Semi-Autonomous Drilling Control With Local Limit-Based Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The drilling process is inefficient due to the heavy workload on human operators, leading to reduced efficiency and errors in adjusting drilling parameters, as existing control systems require frequent manual adjustments and lack effective automation to optimize drilling operations.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that employ a drilling control processor and automation control processor to adjust drilling parameters based on defined global and local limits, allowing for autonomous changes within local limits and requiring operator authorization for changes outside these limits, thereby reducing operator workload and maintaining control for critical adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual adjustments of drilling parameters are performed frequently by the operator, then the drilling operation can be optimized in response to downhole conditions, but the operator workload increases leading to reduced efficiency and errors
Solution Approach 1:
The control system automatically monitors downhole conditions and adjusts drilling parameters without requiring continuous manual intervention from the operator. The system serves itself by autonomously optimizing drilling operations based on real-time data from downhole sensors, thereby reducing operator workload while maintaining high drilling efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The control system continuously receives feedback from downhole sensors monitoring conditions such as temperature, pressure, and torque. This feedback loop enables the system to automatically adjust drilling parameters in response to changing downhole conditions, optimizing drilling operations while eliminating the need for frequent manual adjustments by the operator
2Productivity
If full automation is implemented to reduce operator workload, then efficiency improves, but operator control and ability to handle critical situations may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adjusts the level of automation based on the situation. During normal operations, the system operates with high automation to maximize efficiency. When critical conditions are detected or when the operator requests intervention, the system transitions to a state where operator control is restored, ensuring reliability and safety while maintaining productivity during routine operations
Solution Approach 2:
The control system segments the drilling operation into different zones of automation. Routine parameter adjustments are handled autonomously by the control system, while critical decisions and exceptional situations are reserved for operator control. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high efficiency for routine tasks while preserving operator authority for critical situations
3Productivity
If the control system continuously adjusts drilling parameters to optimize operations, then drilling performance improves, but the complexity of the control system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed as a multi-functional integrated platform that performs diverse functions including real-time data acquisition from multiple sensors, downhole condition analysis, drilling parameter optimization, and automated actuator control. By consolidating these functions into a single universal system, the patent achieves continuous drilling optimization without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of facilitating a drilling operation includes: receiving a current set point for a drilling operation, the current set point indicating a value of an operational parameter at which the drilling operation is being performed; receiving a global limit indicating at least one of a maximum and a minimum value of the operational parameter that is permitted to be applied for the drilling operation; defining a local limit for the operational parameter, the local limit indicating at least one of a local maximum value and a local minimum value of the operational parameter; receiving a parameter change value, the parameter change value indicating a proposed change to the operational parameter from the current set point; and selecting a level of automation by which the operational parameter can be adjusted, the level of automation based on a comparison of the parameter change value and the local limit.