Remote Wellhead Sensors for Continuous Operation Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing well operation analysis is limited by rig-specific data, which cannot provide comprehensive information for analyzing operations beyond rig state and is restricted to data captured during rig presence and operation.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing remote sensors located independently of the well rig to generate and analyze data on operating characteristics, including pressure, temperature, and proximity sensors, enabling analysis of well operations such as drilling, completion, and production, even when the rig is not present or operational.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If rig-specific data is used for well operation analysis, then rig state identification is achieved, but comprehensive well operation analysis is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation completeness for well operation analysisVSAvoidsensor system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the sensing function into two independent segments: rig-mounted sensors for rig state monitoring and wellhead-mounted remote sensors for well operation monitoring. This segmentation allows each sensor system to focus on its specific function, enabling comprehensive well operation analysis without requiring complex integration of multiple sensing systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The remote sensor system acts as an intermediary between the well and the analysis system, providing direct measurements of well operating characteristics without relying on rig-specific data. This intermediary sensing system bridges the information gap for comprehensive well operation analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Duration of action of stationary object

If rig-specific data is used for well operation analysis, then data acquisition during rig operation is possible, but analysis capability when rig is absent is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemonitoring duration independent of rig presenceVSAvoidoperating characteristic data availability
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The sensing system is segmented into rig-mounted and wellhead-mounted components. The wellhead-mounted remote sensors remain permanently installed at the well, enabling continuous monitoring of well operating characteristics regardless of rig presence or movement to different wells.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements more sensing capability than traditionally required by placing sensors both on the rig and at the wellhead. This excessive action ensures that well operation data is captured even when the rig is absent, providing redundant coverage that extends monitoring duration beyond rig operational periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS11578587B2Analysis of well operations using wellhead data
Publication Date: 2023.02.14 CHEVRON USA INC
  • US11578587B2 patent drawing
  • US11578587B2 patent drawing
  • US11578587B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Sensors may be located remotely from a rig of a well. The sensors may operate independently of the rig, and generate remote sensor information that characterizes operating characteristics of the well independent of the rig. The operation of the well may be analyzed based on the remote sensor information.