Oilfield Network Analysis via Sub-network Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current oilfield production operations face challenges in efficiently analyzing and optimizing oilfield networks to maximize hydrocarbon flow and minimize operational costs, as existing methods lack comprehensive data collection and modeling capabilities to accurately predict flow rates and identify potential issues in complex network configurations.
Innovation Solution
A method for analyzing oilfield networks involves collecting data from sensors and historical sources, creating production models for individual wellsites and sub-networks, and using solvers like the Wegstein and Newton methods to combine these models and solve for optimal flow rates, allowing for real-time adjustments and identification of faulty components within the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If comprehensive data collection and modeling capabilities are implemented, then measurement precision and reliability improve, but device complexity and loss of time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the oilfield network into multiple sub-networks, each modeled independently with its own production model. This segmentation allows comprehensive data collection and modeling while reducing the complexity of the overall system by breaking it into manageable components that can be solved separately and then combined.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by collecting and storing historical data, creating lookup tables for flow rate calculations, and pre-processing network data before actual analysis. This preparation enables faster, more accurate flow rate predictions without requiring complex real-time calculations during operation.
2Reliability
If comprehensive data collection and modeling capabilities are implemented, then reliability improves, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by collecting and storing historical data, creating lookup tables for flow rate calculations, and pre-processing network data before actual analysis. This preparation enables faster, more accurate flow rate predictions without requiring complex real-time calculations during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates simplified production models that capture the essential characteristics of the oilfield network without requiring complete real-time simulation. These models use pre-processed data and simplified equations to quickly estimate flow rates while maintaining reliability, effectively copying the network's behavior in a computationally efficient manner.
3Productivity
If real-time monitoring and optimization capabilities are added, then productivity improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service capabilities where the system automatically monitors its own performance, detects anomalies, and optimizes operations without requiring constant external intervention. The production models continuously self-adjust based on input data, and the system automatically identifies and reports issues, reducing the need for complex external monitoring and control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for analyzing an oilfield network. The method includes collecting oilfield data from an oilfield network, modeling a first wellsite and a second wellsite using the oilfield data to create a first production model of the first wellsite and a second production model of the second wellsite. The method further includes modeling a sub-network of the oilfield network to create a third production model of the sub-network. The modeling of the sub-network includes identifying a junction of branches associated with the first wellsite and the second wellsite. A fourth production model is created for the junction by combining the first production model with the second production model. The production model of the sub-network is created using the fourth production model of the junction. The method further includes solving the oilfield network based on the third production model to create a production result, and storing the production result.