmental extremes
3Productivity
If specialized downhole systems are developed, then operational capability is improved, but manufacturing cost and construction complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The downhole robot is designed as a multi-functional platform that can perform evaluation, navigation, sampling, logging, and stimulation tasks, reducing the need for multiple specialized systems and improving manufacturing economy through platform standardization
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs adaptable algorithms and configurable software that can be adjusted for different operational requirements, allowing a single hardware platform to serve multiple functions and reducing overall system cost
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments presented provide for an apparatus used for wellbore intervention, evaluation and stimulation. The apparatus provides a tractor mechanism, a power supply, tools and sensors used in evaluation and stimulation activities with hydrocarbon recovery operations.