Drilling System Kick Detection via Centralized Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for kick and loss detection in offshore drilling are inadequate for deep and ultra-deep water drilling, particularly in High Pressure and High Temperature (HPHT) wells, leading to inefficiencies and safety hazards due to manual decision-making processes and the lack of reliable data integration across multiple processing centers.
Innovation Solution
An integrated system that centralizes data processing and sensor integration within the drilling control and monitoring system (DCMS), using a common CPU to enhance kick detection accuracy and automate responses, thereby improving data reliability and reducing human intervention in safety-critical equipment operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple independent processing centers are used for kick detection, then data coverage is comprehensive, but data reliability and integration are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple independent processing centers into a single centralized processing system that receives data from multiple sensors. This consolidation improves data reliability through unified processing while maintaining comprehensive sensor coverage, resolving the contradiction between comprehensive data coverage and reliable integrated processing.
2Reliability
If manual decision-making processes are used for well control, then operational flexibility is maintained, but human error and response time are problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated decision-making algorithms that independently analyze sensor data and trigger well control procedures without human intervention. This self-service automation eliminates human error while maintaining operational flexibility through programmable response protocols, resolving the contradiction between reliability and automation extent.
3Measurement precision
If conventional sensor systems are used, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but kick detection accuracy is insufficient for deep water drilling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the kick detection system into multiple independent sensor units, each monitoring specific parameters. This segmentation enables high-precision multi-parameter monitoring for deep water drilling while managing system complexity through modular, distributed sensor architecture that can be independently configured and maintained.
Data Source
AI summary
A drilling system for drilling a subterranean well bore includes a controller and a first and a second set of field devices. Each of the first and second set of field devices measure a physical characteristic of the drilling system and to transmit to the controller signals representing a measured value of the physical characteristic. The controller is programmed to use a first set of algorithms to process the signals received from the first set of field devices to determine if the measured values represented by the signals indicate that there might have been an influx of formation fluid into the subterranean well bore, and a second set of algorithms to process the signals received from the second set of field devices to determine if the measured values represented by the signals indicate that there might have been an influx of formation fluid into the subterranean well bore.