Modular Well Testing Apparatus Remote Monitoring

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current well testing systems face challenges in efficiently measuring and managing multiphase fluid flow rates and properties, particularly in remote and offshore environments, where manual data collection is time-consuming and hazardous, and existing systems lack modular and remote monitoring capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A modular well testing apparatus with remote monitoring and control systems, including a pump manifold skid and tank manifold skids, equipped with automated manifolds, pumps, and a mobile monitoring system that allows real-time data acquisition and control via mobile devices, enabling efficient operation and reducing manual intervention and hazards.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual data collection is used in well testing systems, then operational flexibility is maintained, but data collection is time-consuming and hazardous

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata collection efficiencyVSAvoidsafety hazards
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical data collection operations with an automated electronic monitoring system. Sensors, transmitters, and receivers automatically acquire and transmit well test data, eliminating the need for personnel to physically collect data in hazardous environments. This substitution of mechanical/manual operations with electronic automation directly improves data collection efficiency while removing safety hazards associated with manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing well testing systems are used, then basic measurement functions are provided, but modular and remote monitoring capabilities are lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodular capabilityVSAvoidsystem configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The well testing system is divided into modular components including separate sensor units, transmitters, and receivers that can be independently configured and deployed. Each module performs a specific function (pressure sensing, temperature sensing, data transmission), allowing the system to be adapted to different well testing scenarios by selecting and combining appropriate modules. This segmentation provides versatility while managing complexity through standardized interface protocols.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent designs the monitoring system with universal components that can perform multiple functions. The receiver unit can process data from various sensor types, and the system can be configured for different well testing applications through software programming rather than hardware reconfiguration. This multi-functionality approach enhances adaptability while avoiding the complexity of maintaining separate specialized systems for each application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Extent of automation

If remote monitoring is implemented, then manual intervention is reduced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote monitoring capabilityVSAvoidcontrol system
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The monitoring system is designed to operate autonomously without requiring manual intervention. Sensors automatically measure well test parameters, transmitters automatically send data to receivers, and the system continuously monitors and records measurements. This self-service capability achieves high automation while managing complexity through straightforward automatic operation rather than complex manual control procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3475524B1Modular well testing systems and methods
Publication Date: 2024.02.14 SERVICES PETROLIERS SCHLUMBERGER SA
  • EP3475524B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3475524B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3475524B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A well testing apparatus includes tank manifold skids connected to tanks, a pump manifold skid, and a control system. Each tank manifold skid includes first pipework, second pipework, and valves. The first pipework of each tank manifold skid cooperates with the first pipework of another tank manifold skid to enable fluid communication between the tank manifold skids. The second pipework of each tank manifold skid enables fluid communication between the first pipework and a connected tank, while the valves can control flow through the second pipework to the tank. The pump manifold skid is coupled to the tank manifold skids and includes fluid manifolds, pumps, and valves. The control system includes a control unit for remotely actuating the valves to selectively control fluid flow from a separator to the tanks via the pump manifold skid and the tank manifold skids. Additional systems, methods, and devices are also disclosed.