Neural Network Predicting Reservoir Simulation Convergence Failures

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Solution Overview

Problem

Computer simulations used to model fluid flow in subterranean reservoirs often fail to converge due to input data characteristics or simulation limitations, leading to premature termination and unnecessary resource expenditure.

Innovation Solution

A machine learning-based system that uses a neural network to predict convergence failures by analyzing input data from previous simulations, generating notifications for users, and modifying data to prevent failures, thereby preventing premature terminations and optimizing resource usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If computer simulations are performed using iterative calculation processes, then the characteristics of physical environments can be modeled, but the simulations may fail to converge and be prematurely terminated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimulation convergenceVSAvoidsimulation completion rate
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary analysis of input data using a trained machine learning model before executing the full simulation. This preliminary action identifies characteristics likely to cause convergence failures, allowing users to modify input data beforehand and avoid premature termination of simulations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback from historical simulation outcomes (successful and failed simulations) to train the machine learning model. This feedback loop enables the model to learn patterns in input data that lead to convergence failures, improving its ability to predict and prevent future failures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Loss of time

If simulations are run with problematic input data, then computational resources are consumed, but the simulations terminate prematurely without producing results

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimulation execution timeVSAvoidcomputing resource expenditure
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary analysis of input data using a trained machine learning model before executing the full simulation. This preliminary action identifies characteristics likely to cause convergence failures, allowing users to modify input data beforehand and avoid premature termination of simulations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system converts the harmful effect of convergence failures (wasted computational resources) into a benefit by using historical failure data to train a predictive model. This model then prevents future failures, turning past resource waste into improved efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Reliability

If the machine learning model predicts low likelihood of successful simulation, then users can be warned beforehand, but the simulation may still be executed consuming resources

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprediction accuracyVSAvoidsimulation throughput
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses feedback from historical simulation outcomes (successful and failed simulations) to train the machine learning model. This feedback loop enables the model to learn patterns in input data that lead to convergence failures, improving its ability to predict and prevent future failures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables users to self-diagnose potential simulation failures by providing predictions and recommendations. Users can independently assess whether their input data is likely to cause convergence issues and make corrections before execution, reducing reliance on manual review processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20220318465A1Predicting and avoiding failures in computer simulations using machine learning
Publication Date: 2022.10.06 SAUDI ARABIAN OIL CO
  • US20220318465A1 patent drawing
  • US20220318465A1 patent drawing
  • US20220318465A1 patent drawing

AI summary

In an example method, a system obtains first data indicating a plurality of properties of a first reservoir. The system determines, using a computerized neural network, a first metric representing a likelihood that a first computer simulation of the first reservoir can be performed to completion using a computer model and the first data. Further, the system determines that the first metric is less than a threshold level, and in response, generates a notification indicating the first metric for presentation to a user.