Multi-Tier Well Surveillance System for Underperforming Wells
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional well monitoring systems inaccurately diagnose the operating state of oil and gas wells due to interdependencies between multiple parameters, leading to increased downtime and reduced recovery rates, especially in scenarios where expert systems fail to integrate well operating parameters effectively.
Innovation Solution
A multi-channel, multi-tier approach for determining the operating status of wells by defining well attributes, determining attribute statuses, mapping them into performance classifications, and combining these classifications to derive an overall well surveillance status, which includes a computer processor to capture and process data and display the well status for efficient management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional expert systems monitor individual well operating parameters separately, then each parameter can be tracked within its nominal range, but the interdependencies between parameters cause inaccurate diagnosis of the true operating state
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the diagnosis process into multiple hierarchical tiers (first tier: individual parameter monitoring, second tier: parameter group analysis, third tier: overall well state determination). This segmentation allows the system to handle complex interdependencies by breaking them down into manageable levels, improving diagnosis accuracy without overwhelming system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hierarchical dimension to the monitoring system, transitioning from flat single-parameter monitoring to multi-tiered integrated analysis. This dimensional addition enables the system to capture parameter interdependencies while maintaining structured complexity management
2Reliability
If conventional systems issue alerts based on individual out-of-limits parameters, then safety thresholds are protected, but unnecessary shutdowns occur when aggregate conditions would permit continued operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple individual parameter assessments into integrated performance classifications at the second tier. By combining related parameters into groups (e.g., production performance, injection performance, equipment status), the system determines aggregate well state that reflects true operational capacity, reducing unnecessary shutdowns while maintaining safety
Solution Approach 2:
The hierarchical structure provides feedback loops where second-tier classification results feed back into refined first-tier parameter monitoring and inform third-tier overall status determination. This feedback mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of operational decisions based on aggregate performance rather than isolated parameter alerts
3Loss of information
If comprehensive monitoring of multiple well parameters is implemented, then better diagnostic capability is achieved, but the complexity of integrating and analyzing all parameters increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments information processing across three hierarchical tiers: first tier collects individual parameter data, second tier groups parameters into performance classifications, and third tier synthesizes overall well status. This segmentation reduces information loss while managing processing complexity through structured hierarchical organization
Solution Approach 2:
The hierarchical framework serves multiple functions simultaneously: it monitors individual parameters, analyzes parameter relationships, determines overall well state, and provides a structured basis for operational decisions. This multi-functionality achieves comprehensive information integration without proportionally increasing processing complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system is provided for managing well assets. The method includes the steps of determining “first tier” statuses corresponding to pre-defined well attributes, mapping the first tier statuses to one or more well performance classifications, determining “second tier” statuses corresponding to the well classifications, and combining the second tier statuses to determine an overall well surveillance status. The method and corresponding system can be used to manage wells by exception, to readily identify “under-performing” wells, and to prioritize actions to be taken by well operators.